New Svalbard environmental regulations introduced: What does it mean for yachts?

Several new environmental regulations concerning the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard have entered into force as of this year (1 January, 2025). The changes were imposed by the Norwegian government, Stortinget, with the aim of further protecting the islands’ unique wildlife.

According to the Governor of Svalbard, the adopted changes not only cover the Svalbard Environment Act – which was introduced in 2001 to preserve some of the region's "untouched environments" – but also several of its pre-existing regulations, including conservation regulations for nature reserves and national parks, motor traffic regulations and camping regulations. 

Visiting superyachts will need to adhere to these new regulations in order to safely explore the waters surrounding Svalbard to avoid infringement fees, according to the Svalbard Environment Act.

Ultimately, these regulations have been implemented to preserve Svalbard’s fragile ecosystem, ensuring that those visiting (by yacht or any other means) do so responsibly. The changes include: passenger number limits, drone bans, a ban on breaking fast ice and a ban on motorised traffic on sea ice on selected fjords, among others. Those visiting must not disturb or attract polar bears and adhere to new distance requirements. New landing regulations for tourist activities have also been introduced.

The Norwegian archipelago remains open to yachts that adhere to these new rules. While it will require more meticulous planning, the waters can be safely explored within these parameters.

Speaking on the new regulations, Kevin O’Connor, head of yachts at Cookson Adventures, says: "The recent regulations introduced for visiting yachts in Svalbard mark a significant step towards preserving the fragile Arctic ecosystem. Key changes, such as passenger limits, designated landing sites, and strict wildlife protection measures, encourage a more controlled and sustainable approach to exploration. Helicopter usage and icebreaking are also heavily restricted, emphasising the need for meticulous planning and compliance."

"Svalbard has been under robust environmental protection laws for a long time and the new regulations seek to clarify and strengthen the requirements," says Kelvin Murray, head of expeditions at EYOS. "This new system requires a cultural change and knowledge shift in all vessel operators wishing to explore the archipelago."

"While these measures ensure the long-term protection of Svalbard, they also present logistical challenges for yachts seeking flexibility and exclusivity," explains O’Connor. "For this reason, Greenland is rapidly becoming a preferred alternative. Its vast wilderness offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure – such as heli-skiing, kayaking among icebergs, and cultural immersion with Inuit communities. We are finding it a compelling destination for more complex yachting expeditions as we look to deliver extraordinary experiences in the Arctic."

For those who would like to explore Svalbard by yacht, it is advised to do so with a guide. "Specialist guides with in-depth knowledge of the natural and cultural environment will need to be employed to manage landings ashore and other activities," says EYOS’ Murray. "Encounters with polar bears and walruses, in particular, will need careful management."

Murray also advises that visiting superyachts will benefit from working with the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), which will be able to assist in coordinating with other vessels in the area.