Can I bring pets on Aurora Expeditions?

Aurora Expeditions is a world-leading adventure cruise company specializing in small-ship expeditions to some of the most remote, pristine, and ecologically sensitive regions on Earth. From Antarctica and the Arctic to the Galápagos and Patagonia, these voyages focus on exploration, science, and sustainability. For travelers who are also pet lovers, it’s natural to wonder: Can I bring pets on Aurora Expeditions?

The simple answer is no—Aurora Expeditions does not allow passengers to bring pets onboard. However, understanding why this policy exists reveals the company’s deep commitment to environmental protection, safety, and wildlife preservation.

This 3,000-word guide explores Aurora Expeditions’ pet policy in detail, explains the scientific and ethical reasons behind it, and offers practical advice for animal owners planning their next expedition.

1. Aurora Expeditions: A Commitment to Responsible Exploration

Before examining the specifics of Aurora’s pet policy, it’s important to understand the company’s core philosophy. Founded by Australian adventurer Greg Mortimer in 1991, Aurora Expeditions was built on three key principles:

Conservation and respect for nature
Authentic, small-group exploration
Education and scientific engagement

Aurora operates under strict international environmental regulations, including guidelines set by IAATO (International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators) and AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators). Both organizations prohibit introducing any non-native species—including domestic pets—into fragile polar environments.

This foundational philosophy drives Aurora’s no-pet policy, ensuring that its expeditions remain sustainable, ethical, and scientifically responsible.

2. Official Policy: No Pets Allowed Onboard

Aurora Expeditions’ official stance is straightforward:

Pets are not permitted on any Aurora Expeditions voyage or ship, regardless of size, breed, or purpose.

This policy applies to all expeditions, including those in Antarctica, the Arctic, and temperate regions such as Costa Rica or Papua New Guinea.

The rule is not meant to be restrictive for travelers—it is a protective measure for the environment and for the welfare of both pets and wildlife. The ships are designed to accommodate humans in extreme conditions, not animals that might struggle to adapt to cold climates, unpredictable seas, and confined spaces.

3. Environmental Reasons for the No-Pet Policy

1 Preventing the Spread of Non-Native Species

One of the most significant reasons for prohibiting pets is to prevent biological contamination. Even the healthiest domestic animal carries microorganisms, parasites, or seeds in their fur or waste. Introducing these to pristine regions could have catastrophic consequences for local ecosystems.

In the polar regions, for example, a single foreign microbe or flea could endanger bird colonies or marine mammals that have no natural defenses against them. Aurora Expeditions strictly adheres to biosecurity protocols, including gear cleaning and decontamination procedures for passengers before landings. Allowing pets would compromise these strict measures.

2 Protecting Native Wildlife Behavior

Wildlife in destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic is unaccustomed to human-associated animals. The presence of dogs or cats could disturb nesting birds, seals, or penguins, altering their natural behaviors. Even the scent of a predator species, such as a dog, can cause distress to wildlife populations.

3 Compliance with Conservation Laws

Aurora Expeditions must comply with international conservation laws such as:

Antarctic Treaty System (ATS)
Madrid Protocol on Environmental Protection
Arctic Council Biodiversity Guidelines

These laws strictly forbid the introduction of non-native species to the regions Aurora explores. Bringing pets onboard would violate these regulations, risking fines and potential loss of expedition permits.

4. Safety and Logistical Considerations

1 Ship Safety

Aurora’s expedition ships, like the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle, are equipped for rough sea conditions and polar navigation. They include laboratories, research spaces, and Zodiac loading zones—not facilities for animal care. Allowing pets onboard would create safety concerns during emergencies, as there are no designated evacuation or containment areas for animals.

2 Limited Veterinary Care

The ships do not have onboard veterinarians or animal-care staff. In the event of illness, injury, or seasickness, it would be nearly impossible to provide adequate treatment for a pet, especially in isolated polar environments where medical evacuation is difficult and costly.

3 Hygiene and Sanitation

Maintaining strict hygiene onboard is essential for both passenger health and environmental safety. The confined space of an expedition ship makes managing pet waste or potential allergens challenging, and even minor lapses could affect sanitation or passenger comfort.

5. Emotional and Ethical Considerations

Many travelers have strong emotional bonds with their pets, viewing them as family members. Aurora Expeditions recognizes this sentiment but maintains that the welfare of both animals and wildlife must take precedence.

1 Stress and Welfare of Pets

Pets thrive in familiar environments with predictable routines. The fluctuating conditions aboard an expedition ship—constant motion, cold temperatures, loud sounds, and unfamiliar smells—can cause stress or fear.For instance:

The sound of engines and Zodiacs can distress animals with sensitive hearing.
Long voyages (often 10–20 days) can create anxiety and behavioral issues.
Temperature extremes can lead to hypothermia or illness in animals not adapted to cold.

Therefore, leaving pets at home or with professional caregivers is not only a policy requirement—it’s an ethical choice for their well-being.

2 Respecting Wildlife and Shared Spaces

Aurora’s travelers share limited space with fellow passengers, scientists, and crew. The company’s policy ensures that everyone enjoys a peaceful, respectful environment free of potential allergies, fears, or disruptions caused by animals.

6. Service Animals and Assistance Dogs

A common question arises: Are service dogs or emotional support animals allowed on Aurora Expeditions?

The answer remains no, primarily because of environmental laws. Even trained service animals are considered non-native species under international treaties governing polar and protected areas. This includes assistance dogs for individuals with disabilities or medical conditions.

