Get to know our new, purpose-built small expedition ships.
Our vessels are small enough to go where others simply can’t. Designed in close consultation with our expedition team, we drew on centuries of collective experience to map out our ships: purpose-built for expeditions to the most remote places on earth.
With the revolutionary ULSTEIN X-BOW® to cross oceans more comfortably, expansive observation decks, inviting communal areas and unsurpassed environmental credentials, our ships offer the perfect base camp for adventures at the outer limits of human exploration.
Our fleet of purpose-built new ships redefines the cruising experience, with a maximum of 130 passengers onboard our Expeditions and 154 passengers on our Small Ship Cruises. Meet our three revolutionary vessels – the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle, and the Douglas Mawson (setting sail in 2025).
Designed for rugged, remote areas
Crossing the notorious Drake Passage or the Denmark Strait, our expeditions face some of the most extreme conditions. Our ships are at the cutting edge of nautical technology: robust, powerful, and up to the task.
The ULSTEIN X-BOW® design is a game-changer for expedition cruising, allowing our vessels to cut through the swell for smoother transits, reduced vibrations, and improved fuel efficiency. Combined with Rolls Royce dynamic stabilisers, our ships offer unrivalled stability and comfort on ocean crossings.
Designed for Active Expeditions
Our ships are built to world-class polar standards and designed in close consultation with our expedition specialists, to ensure that every aspect of the ship’s design enriches your expedition experience.
Our Zodiac access points and activities platform allows for faster disembarkation from the ship – to get out on your adventure quicker, whether by Zodiac or by kayak.
In our mudroom you will have access to a locker and rapid drying areas for wetsuits when you can hang your gear up to dry, and store your boots between excursions.
Designed for Wildlife Watching
While on board, the ship is your base camp in the most incredible environments on earth. Make yourself comfortable, your floating home is yours to enjoy!
As you explore the ship you will find indoor lounge areas with floor-to ceiling windows and panoramic views, and multiple open decks with expansive 270-360 degree views. There is no shortage of spaces to take in the majesty of the incredible world outside!
Designed for Education & Learning
On every expedition you'll meet naturalists and local specialists share their expertise through engaging presentations on topics like history, culture, biology, and climate change, deepening your understanding of the region.
Join the team in the lecture theatre for insightful talks, or retreat to the library—a peaceful space with floor-to-ceiling windows—where you can read up on the day's discoveries, organise photos, or enjoy a board game with newfound friends.
Join the team in the lecture theatre for insightful talks, or retreat to the library—a peaceful space with floor-to-ceiling windows—where you can read up on the day's discoveries, organise photos, or enjoy a board game with newfound friends.
Designed for a Comfortable Onboard Experience
When you're not exploring ashore, unwind in the sauna, hit the gym, or soak in one of two outdoor Jacuzzis with breathtaking views.
Share stories of the day over delicious meals in our open-seating dining area, where our onboard chefs keep you fuelled for adventure.
Relax in beautifully appointed cabins, inspired by the polar landscape. Choose from a range of configurations, including twin or double beds, private balconies, and interconnecting staterooms.
Share stories of the day over delicious meals in our open-seating dining area, where our onboard chefs keep you fuelled for adventure.
Relax in beautifully appointed cabins, inspired by the polar landscape. Choose from a range of configurations, including twin or double beds, private balconies, and interconnecting staterooms.
Designed for Safety & Sustainability
Designed with both responsible travel and passenger safety in mind, our ships operate with low energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, and a streamlined design to minimise environmental impact. Tier 3 engines reduce emissions, while onboard desalination plants create safe drinking water, cutting freshwater transport and fuel use.
Designed to exceed safety standards, our Ice Class 1A, Polar Code 6 vessels hold BV^ class certification and meet the latest SOLAS regulations. A world-class return-to-port system ensures reliability, while a fully equipped 24-hour medical clinic provides peace of mind in remote regions.
Discover our innovative expedition ships
Our ships are named after pioneers in exploration, science and conservation. The Greg Mortimer (2019) is named after our co-founder and well-known mountaineer, Greg Mortimer (OAM); while the Sylvia Earle (2022) is named after Dr. Sylvia Earle, world-renowned oceanographer and explorer. Our newest small ship, the Douglas Mawson (2025), honours the legendary Australian geologist and explorer.
Inspiration for your next trip
Frequently Asked Questions about our ships
Why travel on small ships?
At Aurora Expeditions, we believe that true exploration happens in small groups. Our purpose-built expedition ships carry a maximum of 130 adventurers on board our Expeditions, and just 154 on our Small Ship Cruises.
- Venture where larger ships can’t, reaching untouched landscapes and secluded shorelines.
- Enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere where you can connect with like-minded travellers and our expert Expedition Team.
- Maximise your time exploring, with quick and efficient disembarkations for shore landings and Zodiac cruises.
- Travel responsibly with a smaller environmental footprint, minimising our impact on these pristine regions.
With fewer people and more flexibility, a small ship means more time to experience the beauty of the regions we visit—just as they were meant to be.
Do you provide polar expedition jackets?
Yes. Each passenger travelling on all our polar voyages will receive a complimentary polar expedition jacket to wear during your expedition and take home after your trip.
How often do we get off the ship?
We aim to get off the ship as much as possible to experience the destinations up close. Twice per day is common but more if weather, daylight hours and itinerary allow. Duration of the landings vary from site to site but at the height of the peak season, cruise operators must stick to timings allocated by authorities.
Should I bring along my own walking poles?
Yes, it’s a good idea, especially if you have trouble walking over uneven ground. Some of our landings can be on slippery rocks or deep snow, and we may go for extended walks to see different parts of our landing point. We recommend the telescopic poles, with the optional snow-basket tips. You can purchase these poles in most outdoor stores.
Can you accommodate single travellers? If so, what is the single supplement?
From our 2026 Arctic and Beyond & 2026-27 Antarctica seasons will offer 10 dedicated solo cabins on every sailing, with no single supplement.
We do not have a mandatory single supplement rate if a guest is willing to share a stateroom. Most staterooms are available on a twin share basis in twin rooms, at no additional charge. This means that as a solo traveller, your client may pay the twin-share rate and will be paired with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we don’t locate a suitable stateroom mate, your client will not be charged a supplement.
For single expeditioners wanting their own stateroom outside our 10 cabin allocation they can pay a 50% surcharge occupancy stateroom (on top of the twin occupancy rate).
During select ‘Go Solo and Save’ promotions, we waive the single supplement for solo travellers on select voyages.
What currency do you accept on board?
The onboard currency is US dollars. All your onboard purchases including bar, laundry, ship shop, internet, and massages are charged to your shipboard account and settled by credit card or cash (US dollars only) at the end of the voyage.
What is the electrical voltage onboard?
The voltage onboard is 220V; there is a universal outlet that can accommodate various plug configurations.
Can you accommodate food allergies or restrictions?
Gluten free, vegetarian and vegan food are all available. Aurora will use reasonable endeavours to accommodate special dietary requests from clients, but they cannot be guaranteed. You should advise us as soon as possible after booking of any such requirements.