Douglas Mawson aces sea trials for Aurora Expeditions

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The newest purpose-built expedition vessel from Aurora Expeditions, Douglas Mawson, has successfully completed sea trials, marking a significant step towards starting its inaugural voyages later this year.Conducted from June 26 to July 2, 2025, the sea trials tested critical systems including propulsion, navigation, and safety equipment.“Sea trials are one of the most important steps in bringing a ship to life,” said Michael Heath, CEO of Aurora Expeditions. “We’re thrilled with the results and can’t wait to welcome our expeditioners aboard Douglas Mawson for her inaugural voyages later this year.”Named after the famed Australian geologist and explorer, Douglas Mawson is the latest addition to Aurora’s growing fleet with it scheduled for delivery in September 2025. Its first voyage will set off along the Tasmanian coastline in December, with the vessel to then be deployed on its first Antarctic season.Its first voyage will be Mawson’s Antarctica, tracing the legendary explorer’s historic route. The ship will then continue into a full 2025/26 Antarctica program, including the rarely operated Epic Antarctica: Crossing the 7th Continent.Purpose-built for low-impact exploration, the ship accommodates up to 130 passengers on polar expeditions and 154 on small ship cruises. It features a lecture theatre, science centre, heated outdoor pool, multiple dining venues, and dedicated mudroom facilities, all designed to support Aurora’s sustainability and citizen science initiatives.Douglas Mawson is the seventh and final Infinity Class vessel constructed by SunStone Maritime Group and the third in Aurora’s fleet, joining the Greg Mortimer (2019) and Sylvia Earle (2022). It features the distinctive Ulstein X-BOW® and incorporates a suite of sustainable technologies for enhanced efficiency and minimal environmental impact.The new ship underscores Aurora’s mission to offer “immersive adventures far from the crowds,” with itineraries that span not only the polar regions but also culturally rich destinations like the Mediterranean, Scotland, Ireland, and Latin America.

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