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Douglas Mawson

Antarctica
Deluxe
Expedition Ship

Overview

The sister ship to the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle, the Douglas Mawson features the same cutting-edge design, superior comfort and environmentally friendly technology.

Maximum passengers: 130

This vessel honours the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson. Like the Greg Mortimer and the Sylvia Earle, the Douglas Mawson features the same revolutionary X-BOW® design, an inverted bow concept which results in smoother sailing and increased efficiency. Rather than rising over and then dropping onto waves like a traditional ship, the X-BOW® cuts through the swell, minimising vibrations, allowing for quicker transits through waves, whilst helping to reduce fuel consumption.

There's nothing like personal experience from someone who's been there to elevate your holiday out of the ordinary. Our specialists have in bucket loads ready to tailor make your adventure.
Plan Your Trip

  • Why choose the Douglas Mawson?

    The state-of-the-art Douglas Mawson offers up comfort and style alongside unique design and environmentally friendly technology. This vessel is perfect for those wanting to combine an active and exciting Polar adventure with some on-board creature comforts.

Features

  • 86 cabins
  • Restaurants and bars
  • Lounges
  • Library
  • Presentation room
  • Citizen Science laboratory
  • Spa and wellbeing facilities
  • Fitness room
  • Expedition jacket – yours to keep
  • Fleet of Zodiacs
  • Loan of rubber boots during voyage
  • Optional activities such as kayaking available on selected departures
  • X-BOW® design for more stability and comfort
  • Registered Ice Class 1A

Cabins & suites

Guest cabins offer exceptional comfort and many feature full length window or private balconies, ideal for keeping an eye out for passing wildlife.

 

Single travellers
Quad, triple or twin share cabins are available (on a same gender basis) as well as dedicated solo cabins. Sole occupancy of a cabin incurs a supplement.

  • Aurora Stateroom Single

    One single berth, with private bathroom. Superior Staterooms are slightly larger.

    Deck 3 and 7
    Exterior porthole

  • Aurora Stateroom Triple

    Three lower single berths with private bathroom.

    Decks 3 and 7
    Exterior porthole

  • Aurora Stateroom Twin

    Two lower single berths or one double bed with private bathroom.

    Deck 3
    Picture window

  • Aurora Stateroom Superior

    Two lower single berths or one double bed with private bathroom.

    Deck 7
    French balcony

  • Balcony Stateroom Single

    One double bed with private bathroom.

    Decks 4 and 6
    Large window
    Balcony

  • Balcony Stateroom

    Two lower single berths or one double bed with private bathroom. Superior Balcony Staterooms are slightly larger.

    Decks 4 and 6
    Large window
    Balcony

  • Junior Suite

    Two lower single berths or one double bed with private bathroom.

    Deck 7
    Large window
    Balcony

  • Captain’s Suite

    Two lower single berths or one double bed with private bathroom.

    Deck 4
    Large window
    Balcony
    Separate lounge area
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Environmentally Friendly

The vessel also features the same environmentally friendly virtual anchoring technology, in which GPS and high-tech steering are used to hold position rather than using a traditional anchor. This ensures that the delicate sea floor remains undisturbed and undamaged. Reduced emissions into the air and sea, lower energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, reduced light pollution to minimise wildlife disruption and lower on-board plastic use are all in place to reduce the Douglas Mawson’s impact on the environment too. The ship is also operated by a certified B Corporation, who have made a legal commitment to balance purpose and profit.  They must meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

A new Standard

Other innovative features of the ship include world class return-to-port safety equipment, which duplicates the propulsion system, enabling the ship to maintain operating systems in the event of engine failure. There are four sea-level Zodiac launching platforms, designed for speedy embarkation to help maximise time ashore. With a wide range of activities offered on board, the vessel includes a mudroom and a spacious activity preparation area alongside a separate activity launch platform.

The distinctive glass atrium lounge at the front of the ship has huge windows allowing for stunning panoramic views. It’s the perfect place to sit with a drink and take in the passing scenery or watch for wildlife. Other high quality facilities include a state-of-the-art lecture theatre, science centre, multi-media room, observation lounge, library and restaurant. A Wellness Centre (featuring gym equipment and sauna) and a heated saltwater open air swimming pool, plus two outdoor Jacuzzis allows for maximum relaxation in between landings.

Citizen Science

Get involved and give back by participating in various Citizen Science projects, both on and off the vessel.

Make a difference by helping the scientific community through participating in data collection and analysis. Take the opportunity to join ongoing investigations and public participation activities devoted to scientific research in remote places like Antarctica.

You can engage in a number of unique projects, from surveying seabirds and studying phytoplankton, to tracking whales and mapping weather patterns.

The projects are informative, interactive, and fun! There are multiple chances to actively collaborate and your on-board Citizen Science coordinator will be on hand to introduce and assist you with the projects being conducted on your voyage.

Holidays featuring this vessel

Optional experiences 

The following are offered at extra cost, but availability varies according to voyage and departure date

  • Kayaking Polar

    Antarctica

    Paddle alongside seals, icebergs and more on a polar kayaking excursion.

    Price on request

    Duration variable

    Jan-Mar, Jun-Aug & Nov-Dec

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