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Your Antarctic adventure begins in Ushuaia with a warm welcome, hotel stay, and group dinner before embarking on the expedition ship. After setting sail, you cross the legendary Drake Passage while learning about Antarctica, spotting seabirds, and preparing for landings. Days are spent exploring the Antarctic Peninsula through Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, encountering penguins, seals, whales, glaciers, and dramatic icy landscapes under near-endless daylight. The journey concludes with a flight from King George Island to Punta Arenas, followed by an overnight stay and departure the next day, carrying unforgettable memories of the White Continent.
Arrive in Ushuaia, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Ushuaia, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm. This afternoon, visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the hotel lobby, between 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm, to collect your luggage tags, and confirm if you wish to join our pre-embarkation tour tomorrow. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information on where to dine or purchase last minute items.
We encourage all expeditioners to arrive by 5.00 pm to enjoy our group welcome dinner this evening. Expeditioners arriving after 7.00 pm will find a welcome pack waiting for them at check-in. We ask you to visit our hospitality desk tomorrow between 8.00 am – 10.00 am.
This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at La Cravia restaurant, located at Arakur Resort & Spa. At Arakur, the “Haute Cuisine” shines in a unique environment with an unparalleled view of the bay and the city, the Beagle Channel, valleys, mountains, and the Vinciguerra Glacier. La Cravia delivers typical flavours from Tierra del Fuego, offering Argentine and international meals.
Assigned accommodation: Arakur Resort & Spa
This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
Those wishing to join our tour today, please meet in the hotel lobby at 8.45 am. Enjoy some free time there before returning to Ushuaia for ship embarkation.
Alternatively, enjoy your day at leisure and meet at your hotel lobby or from the meeting point at the parking lot near the pier (details will be given by our ground staff at the hotel), to be transferred to the pier for embarkation.
Once onboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to commence our adventure with spectacular views over Ushuaia and Tierra del Fuego.
This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment.
Our wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our vessel. On sea days, you may can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel including the gym, wellness centre or the relaxing in one of the observation lounges.
Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day four, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks watching for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once we are below the Antarctic Convergence and are surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of your first big iceberg sighting is likely to remain with you for a lifetime.
Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon.
It’s almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Once we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.
Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
We generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of our favourite spots along the peninsula.
While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do that whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting!
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding.
This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Keep an ear out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve their way from summit to sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of this incredible white continent.
As we approach Frei Base on King George Island, it is time to farewell Antarctica and our amazing adventure before boarding our flight (approximately one hour and forty-five minutes) to Punta Arenas, Chile. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here.
From Punta Arenas airport, you will be transferred to our group hotel for an overnight stay.
Note: King George Island is located at the northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula in the South Shetland Islands and is one of the most remote places on Earth. A clear sky with perfect visibility is required for safe take-off and landing. We apologise in advance for any possible delays.
After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow travellers as we continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature (breakfast included). A transfer to the airport is included in the voyage fare.
Note: Should your flight not proceed due to local conditions; you will remain on the ship until it is deemed achievable to return to Punta Arenas. Refer to our terms and conditions for further details.
