Visiting Svalbard in 2025? New Regulations Are Now in Place
Svalbard has introduced new environmental and wildlife protection regulations. See how these changes affect your Arctic trip.
This guide contains all the information you need about the new Svalbard regulations implemented, as well as the AECO biosecurity guidelines to follow before visiting the Arctic. As a member of the Association, Albatros Expeditions follows strict biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of non-native species and protect the delicate Arctic environment.
What’s Changing in Svalbard from 2025?
From the 1st January 2025, the Governor of Svalbard (Sysselmesteren på Svalbard) has revised its environmental and wildlife protection regulations under the Svalbard Environmental Act and AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators). These new changes apply to all residents and visitors to the Norwegian archipelago, and they aim to preserve the Arctic landscape and protect its unique wildlife.
What measures are already currently in place, and how will they affect you, our future guest, on your next Albatros Expeditions cruise?
Svalbard's New Regulations
1. Protecting Polar Bears
Stricter regulations have been implemented to protect polar bears on Svalbard. As established in the Svalbard Environmental Act, disturbing, attracting, or pursuing polar bears unnecessarily is prohibited. For your safety and that of the animals, a minimum distance of 300 meters (from July 1 to February 28) and 500 meters (from March 1 to June 30) must now be maintained from polar bears. When onboard, your guides will ensure these regulations are followed.
2. Drone Usage Limitations
To reduce disturbance to wildlife, guests in Svalbard and across the Arctic are not permitted to fly drones. Restrictions on drone flights have been enforced for several years, but they have recently become stricter, making drone flights now entirely forbidden in protected areas such as National Parks and Nature Reserves.
3. Restricted Landing Areas
Landings in Svalbard's National Parks and Nature Reserves are limited to 43 authorised sites, and guests can explore these areas only with certified guides, on vessels carrying under 200 guests. Of the 43 permitted sites, 13 will limit group sizes to 39 people ashore at a time. Ocean Albatros, the vessel upon which we explore the enchanting Svalbard archipelago, will guarantee access to the designated landing sites within these protected areas.
4. Walrus Watching
One of the highlights of visiting Svalbard is spotting large groups of walruses. While observing them at sea, Zodiacs must maintain a minimum distance of 150 meters from their haulouts and adhere to a speed limit of 5 knots within 300 meters of their location. Don't worry—our qualified guides will take care of everything, and you'll still have the chance to see these incredible animals!
5. Cruise Passenger Limitations
A limit of 200 passengers is now enforced for all cruise vessels within Svalbard's National Parks and Nature Reserves; access is otherwise prohibited. Our vessel Ocean Albatros, with a capacity of 186 passengers, ensures a secure yet intimate experience with a 1:8 guide-to-guest ratio, creating a family-like atmosphere, and ensuring compliance with regulations while offering passengers a safe and exceptional trip within these protected areas.
6. Ice Breaking Prohibition
A ban on breaking fast ice has now been implemented in Svalbard. The destruction of sea ice not only harms the natural environment, but also the diverse wildlife found in Svalbard.
AECO Biosecurity Guidelines
In addition to the new wildlife and environmental regulations, all visitors to the Arctic are expected to follow AECO’s biosecurity guidelines — essential measures that help prevent the introduction of non-native species. These organisms, including plants, animals, and microorganisms not naturally found in the region, can seriously harm Arctic ecosystems by outcompeting native species, spreading diseases, and disrupting fragile food webs.
At Albatros Expeditions, we take these protocols seriously and will guide you every step of the way. By following a few simple procedures, you can help protect one of the world’s last truly wild environments. We invite you to join us in this mission — your involvement is key to preserving the Arctic for future generations.
What can you, as a guest, do to help?
1. Keep your boots, clothing, and bags clean before and after we land. Your Expedition Team is on hand to assist you.
2. Remember to make use of the disinfectant stations whenever you embark and disembark the Zodiacs.
3. Kindly avoid bringing any organic materials ashore, such as seeds, soil, or food. (Food may be brought ashore for certain medical reasons - please discuss your needs with your Expedition Leader.)
4. If in doubt, ask your Expedition Team guides for assistance!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will these regulations affect our daily excursions?
Not significantly. With our expert Expedition Leaders and adaptable itineraries, you’ll continue to experience unforgettable shore excursions, hikes, Zodiac cruises, wildlife watching, and all the other exciting activities our voyages provide while adhering to local environmental protection regulations.
Will I still see the wildlife when I go to Svalbard?
While the new regulations may limit opportunities to photograph or observe polar bears, seals, and other wildlife in Svalbard, Albatros Expeditions remains committed to providing the best opportunities for our guests to see them and capture stunning images. We advise bringing binoculars and telephoto lenses to enhance your wildlife viewing while maintaining a safe and respectful distance.
Are we still allowed to hike during landings?
Absolutely! There are a wide variety of landing sites both within and outside of protected areas which permit free movement for hiking once we are ashore, always under the guidance of our expert Expedition Team guides.
What should I pack before travelling to comply with AECO biosecurity measures?
Bring easy-to-clean outdoor gear. We kindly ask that you clean your previously-used gear prior to embarking the vessel, use the disinfection stations provided onboard, and avoid bringing organic material of any kind ashore. Do not worry! Our expert onboard Expedition Team will guide you through all the necessary procedures!
Do these new rules affect onboard activities?
No! All the onboard activities, such as lectures, social events, and dining experiences remain unaffected, and will continue as normal!
How does Albatros ensure compliance?
We are proud AECO members and have over 30 years of experience operating in the polar regions. Since the late 1990s, Albatros has earned recognition for its dedication to responsible exploration and proudly supports the UN Global Compact. We integrate global sustainability goals into our engagements with local communities across the Arctic and beyond, ensuring we positively contribute to the communities we engage with.