Travelling to the Arctic – AECO Guidelines

As one of the first operators to become an AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators) member, Aurora Expeditions is committed to responsible and respectful travel to the Arctic.

It is important to familiarise yourself with key information and protocols before travelling to this region.

Please download and read the following documents. We thank you for your support for the ongoing protection and preservation of the Arctic.

AECO’s biosecurity guidelines aim to minimize the risk of future introductions of non-native species to the Arctic.

Be a responsible visitor

One of the main ways non-native species can spread to the Arctic is by our activities there. Seeds, microorganisms, and even insects can hitchhike to the Arctic on footwear, attached to clothing, or in bags that have been used in the outdoors previously. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your visit won’t lead to non-native species being introduced to the Arctic.

Before leaving home

Examine and clean all clothing, including pockets, seams, Velcro fasteners, and footwear soles for dirt and organic material. Use a vacuum cleaner, brushes, and water where necessary to ensure all seeds and dirt have been removed. This is especially important if you have used your clothing and equipment previously in parklands or rural settings, or other polar regions.

Upon arrival, be biosecurity aware:

• Follow the biosecurity procedures on your expedition. This is especially important if you are moving between distinct geographic regions (e.g. between eastern and western Svalbard, Svalbard and Greenland or Greenland and Canada) but also when moving between distinct landing sites.
• Watch your step. If you notice organic matter on boots, clothing or gear, make sure to clean it off before leaving a site and use the disinfectant wash between visits. Leave disinfectant to dry between landings.
• Spread the word. Share this information with others and help protect the Arctic environment.

Non-native species – a potential threat to the Arctic environment

Non-native species represent a threat to biodiversity globally as they can cause serious negative impacts to the natural environment. These are species that are introduced to regions where they are not normally found as a result of human activity. Increasing visitation in the Arctic means a greater chance of more non-native species introductions.

If in doubt, ask your guides for direction. For more information see: www.aeco.no.

Activities in the Arctic operate within a comprehensive framework of international and national laws and regulations to ensure safety and preservation of the environment. Visiting Svalbard involves adhering to guidelines put in place by AECO and and the Svalbard Government. Guidelines include:

• Maximum 200 passenger limitation in National Parks and Eastern Svalbard National Reserves.
• Prohibition of landings in protected areas.
• Minimum distance to Polar Bears of 500 meters and prohibition of disturbing/actively seeking/luring. Stringent fines and imprisonment apply
• Minimum 300 meters distance to Walrus at sea and minimum 50 meters ashore.
• 5 knots speed limitation within 500 meters of Bird Cliffs.
• Ice Breaking, prohibition of breaking fast ice.
• Prohibition for use of drones in protected areas, National Parks and Natural reserves and within 500 meters from bird colonies/cliffs.

AECO has also banned the general use of UAVs by  passengers in the Arctic. The use of UAVs for special purposes may be decided by the operators within the limits of regulations and AECO guidelines. UAVs/Drones can under no circumstance be used to pursue or approach wildlife.

We will continue to maintain a proactive approach, closely monitoring updates from AECO and local authorities.

Activities in the Arctic operate within a comprehensive framework of international and national laws and regulations to ensure safety and preservation of the environment. Visiting Greenland involves adhering to guidelines put in place by AECO and and local authorities. Guidelines include:

• Polar Bear sight seeing, lure and actively seeking are not allowed.
• Polar Bears can be seeked only if a licensed Greenlander is on board.
• Narwhal no-go zones and speed limit zones.
• Clearance to enter Greenland if not from Schengen countries will NOT apply.

We will continue to maintain a proactive approach, closely monitoring updates from AECO and local authorities.