Douglas Mawson
Capacity
154 Passengers Maximum (130 on Expedition)
Year built
2025
Cabins
86
Length
104.4 m
Decks
8
Speed
10-12 Knots
Our new purpose-built small ship, the Douglas Mawson.
Read about pioneers of exploration in our onboard library.
Relax in staterooms and suites after a long and enriching day of expoloration.
Be sure to visit the Douglas Mawson's alternate dining area for a gourmet experience.
Keep up your fitness regime in the onboard gym.
Take a dip in the heated outdoor swimming pool or one of two Jacuzzis.
Recover in the sauna at the end of the day or in between shore excursions.
The mudroom is where all our adventures begin.
Designed for global discovery.
Adventure has a new name. Setting sail in 2025, our new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of 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. Plus, onboard our Small Ship Cruises in the Mediterranean, British Isles and beyond, you’ll enjoy our handcrafted ‘Your Choice’ excursions to immerse you in your destination.
Introducing the Douglas Mawson
Designed for Discovery
The Newest Ulstein X-BOW®
The Douglas Mawson features the newest streamlined Ulstein X-BOW®, designed for global discovery. The revolutionary design cuts through the swell, offering unrivalled stability on ocean crossings and helping to reduce fuel consumption.
Heated Pool, Jacuzzis & Sauna
In between landings, enjoy access to the onboard gym or unwindin the sauna. Or head to the back deck to swim in the heated outdoor pool, enjoy a drink at the pool bar, or soak in one of two Jacuzzis, watching the world go by.
Leading Technology
The Douglas Mawson is at the cutting edge of nautical technology, fitted with industry-leading technology including world-class return-to-port equipment. The ship also features a medical clinic designed for use in remote areas.
Built for Adventure
The Douglas Mawson features Zodiac access points and an activities platform, making boarding the Zodiacs as quick, efficient and safe as possible, getting you closer to the action for longer. In our mudroom you will have access to lockers to store gear & boots and rapid drying areas for clothing.
More Stateroom Choices
The Douglas Mawson features 10 different types of staterooms & suites, including a range of spacious single berth staterooms – all adorned with elegant Nordic interior design features.
Multiple Observation Areas
As you explore the ship you will find indoor lounge areas with floor-to ceiling windows, and multiple open decks with expansive views. There is no shortage of spaces to take in the majesty of the incredible world outside!
Onboard 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 Center & 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 Center. 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.
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.
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.
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.
Captain's Suite
Room size
45.22m² (486.7ft²)
Location
Deck 4
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
-
1 x free pair of binoculars per suite.
-
Free stocked mini Bar^.
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A free bottle of champagne per suite.
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A gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite.
^Captain’s Suite mini bar is replenished as needed.
Junior Suite
Room size
41.47m² - 41.87m² (446.4ft² - 450.7ft²)
Location
Deck 7
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
^Junior Suite Mini Bar is stocked once only, not replenished.
Balcony Stateroom Superior
Room size
27.77m² - 36.27m² (298.9ft² - 390.4ft² )
Location
Decks 4 & 6
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
**Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Balcony Stateroom Category A
Room size
23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Location
Decks 4 & 6
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category B
Room size
22.07m² - 24.97m² (237.6ft² - 268.8ft²)
Location
Decks 4 & 6
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category C
Room size
21.07m² - 24.87m² (226.8ft² - 267.7ft²)
Location
Decks 4 & 6
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category A – Solo
Room size
23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Location
Deck 4
Sleeps
1
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Aurora Stateroom Superior
Room size
13.97m² - 16.17m² (150.4ft² - 174.1ft²)
Location
Deck 7
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
Room size
10.97m² - 15.18m² (118.1ft² - 163.4ft²)
Location
Decks 3 & 7
Sleeps
1
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Aurora Stateroom Single
Room size
9.85m² (106ft²)
Location
Deck 3
Sleeps
1
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Aurora Stateroom Twin Share
Room size
15.37m² - 22.57m² (165.4ft² - 242.9ft²)
Location
Deck 4
Sleeps
2
Features
Cabin inclusions
-
A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Staterooms and Suites
Ship features
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4Lecture Room & Lounge
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5Assembly Station
-
6Reception
-
7Ship Shop
-
8Dining Room
-
9Library
-
10Gym
-
11Sauna
-
12Seating Area
-
13Observation Lounge
-
14Top-deck Restaurant
-
15Bar
-
16Upper Glass Atrium Lounge
-
17Lower Glass Atrium Lounge
-
18Observation Decks
-
19Swimming Pool* and Sun Deck
-
20Jacuzzis
-
21Medical Clinic
-
22Bridge
-
23Elevator
-
24Main Entrance
-
25Expedition Desk
-
26Citizen Science Centre
Stateroom Category
Captain's Suite
Junior Suite
Balcony Stateroom Superior
Balcony Stateroom Category A
Balcony Stateroom Category B
Balcony Stateroom Category C
Aurora Stateroom Superior
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
Aurora Stateroom Single
Aurora Stateroom Twin Share
Deck plan
-
21Medical Clinic
-
23Elevator
-
23Elevator
-
24Main Entrance
-
25Expedition Desk
-
4Lecture Room & Lounge
-
5Assembly Station
-
6Reception
-
7Ship Shop
-
8Dining Room
-
15Bar
-
17Lower Glass Atrium Lounge
-
23Elevator
-
26Citizen Science Centre
-
9Library
-
16Upper Glass Atrium Lounge
-
23Elevator
-
10Gym
-
11Sauna
-
12Seating Area
-
18Observation Decks
-
19Swimming Pool* and Sun Deck
-
20Jacuzzis
-
22Bridge
-
23Elevator
-
12Seating Area
-
13Observation Lounge
-
14Top-deck Restaurant
-
18Observation Decks
-
23Elevator
Inspiration for your next trip
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Douglas Mawson
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.