Intrepid Acquires Dutch-based Experiential Travel Operator

Intrepid’s James Thornton and Sawadee’s Berend Simons

Intrepid Travel has acquired Dutch tour operator Sawadee Reizen, previously owned by Travelopia.

Amsterdam-based Sawadee specializes in experiential travel, offering over 250 trips across 100 countries. It has worked closely with Intrepid since 2011, with Intrepid DMC operating many of Sawadee’s locally immersive travel experiences.

“We’re delighted to welcome the Sawadee team to Intrepid after more than a decade working successfully together,” said Intrepid CEO James Thornton.

“Intrepid aims to be the world’s largest vertically integrated experiential travel company and bringing our two brands together is a major step towards that. We also both believe that travel can be a force for good in the world,” he added.

The company stated that the acquisition marks a significant step to grow its style of responsible small-group travel in Europe.

The deal, completed on 31JAN, is expected to add USD$62 million in revenue and 20,000 new customers annually to Intrepid, supporting its goal of reaching $1 billion in revenue by 2030.

Sawadee will continue to operate under its current name and branding. Managing Director Berend Simons will remain in his role and report to Intrepid’s Managing Director EMEA, Zina Bencheikh.

The acquisition strengthens Intrepid’s sustainability efforts, with plans for Sawadee to pursue B Corp certification, adding to its existing Travelife sustainability credentials. Both companies are committed to responsible tourism and climate action initiatives.

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