Adventure has a new name. Setting sail in 2025, our new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising.
Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, our new small ship embodies Mawson’s pioneering spirit and is designed for global discovery. Featuring the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® and purpose-built with enhanced sustainability features, it takes a maximum of 130 adventurers on board our Expeditions. It boasts our most extensive range of cabins yet, including a range of single cabins.
The Douglas Mawson’s inaugural season will mark Aurora Expeditions’ return to East Antarctica for the first time in 15 years, with new itineraries to include a Mawson’s Antarctica voyage to East Antarctica in honour of the ship’s namesake, departing from Hobart, a semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica, and immersive explorations of the Subantarctic Islands.
We invite you to join us on the Douglas Mawson.
The Douglas Mawson
Adventure has a new name
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Introducing our newest small ship, the Douglas Mawson
Designed for global discovery
Newest Ulstein X-BOW®
The Douglas Mawson features the newest streamlined Ulstein X-BOW®, designed for global discovery. The revolutionary design cuts through the swell, offering unrivalled stability on ocean crossings and helping to reduce fuel consumption. It’s just one of the many sustainability features that helps us travel more responsibly.
Heated Pool, Jacuzzi & Sauna
In between landings, enjoy access to the onboard gym or unwind in the sauna. Or head to the back deck to swim in the heated outdoor pool, enjoy a drink at the pool bar, or soak in one of two Jacuzzis, watching the world go by.
Leading Technology
The Douglas Mawson is at the cutting edge of nautical technology, fitted with industry-leading technology including world-class return-to-port equipment. The ship also features a medical clinic designed for use in remote areas.
Built for Adventure
The Douglas Mawson features Zodiac access points and an activities platform, making boarding the Zodiacs as quick, efficient and safe as possible, minimising wait times and getting you closer to the action for longer. In our mudroom, you will have access to lockers to store gear & boots and rapid drying areas for clothing.
More Cabin Choices
The Douglas Mawson features 11 different types of cabins, including a range of spacious single berth cabins – all adorned with elegant Nordic interior design features.
Multiple Observation Areas
As you explore the ship you will find indoor lounge areas with floor-to ceiling windows, and multiple open decks with expansive 270-360 degree views. The Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow is a fantastic place to sit and watch for wildlife – with a drink in hand. There is no shortage of spaces to take in the majesty of the incredible world outside!
(All images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary)
New Purpose-Built Small Ships
The Douglas Mawson joins the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle in being named after incredible pioneers who have made significant contributions to science, conservation and exploration. Our fleet of three state-of-the-art, purpose-built ships are designed for discovery, and utilise the latest advances in design and technology, truly revolutionising the small-ship experience.
About Aurora Expeditions
From the start, Aurora Expeditions—an award-winning Australian-owned company—was destined to be different. Our passion for adventure, exploring wild places and sharing the experience with friends burns just as brightly as it did over 34 years ago, as does our preference for small-group, personal expeditions, accompanied by an expedition team we believe are the world’s best.
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