Aurora Expeditions has celebrated the arrival of its newest purpose-built small ship, the Douglas Mawson, in Sydney Harbour with the debut representing “a proud homecoming” for the Australian-owned company.

Named after polar explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, the vessel is Aurora’s third purpose-built ship and features the X-BOW hull design, to cut through waves with greater efficiency and stability for a smoother, quieter voyage.

The ship’s fuel-efficient diesel-electric system, waste-heat recovery technology, and environmental safeguards reflect Aurora’s Certified B Corporation commitment to sustainability. Onboard, guests can enjoy panoramic lounges, a two-storey atrium, spacious observation decks and a dedicated Citizen Science Centre.

“Seeing the Douglas Mawson arrive in Sydney feels like welcoming a family member home. She embodies everything Aurora stands for including a pioneering spirit, a respect for nature and a drive to explore the world with care and curiosity,” Aurora Founder Greg Mortimer, after whom the company’s first purpose-built ship is named, said.

The arrival of the new ship comes at an exciting time for the Sydney-based expedition cruise company, as it predicts a tenfold increase in passenger numbers by 2027 and more than $200 million in gross revenue by 2026.

Between 2021 and 2026, Aurora expanded its itineraries by 78%, now operating 73 itineraries annually across seven continents to 26 countries.

Following its Sydney debut, the Douglas Mawson will depart for Hobart on 27 November 2025 for an 11-night round-trip circumnavigation of Tasmania, with adventurer Tim Jarvis AM headlining the voyage. It will later explore Antarctica, sub-Antarctic islands, and warm-water regions including Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.