INCLUSIONS
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
EXCLUSIONS
Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
A non-refundable deposit of US $2,500 per person is required within 7 working days of booking. Final payment is due at least 90 days prior to the departure date of the expedition
Rates per person
The Douglas Mawson offers two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins with windows and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3 near the mudroom and loading platforms, they provide a comfortable base for adventurers wanting to stay close to the action.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
15.37m² - 15.97m² (165.4ft² - 171.9ft²)
Porthole window
Offering extra space to unwind, the Aurora Stateroom Superior cabins are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 7, these staterooms feature French balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
13.97m² - 16.17m² (150.4ft² - 174.1ft²)
French balcony
Our 15 Balcony Stateroom Category C rooms offer an economical and comfortable stay for up to two guests. Equipped with all essential amenities, these staterooms are conveniently located across Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
21.07m² - 24.87m² (226.8ft² - 267.7ft²)
Private balcony
The two Aurora Stateroom Single cabins on Deck 3 feature portholes and private en-suites, offering a convenient stay near the mudroom and loading platforms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
9.85m² (106ft²)
Porthole window
The four Aurora Stateroom Superior Single cabins, located on Decks 3 and 7, feature portholes and private en-suites for a comfortable and private stay.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
10.97m² - 15.18m² (118.1ft² - 163.4ft²)
Porthole window
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard accommodations, with many featuring interconnecting options—ideal for families or groups. These staterooms are positioned at the fore and aft of Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
22.07m² - 24.97m² (237.6ft² - 268.8ft²)
Private balcony
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium accommodations and the most abundant on board. Strategically located in prime positions on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Private balcony
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium accommodations and the most abundant on board. Strategically located in prime positions on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Private balcony
Offering extra space to unwind, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, these staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area. Some also include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms for added convenience.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
27.77m² - 36.27m² (298.9ft² - 390.4ft²)
Private balcony
Perched on Deck 7, the four Junior Suites offer stunning views of the surroundings. When not out exploring, guests can unwind in the separate lounge area or take in the scenery from their private balcony.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
41.47m² - 41.87m² (446.4ft² - 450.7ft²)
Private balcony
The Captain's Suite, our most spacious and luxurious accommodation, offers the ultimate polar experience. Featuring a large lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite, this exclusive suite fills up fast—reserve yours early!
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
45.22m² (486.7ft²)
Private balcony
The Douglas Mawson offers two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins with windows and private en-suites. Located on Deck 3 near the mudroom and loading platforms, they provide a comfortable base for adventurers wanting to stay close to the action.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
15.37m² - 15.97m² (165.4ft² - 171.9ft²)
Porthole window
Offering extra space to unwind, the Aurora Stateroom Superior cabins are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 7, these staterooms feature French balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
13.97m² - 16.17m² (150.4ft² - 174.1ft²)
French balcony
Our 15 Balcony Stateroom Category C rooms offer an economical and comfortable stay for up to two guests. Equipped with all essential amenities, these staterooms are conveniently located across Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
21.07m² - 24.87m² (226.8ft² - 267.7ft²)
Private balcony
The two Aurora Stateroom Single cabins on Deck 3 feature portholes and private en-suites, offering a convenient stay near the mudroom and loading platforms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
9.85m² (106ft²)
Porthole window
The four Aurora Stateroom Superior Single cabins, located on Decks 3 and 7, feature portholes and private en-suites for a comfortable and private stay.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
1
10.97m² - 15.18m² (118.1ft² - 163.4ft²)
Porthole window
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard accommodations, with many featuring interconnecting options—ideal for families or groups. These staterooms are positioned at the fore and aft of Decks 4 and 6.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
22.07m² - 24.97m² (237.6ft² - 268.8ft²)
Private balcony
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium accommodations and the most abundant on board. Strategically located in prime positions on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Private balcony
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium accommodations and the most abundant on board. Strategically located in prime positions on Decks 4 and 6, they offer easy access to other levels via internal stairs or the elevator.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Private balcony
Offering extra space to unwind, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are ideal for polar adventurers traveling with plenty of gear.
Located on Decks 4 and 6, these staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms, and a comfortable desk area. Some also include wheelchair-accessible bathrooms for added convenience.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
27.77m² - 36.27m² (298.9ft² - 390.4ft²)
Private balcony
Perched on Deck 7, the four Junior Suites offer stunning views of the surroundings. When not out exploring, guests can unwind in the separate lounge area or take in the scenery from their private balcony.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
41.47m² - 41.87m² (446.4ft² - 450.7ft²)
Private balcony
The Captain's Suite, our most spacious and luxurious accommodation, offers the ultimate polar experience. Featuring a large lounge area, private balcony, walk-in wardrobe, and en-suite, this exclusive suite fills up fast—reserve yours early!
