#10
Breaking down new Svalbard regulations 2025 and Secret Atlas’s commitment to conscious travel
The Norwegian government has recently adopted stricter environmental regulations on Svalbard, set to come into effect on 1 January, 2025.
Our Expedition Micro Cruise concept is built on conscious travel, and as these rules aim to protect the Arctic environment and its wildlife – naturally, Secret Atlas welcomes steps towards protecting the wilderness.
“We’re set on keeping the wilderness, wild!”
— Mariano Curiel, Secret Atlas co-owner
We understand that you might have questions about these new regulations and how they may alter exploration in Svalbard. That considered, we’ve put together all the information you need, but you can always reach out to a member of our team if you have any questions.
New Svalbard regulations
The new regulations, as we know them include:
Landings in protected areas will be prohibited, except for 43 designated landing sites.
Passenger limits of 200 will apply in all protected areas.
The use of drones is banned in all protected areas.
The use of snowmobiles and tracked vehicles is permanently banned on sea ice after 1 March in select fjords, with some exceptions for cabin access.
Motor traffic at sea must be kept at a maximum of 5 knots speed at a distance of 500 metres from land outside bird cliffs from 1 April to 31 August.
Motor traffic at sea must be kept at a maximum of 5 knots speed and must keep a minimum distance of 150 metres distance from walrus haulout sites.
Breaking fast ice will be forbidden, with exceptions for shipping routes to Longyearbyen, Barentsburg, Ny-Ålesund and the Coast Guard.
It’s prohibited to disturb, lure or pursue polar bears unnecessarily
Minimum distances from polar bears will be set at 300 metres between July 1st and 28th February
Minimum distances from polar bears will be set at 500 metres between March 1st and June 30th
Further details and regulations can be found here.
Why new Svalbard regulations favour Expedition Micro Cruises
What do the limitations mean for you and your expedition?
The way we travel, the way we do business and the way we think is undergoing a significant evolution, and it’s a change for the better. The planet has been spinning for millions of years, and if you think about that, the diversity of life forms as well as the existence of humanity at this moment in time is nothing short of a miracle. We recognise this privilege.
With new regulations coming into play, action is necessary to change the way we operate. The most noteworthy is the reduction in landing sites will likely have the most noticeable impact on expedition cruises, as many popular spots are located within protected areas. However, we believe that these limitations are necessary to preserve Svalbard's wilderness for future generations.
Landing Sites
Number of landing sites: 43
Landing sites limited to 200 people: 30
Landing sites limited to 29 people: 13
Our Expedition Micro Cruises focus on small groups, hosting just 12 guests which means we can access all 43 sites in Svalbard. All sites are limited to a maximum of 200 people (still too many in our opinion) and 13 of those are limited to a maximum of 39 people at a time.
Travelling in small groups not only reduces the strain on Svalbard's ecosystem but also allows for more meaningful connections with nature and fellow explorers.
The reduction in landing sites will not diminish the quality of our expeditions because, as true explorers, we embrace the unpredictable nature of the Arctic and make the most of every opportunity. Rather than adhering to a strict itinerary, we observe nature as it unfolds, making the most of the opportunities we have within nature and always upholding respect wherever we visit. That will never change.
Drones
The rules for drone usage in Svalbard are put in place by AECO to reduce disturbance to wildlife.
There is a general ban on drone use in protected areas. Also, from 1st April to 31st August each year, flying drones closer than 500 metres from bird cliffs is prohibited.
As a result, expedition guests are not permitted to use drones or UAVs. If we have members of our team flying drones, they are being used professionally and will adhere to the Svalbard regulations and AECO guidelines.
Wildlife watching
Maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife has always been a priority, and our guides strictly enforce this. The new regulations focus on the peak summer months when bird cliffs serve as crucial breeding grounds and it's imperative not to disturb nature's delicate balance.
