Cruise lines will soon be forced to abandon their Antarctic schedules if new regulations force them to use greener fuels.
The decision comes after a proposal to prevent cruise ships from carrying and then burning fuel in the Antarctic waters. Measures, which if accepted, will come into force during 2011 in an amendment to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from ships (Marpol).
Ships sailing in the Antarctic waters usually use marine gas oil when south of 60° latitude, and heavy fuel oils when north of this point. The new proposal would need ships to use marine gas oil for the whole of their journey, costing cruise operators several million pounds extra every year.
Voyages of Discovery and Saga have already cancelled their Antarctic route and cultural cruise specialist Swan Hellenic will pull out in 2010, with others expected to follow due to the spiralling costs.
Tourism to the Antarctic has soared over the last 50 years; however 'cruise only' operators who do not actually berth in the Antarctic are likely to be unable to continue their routes.
The proposal has been welcomed by environmental groups with Justin Frances, managing director of Responsibletravel.com commenting "The proposed amendment is an essential step forward if we are to protect this area from the dangers of pollution."
Colin Stone, managing director of Swan Hellenic admitted that part of the reason for pulling out of their Antarctic schedule was rising cost; however the main reason was that Swan Hellenic customers were looking to warmer climates for their winter holidays.
