The International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators is implementing a voluntary 10-knot speed limit around the South Orkney Islands from November 1 to May 30 each Antarctic season, beginning with the 2026-27 departure season. The measure responds to new evidence that the region has become a significant habitat for recovering whale populations.
IAATO's decision rests on two datasets. The IAATO Voluntary Cetacean and Pinniped Sightings Programme collected 203 whale observations from expedition vessels operating near the islands across four seasons, recording 82 humpback whales, 76 fin whales, and sei and killer whales. A dedicated research expedition led by whale scientist Ted Cheeseman, conducted in February and March 2026, recorded 1,468 whales of six species in 18 days. The survey documented large concentrations of humpback and fin whales in nearshore waters north of the islands and in offshore waters to the south. Southern right whales have also been recorded through surveys and community science platforms.
The Speed Restriction and Its Duration
The limit applies to IAATO member vessels and is voluntary. The measurement standard is Speed Over Ground, which accounts for current. The measure will remain in place for two years or until further review by the IAATO Marine Committee.
The South Orkney Islands lie approximately 370 miles (600 kilometres) northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula. The restriction marks the latest addition to IAATO's growing network of Geofenced Whale Areas, which began in 2019 with measures in the Gerlache Strait and Crystal Sound. The association has since added mandatory speed restrictions around the South Shetland Islands and Elephant Island, and an Acoustic Awareness Zone in the Gullet.
Data Collection and Future Protection
IAATO established the Voluntary Cetacean and Pinniped Sightings Programme in 2022 in partnership with marine conservation charity ORCA. Members submit standardised observations through ORCA's OceanWatchers survey platform. This data builds a record of whale distribution and recovery across the Southern Ocean. Experience with data from Elephant Island has shown that large fin whale populations consistently congregate in particular zones, strengthening the case for slow-down measures in high-density areas.
Before booking an itinerary that includes the South Orkney Islands region, ask the operator whether they are an IAATO member and whether they commit to the speed restriction for those waters.