Aurora Expeditions' newest vessel, Douglas Mawson, has successfully concluded sea trials off the coast of Hainan, China, from June 26 to July 2, 2025, confirming readiness for delivery in September 2025.
As the final ship in SunStone’s Infinity‑class series, she joins sister ships Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle and will embark on her maiden voyage to Tasmania in December 2025, followed by the first Antarctic season retracing the routes of her namesake explorer, before undertaking a full 2025–2026 voyage including the Epic Antarctica crossing.
The Douglas Mawson accommodates up to 154 passengers (130 on polar expeditions) across 86 cabins and is built to Ulstein CX103 design featuring the X‑BOW hull, allowing for efficient and comfortable passage in rough seas.
With an ice-strengthened PC6 hull and Tier III engines, the ship is equipped for remote polar conditions. Safety and efficiency systems—including Safe‑Return‑to‑Port certification—were rigorously tested during these trials under the oversight of the Nantong Maritime Safety Administration.
Onboard, the vessel offers a lecture theatre, Citizen Science centre, heated outdoor pool, sauna, gym, multiple dining venues, mudroom facilities, and Zodiac embarkation platforms—all purpose-built to support low-impact exploration and sustainability efforts.
Aurora’s commitment to responsible travel is further reflected in the ship’s LNG-ready configuration and energy-efficient systems.
CEO Michael Heath noted that sea trials are a crucial step in realising the expedition vessel’s potential, and preparations are underway to welcome expeditioners aboard later this year for immersive, expert-led polar journeys.
With Douglas Mawson joining the fleet, Aurora expands its footprint in destination-focused exploration, offering voyages to Tasmania, Antarctic regions, sub-Antarctic islands, and beyond, all aboard a ship designed to combine rugged expedition capabilities with modern comfort and environmental stewardship.