IAATO Expands Membership: New Members Elected at Annual Annual Meeting

At the recent annual meeting of the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) in Cascais, Portugal, a total of five new associate members and four provisional operators were granted full operator status. This decision was made in recognition of their commitment to uphold IAATO’s protocols and standards in Antarctic tourism.

The newly recognized provisional operators include Exploris, Peace Boat, ROW Management/Residences at Sea, and Ultima Antarctic Expeditions. Meanwhile, the new associates consist of Agencia Maritim Velmaren, Antarctica Travels, Chile Ship Services, EYOS Cruise Supply, and Rad Propulsion. This brings their membership growth to nine new associates for the 2024-25 Antarctic season. Among these are Asteria Expeditions, New Zealand Antarctic Heritage Trust, Vicam, Compass Ship Agents & Suppliers, Nordic Cruise Management, Polar Tracks Expeditions, Porcelli Law Firm, Sea Chefs, and Venture Ship Management Europe.

Additionally, three tour companies—66º Expeditions, Ocean Nova Expeditions, and Voyal—have been granted provisional operator status. They will be subject to a mandatory observation by IAATO during the upcoming 2025-26 season as part of the standard process for gaining full membership.

Laura Smith, Chair of IAATO’s Membership Committee, highlighted that being a member of IAATO signifies a strong dedication to preserving the principles outlined in the Antarctic Treaty. She congratulated all new members on this significant milestone in their journey towards becoming responsible stewards of the Antarctic region.

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