A Next-Generation Expedition Ship for Global Discovery
The Douglas Mawson is Aurora Expeditions’ newest purpose-built small expedition vessel, designed for exploration, comfort, and responsible travel to the world’s most extraordinary and remote environments. Launched in 2025 and named for legendary Antarctic explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, the ship embodies his pioneering spirit — combining cutting-edge design, sustainability, and versatile expedition capability.
Carrying a maximum of 154 expeditioners, the Douglas Mawson serves as a comfortable base camp for adventure, designed so you can experience the natural environment as much as possible in smaller, more intimate groups.
Key Features & Design
Purpose-Built for Exploration: Designed with the advanced Ulstein X-BOW® hull, the Douglas Mawson offers a smoother ride with reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions, enhancing both performance and environmental efficiency.
Small Ship Advantage: With a maximum capacity of around 130 expeditioners spread across 86 cabins, she delivers an intimate, community-focused expedition experience.
Adventure Access: Purpose-built Zodiac embarkation points and a dedicated activities platform make getting off-ship for shore landings and wildlife encounters fast and safe, supporting activities like kayaking, polar hikes, and beach landings.
Onboard Experience
The Douglas Mawson focuses on comfort, education, and connection:
Citizen Science Center: The ship includes a Citizen Science Centre and dedicated lecture theatre, where guests can participate in hands-on science activities and learn from expert expedition teams about natural history, ecology, culture, and conservation.
Library & Observation Lounge: These spaces offer panoramic views, wildlife reference books, and a calm setting for learning and socializing.
Wellness & Relaxation: Onboard amenities include a heated outdoor pool, two Jacuzzis, a sauna, and a gym, offering spaces to relax and unwind between excursions.
Dining Options: With two restaurants and two bars, meals are served with open seating to foster conversation among travellers. House wines, beers, and soft drinks are typically included with dinner, and tea or coffee and snacks are available 24/7.
Communal Spaces: Multiple indoor lounges and observation areas with panoramic views bring the outside world in and provide inviting spots to gather, connect, and reflect on daily discoveries.
Staterooms & Suites
The Douglas Mawson offers a wide range of cabins to suit every traveller, from solo adventurers to families and couples.
Premium Suites
Captain’s Suite – Largest suite with a private balcony
Junior Suites – Spacious suites with private balconies
Balcony Stateroom Superior – Larger balcony rooms
Balcony Cabins
Balcony Stateroom (Categories A/B/C) – Private balcony with ocean views (layout varies by category)
Standard Cabins
Aurora Stateroom Twin – Comfortable twin/king beds
Aurora Stateroom Superior – Larger standard cabin with floor-to-ceiling windows
Aurora Stateroom Triple – Perfect for three travellers or families
Solo Traveller Cabins
Aurora Stateroom Single
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
Safety & Sustainability
The vessel is equipped with industry-leading safety systems (including return-to-port capability and medical clinic facilities designed for remote regions) and sustainable technologies, such as efficient propulsion and energy systems that reduce fuel consumption and environmental impact.
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