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Douglas Mawson

Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, our new small ship embodies Mawson’s pioneering spirit and is designed for global discovery. Featuring the revolutionary Ulstein X-BOW® and purpose-built with enhanced sustainability features, it takes on average 154 adventurers to the world’s wildest places in smooth, quiet comfort. It boasts our most extensive range of cabins yet, including a range of single cabins.
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Named in honour of renowned Australian explorer and scientist Sir Douglas Mawson, this purpose-built expedition vessel is designed for immersive voyages to some of the world's most remote destinations. Featuring the innovative Ulstein X-BOW® design and advanced sustainability-focused technology, the ship combines exceptional seakeeping performance with enhanced comfort and efficiency. Accommodating up to 154 guests on selected voyages, it offers a wide range of modern cabin categories, including dedicated single cabins for solo travellers.

Life onboard is centred around comfort, discovery and connection. Guests can relax in the heated outdoor pool or one of two jacuzzis, enjoy panoramic views from the ship's observation areas, stay active in the onboard gym, or unwind in the sauna after a day of exploration. The ship also features a Citizen Science Centre, inviting lounge spaces, multiple dining venues and thoughtfully designed public areas that encourage learning, socialising and wildlife viewing throughout the journey. [\[aurora-exp...itions.com\]](https://www.aurora-expeditions.com/au/ship/sylvia-earle)

While the ship offers an impressive range of onboard amenities, the focus remains firmly on exploration. Zodiac operations, expedition activities and immersive shore experiences are at the heart of each voyage, ensuring guests spend as much time as possible discovering the remarkable environments and wildlife of the destinations visited.

The vessel's operator is widely recognised for its commitment to responsible travel and environmental stewardship. Sustainability initiatives extend beyond carbon reduction to include support for ecosystem restoration projects, marine habitat regeneration and ocean waste removal programs. As a certified B Corporation, the company operates purpose-built expedition ships designed to minimise environmental impact through fuel-efficient technology, reduced emissions and practices that help protect fragile marine environments. This commitment makes voyages aboard the Douglas Mawson particularly appealing to travellers seeking an environmentally conscious way to experience the world's most remote regions.
“
Named for Australia's greatest Antarctic explorer and doing him justice - the Douglas Mawson is a modern, impressive expedition vessel operating serious Antarctic and sub-Antarctic voyages. The guiding team carry genuine scientific knowledge and the access to extraordinary sites is exceptional.

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Douglas Mawson Deckplan

Douglas Mawson deck plan

Specifications

  • Capacity: 154 passengers on average
  • Cabins: 86
  • Decks: 8
  • Year Built: 2025
  • Length: 104.4m
  • Speed: 10-12 Knots
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson
Douglas Mawson

Cabin Details

Aurora Stateroom Single

Cabin size: 9.85m² (106ft²) - Deck 3

There are two Aurora Stateroom Single cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.

Features: Private en-suite, Porthole window, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Aurora Stateroom Single
Aurora Stateroom Single
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single

Cabin size: 10.97m² - 15.18m² (118.1ft² - 163.4ft²) - Deck 3 & 7

There are four Aurora Stateroom Superior Single cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Decks 3 & 7.

Features: Private en-suite, Porthole window, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
Aurora Stateroom Superior Single
Aurora Stateroom Twin Share

Cabin size: 15.37m² - 22.57m² (165.4ft² - 242.9ft²) - Deck 4

The Douglas Mawson features two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring windows, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.

Features: Private en-suite, Porthole window, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Aurora Stateroom Twin Share
Aurora Stateroom Twin Share
Aurora Stateroom Superior

Cabin size: 13.97m² - 16.17m² (150.4ft² - 174.1ft²) - Deck 7

With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.

Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Features: Private en-suite, French balcony, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Aurora Stateroom Superior
Aurora Stateroom Superior
Balcony Stateroom Category C

Cabin & balcony combined size: 21.07m² - 24.87m² (226.8ft² - 267.7ft²) - Deck 4 & 6

We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size.

