days
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Your journey begins in Ushuaia with a hotel check-in and optional Lake Escondido tour before embarking on your Antarctic voyage. After settling into your cabin, you’ll cross the Drake Passage with briefings, presentations, and your first iceberg sightings. Over several days, explore the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands with Zodiac excursions, wildlife encounters, and optional activities like the polar plunge. Returning across the Drake Passage, enjoy final lectures and reflection before disembarking in Ushuaia, concluding your unforgettable polar adventure.
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.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Assigned accommodation: To be advised
Those wishing to join our Lake Escondido tour today, please meet in the hotel lobby at 8.45 am. This tour offers us an unforgettable panoramic drive through big valleys of glacial origin, evergreen and deciduous forests, waterfalls and rivers, in the vastness of the Andes Mountain Range. We will leave Ushuaia city to the northeast of Tierra del Fuego, driving through peat bog valleys to reach Garibaldi Pass, only accessible by a winding road that will take us to a panoramic point. From here we will have amazing panoramic views of Lake Escondido and, if weather conditions allow, of Fagnano Lake. We will start our descent towards the northeast to reach Fagnano Lake’s shore where we will visit a local ranch. After appreciating the landscape, you will have the chance to enjoy the typical Fuegian Lamb barbecue. 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.
On day four the excitement is palpable as you near the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula, with everyone converging on the observation decks to spot their first iceberg. Now that you’re south of the Antarctic Convergence the ocean takes on a whole new character, as you’re surrounded by porpoising penguins and dramatic icebergs. The memory of your first iceberg sighting is likely to remain with you for a lifetime. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first Antarctic landing in the late afternoon.
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 participate in the activity whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting! The polar plunge can take place at any time during the voyage, so listen out for the announcement from the expedition team and get ready for the most exhilarating dip of your life!
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 (open at the captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Listen out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve into sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of the pristine paradise of the splendid white continent.
With lectures and film presentations to complete our Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. 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.
As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
Upon disembarkation, for those continuing their travels in the region, transportation to the hotel will be arranged exclusively for guests who have booked their accommodations through Aurora or for those staying in downtown areas near the port. Expeditioners departing on flights prior to 12.30 pm will be directly transferred to Ushuaia Airport, those with flights after 12.30 pm will have the opportunity to explore Ushuaia before an afternoon airport transfer, and the transfer procedures and details will be communicated onboard before disembarkation.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.
INCLUSIONS
• All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
• One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Punta Arenas on Day 1.
• Charter flight from Punta Arenas to King George Island.
• Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
• All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
• Soft drinks and juices throughout all meals. Beer and house wine with dinner.
• Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
• All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
• Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
• Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
• One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
• Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
• Comprehensive pre-departure information.
• Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
• Wi-Fi*.
* Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
EXCLUSIONS
• International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Airport arrival or departure taxes.
• Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
• Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
• Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
• Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
• All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), soft drinks/juices (outside of meal service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
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
CABIN DETAILS
The two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins on Deck 3 feature portholes and private en-suites, offering convenient access to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
22.57m² (242.9ft²)
Porthole window
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
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
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
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
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 two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins on Deck 3 feature portholes and private en-suites, offering convenient access to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Please note: All stateroom images of the Douglas Mawson are artist’s impressions, and final designs may vary.
3
22.57m² (242.9ft²)
Porthole window
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
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
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
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
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
MORE INFORMATION
$1,030 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.
$480 Per Person
Explore wild and remote regions like Antarctica, Costa Rica, and Scotland’s rugged isles with our immersive paddling program. In sturdy inflatable kayaks, glide among brash ice and rocky shores where penguins and fur seals may be lounging nearby. With expert guides and a dedicated Zodiac for your small group of up to eight paddlers, you’ll enjoy both regular landings and exclusive paddling excursions. It’s a unique way to connect with nature at water level—intimate, exhilarating, and unforgettable.
$515 Per Person
Witness wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth. Through crystal clear waters you’ll discover the amazing mobility and speed of penguins entering and exiting from the ice, marvel at beautiful sculpted icebergs below the water and witness marine life such as crustaceans, isopods, starfish and nudibranchs!
With a longstanding tradition of pushing the boundaries, Aurora Expeditions launched our Antarctic snorkelling adventures in 2014. This unique experience will allow passengers to see both destinations in a completely new dimension, witnessing wildlife and scenery unlike any other place on earth.
Our team of experienced guides have over 20 years’ experience and will provide snorkellers with detailed briefings and best practice procedures to ensure a safe snorkelling experience. With snorkelling available in both Polar and Tropical voyages, expeditioners can immerse themselves in stunning underwater scenery wherever they find themselves.
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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!
MORE INFORMATION
Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
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 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.
MORE INFORMATION
Explore the vast, breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions with the best travel options tailored to your preferences.
With over 15 years of combined experience, our team of Polar Expedition Guides is dedicated to providing unforgettable polar journeys.
