Aurora Expeditions records record Antarctic season 2025/26 | News
Aurora Expeditions has achieved its largest Antarctic season to date, completing 30 voyages, facilitating an estimated 819 landings and welcoming a 30% increase in expedition members, representing 56 nationalities.
The 2025/26 program was supported by the launch of the company’s third expedition ship, Douglas Mawson, in Sydney in November, ahead of the first Antarctic season. This was the first time in its 35-year history that Aurora operated three ships simultaneously in Antarctica, expanding access and choice for expedition members.
The season also marked a long-awaited return to East Antarctica after 15 years, alongside the introduction of ‘Active Antarctica’ voyages, with 14 included activities designed to further deepen immersive, activity-led explorations.
RECORD-BREAKING EXPLORATION
A defining moment came when Douglas Mawson reached 78º 44.405′ south, marking a new world record for the southernmost voyage in history – a testament to the company’s expedition heritage and commitment to responsible exploration.
Aurora also recorded 2,835 polar dives, delivered 269 onboard lectures and saw expedition members contribute thousands of hours to onboard Citizen Science programs – supporting initiatives such as whale and seabird monitoring, oceanographic data collection and polar ecosystem observation.
INNOVATION FOR RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL
The program also introduced several industry firsts that strengthen Aurora’s position as a leader in responsible expedition travel.
Aurora became the first expedition operator to bring both AI-powered routing technology and microplastic filtration systems to Antarctica, improving operational efficiency while contributing to ongoing environmental research and conservation efforts. The season also marked the introduction of drone-assisted scouting, which is used to help bridge teams assess ice and landing sites in real time, improving navigational safety and informing expedition planning.
“This season marks a significant milestone for Aurora Expeditions,” said Michael Heath, CEO of Aurora Expeditions. “Delivering 30 voyages to Antarctica – including a return to East Antarctica – and operating three ships in the region for the first time – reflects both our heritage and the way we continue to evolve. It also reflects the growing demand for deeper, more immersive exploration. Our focus remains on delivering these experiences in a responsible way.”
Aurora Expeditions’ Antarctic voyages 2026/27 are now open for booking. Visit aurora-expeditions.com or contact your local travel agent for more information.
