Welcome to the Arctic. [Visitor Guidelines]

• Main Author: Unkn Unknown
• Format: Report
• Language: English
• Published: Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) 2019
• Subjects: CAPARDUS; Cruise operators; Tourism; FOS Economics and business; Parameter DisciplineEnvironmentHuman activity; Arctic; polar bear
• Online Access: https://dx.doi.org/10.25607/obp-861; https://repository.oceanbestpractices.org/handle/11329/1355

General guidelines for travelers visiting the Arctic. Tourism and cruise activities in the Arctic operate within a comprehensive framework of international and national laws and regulations to ensure safety and preservation of the environment, with which AECO members of course are obligated to comply. Nevertheless, there is a need for operators to take responsibility for their activities and actions both within and beyond formal laws and regulations. AECO has developed a comprehensive set of guidelines for expedition cruise operations in the Arctic. The AECO guidelines are endorsed by the operators for the organization of respectful, environmentally friendly and safe expedition cruising. Basic principles: 1. Leave no lasting signs of your visit 2. Do not pick flowers 3. Do not take anything with you 4. Do not disturb animals and birds 5. Leave cultural remains alone 6. Take the polar bear danger seriously 7. Respect local culture and local people 8. Be safe