Aurora Expeditions ensures accessibility for passengers with special needs through other means, such as:

Accessible cabin design
Mobility assistance for shore landings
Personal support from trained crew

However, allowing animals—even certified service dogs—would violate environmental protection laws and biosecurity rules.

7. Comparing Aurora’s Policy to Other Expedition Lines

Aurora Expeditions’ pet restrictions are consistent with other major expedition operators, including:

Quark Expeditions
Hurtigruten Expeditions
Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic
Ponant Expeditions

None of these companies allow pets onboard. This consistency across the industry reinforces the seriousness of the issue—it’s not about convenience, but global environmental compliance and responsibility.

In contrast, some river cruises or domestic ocean liners may allow small pets or service animals in limited regions (such as Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 transatlantic kennel program), but such exceptions do not apply to expedition cruising.

8. Preparing for an Expedition Without Your Pet

If you’re a devoted pet owner planning an Aurora voyage, you can still travel with peace of mind by preparing thoughtfully.

1 Arrange Trusted Care

Before departure, arrange for a reliable caretaker, family member, or professional boarding service. Make sure they have detailed instructions on feeding, exercise, and emergency contacts.

2 Use Technology for Connection

Many travelers use pet cameras or smart feeders to stay connected with their animals while at sea. Although Wi-Fi may be limited on Aurora’s ships, pre-scheduled check-ins before and after the voyage can ease separation anxiety for both owner and pet.

3 Prepare a Familiar Environment

Leaving familiar bedding, toys, or clothing with your scent helps pets feel secure while you’re away.

4 Inform Your Veterinarian

Before traveling, ensure your pet’s vaccinations, diet, and medications are current. Inform your vet of your travel dates and provide your pet’s caretaker with the clinic’s contact information.

9. The Broader Message: Protecting Earth’s Last Wild Places

Aurora Expeditions’ pet policy represents more than a rule—it reflects the ethos of responsible travel. By prohibiting animals onboard, Aurora helps preserve fragile ecosystems that define our planet’s natural heritage.

Every traveler plays a role in maintaining this balance. The absence of pets ensures that no foreign species, diseases, or behavioral disturbances affect native wildlife populations. This respect for nature lies at the heart of Aurora’s mission.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I request an exception to the pet policy?

No. Aurora Expeditions does not grant exceptions under any circumstance, including emotional support animals or therapy pets.

Q2: Are there any voyages where animals are part of the expedition?

Yes, but only wildlife encounters, not domestic pets. Passengers may observe penguins, whales, seabirds, seals, and other creatures in their natural environments.

Q3: What about visiting areas with sled dogs, like Greenland?

In certain destinations, passengers may meet local sled dog teams, but interactions are controlled and supervised to ensure ethical treatment and disease prevention.

Q4: What should I do if I need an animal for medical reasons?

Aurora recommends consulting your doctor about alternative arrangements or choosing land-based travel options that can safely accommodate service animals.

11. Aurora Expeditions’ Philosophy of Connection Without Disturbance

Aurora’s motto, “Explore wild places with the utmost respect,” captures the essence of its operations. The company strives to connect travelers deeply with the natural world—without altering or disturbing it.

This philosophy aligns with global conservation goals such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 14 (Life Below Water) and Goal 15 (Life on Land).

By maintaining a strict no-pet policy, Aurora ensures that each expedition leaves minimal impact and maximum understanding. Travelers experience true wilderness—untouched, unaltered, and unforgettable.

12. The Responsible Traveler’s Role

Being a responsible explorer means embracing policies that protect the destinations you visit. Travelers can contribute to Aurora’s mission by:

Respecting biosecurity rules
Participating in onboard environmental briefings
Supporting conservation initiatives
Choosing sustainable travel habits at home

By understanding why pets are excluded, passengers reinforce a culture of respect for wildlife and the environment.

13. Alternative Options for Traveling with Pets

For travelers who prefer to explore with their furry companions, several alternatives exist:

Pet-friendly domestic cruises (such as select European riverboats)
Road trips or nature lodges that allow animals
Wildlife sanctuaries where humans can learn about animal behavior responsibly

These options provide adventure and connection without the ecological risks associated with bringing pets to fragile environments.

14. Aurora Expeditions’ Vision for Sustainable Adventure

Aurora’s vision extends beyond travel—it’s about preserving the spirit of exploration for future generations. Each expedition is designed to foster curiosity, respect, and scientific awareness. The no-pet policy plays a small but vital part in that mission, ensuring that future travelers experience the same pristine wonders that exist today.

Every decision, from waste management to wildlife distance protocols, reflects Aurora’s unwavering commitment to conservation. By adhering to these standards, travelers become ambassadors for a healthier planet.

15. Conclusion: Exploring Responsibly

To summarize, pets are not allowed on any Aurora Expeditions voyage, and for good reason. The policy safeguards wildlife, maintains environmental integrity, and protects the welfare of both animals and passengers.

Traveling without your pet can be difficult, but it also offers an opportunity for personal growth and environmental reflection. Aurora Expeditions invites guests to experience the world’s most remote frontiers in a way that honors the balance of life on Earth.

By choosing to travel responsibly, you not only respect the natural world but also contribute to preserving its beauty for generations to come.

Aurora’s journeys remind us that true companionship isn’t limited to our pets—it can be found in the bond we form with nature, discovery, and humanity itself.