Discover Our Expeditions
Every small ship expedition with AE Expeditions promises an immersive, enriching and inspirational experience – no matter which corner of the world we explore.
Stay up to date with our latest announcements
Introducing our newest small ship, the Douglas Mawson
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 154 adventurers to the world’s wildest places in smooth, quiet comfort. It boasts our most extensive range of staterooms yet, including a range of single staterooms.
The Douglas Mawson’s inaugural season will mark Aurora Expeditions’ return to East Antarctica for the first time in 15 years, with new itineraries to include a Mawson’s Antarctica voyage to East Antarctica in honour of the ship’s namesake, departing from Hobart, a semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica, and immersive explorations of the Subantarctic Islands.
Introducing New Co-Branded Content Experiences
We are excited to have partnered with Approach Guides, the leading content optimisation platform for travel brands, in a move to provide greater marketing support for our valued travel advisors.
The free platform will host marketing assets such as video, imagery and brochures, in addition to pre-built multimedia ‘content experiences’ that showcase Aurora’s itineraries, destinations, experiences and promotions.
We have created a range of content experiences to kick-off the partnership, which can be co-branded with a single click and shared with your clients via social media, email, quotes or even on your own website!
We encourage you start leveraging these content experiences for co-branding to engage your clients and increase conversions.
The AE Expeditions Difference
Antarctica, the Arctic, Global and Beyond
Choose from a range of destinations that span the globe, each selected for their natural beauty, remarkable biodiversity and fascinating archaeology.
Polar Pioneers for Over 34 Years
It's been more than 33 years since our co-founders Greg and Margaret Mortimer started taking small groups of friends and keen travelers to Antarctica.
Small, Purpose-Built New Ships
Traveling in small groups means that, unlike on larger ships, you can join every excursion, getting into the natural environment to explore more.
Experienced Expedition Team
Our highly acclaimed E-Team are the best in the business. Many are recognized leaders in their fields, keen to share their knowledge with expeditioners.
World Leading Activity Program
We have pioneered more adventure activities than any other polar cruising company. Dive into our range of activities to nurture your inner adventurer.
Positive Impact Travel
As a certified B Corporation, we have a commitment to responsible travel and are taking real actions for the planet. As members of IAATO and AECO, we take our responsibility seriously.
Citizen Science Program
A hands-on and immersive experience that will not only fire your imagination but show how you too can help protect the beauty and majesty of our planet.
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!
Solo Travellers
AE Expeditions welcomes solo travellers. Whether you choose solo accommodation or if you would like to share accommodation with another expeditioner of the same gender, we will be happy to try to make it happen for you.
Access our latest brochures
2026-27 Antarctica
We're excited to release our brand new Antarctica 2026-2027 season!
Choose from 27 awe-inspiring expeditions aboard one of our three purpose-built small ships, the Douglas Mawson, Sylvia Earle and Greg Mortimer.
2026 Arctic & Beyond
Explore our brand-new 2026 Arctic & Beyond season.
Featuring 42 departures across three purpose-built small ships, exploring the shores of Svalbard, Greenland, the Northwest Passage, Indonesia, Borneo, Costa Rica, the Mediterranean, Atlantic Coast and much more
New Purpose-Built Small Ships
Our new purpose-built ships, the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle and the Douglas Mawson, were designed for discovery. Travelling in small groups means that, unlike on larger ships, you can join every excursion, with more opportunities to explore the natural world and participate in unique activities including kayaking, snorkelling and diving.
The Greg Mortimer
Ice Class 1A
Year: 2019
Capacity: 130 Passengers Maximum
Year: 2019
Capacity: 130 Passengers Maximum
This vessel pays tribute to our co-founder Greg Mortimer, whose pioneering spirit burns as brightly as it did over 30 years ago. It was the first passenger ship to feature the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW®, which allows the ship to cross oceans more comfortably, and expansive observation decks to bring you closer to the natural environment.
The Sylvia Earle
Ice Class 1A
Year: 2022
Capacity: 130 Passengers Maximum
Year: 2022
Capacity: 130 Passengers Maximum
Named after marine biologist, oceanographer, ocean advocate and explorer, Dr. Sylvia Earle, our new state-of-the-art vessel is a floating ambassador for the planet. It pays tribute to Dr. Earle and six other pioneering women in conservation, while offering a comfortable base camp for adventures across the globe, with Jacuzzis, a heated outdoor pool, a sauna, gym, lecture theatre, fine dining and more.
The Douglas Mawson
Ice Class 1A
Year: 2025
Capacity: Maximum of 154 Passengers (130 on Expedition)
Year: 2025
Capacity: Maximum of 154 Passengers (130 on Expedition)
Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, our newest 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 154 adventurers to the world’s wildest places in smooth, quiet comfort.
Season & Campaign Assets
Below are the latest trip notes, maps, marketing assets and images for each season and current promotion. The trip notes reflect any rescheduled departure dates, so please download and update these on your websites to make sure you have correct voyage and trek details. There is also promotional material to help you inspire your clients to travel with us, including social media tiles and customisable flyers.
Resources & Sales Tools
From the latest Voyage Calendar to information about Fly/Sail & Sail/Fly luggage allowances, we have all the resources you need to inform and inspire your clients. Use our comprehensive collection of sales tools to learn more about AE Expeditions and grow your business.
Sales Team
For training & sales inquiries please contact your Business Development Manager or Sales Director below.
