Douglas Mawson

X-BOW™

The ship’s expeditions face some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at us. However, this won't be problem with the introduction of the patented X-BOW™, created by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN. As one of the leaders in marine engineering, ULSTEIN's X-BOW™ is an inverted bow concept that's been built on over 100 vessels in the shipping industry. 

Lecture Theatre

On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to enhance your appreciation of the destination you are exploring. Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering a broad range of topics to suit every interest, from history and culture to biology and climate change. Regardless of the topic, they all have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate, entertain and turn you into an ambassador for the planet.

Citizen Science Center & Lounge

Learn more about the world and the unique destinations Aurora visits by visiting the onboard naturalist and Expedition Team in the world-class Citizen Science Center. You will be rewarded for your thirst for knowledge with one of the best views on the ship.

Library, Observation Lounge & Shop

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, use a public laptop to organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends. Choose from our range of informative non-fiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games. Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on deck 8, the perfect place to relax and watch the incredible landscapes pass by, or spot unique polar wildlife.  If you're in the market for something new- peruse our ship shop, where you'll find expedition essentials, a range of books and maps, souvenirs, stylish expedition apparel and of course expedition merchandise. 

Gym & Sauna

During your voyage, stay active with complimentary access to the gym, equipped with everything you need for a workout at sea. After an adventurous day, unwind in the sauna—especially after taking the exhilarating Polar Plunge! It’s the perfect way to warm up and relax while soaking in the breathtaking polar views.

Restaurants

One of the most important parts of any expedition is the food! Start each adventure with hearty meals and delicious morning and afternoon teas prepared by our onboard chefs. Meals are a great time to connect with fellow travellers in our open-seating dining area, sharing stories and insights from the day. Tea, coffee, and snacks are available 24/7, and our chefs offer a variety of menu options for each meal. Enjoy house wines, beers, and soft drinks with dinner after a day of exploration. Wrap up your journey with informal Captain’s Farewell drinks, featuring complimentary beverages, cocktail appetisers, and a special three-course meal.

Bars & Lounges

Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down. The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with.

Accommodation

After a long day exploring the wonders of your destination, you need somewhere where you can simply relax and take a break from real life.  The Douglas Mawson is the perfect place to take five and recuperate after exploring – with creature comforts and wellbeing considered as part of the overall design. All staterooms have private bathrooms, personal storage options, twin and double-bed configuration options, ample storage, international power outlets and a daily cabin service, as well as all the basic amenities that you'll need onboard. Of course, the prospect of unexpected wildlife encounters is always on the table so your accommodation needs to have a view as well! Across four of the five stateroom categories you'll find large floor to ceiling windows that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in roughly 80% of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean. Another great feature are the interconnecting staterooms. If you're part of a family or group who want some privacy, but still want to be close to each other, these staterooms are the perfect option. 

Captain's Suite

Stateroom & balcony combined size: 45.22m² (486.7ft²)
The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite. Plus, enjoy one free pair of binoculars per suite, yours to take home. 

Junior Suite

Stateroom & balcony combined size:  41.47m² - 41.87m² (446.4ft² - 450.7ft²)
The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. Plus, enjoy one free pair of binoculars per suite, yours to take home. 

Balcony Stateroom Superior

Stateroom & balcony combined size: 27.77m² - 36.27m² (298.9ft² - 390.4ft²)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

There are three categories of Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.

Balcony Stateroom Category A

Stateroom & balcony combined size: 23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Our 25 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium room, and the most abundant on board. These staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator. 

Balcony Stateroom Category B

22.07m² - 24.97m² (237.6ft² - 268.8ft²)
17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are the standard room, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6. 

Balcony Stateroom Category C

Cabin size: 21.07m² - 24.87m² (226.8ft² - 267.7ft²)
The 15 Balcony Stateroom Category C rooms are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These staterooms are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.

Balcony Stateroom A - Solo

23.07m² - 26.77m² (248.3ft² - 288.2ft²)
Our 4 Solo Balcony Stateroom A - Solo rooms are our premium room, these staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.

Aurora Stateroom Superior

Stateroom size: 13.97m² - 16.17m² (150.4ft² - 174.1ft²)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Aurora Stateroom Superior Single

Cabin size: 10.97m² - 15.18m² (118.1ft² - 163.4ft²)
There are four Aurora Stateroom Superior Single cabins, each featuring a porthole and a private en-suite for a comfortable solo retreat. Located on Decks 3 and 7, these well-appointed staterooms offer a perfect balance of privacy and convenience for solo adventurers.

Aurora Stateroom Single

Cabin size: 9.85m² (106ft²)
There are two Aurora Stateroom Single cabins on Deck 3, each featuring a porthole and private en-suite. Conveniently located near the mudroom and loading platforms, these cabins offer easy access for your daily adventures while providing a comfortable space to unwind.

Aurora Stateroom Twin Share

Cabin size: 15.37m² - 22.57m² (165.4ft² - 242.9ft²)
The Douglas Mawson features two Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring windows, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.

Aurora Stateroom Triple Share

Cabin size: 22.57m² (242.9ft²)
There are two Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, both with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.