Witnessing wildlife is still possible; it’s about maintaining a balance of respect between wild animals and ourselves.
Why rush? Similarly, adhering to a speed limit of 5 knots has been introduced. We like to take things slow, often opting to switch off our engines, allowing us to observe the wildlife quietly. We’d say this is essential for the best wildlife-watching opportunities.
Polar bears
Polar bears are beloved creatures of the Arctic, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has listed them as a vulnerable species. Whilst they may sit at the top of the food chain, they suffer many challenges today due to climate change, which crucially impact their hunting and survival methods. Research and regular monitoring are fundamental in helping protect these magnificent creatures, which is why it’s been agreed to enforce stricter regulations for polar bears and marine areas.
What are the new polar bear regulations in Svalbard?
Polar Bear regulations are nothing new. Rules set out by AECO have been in place for many years regarding the viewing of polar bears. However, from January 2025, stricter regulations will be enforced in the 12-mile zone of Svalbard waters.
Prohibitions: It is prohibited to disturb, lure, or pursue polar bears unnecessarily.
July 1st to February 28th: Minimum distance from polar bears will be set at 300 metres.
March 1st to June 30th: Minimum distance from polar bears will be set at 500 metres.
There’s nothing quite like witnessing a polar bear in the wild, and while additional regulations have been put in place, they do not diminish the experience. Here’s why…
Respectful wildlife viewing
"It is prohibited to disturb, lure, or pursue polar bears unnecessarily." – Nothing will change here! On our Expedition Micro Cruises, we work with the most experienced guides who are passionate about the Arctic, and we’re happy to reiterate our ethos: to leave the places and wildlife we see undisturbed.
Our commitment to ethical wildlife viewing ensures that you can observe these magnificent creatures in a way without any disturbance.
Expanding your adventure
“The minimum distance from polar bears will be set at 300 to 500 metres depending on the month.”
This has been the biggest talking point for those wanting to visit Svalbard from 2025, however, this distance doesn’t mean you can’t witness these animals in the wild.
In addition to following the new Svalbard regulations, we offer the chance to explore further into the pack ice. This provides ample space for adventure and more polar bear sightings. The expansive ice fields create a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop, perfect for photography and deepening your connection with the Arctic environment.
Photography with a purpose
If you’re a photographer, we know that capturing a shot of a polar bear is likely on your list. While we maintain a safe distance from the bears, we emphasise the beauty of landscape photography.
Capturing animals within their natural landscapes not only tells a more compelling story but also highlights the stunning environment that these creatures call home. This approach enriches your photographic portfolio with meaningful and impactful images.
Understanding the potential impact on tourism
Why new Svalbard regulations favour small ships
The new regulations will alter the way we operate our expedition cruises in Svalbard, but the fundamental experience and ethos driven by Secret Atlas will remain.
We strive to provide our guests with a genuine, honest experience in the wilderness, free from the constraints of itineraries and crowds. The long-term benefits of protecting Svalbard’s environment will benefit from these restrictions and heighten the awareness of those who visit this special part of the world.
“It’s important to remember that we manage our expectations and recognise nothing is guaranteed – appreciate the here and now. In a society focused on claiming ownership and demanding more, nature serves as a reminder of our place as visitors on this planet. It’s not an exhibit; it's a sanctuary that reminds us of our connection to the Earth and all living things.”
— Sophie Dingwall, Secret Atlas Marketing Director
Our commitment to keeping the wilderness wild
At Secret Atlas, we promise to keep our communications with you transparent and will continue to inform you of evolving regulations in Svalbard.
We support putting the environment first, aiming to set an example for the whole industry to show that we can still deliver a truly spectacular expedition, whilst prioritising environmental preservation.
One of the ways we show our support is partnering up with 1% for the Planet. This partnership means that we dedicate 1% of all our revenue to projects working towards positive change every single day. It's our way of putting our money where our mouth is and actively contributing to projects that are making a real difference in the world.
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