The polar regions — and the wildlife that depends on them — are extremely fragile

That is why responsible travel is at the heart of every expedition we run

Every journey we lead strictly follows standards and regulations

Standards & Regulations

Our operations follow the formal frameworks that govern polar activities. On every project, we…

• Follow AECO and IAATO: In the Arctic we follow AECO operational, wildlife, community and biosecurity guidelines; in Antarctica we follow IAATO and Antarctic Treaty visitor guidelines — including minimum approach distances for relevant species and strict biosecurity (cleaning/disinfection and equipment control). Where guidelines differ, the stricter one applies.

• Permits and local regulations: We obtain all landing, filming and research permits; comply with protected-area rules and regulations at every level; and respect Indigenous and local institutional procedures where required.

• Biosecurity first: Boots and equipment are decontaminated before and after landings; sampling equipment is controlled; no food is taken ashore; “clean on, clean off”; seasonal disease-control measures (e.g. avian influenza) are followed.

• Safety briefings and reporting: All participants complete AECO/IAATO safety briefings before going out; research stations and equipment are respected; post-visit reports are filed as required.

• Aligned with COMNAP best practice: When working with or near national Antarctic programmes, we align with COMNAP manuals and safety guidelines (field safety, logistics, response and contingency) and integrate station procedures as permitted.

• Compliance with CCAMLR (Southern Ocean): Any marine activity within the CCAMLR Convention Area must not conflict with its conservation measures and respects marine protected areas (e.g. the Ross Sea region and the South Orkney Islands southern shelf).

Note: regulations are updated each season; we review AECO/IAATO and local rules every season and update our plans.

Abbreviations: AECO = Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators; IAATO = International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators; COMNAP = Council of Managers of National Antarctic Programs; CCAMLR = Commission for the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources.