This week in Greenland, the large Ministry of Transport, Minerals and Equality published a new law. The text, discussed with cruise operators from all over the world, limits the navigation zones. In the Far North, Greenland is not alone in worrying about the effects of mass tourism on nature. Iceland and Svalbard have also imposed restrictions. But in Greenland, it is a recent accident that hastened the decision. [Rediffusion du 08/06/2024]
No navigation during animal reproduction periods! From now on, cruise ships will have to stop in certain areas of Greenland. The green color will be for the coasts with free access. The yellow-orange zones will be restricted during the reproduction periods of seals, narwhals or other animals. The red zones will be prohibited to all large maritime calibers.
Companies will also have to organize limited number of outings, in small groups of travelers. This will be the case this summer 2024 on the most requested glaciers such as the Ilulissat glacier, classified as a World Heritage Site.Unesco. In the cruise market, forecasts are upward with record levels of tourism demand. In Greenland, the tourism industry remains essential.
An accident in a fjord
As Hervé Baudu, head professor of maritime education and member of the marine academy, explains, it was an accident in a remote fjord in north-east Greenland that precipitated things. In September 2023, the cruise ship Ocean Explorer failed with nearly 300 passengers on boardhe explains. Fortunately, there were no deaths or pollution. The boat was rescued thanks to the intervention of a Greenlandic research vessel that was in the area. Two other Icelandic and Danish vessels diverted to participate in the rescue. This is why the new law restricts the approach of large boats to fjords or areas of ice that melt during the summer. »
In the far north, Greenland is not alone in wanting to preserve nature. It has followed the example of Svalbard and Iceland, which have also defined transit zones in their laws. For tourism to last a long time, it needs nature that makes the whole world want to visit, explain the Greenlandic authorities.
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In Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, there are sea taxis, the “Nuuk Taxi”! The managers of these small yellow shuttles, capable of carrying about twenty passengers, voted in favor of limiting the approaches to the coast by cruise ships. But the law will also impose travel limits on certain very busy glaciers.
A financial gain
Being able to approach ships and the Greenlandic coast without the risk of pollution or massive crowds, local councils see a financial gain. But in discussions with local people and the tourism industry, some voices have cried out about unfair competition.
The International Cruise Lines Association says the agreements with Greenland are similar to those of Scandinavian countries in general. We understand the questions and fears regarding the protection of nature, explains its president, Erminio Eschena. Not only do we understand them, but we share them. But you should know that these are issues that go far beyond the cruise sector alone! The entire tourist activity is concerned! Thanks to our know-how, we can plan. Therefore, cruises are staggered and regulated according to the needs and concerns of the country. But also of the local populations. »
The transportation of polar bears will also be regulated! The law provides for areas in which only researchers and certain local hunters would be allowed. The Northeast National Park (the area where the polar bear was stranded)Ocean Explorer in 2023) will be mainly reserved for the military and the mining industry of Greenland.
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