After hitting an iceberg last Friday in Antarctic waters, the Explorer sank after several hours raising questions as to what regulations should be imposed and more importantly what the environmental impacts of ecotourism are.

In light of this questioning it seems that Lindblad Expeditions has taken a philanthropic approach. It seems as if the Ecotourism industry has come to a saturation point of some sort. It is obviously an industry which will continue to grow and with such growth regulation is inevitable. There was a lot of talk regarding regulation in the industry prior to last Friday and it seems that the sinking of the Explorer may be the catalyst for implementation.

The following is the announcement of the fund raising project found at http://www.expeditions.com/

I’ve spent a lifetime in search of places that provide exciting, inspiring and meaningful travel. I know firsthand how important it is to safeguard their future. When we travel we have an opportunity to make a difference which is either positive or negative. I have always felt that we and our travelers are in the former category. We have made a positive difference in many areas and, frankly, that is largely due to our guests embracing the mission aspect of their travels – to be inspired, to care and to act.

Today, I invite you to help preserve some of the world’s capitals of wildness simply by visiting them with us.

Travel with us to Galapagos, Baja California or Central America in the first 6 months of 2008, and we will donate $250, in your name, to a critical conservation program in the place you visit. In many instances, these funds will be matched by local conservation groups, significantly increasing the impact of the contribution.

If you are new to the world of Lindblad Expeditions, I invite you to explore our website. And then explore the world’s wild places with us, and become part of their future.

Labels: Ecotourism, Expeditions, Travel Operators