Aurora Expeditions has celebrated the arrival of its newest purpose-built small ship, the Douglas Mawson, in Sydney Harbor 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-story 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 November 27, 2025 for an 11-night round-trip circumnavigation of Tasmania, with adventurer Tim Jarvis headlining the voyage. It will later explore Antarctica, sub-Antarctic islands, and warm-water regions including Papua New Guinea and Indonesia.

The Douglas Mawson stands as “a living tribute to Australia’s proud legacy of exploration and scientific achievement,” continuing Aurora’s mission of “education, conservation and hands-on exploration for a new generation of travelers.”