AECO members prepare for safe resumption of Arctic cruising in 2022

This is according to the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators following its virtual annual general meeting last week.

Some 62 participants representing 38 AECO member organizations discussed challenges and preparations for the season.

Strength in unity

'While operations have been halted, AECO and our members have done a tremendous amount of work in preparing for a safe reopening,' AECO Executive Director Frigg Jørgensen said. 'Our members have expressed that they really see the value in being part of an association that monitors developments and advocates on their behalf, especially in periods when their own capacity is limited.

'Coming together like this gives the industry a unified voice and legitimacy when we represent the industry’s interests and work with authorities, local stakeholders and academia to advance responsible travel in the Arctic.'

Sharing best practices

The meeting agenda included new marketing guidelines and regulatory developments in Svalbard. New procedures and examples of best practices for COVID-19 mitigation were shared.