The 2025 Impact Report from Aurora Expeditions reveals major strides by the expedition cruise line in the areas of conservation, scientific collaboration and responsible tourism over the course of the year, with the launch of its Ocean Regeneration program a particular stand-out.
“As explorers of the polar regions, we are witnesses to change, but also part of the solution,” said Sasha Bush, Sustainability Manager at Aurora Expeditions. “From supporting ocean regeneration and community-led conservation, to inspiring the next generation of climate advocates, our Impact Report reflects the ripple effect that responsible travel can create.”
The cruise line’s innovative Ocean Regeneration program replaces traditional carbon offsetting with a circular-impact initiative that funds the planting of kelp forests, seagrass meadows and coral restoration for every passenger who joins an expedition. It also supports the removal of ocean-bound plastic waste, reflecting Aurora’s belief that travel should benefit, not burden, the ecosystems it touches.
Technological innovation also featured prominently this year. Aurora became the first expedition company to trial CounterCurrent’s AI ship-routing system, designed to reduce fuel burn by aligning ship movements with natural ocean currents.
The Sylvia Earle achieved a landmark industry first by successfully trialling 100% biofuel, cutting fuel-related emissions by around 90%. Meanwhile, this month’s launch of the Douglas Mawson introduces advanced microplastic filtration systems capable of capturing up to 99% of microfibres before they reach the ocean – a world first for an expedition vessel.
Beyond environmental impact, Aurora continued to expand its global reach through education and community partnerships. More than 74,000 children across 195 countries accessed free environmental learning filmed on location in Antarctica, the Arctic and Iceland, made possible through the company’s partnership with Upschool. On board, passengers contributed to seven active Citizen Science projects, while the company provided more than $364,000 in-kind expedition support to researchers and donated an additional $140,000 to conservation organisations.
Aurora also strengthened cultural and community relationships through ongoing support for the Inuit Community Ambassador Program, fostering meaningful exchange across Arctic voyages.
With an 87.5 B Impact Score – far above the global business average – Aurora Expeditions has reaffirmed its commitment to continuous improvement and has pledged re-certification under the newest B Corp standards by 2027.
