Popular cruise destination urges ships to steer clear of scenic fjords after complaints

Cruise operators are being asked to scale back trips through certain fjords, or narrow coastal waterways surrounded by steep terrain, after residents of Greenland raised concerns about the impact of ships on local communities and the environment.

The guidance comes after residents cited noise, effects on wildlife and a desire to preserve natural areas used for recreation, hunting and fishing, according to a press release from the government of Greenland, Naalakkersuisut.

Naalakkersuisut is recommending that cruise ships avoid sailing through affected fjord areas when possible or limit their presence in those locations.

POPULAR CRUISE LINE'S GIANT BEACH PARK BLOCKED BY MEXICO AFTER LOCAL BACKLASH ERUPTS "The purpose of the recommendation is to limit the impact on vulnerable natural areas and wildlife , as well as to meet the local population's wishes to preserve the recreational values of the areas and the opportunities for catching and fishing," the government said in the release.

The government also called on cruise lines, ship captains and others in the industry to consider local conditions when planning trips and to follow the recommendation.

The guidance could eventually be followed by more formal restrictions.

Naalakkersuisut and Greenland's municipalities are developing zoning rules under the Tourism Act that would establish which areas are open to cruise tourism and which would face restrictions, according to the release.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER The rules are being developed with input from residents, businesses and other stakeholders and would take effect following a public consultation.

The recommendation comes as Greenland continues to attract both expedition vessels and larger passenger ships during the summer cruise season, according to Cruise Industry News .

Qaqortoq and Nanortalik are among the popular destinations, with more than 20 cruise calls scheduled in the coming weeks, the outlet reported.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE LIFESTYLE STORIES Carnival, Oceania, Azamara, Seabourn, AIDA, Viking, Windstar, Explora, Holland America, Celebrity and Virgin are among the cruise brands visiting the ports this season, Cruise Industry News noted.

Travelers have also weighed in online about the benefits and drawbacks of cruising in Greenland.

"Cruises pollute.

No vessel is perfect.