Diplomatic petitions: Permant En-Route measurements which are independent of the excursion are conducted on board RV Polarstern. This concerns mainly data aquisition and sampling of air and water and detection of cosmic particles. If a station visit or another landing is planned, this has to be included in the diplomatic marine research petition for the respective state. A petition is not needed for Antarctica.
German Environment Office (UBA): Visits have to be included in the scientific proposals to the German Environment Office. Only if a proposal and an authorisation exist visits are allowed for both scientific and touristic reasons. In case of doubt, an authorisation has to be requested at short notice. Local regulations have to be checked before the visits and participants have to be trained and informed (also see link ATS - Tourism).
Responsibilities of the cruise leader: The cruise leader is responsible for adherence to the local regulations. He has to get the relevant information before the beginning of the expedition and possibly apply for authorisations needed. During visits he has to be aware of the strict compliance to local rules and regulations.