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IAATO ushers in new members

IAATO logo
Provisional operator Albatros Expeditions gained full operator status in the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators, while Cookson Adventures and Princess Cruises became provisional operators.

Across Latin America – China, Caissa Tourism Group – China, Damen Shipyards, Lamei Tours China, Mystic Cruises, Pelorus and Pro Fuels became associate members.

Membership goes to 116

The newest affiliates bring IAATO’s membership to 116, comprising 48 operators, five provisional operators and 63 associate members.

Joining IAATO exhibits a company’s 'desire to safeguard Antarctica and learn from the pooled wisdom of the IAATO family, which comes from the hundreds of years of experience we have between us,' according to Executive Committee Chair Mark van der Hulst.

'As a self-regulating body we have stringent criteria for joining in order to ensure that every new member shares our mission and vision, so gaining membership reflects a great deal of hard work,' he added.

Mandatory observation scheme

Provisional operators are required to carry an IAATO observer during their first season in the Antarctic to witness their operations in practice and offer feedback to ensure they meet IAATO’s operational guidelines.

At the association's annual meeting, held May 3 in Cape Town, members also approved a mandatory observation scheme for all IAATO operators.