The specialized magazine "Focus on Cruising" informed the International Maritime Organization (IMO) approved banning of use and transportation of heavy fuel oil on ships sailing on Antarctic waters.

Starting August 2011 ships transporting more than 500 passengers and those using or transporting fuel oil, shall be no longer authorized to enter those waters. Tourism industry shall be limited to smaller ships, expedition type. The IMO, with the consent of Antarctic Treaty parties and members of International Association of Antarctic Tourism Operators is worried on possible damages a heavy oil spill might cause. Heavy fuel oil dissipates slower than lighter fuels, especially on cold waters. A spill, especially on the volume a cruiser transports, some 100,000 gross tons, would have an impact more than significant on environment.

IMO, acting with responsibility has done the right thing. Antarctica is simply too big and precious to be put in jeopardy. Its impact on Earth climate and its oceans is little known, however there is an agreement it is huge. It also exist a growing recognition about Antarctica is more fragile than was believed and is under a significant stress. Measures must be taken to protect and maintain Antarctic region.

So next season will be the last in which big ships transporting passengers to Antarctica are going to be seen. Unfortunately for those who have not fulfilled their dream to watch the white continent, from now on it will be hardier and mote expensive. It is estimated that total capacity will go down to 6 to 7 thousand passengers a year, against approximated 9,000 on the just ended 2009/2010 season. While big cruisers and expedition ships are quite different there is no doubt in this case its objective public is superimposed. We have to wait to see expedition ships new fares which surely will increase its already high levels. That is why this coming season shall be crucial. If you want to see Antarctica on a big ship or at reasonable prices, this 2010/2011 southern summer season to come is your last chance.