The Aurora Experience
Why AE Expeditions
From the start, AE Expeditions was destined to be different. Our passion for adventure, exploring wild places and sharing the experience with friends burns just as brightly as it did 33 years ago, as does our preference for small-group, personal expeditions.
Each expedition is accompanied by an expedition team we believe are the world’s best. Remote area specialists, their onboard lectures entertain and expand your knowledge.
Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning for another thrilling adventure, our original goals remain unchanged. Explore wild places that stir the soul, offer personal attention on unforgettable expeditions and welcome new friends into the AE Expeditions family.
Awards
Small Groups
Travelling in small groups means that, unlike on larger ships, you can join every excursion, getting into the environment and exploring via shore landings, Zodiac cruises, kayaking or diving. With a staff-to-passenger ratio of approx. 1:7, means more one-on-one time with your expedition team.
Expert Guides
Our highly acclaimed expedition specialists are some of the best in the business. Many are recognised world leaders in their fields, and they enthusiastically share their knowledge to ensure that each moment you spend with us is interesting and educational. And more than that, they just love being with people.
Flexibility & Freedom
We stop for breaching whales! Our itineraries are designed to be adaptable. If weather or sea ice blocks our way we have a Plan B, C and D! We're always on the lookout for new places to explore, and we're not afraid to adjust our schedule to make the most of unexpected wildlife displays.
Spirit of Adventure
No matter where we are, we encourage a true sense of exploration. Zodiac cruise into a craggy cove to take a closer look at rockhopper penguins scaling a cliff, or take a guided hike across the tundra in search of the elusive arctic fox. You can also choose from a large selection of optional activities to make the most of your adventure.
Relaxed Onboard Atmosphere
Our approachable expedition team will make every effort to ensure that you feel right at home. Whether that means sharing tales of adventure at the bar, dining in friendly groups or heading out on deck in pyjamas for a polar bear sighting, our small groups and warm camaraderie create a relaxed, informal atmosphere on board.
Solo Travellers
This style of travel tends to attract like-minded people who love to connect with the natural world. Our small group ethos fosters an open, friendly environment, where making new connections is easy. We welcome solo travellers: avoid single supplements with our stateroom-sharing service, or ask about special deals for your own room.
Our Experience
It's been more than 33 years since our co-founders, Greg and Margaret Mortimer started taking small groups of friends and keen travellers to Antarctica. Aboard small, ice-strengthened vessels, they took groups of intrepid explorers to places that few, if any, had been before, pioneering a long list of 'firsts' along the way.
Book with Confidence
You can book with confidence when you book with AE Expeditions. Our Deposit Protection Program for all new bookings will protect your funds and our enhanced and in-depth Health & Safety policies and practices ensures the safety and well-being of expeditioners, expedition staff and crew in association with COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
Added Extras
Whether it’s a polar jacket, flights for our Fly/Sail Antarctic program, pre/post voyage accommodation in South America or high Arctic activities in Longyearbyen, our inclusions are what most others would consider extras. For a full list of inclusions for each voyage, please see itinerary pages.
