In less than one year, Aurora Expeditions, the Australian-owned adventure travel company, will welcome the inaugural season of the Douglas Mawson, its newest state-of-the-art, purpose-built expedition ship, designed to embody the pioneering spirit of its namesake, the legendary Australian geologist and explorer.
Setting sail in December 2025, Douglas Mawson is built for global discovery, offering intrepid travelers unparalleled access to some of the world’s most remote and pristine environments. Douglas Mawson will be the third ship for Aurora Expeditions, joining Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle.
From the Antarctic Peninsula to the Weddell Sea, Douglas Mawson will explore more of Antarctica’s regions than ever before, and mark Aurora’s return to East Antarctica for the first time in 13 years. Its maiden itineraries include the Mawson’s Antarctica Voyage to East Antarctica, honoring the ship’s namesake.
While onboard, adventure extends beyond the destination. With a capacity of 130 adventurers on Polar expeditions and 154 on small ship cruises, it offers an intimate and immersive experience, paired with an extensive range of staterooms, including options designed specifically for solo travelers. As a floating base camp for discovery, the ship boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool, Jacuzzis, gym, sauna, and multiple observation areas for unparalleled views of wildlife and remote landscapes. A Citizen Science Center encourages guests to engage with the natural world on a deeper level.
These groundbreaking expeditions will push the boundaries of Antarctic exploration, guided by Aurora’s comprehensive sustainability initiatives. With a small-ship approach that minimizes environmental impact and expert guides who ensure safe and responsible exploration, travelers tread lightly on the fragile polar environment. Additional programs, such as waste minimization, carbon offsetting, and collaborations with leading conservation organizations, reinforce Aurora’s commitment to protecting Antarctica’s delicate ecosystem for future generations.
Rendering Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions