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Aurora Expeditions has welcomed its newest purpose-built small expedition ship home to Australia.

The Douglas Mawson sailed into Sydney Harbour yesterday, marking a milestone moment for Australia’s growing role in global adventure travel.

Named after Sir Douglas Mawson, one of Australia’s greatest polar explorers and scientists, the ship represents the next generation of responsible exploration, combining innovation, sustainability and the adventurous Australian spirit that has defined Aurora Expeditions since its first voyage in 1991.

The Sydney-based company is forecasting a ten-fold increase in passenger numbers by 2027 and expects to achieve more than $200 million in gross revenue by 2026.

Between 2021 and 2026, Aurora has expanded the number of itineraries it operates by 78 per cent, now operating 73 itineraries annually across seven continents to 26 countries.

The Sydney arrival was met with pride by Aurora Expeditions’ founder and renowned mountaineer Greg Mortimer, after whom the company’s first purpose-built ship is named.

“Seeing the Douglas Mawson arrive in Sydney feels like welcoming a family member home,” said Mr Mortimer.

“She embodies everything Aurora stands for including a pioneering spirit, a respect for nature and a drive to explore the world with care and curiosity.”

The Douglas Mawson is Aurora’s third purpose-built small ship and features the revolutionary X-BOW hull design, a distinctive inverted bow that cuts through waves with greater efficiency and stability for a smoother, quieter voyage.

Equipped with a fuel-efficient diesel-electric propulsion system, waste-heat recovery technology and the latest environmental safeguards, the ship reinforces Aurora’s Certified B Corporation commitment to sustainability and low-impact travel.

Onboard, guests can enjoy panoramic lounges, a two-storey atrium, spacious observation decks and a dedicated Citizen Science Centre, allowing travellers to participate in real-time research projects and environmental monitoring.

The Douglas Mawson will depart for Hobart, Tasmania on November 27 to commence her inaugural voyage, an 11-night round-trip circumnavigation of Tasmania.

www.aurora-expeditions.com