Responsible Ocean Tourism and Leave No Trace on the Coast

The coastlines of Newfoundland, Labrador and the Arctic are some of the most remarkable places on earth. They are also working landscapes, sacred places and home to wildlife that is sensitive to disturbance. Responsible ocean tourism means making sure the people and creatures who live here are better off, or at least no worse off, for our visit. This is how we approach it, and how you can help.

The seven Leave No Trace principles, coastal edition

The Leave No Trace principles are widely used in outdoor recreation. Here is how they translate to the coast.

• Plan ahead and prepare. Know the rules for parks, reserves and protected areas before you go, and plan for weather so you are not forced into risky decisions.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces. Stick to established trails, rock and gravel. Coastal plants and dune grasses take years to recover from trampling.
• Dispose of waste properly. Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps. Nothing goes overboard.
• Leave what you find. Shells, stones, bones, driftwood art and especially cultural artifacts stay where they are. Historic sites and wrecks may be legally protected.
• Minimize campfire impacts. Use stoves where possible, and only use fire where permitted and safe.
• Respect wildlife. Observe from a distance and never feed animals.
• Be considerate of others, including local residents, harvesters and other visitors.

Watching whales, seals and seabirds well

Canada has rules for how close vessels can approach marine mammals, and certain species and areas have stricter limits. Responsible operators know and follow these rules, slow down near animals, avoid cutting across their path and limit time spent with any one group. As a guest, you can help by keeping voices low, staying seated when asked, and never asking the crew to get closer.

Seabird colonies need the same care. Approaching too closely can flush birds from nests and expose eggs and chicks to predators and cold. Binoculars and a good zoom lens let you enjoy the spectacle without stress to the birds.

Respect ice

Icebergs are irresistible, and they can be dangerous. They can roll, split or shed large pieces without warning. Give them plenty of room. Collecting iceberg ice is a local tradition in some places, but it should only ever be done by experienced crews, safely and legally.

Support local communities

Coastal and northern communities are the heart of these places. You can support them by buying from local businesses, artists and guides, asking before photographing people or private property, and learning a little about the history and cultures of the places you visit. In Indigenous homelands, follow local guidance and protocols and treat sites with respect.

Cut plastic and fuel where you can

• Bring a refillable water bottle and reusable containers.
• Choose reef-safe, low-impact sunscreen and toiletries.
• Pack light. Less weight means less fuel on boats and small aircraft.
• Pick up any litter you safely can on the shore. Beach plastic is a real problem, and every piece removed helps.

Drones and wildlife

Drones can disturb animals and other visitors, and many parks, reserves and wildlife areas restrict or ban them. If you are thinking of bringing one, check the regulations for the specific location and speak with us before your trip.

Choosing a responsible operator

Whoever you travel with, a few questions help separate responsible operators from the rest. Do they brief guests on wildlife rules? Do they keep group sizes small? Do they work with local guides and businesses? Do they have a plan for waste, fuel and emergencies? Good operators will be glad you asked and will answer clearly.

What we ask of every guest

Follow your guide's instructions, take only photos and memories, and leave each place as good as or better than you found it. Simple as that.

Why it matters

Tourism can be a powerful force for protecting wild places. Visitors who care about whales, icebergs and seabirds become advocates for them. That only works if our visits are light-footed and respectful. It is a responsibility we take seriously at Canadian Adventure Charters, and we are grateful to every guest who shares it.