Aurora Expeditions has reported its largest Antarctic cruise season to date for 2025/26, with 30 voyages, about 819 landings, and a 30% increase in passenger numbers across 56 nationalities.
The growth follows the launch of its third vessel, Douglas Mawson, which entered service in November, enabling the company to operate three ships simultaneously in Antarctica for the first time in its 35-year history.
The season also included a return to East Antarctica, a region not visited by the operator for 15 years, and the introduction of “Active Antarctica” itineraries focused on activity-based exploration.
Aurora said the Douglas Mawson reached 78°44.405' south, one of the furthest southern positions recorded by a passenger expedition vessel.
Operational activity included 2,835 polar plunges, 269 onboard lectures, and participation in citizen science programmes, including whale monitoring and ocean data collection.
The company also deployed new technologies during the season, including AI-assisted route planning, microplastic filtration systems, and drone-supported ice reconnaissance to support navigation and landing-site assessment.
Chief executive Michael Heath said the season reflected increased demand for expedition travel.
“Delivering 30 voyages and operating three ships in Antarctica for the first time reflects both our experience and how the business is evolving,” he said.
Aurora Expeditions has opened bookings for its 2026/27 Antarctic season, with continued focus on small-ship expedition cruising and remote destination access.
Source: TravMedia Australia
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