Douglas Mawson

• Launched in 2025, Douglas Mawson is the latest state-of-the-art small expedition ship exploring Antarctica and the Arctic.
• With just 130 guests per voyage in the polar regions, the ship is equipped with many features of larger ships, such as an outdoor pool, jacuzzis, sauna and a large observation lounge.
• The ship has excellent environmental credentials and employs the latest cutting-edge technology and safety.

Why Choose Douglas Mawson

The latest addition to the fleet of expedition cruise ships in the polar regions, the Douglas Mawson, is built around adventure. The perfect fit for travellers looking for a small expedition ship, the ship takes just 130 guests in the polar regions. The small number of guests ensures that everyone can participate in activities, shore landings, and Zodiac cruises at the same time.

The interiors feature floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views from the observation lounge. The ship has outstanding leisure facilities, including an heated outdoor swimming pool, two jacuzzis for relaxation, panoramic sauna, fitness centre, and spa.

The ship is packed with sustainability features, such as the Ulstein X Bow, which reduces fuel consumption and provides a smoother sailing experience.

The Douglas Mawson ship is named after the famous Australian explorer and geologist Sir Douglas Mawson. In its first season, the ship will sail to East Antarctica to explore Douglas Mawson’s legacy on the White continent.

Dining on Douglas Mawson

Dining on the Douglas Mawson is an experience with two restaurants serving international cuisine. The ship’s chefs use fresh, local ingredients to create delicious meals catering to all dietary needs. Whether you’re having breakfast or dinner, the dining is flexible and relaxed so you can enjoy your meals at your own pace. With stunning views, dining on the Douglas Mawson is a feast for the eyes and palate.

Snacks, tea, and coffee are available on the ship 24 hours daily.

Cabins On Douglas Mawson

The Douglas Mawson has a total of 11 different cabin types including 10 cabins for solo travellers.

Staterooms feature French balconies, including Aurora Stateroom Single, Aurora Stateroom Superior Single, Aurora Stateroom Triple, Aurora Stateroom Twin and balcony cabins.

Cabins have private ensuite bathrooms and ceiling windows, and 79% have a private balcony with floor-to-ceiling glass doors. They feature en suite bathrooms, a room controlled thermostat and 42 flat screen tv.

Balcony Stateroom Category C and Balcony Stateroom Category B have French balconies with stunning views.

The Suites separate lounge area is the perfect place to relax and take in the impressive scenery. This lounge area is a key feature of the suites and provides comfort and views.

The Douglas Mawson has 10 cabins for solo travellers with no single supplement, but book fast, as these cabins tend to sell out first!

Onboard Experience

The Douglas Mawson is designed around the onboard experience, and guests have plenty of activities and entertainment options. Enjoy a dip in the heated outdoor pool and jacuzzis, work out in the gym, or unwind in the sauna.

The Citizen Science Centre is a unique feature of the ship, where you can participate in hands-on science projects and learn about the polar regions. Multiple observation areas, including the glass atrium lounge, are perfect for wildlife watching and taking in the views. Enjoy lectures, presentations, and social events in the ship’s lounge areas in the evenings.

Guests can participate in interactive workshops and lectures to gain an appreciation and more profound understanding of the Antarctic environment. Lectures by expert guides and expedition leaders cover wildlife, geology and history to provide a better understanding of the region.

The Citizen Science Centre is a hub of activity where you can do hands-on activities with microscopes, learn about the latest science, and contribute to ongoing projects.

Activities & Excursions

An expedition cruise on the Douglas Mawson is an active experience. The voyage includes Daily Zodiac rides, shore excursions, and hikes with the expedition team.

The ship has four Zodiac embarkation points and a large mudroom and loading platforms, which makes activities a breeze compared to larger ships.

Guests can also participate in a range of optional activities, such as camping on ice, polar scuba diving, mountaineering, snorkelling and sea kayaking during expeditions. These activities are an additional cost, and guests must have the necessary experience to participate.  

Douglas Mawson Destinations

The Douglas Mawson is one of the few ships to offer exciting expeditions to East Antarctica and the Subantarctic Islands from Hobart, Australia.

New itineraries include following Douglas Mawson’s Antarctica voyage to East Antarctica, a semi-circumnavigation of Antarctica and immersive explorations of the Subantarctic Islands.

Sustainability

Sustainability is at the forefront of the ship’s design. From the ship’s revolutionary X-Bow hull design, which enhances fuel efficiency and stability, to energy-efficient systems like LED lighting and advanced waste management, the ship further enhances its green credentials. Douglas Mawson’s commitment to sustainability extends to operations, reducing waste, conserving water, and protecting the environments it visits.