Travelling to Antarctica – IAATO Guidelines

Avian Flu is a highly contagious disease that primarily affects birds, but it is also known to affect mammals including species like seals who are often found in association with seabirds.

Biosecurity measures are already in place, and these are so important to minimise the potential effects on wildlife.

Yes, we are still visiting South Georgia.

We are actively monitoring developments related to Avian Influenza in Antarctica and South Georgia and are in constant communication with key authorities such as IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) and the GSGSSI (Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands) to guide our operations.

All South Georgia landing sites are open and will remain open during the 24/25 season, but please be mindful that if HPAI is observed by our Expedition Team at some sites, we may not conduct landings and will consider alternative options for landings.

Our onboard protocols have been reinforced, ensuring that stringent measures are in place to safeguard our passengers, wildlife, and the local environment, including:

• Prior to landings, our onboard experts will thoroughly inspect potential landing sites and determine any risks.
• Onboard biosecurity measures will be enhanced before arrival to Antarctica, between landings and between Antarctic and Subantarctic regions.
• It is essential that expeditioners refrain from sitting, kneeling or laying down, or placing equipment on the ground or snow, when on shore excursions. 

All sites are open, including sites that were previously temporarily restricted. But please be mindful that if HPAI is observed by our Expedition Team at some sites, we may not conduct landings and will consider alternative options for landings.

We understand the concerns surrounding the impact on wildlife, and we are committed to taking the necessary precautions to minimise any potential effects.

Our team is highly experienced and always navigates our surroundings to give passengers the best possible experience, including thoroughly inspecting potential landing sites prior to landings.

Avian Flu has been observed in some locations in the Antarctic Peninsula. We are continuing our operations in line with guidance from the relevant authorities.  The 24/25 season will commence with all sites opened within the Antarctic Peninsula. If signs of HPAI are observed, sites may be closed preventively and will continue to be assessed throughout the season.

As in South Georgia, our onboard protocols have been reinforced, ensuring that stringent measures are in place to safeguard our passengers, wildlife, and the local environment, including:

• Prior to landings, our onboard experts will thoroughly inspect potential landing sites and determine any risks.
• Onboard biosecurity measures will be enhanced before arrival to Antarctica and between landings
• It is essential that expeditioners refrain from sitting, kneeling or laying down, or placing equipment on the ground or snow, when on shore excursions. 
• We will not be visiting research stations

We have shared the IAATO guidelines for visitors to Antarctica ahead of departure to help mitigate the introduction and spread of the virus.

• Before you leave home, please ensure that anything that may come into contact with the Antarctic environment is thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Please use IAATO’s Don’t Pack a Pest guide to assist you.
• While in Antarctica, please follow existing protocols including daily biosecurity procedures and maintain minimum distances from wildlife. In addition, please: 
  • Do not sit, kneel or lay down during landings. 
  • Do not place any equipment on the ground or snow.
• The Expedition Team will be reminding all passengers on the protocols for Avian Flu

A client can cancel a booking within our standard Terms and Conditions.