Douglas Mawson Makes A Striking Sydney Debut

Aurora Expeditions has christened its new small expedition ship Douglas Mawson during an event held in Sydney on 27 November. The ceremony marked the vessel’s official introduction to the company’s fleet ahead of its first commercial voyages.

The ship arrived in Sydney Harbour in the morning where invited guests and media attended a short christening ceremony that included a traditional bottle breaking and formal naming. Representatives from Aurora Expeditions outlined the ship’s role in the company’s future operations and noted its connection to Sir Douglas Mawson, after whom the vessel is named.

Douglas Mawson is the third purpose built vessel in Aurora Expeditions’ fleet.

It is equipped with an unusual looking Ulstein X BOW hull which is designed to offer a more comfortable ride by improving stability in rough seas.

The ship has capacity for up to 154 passengers, reduced to 130 on polar itineraries. On board facilities include an observation lounge, a lecture theatre, a science centre, a two storey atrium, a heated outdoor pool, jacuzzis, a gym and a sauna.

Following its christening, Douglas Mawson is scheduled to reposition to Hobart to begin its inaugural itineraries. These include voyages to East Antarctica and the subantarctic region. The ship will operate cruises that aim to access Commonwealth Bay and other parts of East Antarctica, subject to weather and sea ice conditions.

The vessel joins Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle as part of Aurora Expeditions’ small ship fleet, expanding the company’s capacity for Antarctic and global expedition cruising.