An industry organization, the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO), lacks legal authority but ostensibly oversees the industry.

FORBES: Go with the Floe

The problem is IAATO is a voluntary self-regulated organization and anyone can opt out of the system.

CNN: Antarctica: March of the tourists

Most travel companies in the region subscribe to IAATO, the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators, which sets guidelines to manage tourism here.

CNN: Antarctica: March of the tourists