The Scandinavian nation's government placed strict rules on how closely expedition ships can approach the animals - initially set at 500m (1,640 feet) - at the start of this year but expedition leader and photographer Paul Goldstein feels that the restrictions are too severe.

He told The Independent's travel podcast: "This is a classic example of what I call 'conservation fascism'.

"I have led small ship charters in the region since 2004. Never once have I seen a single incident where tourists intimidate or affect the behaviour of polar bears.

"If you remember those researchers and scientists - we had to listen to their drivel during Covid as they shut down the world, drunk on the oxygen of publicity.

"These clowns are exactly the same. Their motto's very simple: 'We're not happy till you're not happy.'"

The law affects the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard - which attract tourists keen to see wildlife - and offenders face up to five years in prison if "substantial environmental damage or a risk thereof has been caused".

Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, the minister of climate and environment, said: "Climate change is leading to more difficult conditions for polar bears on Svalbard.

"It is important for them to be able to search for food, hunt, rest, and take care of their cubs without interference from humans.

"Keeping a good distance will also ensure that dangerous situations do not arise and that polar bears do not get used to humans over time."