Today, expedition cruise line Aurora Expeditions revealed plans to welcome its newest addition to the fleet, Douglas Mawson, its third purpose-built small expedition ship. Set to embark on its inaugural season in late 2025, Douglas Mawson will mark Aurora Expeditions’ return to East Antarctica after a 15-year hiatus, with new itineraries paying homage to its namesake, departing from Hobart.
Douglas Mawson will accommodate 154 passengers, boasting the latest Ulstein X-BOW® technology for smoother ocean crossings and enhanced fuel efficiency. The vessel will feature Nordic interior design, offering staterooms and suites across 11 categories, many with private balconies. Additionally, Aurora will introduce single-berth cabins that cater to solo travelers.
Onboard amenities will include two restaurants, two bars, an outdoor heated swimming pool, a pool bar, Jacuzzis, a gym, a sauna, relaxation and wellness areas, a library lounge, a citizen science center, a lecture theater and expansive observation decks.
Michael Heath, CEO of Aurora Expeditions, expressed excitement for the launch of Douglas Mawson, named after Australian geologist and explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson, and emphasized the company's commitment to delivering unparalleled expedition experiences with advanced technology.
“We’re thrilled to be launching the newest and final Infinity Class vessel, which we have named in honor of pioneering Australian geologist and explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson,” Heath said. “We are equally delighted to be offering passengers new itineraries departing from Australia as part of the ship’s inaugural season, including an exploration of Mawson’s Antarctica, which will visit Mawson’s Huts at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay, and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.”
Aurora has pioneered expedition travel to the world’s most remote places for more than three decades, and we know that exploration is not just about what you see, but how you see it.
“Aurora has pioneered expedition travel to the world’s most remote places for more than three decades, and we know that exploration is not just about what you see, but how you see it,” he continued. “ That is why we are committed to delivering life-changing experiences with the newest, most advanced technology available, and with the most experienced and passionate team in the industry.”
Hayley Peacock-Gower, chief market officer at Aurora Expeditions, highlighted the ship's significance in ocean discovery and its partnership with the Mawson’s Huts Foundation, dedicated to preserving Antarctic heritage and promoting Antarctic science education.
“Aurora Expeditions takes great inspiration from the incredible legacy of Sir Douglas Mawson. Indeed, it was Mawson’s SY Aurora vessel that inspired our founder, Greg Mortimer, to name our company Aurora,” Peacock-Gower said. “Like its namesake, Douglas Mawson will be a ship that’s on the forefront of global ocean discovery. We also look forward to our partnership with the Mawson’s Huts Foundation — a custodian of Australia’s Antarctic heritage and advocate for Antarctic science education for children — and supporting the fantastic work they do to preserve the Mawson’s Huts complex and bring the stories and achievements of Sir Douglas Mawson and his Australasian Antarctic Expedition 1911-14 to life.”
Like its sister ships Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle, Douglas Mawson will be equipped with Zodiac access points and facilities for onshore activities. Aurora Expeditions plans to commence voyages on Douglas Mawson in December 2025, with the full program to be announced soon.
Pre-registration for Douglas Mawson’s inaugural Antarctica 2025/2026 season is open until April 18, 2024, offering an additional USD $2,000 per couple* off trips with Aurora Expeditions.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Aurora Expeditions.
