Kamchatka & the Commander Islands wildlife cruise

Planet

We work hard to protect and conserve the destinations we visit around the world and the fragile Arctic ecosystem is no exception. In protecting the Arctic and instilling a sense of environmental stewardship in our clients, we employ a range of successful methods and initiatives.

All of our Arctic trips operate under the policies of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) and we endeavour to deliver ‘respectable, environmentally-friendly and safe expeditions in the Arctic’. In working with AECO, we help ensure that our trips are carried out with the utmost consideration for the vulnerable natural environment, all local cultures and the valuable cultural sites.

Our polar trips are also made under the full membership of the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) and as such, we abide by their strict codes of conduct in both the Antarctic and the Arctic. Encounters with polar bears, walruses and whales are controlled by strict responsible codes of conduct.

Whilst on these trips, your-on board natural history expert, through guided walks and evening talks, reveals not only the wonders of the Arctic realm and its wildlife but also some of the conservation issues which this fragile habitat and its species face.

People

Some voyages we offer are so remote that there is no indigenous village / community, such as Spitsbergen. In Baffin in Arctic Canada we visit remote communities; the Inuit culture here is strong and the local communities very welcoming of visitors and eager to share their ancient crafts and traditions. This is also the case on this Russia trip, where we visit local settlements and their museums. The communities from the ports and villages where the ship stops benefit when passengers buy any souvenirs. Passengers are also educated on the local way of life for these inhabitants, ensuring that they are respectful of local customs and traditions. Russian guides and lecturers are also used and the ship helps communities by transporting goods and vehicles from one remote area to the other.

Our overall commitment to the environment is also reflected within our office environment. We source office supplies from local retailers, use recycled stationary where possible and recycle office waste.