AE Expeditions

Yes. AE Expeditions is the rebranded name for Aurora Expeditions, founded in 1991 by Australian mountaineer and polar explorer Greg Mortimer. The company rebranded in 2024, but the ownership, expedition philosophy and core team remain unchanged. If you’ve previously travelled with Aurora, or researched them under that name, you’re in the right place.

The core programme focuses on Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands in the Southern Hemisphere, and the Arctic – including Svalbard, Greenland and Canada’s High Arctic – in the North. Beyond the polar regions, AE also operates voyages to Patagonia, Costa Rica, and the Galápagos, along with a growing programme in Europe, including the British Isles and the Mediterranean, aboard Douglas Mawson. New itineraries are added regularly, so it’s worth checking with our team for the latest options.

The Drake Passage is the stretch of ocean between South America and Antarctica, and it has a reputation for being one of the roughest crossings in the world. It’s a genuine consideration for first-time Antarctic travellers.

AE’s ships feature the Ulstein X-Bow design, which cuts through wave energy rather than riding over it, helping to reduce the rolling motion that typically causes seasickness. Most guests find the crossing more manageable than expected. Medication is available onboard, though bringing your own is sensible.

Between 132 and 154 guests, depending on the ship and itinerary. Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle carry a maximum of 132 guests in polar regions, while Douglas Mawson accommodates up to 154.This matters for more than just atmosphere. Under Antarctic regulations, only 100 passengers can be ashore at any one time. With AE’s guest numbers, everyone is able to land at each site. On larger ships, that isn’t always the case.

Core activities such as Zodiac cruising, guided shore landings and daily lectures are included in every voyage. Optional experiences, available at an additional cost depending on the itinerary, include sea kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, snowshoeing, ski touring and camping. The Shackleton Crossing on South Georgia is also available for experienced hikers. The Polar Plunge – jumping into Antarctic waters – is included and entirely optional. Most guests still choose to do it.

All meals throughout the voyage, non-alcoholic beverages, and beer and house wine with lunch and dinner are included. Guided shore landings, Zodiac operations, lectures and enrichment activities also form part of the fare. Guests receive a complimentary polar expedition jacket and a personalised photo book, along with access to the Citizen Science Centre on Sylvia Earle. Premium spirits, fine wines and optional adventure activities are charged separately.

Very much so. A large proportion of AE’s guests are first-time polar travellers, and the expedition team are experienced at making unfamiliar environments feel accessible rather than overwhelming. Daily briefings and evening recaps provide context that brings each landing to life. If you’re unsure whether you’re ready for a polar voyage, it’s worth speaking to one of our specialists before booking.

AE is certified carbon neutral across the fleet, with independent verification. The ships use virtual anchoring technology, allowing them to hold position without dropping anchors onto the seabed. Single-use plastics are banned on board. The Citizen Science Centre on Sylvia Earle enables guests to contribute to active conservation research, while all voyages operate under strict IAATO guidelines designed to protect the Antarctic environment.

It’s one of the stronger options in expedition cruising for solo guests. The cabin-mate matching service pairs solo travellers in twin cabins, reducing costs and removing the single supplement. The structure of expedition cruising naturally supports solo travel. Shared Zodiac groups, open seating dining and evening recaps make it easy to integrate, and many guests return having travelled alone previously.

Antarctic sailings tend to book early, often 12 to 18 months in advance for peak departures between November and March. The most popular itineraries, including Classic Antarctic Explorer and South Georgia voyages, are usually the first to sell out. If you have specific dates in mind, enquiring early gives you the best choice of cabins and pricing.