Our 15 Balcony Stateroom Category C cabins are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.

Features: Private en-suite, Private balcony, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Balcony Stateroom Category C
Balcony Stateroom Category C
Balcony Stateroom Category B

Cabin & balcony combined size: 222.07m² - 24.97m² (237.6ft² - 268.8ft²) - Deck 4 & 6

We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size.

Our 17 Balcony Stateroom – B Cabins are our standard cabin, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.

Features: Private en-suite, Private balcony, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Balcony Stateroom Category B
Balcony Stateroom Category B
Balcony Stateroom Category A

Cabin & balcony combined size: 23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²) - Deck 4 & 6

We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size.

Our 25 Balcony Stateroom – A cabins are our premium cabin, and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.

Features: Private en-suite, Private balcony, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Balcony Stateroom Category A
Balcony Stateroom Category A
Balcony Stateroom Superior

Cabin & balcony combined size: 27.77m² - 36.27m² (298.9ft² - 390.4ft² ) - Deck 4 & 6

With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.

Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.

Features: Private en-suite (wheelchair accessible), Private balcony, Full size window, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar*.

*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all cabins except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite

Balcony Stateroom Superior
Balcony Stateroom Superior
Junior Suite

Cabin & balcony combined size: 41.47m² - 41.87m² (446.4ft² - 450.7ft²) - Deck 7

The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.

Features: Private en-suite, Private balcony, Full size window, Separate lounge area, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar.

Junior Suite
Junior Suite
Captain’s Suite

Cabin & balcony combined size: 45.22m² (486.7ft²) - Deck 4

The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite.

Features: Private en-suite, Private balcony, Full size window, Separate lounge area, Desk area, Closet space, Room-controlled thermostat, Room safe, 42" flat-screen TV, Mini bar.

Captain’s Suite
Captain’s Suite
Balcony Stateroom Category A – Solo

Cabin size: 23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²) - Deck 4

Our 4 Solo Balcony Stateroom Category A – Solo rooms are our premium room, these staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.

Features: Private Ensuite, Private Balcony, Full Size Window, Desk area, Closet Space, Room-controlled Thermostat, Room Safe, 42" Flat-Screen TV, Mini Bar.

Balcony Stateroom Category A – Solo
Balcony Stateroom Category A – Solo

Frequently asked questions about Douglas Mawson

The minimum age for guests travelling on the Douglas Mawson is 8 years.
The standard single supplement is 50% of the twin-share fare, subject to cabin availability and voyage-specific conditions. We often have a range of promotions for singles on this and other vessels so please contact us and our specialist team will be happy to send you the details.
Yes, the Douglas Mawson vessel allows cabin sharing for solo travellers to avoid paying extra solo fees. You are paired with a same-gender roommate who is also willing to share. This option is available for most cabin types.
Included expedition experiences generally feature guided shore landings via Zodiac, Zodiac cruises and wildlife viewing, expert-led lectures and presentations from the expedition team, and access to onboard facilities including the library, observation lounges, gym, sauna and jacuzzis. Guests can also enjoy educational and interpretive activities focused on the destination’s wildlife, history and environment. Some adventure activities, such as kayaking, diving, snowshoeing and skiing, may be available on selected voyages; however, these are typically optional and may incur an additional charge.
The Douglas Mawson accommodates 154 passengers maximum on Small Ship Cruises 130 passengers maximum on expedition voyages The vessel has 86 cabins and suites spread across 8 decks
Yes. The Douglas Mawson offers onboard Wi‑Fi. As with most expedition vessels operating in remote regions, internet speeds and reliability can vary depending on satellite coverage and location.
Cabins are equipped with Australian/New Zealand-style power outlets (Type I) along with USB charging facilities. International guests may require a travel adaptor.
The Douglas Mawson incorporates modern accessibility features including an elevator and spacious public areas. However, expedition cruising often involves Zodiac boarding, wet landings and walking on uneven terrain, which can be challenging for guests with limited mobility. Guests with mobility requirements should discuss their circumstances before booking to determine suitability.