Guidelines
AECO members are obligated to operate in accordance with national and international laws and regulations and have, in addition, agreed to follow an extensive set of guidelines to ensure operations are in accordance with our objectives, including a number of site-specific guidelines and guidelines for visitors to the Arctic.
Visitor Guidelines
General guidelines for travellers visiting the Arctic
There are a few basic rules that we ask you as a visitor to the Arctic to read carefully and act in accordance with.
Clean Seas Guidelines
Join the Clean up Svalbard campaign
AECO’s Clean Seas Guidelines provide useful information about combating marine plastic pollution.
Yacht Guidelines
Guidelines for private yachts and sailboats
This page gathers useful information and resources for travelers who are planning to visit the Arctic with a private vessel.
Community guidelines
Guidelines when visiting communities
It is important to be considerate and sensitive when visiting, especially small communities and communities in remote areas.
Vegetation Guidelines
Arctic plant life
Arctic summers are short, cold and unpredictable, but plants live even in the most barren places and the region is greener than you might expect.
Cultural Remains Guidelines
Stories from the past
Cultural remains are the traces humans have left behind. They are story-tellers of lived life and past times.
Wildlife Guidelines
Information and guidelines for encounters with Arctic wildlife
We wish to ensure that the Arctic wildlife stays unaffected by tourism. Please follow the wildlife guidelines to ensure considerate conduct.
Biosecurity Guidelines
Guidelines for protection of the environment
AECO’s biosecurity guidelines aim to minimize the risk of future introductions of non-native species to the Arctic.
Operational Guidelines
Mandatory guidelines for tour operators that are members of AECO
AECO’ Operational guidelines are guidelines the cruise operators and members of AECO are obliged to follow.
Site Guidelines
Information and guidelines on selected and specific sites in the Arctic
The site guidelines gives information on specific sites and gives guidance to how visits can be carried out without negative impact on the environment and the cultural remains.
Marketing Guidelines
Mandatory information for marketing departments
The AECO Marketing Guidelines were adopted in 2021 and are mandatory for members.
Posters
Aimed at visitors to the Arctic
AECO has developed posters to be displayed on expedition cruise vessels sailing in the Arctic. The aim of the posters is inform guests about AECO’s guidelines for responsible Arctic tourism.
Polar Field Staff Online Assessment
Online tests for Arctic field staff
Through online assessments, guides and expedition leaders can test their knowledge of AECO guidelines and relevant regulations.
