Douglas Mawson
Setting sail in 2025, the Douglas Mawson is the last in a line of Aurora Expeditions’ 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, and just 154 on our Small Ship Cruises. All in smooth, quiet comfort. It boasts our most extensive range of staterooms yet, including a range of single staterooms.
While enjoying the luxurious amenities onboard, you can rest assured that our aim to get you off the ship to explore the natural environment as much as possible through our unique activities program remains unchanged.
On board facilities
Lecture Theatre
On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to enhance your appreciation of the destination you are exploring.
Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering a broad range of topics to suit every interest, from history and culture to biology and climate change. Regardless of the topic, they all have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate, entertain and turn you into an ambassador for the planet.
Citizen Science Centre & Lounge
Learn more about the world and the unique destinations Aurora visits by visiting the onboard naturalist and Expedition Team in the world-class Citizen Science Centre. You will be rewarded for your thirst for knowledge with one of the best views on the ship.
Library, Observation Lounge & Shop
With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, use a public laptop to organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends. Choose from our range of informative non-fiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.
Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on deck 8, the perfect place to relax and watch the incredible landscapes pass by, or spot unique polar wildlife.
If you’re in the market for something new- peruse our ship shop, where you’ll find expedition essentials, a range of books and maps, souvenirs, stylish expedition apparel and of course Aurora Expeditions merchandise.
Gym & Sauna
During your voyage, stay active with complimentary access to the gym, equipped with everything you need for a workout at sea.
After an adventurous day, unwind in the sauna—especially after taking the exhilarating Polar Plunge! It’s the perfect way to warm up and relax while soaking in the breathtaking polar views.
Dining
Restaurants
One of the most important parts of any expedition is the food! Start each adventure with hearty meals and delicious morning and afternoon teas prepared by our onboard chefs.
Meals are a great time to connect with fellow travellers in our open-seating dining area, sharing stories and insights from the day. Tea, coffee, and snacks are available 24/7, and our chefs offer a variety of menu options for each meal. Enjoy house wines, beers, and soft drinks with dinner after a day of exploration.
Wrap up your journey with informal Captain’s Farewell drinks, featuring complimentary beverages, cocktail appetisers, and a special three-course meal.
Bars & Lounges
Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down.
The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with.