For booking inquiries and to register your wholesale business, please email [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up for your newsletter?
To subscribe to our newsletter, simply enter your email address in the sign-up box located at the bottom of our homepage.
Do you offer group travel planning?
Yes, we offer special packages and discounts for group travel, including family vacations, corporate retreats, and group tours. We can manage large bookings, coordinate accommodations, and ensure your group has a seamless experience.
How much does it cost to use a travel agent?
There is no standard fee for using a travel agent as it can depend on the complexity of your travel plans. Many of our services come at no additional cost, as we often earn commissions from hotels, airlines, and tour operators. For more specialized planning or advisory services, there may be a nominal fee.
Can I contact you anytime?
Yes, we are available 24/7/365
How long has Aurora Expeditions been in business?
Aurora Expeditions has been in business since 1991. We are pioneers in expedition travel and are experts in small-group travel to the the polar regions.
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 are the age limits or recommendations for children?
Age 8 and above. There isn’t a formal children’s program but for a curious, well-behaved child, they will love the outdoor activities with parental guidance.
For departures that require visas, does Aurora Expeditions assist with securing visas?
It is the travel advisor’s or client’s responsibility to secure the correct VISA for the country of visit.
Is there a discount for back-to-back trips?
Yes, we offer a 5% discount.
What is your current payment & cancellation policy?
There is a $2,500 per person non-refundable deposit (in the booking currency)due within 7 days of booking. There is a $250 per person per activity deposit. Final payment is due 90 days prior to the voyage start date. The booking becomes non-refundable within 90 days; however, we will review on a case by case basis if the guest wishes to move to another voyage.
Where do Fly/Sail depart to Antarctica?
- Sail/Sail – roundtrip Ushuaia
- Fly/Fly – roundtrip Punta Arenas
- Fly/Sail – Punta Arenas (Chile) to Ushuaia
- Sail/Fly – Ushuaia to Punta Arenas (Chile)
Any “Fly/Sail”, “Fly/Fly” or “Sail/Fly” voyage is deemed to commence at the starting point of the expedition as booked.
What is the electrical voltage onboard?
The voltage onboard is 220V; there is a universal outlet that can accommodate various plug configurations.
How much should I tip?
A US$15 per person per day gratuity for the crew will automatically be added to your clients’ onboard accounts. It is at their discretion if they would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when they settle their account. It is not necessary to tip the Expedition Team members.
What are the dining options available onboard?
There is a buffet-style open seating restaurant on both vessels, in addition to a reservations-required restaurant.
What drink packages do you offer?
House wines and beer are included with dinner and at the Captain’s farewell reception. Tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices included at all times during voyage.
Is there laundry service available onboard?
Yes. Laundry can be sent out for a nominal fee.
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.
Does Aurora Expeditions provide expedition gear?
Aurora Expeditions provides a complimentary polar 3-way jacket for expeditioners to keep. The jacket will be placed in the stateroom prior to embarkation. Muck boots are available for complimentary use.
Is there a professional onboard that takes photos for the guests?
A professional photographer joins every voyage as part of the Expedition Team. We also receive contributions from expeditioners. These photos go into a digital voyage log that expeditioners will receive 4-6 weeks after their voyage is complete. Expeditioners will also often share photos with each other.
Do guests need to sign up for activities in advance or can they do that onboard?
All add-on activities must be pre-booked well in advance to avoid disappointment. This includes kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving, camping on the ice, snowshoeing, ski/snowboard touring, Shackleton’s Crossing, rock climbing, trekking and paddling.
However, our included activities, such as photography, informative lectures, guided walks and Zodiac cruising, do not require advance registration. Please check with our Inside Sales team on specific requirements.
How does the camping work?
For our camping on the ice activity on select Antarctic expeditions, we choose a night that has good conditions. Typical departures are after dinner at approximately 10pm. Participants will be supplied with gear, including a warm sleeping bag and sleeping pad. It’s a unique experience to be immersed in the Antarctic wilderness that our expeditioners really enjoy. They will return to the ship before breakfast.
How cold is the water for the polar plunge?
Normally the water is just above 0°C or 30°F. It is an ice bath experience like no other!
Do you offer snorkelling and scuba diving in the polar regions?
We offer snorkelling on most of our Antarctica expeditions, while scuba diving is offered on select itineraries in both Antarctica and the Arctic.
What is the required experience for diving?
To participate in our polar diving activity, all divers must be trained, certified scuba divers with proof of certification as an Advanced Diver. In addition, it is extremely important that all participants have adequate training and experience in dry-suit diving. Recent diving experience and proof of a minimum of 30 logged dives using a dry-suit is required prior to joining the excursion. Find out more about about about scuba diving required experience.
What equipment is needed for diving?
We have compressors, tanks and weights onboard, but divers are asked to bring their own dry suit and all other gear.
Do you offer printed brochures and marketing support?
Yes, you can order our latest brochures via our website.
Additionally, we do have marketing assets available including customised marketing solutions. Please contact your Business Development Manager or Sales Director for customised requests.
Is there a travel partner training program?
We’re working on it! In the meantime, deep dive into our brand in our latest webinars.
Do you participate in trade or agency events?
Yes, we regularly attend local trade shows and would love to speak to you about agency events. Please contact your local Business Development Manager or Sales Director.
How do I find out who my local Business Development Manager is?
We want to work with you! Find out who your local Business Development Manager or Sales Director on this page.