Xanterra Acquires Montana-Based Austin Adventures

Nature tourXanterra Parks & Resorts has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Austin Adventures. Formerly called Austin-Lehman Adventures, the Billings, Mont.-based tour company offers active adventures throughout the world. The transaction is expected to close in October.

Austin Adventures offers tours in more than 30 countries in the Americas, Europe, Africa, the South Pacific and the Middle East. The company’s guided adventures include biking, hiking, paddling, safaris, horseback, small ships and snorkeling/swimming while focusing on themes such as culture, gourmet food and wellness.

“This announcement comes during one of Austin Adventures’ best years ever, and we expect to see double-digit growth next year,” said Dan Austin, president of Austin Adventures. “Joining the Xanterra family will help make us stronger, and our customers can expect to see not only the same robust attention to service, but also exciting new offerings in 2014.”

Austin Adventures’ operations will remain in Billings, and there will be no change to current management and staff. Additionally, Austin Adventures will take advantage of synergies with other Xanterra companies. Austin Adventures already added two Windstar Cruises to its 2014 catalog and plans to expand its offerings in national parks where Xanterra operates, including Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Death Valley and Glacier National Parks

Austin Adventures is known for offering high-end family-friendly adventures, and the company’s offerings complement its new sister adventure travel company, VBT Bicycling and Walking Vacations.