Why Aurora Expeditions’ Douglas Mawson Left Me Inspired to Switch My Sales: My VIP Ship Inspection in Sydney

There aren’t many days in travel where you step onto a brand-new expedition ship and feel your whole approach to selling cruises shift. But that’s exactly what happened to me when I was invited for a VIP inspection and christening lunch aboard Aurora Expeditions’ Douglas Mawson—right in the heart of Sydney.

I'll confess, I had never been on an Aurora ship before, but the instant I stepped aboard, I understood that this was going to be far beyond an ordinary ship tour. What truly sets Aurora apart, though, is who’s at the helm—real explorers, not just corporate execs. Meeting Greg Mortimer at lunch was a highlight. His warmth and humility radiated through the room, but his story is nothing short of legendary.

A Rare Invitation: VIP Access with CLIA and Aurora

When the invitation arrived—a VIP lunch with CLIA Cruise Lines, complete with a christening ceremony—I felt honored and curious. The Douglas Mawson rarely visits Australian shores for ship tours, so this was a unique chance to experience Aurora’s offering up close and gather insights that could truly benefit my clients. For someone focused on polar travel, this was gold—an opportunity to see what sets a high-Caliber expedition ship apart.

First Impressions: Light, Space, and Personality

From the first step up the gangway, I was struck by how light and spacious everything felt. The interiors had an airy brightness you don’t often find on expedition vessels. What really caught my eye was the artwork and how big the small ship felt every corridor and lounge featured striking depictions of polar wildlife. Puffins and penguins are favourites of mine, so spotting them throughout the ship felt like a personal welcome.

The X-Bow design doesn’t just make for smoother sailing in rough waters it also creates an impressive atrium. Standing there, with sunlight pouring into the seating areas and the library staircase, I found myself imagining future crossings of the Drake Passage: even with nine-foot swells outside, guests can relax indoors (maybe not in the 9ft swell!), surrounded by warm light and panoramic views.

Decks Made for Adventure (and Relaxation)

Step out onto the decks and you’ll see that Aurora has really maximised outdoor space. There’s a full-size pool and two inviting spas under open sky—perfect for post-zodiac soaks as you watch icebergs drift by. The layout is clever: despite only hosting 130 guests, the deck areas feel generous, never crowded.

What stood out to me were the details clearly designed for the polar environment. The balcony chairs all have soft, removable cushions. If you’ve ever cruised in polar regions, you’ll know how rare and wonderful it is to have comfortable seating actually usable outdoors, even when things get damp or icy.

Cabin Envy: Roomy Retreats with Thoughtful Touches

I made sure to tour every cabin category, and each one surprised me with its sense of space. Light décor mostly white Scandi, big windows, and smart furnishings create a real sense of retreat. The chairs are cleverly secured—no sliding around when the ship moves—and everything from the bed linens to the lighting feels thoughtfully chosen. These details matter, especially after long days exploring wild places.

A Sustainable, Intimate Approach to Exploration

What truly changed my mindset about Aurora was their commitment to sustainability. Achieving B Corp status isn’t just a marketing line—they’re running voyages on used vegetable oil and keeping group sizes intimate. With only 130 guests onboard, the atmosphere is more like a private voyage than a "cruise/ Expedition"

The family-owned feeling is apparent. Greg Mortimer himself was there at lunch, welcoming us with genuine warmth and a bit of that Aussie flair that makes everyone feel at home.

Lunch with Legends and a Unique Christening

Having lunch with Greg Mortimer was a real highlight. He spoke with such passion for exploration, and the staff exuded the same spirit. The christening was done in classic Aurora style—not with a bottle of champagne, but with a block of ice shattered against the hull. It was a fun, fitting nod to the polar adventures this ship was built for.

Beyond the Ship: What Sets Aurora Apart

Aurora isn’t just about sightseeing—they’re about real participation in wild places. I was fascinated to learn about their unique activities: polar diving, extended sports options, and those magical after-dinner zodiac trips, made possible by the small guest numbers. These aren’t just scheduled excursions—they’re spontaneous, immersive moments that make each voyage feel truly different.

Who Will Love the Douglas Mawson?

This ship is designed for true explorers: those who want wild adventure without sacrificing comfort or style. It’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone who values the combination of real discovery with the warmth of luxury interiors. There’s an unmistakeable Aussie touch woven throughout—from the hospitality to the onboard atmosphere—that makes every guest feel included. If your clients are looking for something more personal and authentic than a typical luxury cruise, Douglas Mawson is worth their consideration. It’s also ideal for travellers who want to incorporate an Australian spirit into their journey and value genuine exploration with all the luxuries of thoughtful design.

My Recommendation

I left the Douglas Mawson feeling not just inspired, but genuinely proud—of what Australian ingenuity and courage have achieved, and of the new adventures I can now offer my clients. Aurora Expeditions isn’t just another cruise line. They are trailblazers, leading with heart, history, and a relentless drive to do things differently.

Curious about what a polar expedition with Aurora could mean for you? I’d love to share my firsthand experience and help you craft the adventure of a lifetime. Reach out anytime at lauren@whitehorizonstravel.com.au—I’m always up for talking exploration.