International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators

Starting this season, all IAATO vessels in Antarctica’s Gullet channel will follow mandatory acoustic protocols. This initiative aims to protect some of Antarctica’s rarest inhabitants, the B1 killer whale population, and reinforces IAATO's broader commitment to science-based environmental stewardship. Read more: https://loom.ly/w3wBT0U 📸 hartleyforester.travels

Together with our polar partners at COMNAP, we’re proud to celebrate and announce the 2025 Antarctic Fellows. IAATO has selected Dr. Manuel Novillo for his project titled, ‘Frozen Clues: validating age and growth of an overexploited Antarctic fish through otolith microchemistry’. “Frozen clues hidden in Antarctic fish otoliths can tell us how they responded to human fishing pressures. With this fellowship, I’ll unlock those stories to support stronger conservation in the Southern Ocean.” Find out more about the #AntarcticFellowship and COMNAP's Awardee here: https://loom.ly/UXOenYI 🔬🇦🇶

Today is #WorldMigratoryBirdDay! 🦅 Meet the Southern Fulmar (𝘍𝘶𝘭𝘮𝘢𝘳𝘶𝘴 𝘨𝘭𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴). These birds breed along the Antarctic mainland and spend much of their lives gliding over the cold southern seas. During the non-breeding season, they can be found in warmer waters off the coast of South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and South America. The Southern Fulmar and many others remind us that migration connects not just species, but entire ecosystems. 𝙁𝙐𝙉 𝙁𝘼𝘾𝙏: They can drink seawater, using a special salt gland to stay hydrated in salty environments. 📸 polar_madi

We're hiring! IAATO is looking for a remote data assistant to join our team. Head over to our opportunities page to see our latest postings: https://loom.ly/8hMPhxI

In addition to Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting Measures, Recommendations, and Resolutions, IAATO members are required to adhere to all of the association's operating guidelines and established protocols, which are designed to promote safe and environmentally responsible operations in Antarctica. Examples include: 🔹Coordinating itineraries in advance through careful advance pre-season planning 🔹Participating in the IAATO vessel tracking system, designed to enhance contingency response 🔹Mandatory assessments for field guides and vessel crews to ensure understanding of best practices in environmental stewardship 🔹Safeguarding measures for wildlife, including wildlife guidelines, whale slow-down zones and mandatory acoustic awareness zones For a more comprehensive list, see Section X of the IAATO Bylaws on our website: https://loom.ly/vqiSssw 📸 @sealcub on Instagram

IAATO welcomes Daven Hafey as our new Director of Operations! With nearly 20 years of polar experience and a deep commitment to responsible tourism, Daven will help lead our mission to protect Antarctica while supporting safe, environmentally responsible expeditions. ❄️🐧 "I look forward to ensuring future generations can experience Antarctica with the same wonder and respect that has inspired me."

The 2025-26 Antarctic season has begun, and IAATO's commitment to responsible tourism within the framework of the Antarctic Treaty System remains strong. With heightened HPAI protocols, enhanced site guidelines and new wildlife safety measures, including Mandatory Acoustic Awareness Zones to protect whales, IAATO member operators are ready for another season of practising safe and environmentally responsible travel to the Antarctic. 📸 @charlescodyphotography

While the IAATO Operators are technically competitors in the expedition space, they are all on the same team when it comes to protecting Antarctica. Within the framework of the Antarctic Treaty System, IAATO's members work together to develop the highest possible standards for operating in the region. 📸 Julie_chandelier

Today is #WorldTourismDay! 🌐 IAATO remains committed to promoting responsible tourism practices that prioritise the protection of Antarctica’s unique environment. We work closely with regulatory bodies, scientific institutions, and other valued stakeholders to ensure that tourism activities are conducted sustainably and in accordance with the principles of the Antarctic Treaty System. 📸 Genna Roland

IAATO is an international organization comprised of more than 100 respected companies and organizations from across the world. Together, and within the framework of the Antarctic Treaty System, we develop extensive procedures and strict guidelines to ensure that private-sector tourism in Antarctica remains safe, sustainable, and with environmental best practices at its core. 📸 marco_rosso86