WP1

Objectives

With this work package we aim to assess the tourist activities, and perceived interest, attitudes and behaviours. For this we have formulated 2 objectives:

1. Assess the development of Antarctic tourism over the last six decades with a focus on the diversification of activities, rapid growth in tourism numbers over the last couple of decades
2. Examine the perceived changes in interests, attitudes and behaviours of tourists and related other actors (e.g., tourism managers, sales agents, crew and other staff) over the last decades

Methodology

WP1.1: Assess the development of Antarctic tourism over the last six decades

A desktop study, drawing on published literature, IAATO tourism statistics, and supported by archival research at the Scott Polar Research Institute (SPRI) in Cambridge, UK, will be undertaken to chart the development of Antarctic tourism over the last six decades. SPRI’s expansive polar library contains otherwise unpublished records of early Antarctic touristic expeditions, including those compiled by Robert Headland over the years, that will give greater insights into some of the activities undertaken by operators in Antarctica over the years as well as information about some of the incidents and accidents that have occurred involving private or commercial tourism operations. In addition, Prof. R.C. Powell, who has undertaken research on the experiences of Antarctic tourists in the last couple of decades, is also affiliated with SPRI and archival research at the SPRI library would facilitate personal connections with Prof. Powell.

WP1.2: Assess the perceived changes in interests, attitudes and behaviours of actors in Antarctic tourism

In order to assess the perceived changes in interest, attitudes and behaviours of Antarctic tourists over time, we will conduct both in-depth interviews and send out questionnaires to those who have been involved in the Antarctic tourism industry for a long time including, tourism managers, sales agents, crew and other staff.

WP1.3: Assess the impact of a changing tourism industry on tourist perceptions

Using focus-group discussions, supported by in-depth interviews with individuals, and analysis of audio/visual/written diary entries of guides and tourists, we will examine how visitors perceive the Antarctic and to what extent this perception is impacted by an increase in visitor numbers, ship size and a diversification of activities.