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Highlights

Discover the rugged beauty of the Ring of Kerry, Skellig Islands, Cliffs of Moher, Slieve League Cliffs and Giant’s Causeway
Follow the footsteps of the Irish who left for foreign shores, at Dublin, Cobh, Kinsale and Londonderry
Hear tales of Ireland's past at the famine cottages, Irish workhouse, Viking Waterford, Blarney Castle, Belfast’s dockyards and on the streets of Dublin
Learn about Irish ancestry with our onboard genealogist

Your Host

Each of our Small Ship Cruises is hosted by a master storyteller, chosen for their deep knowledge and passion. With the support of local experts, they bring each destination to life—sharing captivating stories, rich insights and fascinating trivia through every destination, sight and encounter.

Our Ship

The Douglas Mawson

Our new purpose-built small ship, the Douglas Mawson.
Capacity
154 Passengers Maximum (130 on Expedition)
Year built
2025
Cabins
86
Length
104.4 m
Decks
8
Speed
10-12 Knots
More on The Douglas Mawson

Loyal Travelers

We love celebrating our loyal expeditioners who return to explore with us. After your first Aurora Expeditions voyage, you’ll automatically achieve Bronze Adventurer status. The more voyages you embark on, the higher you climb—progressing to Silver and eventually Gold!

Find out more about our loyalty program

Solo Travelers

Voyages with Aurora Expeditions are such a fantastic choice for solo travelers, giving you the chance to experience the world’s most remote and incredible destinations with like-minded travelers and our expert guides, while on board our small, social and welcoming ships.

Find out more about solo traveling with Us

Your Choice Experiences

Our ‘Your Choice’ curated excursions and enrichment program are included in your voyage. They offer you a choice of experiences designed to bring cruising to a whole new level. Experience a medley of culture, traditions, and history as you travel beyond the ordinary, immersing yourself in each destination and creating lasting memories.

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Local Flavors
Our ‘Your Choice’ excursions reveal there is more to eating than just food. We will hear tales of treats that turned the tide of history, helped win wars and sealed people’s fate. Whether it is mint tea in Marrakech, a limoncello on the Amalfi Coast, or a paella in Valencia, rest assured your tastebuds will be tantalised. If it is true that the way to a travelers heart is through their stomach, then look no further.
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Locally Guided Walks
No one knows their hometown like a local. Our ‘Your Choice’ excursions are guided by local experts, ensuring every experience is authentic and insightful. As we stroll through cobblestone lanes and bustling marketplaces, you will learn that a walking tour with a local isn’t about sightseeing; it’s about gaining a personal perspective and discovering the true essence of our destination.
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Cultural Enrichment
Explore the culturally fascinating, from Salvador Dali’s eccentric mausoleum to the complexities of Londonderry’s ‘Troubles’, and the hilltop village whose century old traditions have crafted the world’s most popular perfumes.
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Past & Present
Exploring Europe is akin to flipping through the pages of history, where each chapter unfolds in real time before your eyes. At every turn, historical landmarks stand side by side with modern marvels, while cobblestone streets of medieval towns lead to bustling city centers adorned with contemporary architecture and sleek glass-fronted skyscrapers.
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Art & Artisans
Whether you are an art aficionado or simply captivated by the beauty of art, our curated experiences at galleries, architectural wonders and artisan workshops will entice your curiosity. Essentially an ‘open-air museum’, where ancient cultures left their indelible mark on art and society, Europe beckons with its unparalleled artistic heritage.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Whether exploring Athen’s Acropolis, Granada’s Alhambra, Italy’s Cinque Terre or the medina of Marrakech, we ask you to join us in preserving the world’s most treasured sites. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking inspiration, Europe’s UNESCO-listed sites have something for everyone.