Promoting Conservationists in Antarctic Ship-Based Tourism

• Main Author: Baker, Will
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: Prescott College 2019
• Subjects: Environmental education|Sustainability; Antarctic; Antarc*; Antarctica
• Online Access: http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=27738639

This study explored ship-based tourism in Antarctica and the ability of the ship, M/S Midnatsol, to fulfill the objectives of encouraging visitors to protect the continent as outlined by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO). The IAATO objective was explored through a review of the relevant literature and with a questionnaire answered by 289 passengers over two expeditions, that scored participants along a nature-relatedness spectrum designed by Nisbet, Zelenski, and Murphy (2009) and further additions specifically for the study onboard M/S Midnatsol study. A statistically significant increase was found in the nature-relatedness score of participants before and after the expedition, while passengers reported more awareness and concern for Antarctic conservation. The findings also highlighted the importance of spending time outdoors to develop a deeper connection to nature. Finally, the research identifies areas where further research is warranted, and the research reveals how expanding the study to include other ships and companies operating expedition cruises in Antarctica could benefit the larger understanding of passenger-outcomes related to the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators’ objectives.