Maritime Safety in Arctic Regions Under Debate

At a recent meeting held by the Danish Maritime Authority, safety of navigation in the Arctic regions was discussed.

The Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Danish Maritime Authority recently met with the Government of Greenland and Visit Greenland to discuss safety of navigation in the Arctic regions.

A number of safety measures were discussed, including using a risk assessment tool as a mechanism for managing risks, the possibility of establishing special tourist routes for cruise ships, the practical implications of coordinating ships’ voyages, the crews’ experience navigating the Arctic regions as well as the development of tools intended to assist the master when planning navigation.

It was generally agreed that there must be top safety when cruise ships embark on voyages in the Arctic regions, and this meeting was considered to be a kick-off for a closer relationship between the maritime authorities and the cruise industry. All parties agreed that cooperation will be of mutual benefit as both sides will be able to share valuable insights, perspectives and knowledge on these matters.

[mappress]

Source: DMA, March 28, 2012