The establishment of the Henryk Arctowski station on King George Islan
d (South Shetland Islands) in 1977, enabled Poland to commence year ro
und scientific research in Antarctica. The area has since gained the d
istinction of having the highest concentration of such facilities in A
ntarctica. The island has in turn become popular with tour operators.
The introduction of larger tourist ships poses a danger that research
programs and protected areas may be adversely affected. It is suggeste
d that tour operators pay a fee for each client, and that the revenue
be used to establish specific areas for tourists, or coordinate their
activities.