Booking & Payment Policy
Transparent Guidelines for Secure Transactions
1. Introduction
At Palau Explorer, we prioritize transparency and security in all financial transactions. This policy outlines our accepted payment methods, processing procedures, and terms to ensure a seamless booking experience for all customers.
2. Accepted Payment Methods
We accept multiple payment options to accommodate diverse customer needs:
- Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, AliPay
- Cash: US Dollars (USD) for local bookings
- Local Bank Checks: Validated checks from major Palau banks
Note: Online bookings require credit card payment. Cash/check payments are only accepted for in-person bookings at our office.
3. Primary Payment Method: Credit Card via Authorize.Net
While we accept multiple payment types, credit cards processed through our payment partner Authorize.Net remain our preferred method due to enhanced security features and instant verification.
Security Guarantee: All credit card transactions are encrypted and PCI-DSS compliant. We never store your full card details on our servers.
4. Credit Card Surcharge Policy
To offset financial transaction costs, a 3% surcharge applies to all credit card payments. This fee covers processing charges imposed by payment gateways and banking institutions.
- The surcharge is calculated based on the total tour price
- All transaction fees are borne solely by the buyer
- No surcharge applies to cash or check payments
Example: A $150.00 tour would incur a $4.50 surcharge ($154.50 total) when paying by credit card.
5. Transaction Processing Timeline
For confirmed bookings, your credit card will be authorized but not charged until specific conditions are met:
- Standard Practice: Funds are not transferred to our account until 5 days prior to your scheduled tour
- Cancellation Policy Alignment: In case of tour cancellation (per our Weather & Activity Policy), refunds are processed within 5-7 business days
- Instant Authorization: Card details are verified immediately upon booking to confirm validity
Important: You may see a temporary authorization hold (not an actual charge) on your statement shortly after booking.
6. Local Bookings Requirements
For residents of Palau or visitors making in-country bookings:
- All local bookings must be completed through our official website or in-person at our office
- Cash payments are accepted for local bookings but require exact change
- Bank checks must be issued from recognized Palauan financial institutions and cleared before tour commencement
Online Preference: We strongly recommend online booking for faster confirmation and digital receipt generation.
7. Special Arrangements for Partners
For collaborations with local businesses or tourism partners, customized payment schedules may be negotiated:
- Written consent from all parties is mandatory before implementing alternative payment terms
- Partner invoices must clearly state agreed payment timelines and methods
- Late payments may result in tour suspension until outstanding balances are settled
Documentation Required: All partner agreements must be signed and stored in our records for audit purposes.
8. Refund Policy
Refunds are governed by our comprehensive Cancellation Policy (referenced in Section 10):
- Full refunds are issued for cancellations made ≥5 days before tour date
- 50% refunds apply for cancellations 3 days prior
- No refunds for cancellations within 2 days of tour date
Processing Time: Refunds via original payment method take 5-10 business days to appear in your account.
9. Contact Us
For payment-related inquiries or special requests, please contact our finance department: