Antarctic Specially Protected Areas

Such extremity of suffering cannot be measured.  Madness or death may give relief. But this I know: we on this journey were already beginning to think of death as a friend”

Apsley Cherry Garrard as written in his book “Worst Journey in the World”.  British Antarctic (Terra Nova) Expedition 1910-13

 

The four expedition bases have such an important part in the world's history the Antarctic Treaty System (which governs international activity in Antarctica) has listed each of the bases as Antarctic Specially Protected Areas (ASPAs) - the highest possible protection listing under the Treaty System.

As a result of the listing a permit is required to visit the sites.  If you do visit any of the bases you need to be aware some strict guidelines have been put in place to ensure their protection.

The most important guidelines are set out in the  Code of Conduct.  It's also a good idea to familiarise yourself with the Management Plans which were adopted by members of the Antarctic Treaty System in 2005:

Management Plan for the British Southern Cross Expedition 1898 - 1900, Cape Adare. The expedition led by Carsten Borchgrevink.

Management Plan for National Antarctic (Discovery) Expedition 1901- 1904, Hut Point.  The first expedition led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott.

Management Plan for British Antarctic (Nimrod) Expedition 1907 - 1909, Cape Royds.  The expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Management Plan for National Antarctic (Terra Nova) Expedition 1910 - 1913, Cape Evans.  The second  expedition led by Captain Robert Falcon Scott.