News Release

Glacier Bay Announces Results of Cruise Ship Monitoring Program

A cruise ship motoring into Tarr Inlet on a picturesque day

NPS Photo / S. Tevebaugh

News Release Date: April 8, 2024

Contact: Dr. Scott Gende, Senior Science Advisor, 907-697-2230

BARTLETT COVE, AK – Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve announced today the results of 33 inspections of cruise ships operating in the park last year. The National Park Service oversees the Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Program (EMCP), engaging third-party technical experts to conduct random inspections. In 2023, inspectors boarded 18 of the 19 different cruise ships that visited Glacier Bay from April through October.

Cruise ships bring more than 95% of all visitors to Glacier Bay. “All companies that are allowed into Glacier Bay hold concession contracts which have specific operating requirements that minimize environmental impacts and are often more restrictive than in adjacent areas” said Tom Schaff, Superintendent of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. “These operating requirements are intended to reduce impacts to the environment and maximize visitor experiences. The inspection program serves as an important way to ensure ships are in compliance with their contractual obligations, applicable laws, and regulations.” 

The Marine Exchange of Alaska (MXAK) contracts directly with the cruise companies to implement the inspections. Inspectors, once onboard, spend the day checking operations related to wastewater management and discharge, garbage and recycling programs, emissions, and marine mammal/wildlife protection. The findings are reported directly to park managers.

“I’m pleased, but not surprised, that inspectors found high levels of compliance to contract operating requirements and all applicable laws,” said Schaff. “Ship personnel provide access to all areas and communicate directly with us should something come up. We’ve seen that the deck officers and crew consistently take pride in what they do. The result is that more than 700,000 visitors now experience a jewel of the national park system with minimal environmental impact.” The inspection program will continue in 2024.

A link to the summary report for the activities and findings from 2023 can be found here: 
Cruise Ship Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Program 2023 Summary Report (nps.gov)

NPS Photo / S. Gende

Photo shows personnel checking a cruise ship's engine data while in Glacier Bay National Park.