ANTARCTIC TOURISM

TOURISM IS ONE OF THE MAJOR HUMAN ACTIVITIES IN ANTARCTICA.

IN 1992 JUST a few thousand tourists visited Antarctica, but the number grew tenfold during 1992–2020, to 75,000. By 2022–23, it had grown to 104,897. Most arrived on purpose-built Antarctic cruise vessels, and most remained on board. Like all activities in Antarctica, tourism is regulated broadly through the Antarctic Treaty. But operators abide by voluntary guidelines and regulations stipulated by IAATO – the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators. “They do a good job but they can’t control the rate at which tourism is growing, which has been very rapid,” says Emily Grilly, WWF-Australia’s Antarctic conservation manager. She feels more needs to be done to regulate tourism activities and where tourists should be allowed to go.

“I’m a pragmatist,” says Antarctic ecologist Dr Justine Shaw. “I don’t think we can ban tourists, but numbers should be capped. And, just like fishing, tourism should be regulated and tracked.” She advises tourists to choose operators carefully, ensuring they are members of IAATO and use guides who educate about, and advocate for, the Antarctic environment and its wildlife. A positive aspect of tourism, Justine says, is that most visitors become awestruck when they see Antarctica and go away as great advocates for the continent and supporters for its protection.

AAD seabird ecologist Dr Louise Emmerson agrees it wouldn’t be possible to ban tourism and that it can bring benefits if it’s handled well. “One of the most important ways we can help the planet is to allow, and enable, people to have a connection between ecosystems such as Antarctica,” Louise says. “People find it easy, in particular, to develop a connection to penguins, and having a close-up experience with penguins will only reinforce the ‘wow’ factor people develop for Antarctica, and hopefully inspire them to help protect these vulnerable creatures.”