days
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Your 12-day Antarctic adventure begins in Ushuaia, where you’re welcomed and prepared for embarkation. After an optional scenic Lake Escondido tour, you board the ship and sail through the legendary Drake Passage, spotting seabirds and your first iceberg. The heart of the journey unfolds on the Antarctic Peninsula and South Shetland Islands with daily Zodiac excursions, wildlife encounters, glacier views, and the chance to take a polar plunge. Returning via the Drake Passage, you reflect on the unforgettable experience before disembarking in Ushuaia, filled with memories of the pristine white continent.
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.
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.
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.
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
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
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
$1,330 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.
$1395 Per Person
Ski/Snowboard Touring offers keen adventurers a chance to take on some of the world’s most incredible slopes. Experienced participants will have the chance to enjoy day-trips to traverse across remote, snow-capped peaks to descend into pristine bays filled with floating bergs, penguin rookeries or even a breaching whale!
From alpine bowls and crevassed glaciers, to long open slopes, join us to summit and ski a range of Antarctic landscapes, venturing to some amazing wild and remote corners. A spirit of adventure is a must. After all, when you strap on your skis, you’ll be exploring places where few have ever skied before!
While we aim to get out as often as possible, the number of outings will be dependent on weather and other factors. The average number of outings is usually six or more per voyage depending on your itinerary.
Learn more about our Ski/Snowboard touring and how you can join the adventure.
$370 Per Person
Snowshoeing offers a fun and easy way to explore Antarctica’s stunning terrain, making it effortless to walk across powdery snow and reach scenic spots that are harder to access by foot. With expert guides leading the way and all equipment and training provided, you’ll be ready to head out in no time—no prior experience needed. Ideal for those with a moderate fitness level, snowshoeing outings last up to three hours and provide incredible views and a fresh perspective on the White Continent. With up to six outings per voyage, it’s a rewarding way to stretch your legs and embrace the adventure.
$165 Per Person
One of our most popular activities, camping offers you the unique opportunity to roll out your sleeping mat and wriggle into your thermal sleeping bag for a night out on the ice – no camping experience necessary! Once you’ve settled in, prepare to witness the stunning beauty of the Antarctic night sky, as well as the sounds of ice cracking in the distance and wildlife carrying on their busy schedule around you. This is the activity for the ultimate bragging rights!
Our camping trips take place in the middle of the Austral summer, and on the Antarctic Peninsula we’ll be experiencing almost 24 hours of daylight. This means that instead of a starry night, you’ll instead be treated to an extended sunset and sunrise as the sun briefly dips below the horizon, filling the sky with an endless palette of colours.
While you may not have your best nights sleep- many passengers don’t camp out to sleep! They’re there to soak in the amazing surrounds, witness incredible vistas and enjoy the sounds of nearby penguin colonies and possibly even a calving glacier. We’ll do our best to make sure you get the chance for a cat nap the next day.
We’ve taken hundreds of adventurous souls out overnight and our expert expedition team know where to find the best spots for your camping experience.
Learn more about our camping activity and how you can join the adventure.
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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.
