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AE Expeditions

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AE Expeditions

For over thirty years, AE Expeditions (formerly Aurora Expeditions) has pioneered adventure cruising in the world’s most remote regions. From Antarctica and the Arctic to Patagonia and Central America, AE Expeditions blends sustainability, innovation, and a spirit of exploration. Guests travel aboard state-of-the-art expedition ships designed for icy waters, enjoying immersive itineraries, expert-led activities, and transformative experiences ashore. Whether it’s your first polar voyage or a return to wild frontiers, AE Expeditions promises unforgettable discovery.

AE Expeditions’ voyages for 2026 and 2027 will uphold the same pioneering spirit and expert curation that have been the brand’s hallmark for years, offering travellers exceptional experiences crafted to inspire exploration and discovery.

Featured Itineraries

Why choose AE Expeditions

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Sustainable focus

Pioneering eco-conscious polar voyages

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Expert guides

Led by seasoned expedition specialists

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Active adventure

Kayaking, skiing, climbing and more

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Innovative ships

Designed for icy waters and comfort

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Inclusive spirit

Camaraderie and cabin-mate matching

AE Expeditions Ships

Douglas Mawson

Douglas Mawson

154 Guests

Named after the famed Antarctic explorer, Douglas Mawson is AE Expeditions’ newest purpose-built vessel, designed for polar exploration and environmental efficiency. Accommodating 154 guests, she combines innovative technology with relaxed comfort, featuring an Ulstein X-Bow for smoother sailing and reduced impact. On a Douglas Mawson cruise, guests can enjoy expert-guided discovery, contemporary accommodation, and extraordinary access to the world’s most remote environments.

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Greg Mortimer

Greg Mortimer

160 Guests

Named after the Australian mountaineer and polar explorer, Greg Mortimer is a state-of-the-art expedition ship operated by AE Expeditions. Purpose-built for navigating the world’s polar regions, the ship carries just 160 guests and blends advanced technology with authentic adventure.

Equipped with AE Expeditions’ signature Ulstein X-Bow, Greg Mortimer offers exceptional stability and efficiency in rough seas, ensuring smoother sailing and reduced fuel consumption. Designed to operate sustainably while providing unparalleled access to remote landscapes, she delivers an unforgettable experience across Antarctica, the Arctic, and beyond.

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Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle

132 Guests

Named in honour of the pioneering marine biologist and oceanographer Dr Sylvia Earle, the Sylvia Earle is one of AE Expeditions’ most advanced ships. Purpose-built for polar exploration, she accommodates just 132 guests in contemporary comfort while maintaining AE’s focus on sustainability and discovery.

Featuring the innovative Ulstein X-Bow, the Sylvia Earle delivers a smoother, faster, and more fuel-efficient sailing experience. With cutting-edge technology, an elegant design, and an exceptional team of expedition specialists, she offers immersive adventures in Antarctica, the Arctic, and beyond, redefining the modern expedition experience.

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AE Expeditions cruise types

expedition

Expedition

inclusive-value

All-inclusive

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Excursions included

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Enrichment focus

scenic-itineraries

Scenic itineraries

Onboard details

AE Expeditions combines advanced ships with a community atmosphere and enriching activities, creating an environment designed for comfort, learning, and exploration.

Overview
Accommodation
Dining
Amentities
Wellness
Entertainment
Families
  • Fleet of purpose-built expedition vessels.
  • Voyages to Antarctica, the Arctic, and beyond.
  • Specialist guides and activity leaders onboard.
  • Expeditions with a strong sustainable ethos.
  • Opportunities for kayaking, skiing, and diving.
  • Enriching lectures and daily briefings.
  • X-Bow® design for comfort in rough seas.
  • Welcoming for solo travellers with matching service.
  • Immersive cultural and wildlife encounters.
  • Perfect for adventurous spirits and explorers.
AE Expeditions Accommodation

Accommodation

Accommodation across the AE Expeditions fleet is designed to be both functional and comfortable, offering a wide range of categories from simple twin staterooms to expansive balcony suites. Every cabin features a modern bathroom, ample storage, and large windows or portholes to maximise views of the surrounding landscapes. Suites offer additional perks, including premium bedding, lounge areas, and priority embarkation.

AE Expeditions Dining

Dining

Dining onboard is relaxed and high-quality, with all meals included. Expect buffet breakfasts, hearty lunches, and multi-course dinners that highlight both international dishes and flavours from the regions visited. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are complimentary with dinner, and dietary needs are easily accommodated, ensuring every guest feels well looked after.

AE Expeditions Amenities

Amentities

The ships feature facilities designed for comfort and exploration. Panoramic lounges and observation areas offer excellent views, while lecture spaces support learning and enrichment. A dedicated mudroom ensures smooth Zodiac embarkation, keeping gear organised. Select vessels also include fitness and wellness areas, and a range of adventure equipment—such as kayaks, snorkelling gear, and snowshoes—is carried on board for daily excursions.

AE Expeditions Wellness

Wellness

Wellness is woven into the AE Expeditions experience, balancing active adventure with time to unwind. Many ships offer small gyms, saunas, and treatment rooms for massages, while quiet lounges provide peaceful spaces to relax after time ashore. The X-Bow® design also helps ensure a more comfortable journey. Throughout the voyage, guests are encouraged to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with the surrounding environment.

AE Expeditions Entertainment

Entertainment

Rather than stage shows, AE Expeditions centres its entertainment on learning and connection. Lectures, workshops, and daily briefings are led by experts, while photography sessions and informal gatherings encourage shared discovery. The communal spirit is key, with guests and guides reflecting together on the day’s experiences, creating a sense of meaningful exploration among like-minded travellers.

AE Expeditions Families

Families

AE Expeditions is well-suited to adventurous families seeking shared experiences. While there are no dedicated children’s clubs, voyages are ideal for older children and teenagers who enjoy active exploration. Expedition teams often engage younger guests with tailored explanations and hands-on learning. Family and triple-share cabin options make travelling together easier, and the small-ship environment allows families to enjoy activities like kayaking, hiking, and Zodiac cruises side by side.

Meet Ashley
Ash
Nikki

Meet Ash, our AE Expeditions Expert

Ash is one of our Expedition Specialists, and there’s not much he doesn’t know about exploring the most remote corners of the world. Having worked with several leading expedition operators, he has second-to-none knowledge and expertise. Expedition cruising is his true passion, and he has built strong relationships with onboard expedition teams throughout the industry.

If you’re looking for an expedition voyage with AE Expeditions, Ash’s insight will be invaluable. With direct access to field-based experts, he can offer a unique behind-the-scenes perspective on life on board. Always up to date on the newest ships and itineraries, he’s the perfect person to help you plan your next adventure.

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FAQs

Whether it’s life on board or daily excursions ashore, these FAQs are designed to guide you through the AE Expeditions experience.