Antarctica and Covid

[Host Jazzbeau]

Several countries have instituted very tight controls of their borders to contain Covid [e.g. New Zealand] with great success.  Nobody owns Antarctica, so how is it going to be protected against spread of the virus by tourism?

[PerfectlyPerth]

Sub Antarctic islands with resident or staff like Falklands and South Georgia Island have already put out guidelines re visitors in next season. I haven't seen an update for Port Lockroy yet. It's possible it will stay closed. 

Staffed research stations will also put out guidelines and restrictions closer to the season (if a season goes ahead this year). 

[Quark Expeditions]

Hey there,

Antarctica is governed internationally through the Antarctic Treaty system. All treaty countries are currently following guidelines set in place by their own government.

All tourism operators have been in contact and working with IAATO (The International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators) to better understand future constrains on visiting historical sites and manned research stations or sites, such as Port Lockroy. 
 

Expedition ships benefit from their smaller size in comparison to bigger cruise ships. In addition, we have assembled a multi-functional task force of physicians, polar experts and industry leaders to develop the most comprehensive health and safety plan in the expedition industry to provide you with peace of mind when exploring the Polar Regions. Click here to learn more about our Four Pillars of Health and Safety. 

 

[khle]

But what will chances or mitigation plans be if ports and transfer airports are having limited operations for the upcoming season? I believe it’s likely anyone’s guess - but these infrastructure points are needed to depart from or to organize a departure - even if there are little to no stops to harbours or research stations once the expedition is underway - and just zodiac landings.

[Quark Expeditions]

On 7/19/2020 at 8:19 AM, khle said:

But what will chances or mitigation plans be if ports and transfer airports are having limited operations for the upcoming season? I believe it’s likely anyone’s guess - but these infrastructure points are needed to depart from or to organize a departure - even if there are little to no stops to harbours or research stations once the expedition is underway - and just zodiac landings.

Hey Khle, we understand your concerns around international travel and embarkation/disembarkation logistics. Our team, and other Antarctic expedition operators, have been monitoring the situation and working with local partners to better understand and prepare for the possibility of a cancelled or delayed season.

All our booked guests will be notified of any decision or circumstances that affect their upcoming departures.