South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands

100th Anniversary Of The Birth Of Queen Elizabeth II Stamp Release

April 21, 2026

The 21st April, 2026 marked the centenary of the birth of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and this week the Government of South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands released a stamp set to commemorate this special anniversary. Princess Elizabeth’s early years were shaped by a relatively peaceful and private childhood, spent enjoying time with her horses and dogs and with little expectation of one day becoming sovereign. That changed dramatically in 1936 when the abdication of her uncle, King Edward VIII, led to her father, Prince Albert, becoming King George VI. At just ten years old, Elizabeth became heir presumptive, a moment that reshaped the course of her life.

Publication Of The New South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area Management Plan

 February 27, 2026

The Government of South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands is pleased to announce the publication of the new South Georgia & South Sandwich Islands Marine Protected Area Management Plan.

Developed following the conclusion of the recent MPA Review, the new Management Plan sets out the framework through which the Government will ensure the Marine Protected Area continues to meet its conservation objectives. It outlines the processes, measures and governance structures that underpin effective management, and provides a clear roadmap for securing the long-term protection of this globally significant marine environment.

Toothfish Fisheries

January 28, 2026

GSGSSI are pleased to announce the opening of the licence application round for the 2026 South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands toothfish fisheries.

For details on how to apply please contact the Director of Fisheries by email – dof(at)gov.gs

Publication Of The UK Overseas Territories Biodiversity Strategy

November 28, 2025

GSGSSI welcomes today’s publication of the UK OT biodiversity strategy which reaffirms the commitment of the UK government to work with OT territory governments to conserve, protect, and restore biodiversity in the Overseas Territories and to champion the benefits of nature. The GSGSSI was pleased to work with UK Government and its agencies to develop the OT biodiversity strategy and looks forward to working closely with them to achieve the strategy’s goals.

Annual Visitor Report

November 19, 2025

The GSGSSI Annual Visitor Report has been published. This report covers the period from July 2024 to June 2025. This season saw 40 expedition cruise ships make 110 visits, and 7 yachts make 8 visits to South Georgia. A total of 15,853 passengers visited, and including all staff and crew on both cruise ships and yachts there was an overall total of 30,037 visitors.