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
2
45.22m² (486.7ft²)
Private balcony
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$1,350 Per Person
Sea kayaking is one of the most thrilling ways to explore Antarctica, the Arctic, and other remote, biodiverse regions. Designed by kayakers for kayakers, this program lets you paddle among icebergs and along hidden coastlines, guided by polar experts in small groups. With minimal time spent on briefings and maximum time on the water, you’ll enjoy up-close wildlife encounters and access areas Zodiacs can’t reach. Outings typically span 5–15 km (2–4 hours) and often include both paddling and shore landings. All gear is provided, and our guides work with you to tailor each adventure to the conditions and your goals.
$695 Per Person
Dive beneath the surface on Aurora Expeditions’ snorkeling adventures, where vibrant coral reefs, icy underwater worlds, and fascinating marine life await.
$350 Per Person
It’s a unique opportunity to remain fully immersed in your surroundings, at water level in your sturdy kayaks. You might see Adélie penguins darting around you or, perhaps, an Antarctic fur seal slipping off its rock as you glide past. Your experienced guides will look for wonderful opportunities for you to enjoy a paddle, and hopefully push you beyond your comfort zone, safely.
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Adventure has a new name. Launching in 2025, the Douglas Mawson is the latest in a line of purpose-built vessels redefining small-ship expedition cruising.
Named after legendary Australian geologist and explorer Douglas Mawson, this state-of-the-art vessel embodies his pioneering spirit. Designed for global discovery, it features the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® and enhanced sustainability features. Accommodating up to 130 adventurers on Expeditions and 154 on Small Ship Cruises, it offers smooth, quiet comfort with the most extensive range of staterooms yet including dedicated single staterooms.
While the Douglas Mawson offers premium onboard amenities, the focus remains on exploration. Whether joining unique activities in remote destinations or experiencing handcrafted ‘Your Choice’ excursions on Small Ship Cruises through the Mediterranean, British Isles, and beyond, every journey is designed for deeper immersion.
The Douglas Mawson will mark Aurora Expeditions’ return to East Antarctica for the first time in 13 years. New itineraries will honor its namesake with a Mawson’s Antarctica voyage from Hobart, a semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica, and immersive explorations of the Subantarctic Islands.
Following its polar adventures, the Douglas Mawson will set sail for the Atlantic Coast, British Isles, and Mediterranean exploring Europe’s rich history, vibrant cultures, and breathtaking landscapes.
The Douglas Mawson features the latest streamlined Ulstein X-BOW®, built for smooth, stable ocean crossings. This revolutionary design cuts through the swell, enhancing comfort while reducing fuel consumption just one of many sustainability features that make responsible travel possible.
Between landings, recharge in the onboard gym or relax in the sauna. Take a dip in the heated outdoor pool, sip a drink at the pool bar, or soak in one of two Jacuzzis while watching the world drift by.
Equipped with industry-leading safety and navigation systems, the Douglas Mawson features world-class return-to-port equipment and a fully stocked medical clinic, designed for operations in remote regions.
With dedicated Zodiac boarding points and an activities platform, getting off the ship is fast, efficient, and safe—so you can spend more time exploring. The spacious mudroom includes lockers for gear and boots, plus rapid-drying areas for clothing.
With 11 types of staterooms and suites, including spacious single-berth options, the Douglas Mawson offers elegant Nordic-inspired interiors designed for comfort and style.
Enjoy panoramic views from multiple open decks and indoor lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows. The Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow provides a perfect spot to watch for wildlife with a drink in hand. Wherever you are, you’re never far from breathtaking scenery!
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Yes!!! Once we arrive in Antarctica it will be the ultimate goal of the Captain, Expedition Leader, and the Expedition Team to make sure we get off the ship as much as possible. You’ll participate in landings, zodiac cruises, and any additional activities you’ve signed up for. Check the “Detailed trip itinerary” for more details on each outing.
The price shown is the “all-in” price after all taxes, fees, port fees, and permits required; which are handled by the tour operator. The only main additional costs will be mandatory travel insurance, optional gratuity, and additional activities.
Not necessarily, no! Our group trips are usually made up of around 50% solo travelers! Prices are always per person, per bed. If you’re a solo traveler, we will match you with a same-gender roommate from our group to share your cabin with. There is also the option for solo cabin availability on certain trips. Please send us a message about solo cabins if that’s your preference.
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