• Aurora Expeditions’ new purpose-built vessel, Douglas Mawson, has successfully completed its sea trials, confirming its readiness for voyages.
• The ship is named after Australian geologist and explorer Douglas Mawson and is scheduled for delivery in September 2025, with its inaugural voyage in December.
• The Douglas Mawson will begin its adventures exploring Tasmania’s coast and then embark on an Antarctic season, including a rare “Epic Antarctica” crossing.
• The vessel is designed for low-impact exploration with state-of-the-art amenities, supporting Aurora’s sustainability and citizen science programs.

Aurora Expeditions, a fantastic leader in small-ship adventure travel, is delighted to announce that its newest purpose-built vessel, Douglas Mawson, has successfully completed its sea trials. This is truly wonderful news for explorers everywhere, as the ship is now perfectly ready to embark on its highly anticipated inaugural voyages. Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, the Douglas Mawson promises to carry on a grand tradition of discovery.

The sea trials, conducted from June 26 to July 2, 2025, were a crucial step, thoroughly testing all the ship’s vital systems, including propulsion, navigation, and safety. The successful completion of these trials confirms the vessel’s readiness to gracefully navigate even the most remote and challenging environments on Earth. It’s truly inspiring to see such meticulous preparation for future adventures.

The Douglas Mawson is set for delivery in September 2025, with its maiden voyage planned for December. This exciting journey will begin by exploring Tasmania’s rugged coastline, followed by an inaugural Antarctic season that will retrace the footsteps of its namesake explorer. Designed for intimate, low-impact exploration, the ship will carry a maximum of 130 to 154 passengers, offering a welcoming experience with state-of-the-art amenities. Features like a lecture theatre, science center, and heated outdoor pool promise comfort and engagement. This new vessel beautifully reinforces Aurora Expeditions’ commitment to sustainability and incredible, expert-led explorations in some of the world’s most remarkable regions.