Named after the legendary Australian geologist and explorer, the ship is the latest addition to the AE fleet and will soon embark on her highly anticipated inaugural voyages.

Conducted from June 26 to July 2, 2025, this critical phase in the construction and delivery timeline tested key systems including propulsion, navigation, and safety—confirming the vessel’s readiness to explore some of the most remote and challenging environments on Earth.

Douglas Mawson is scheduled for delivery in September 2025 ahead of the inaugural voyage in December. The ship will first explore Tasmania’s rugged coastline on its shakedown cruise, followed by the inaugural Antarctic season with Mawson’s Antarctica, tracing the footsteps of its namesake. From there, it will continue into a full 2025/26 Antarctica season, including the rarely operated Epic Antarctica: Crossing the 7th Continent.

Carrying 130 polar expeditioners and up to 154 passengers on Small Ship cruises, Douglas Mawson offers an intimate experience with state-of-the-art amenities. Onboard features include a lecture theatre, science centre, heated outdoor pool, dining venues, and mudroom facilities. Purpose-built for low-impact exploration, the ship supports AE’s growing sustainability and citizen science programmes.

Douglas Mawson joins AE’s fleet of small expedition ships, all built to access wild, remote coastlines while delivering exceptional onboard experiences and expert-led exploration. In addition to polar voyages, AE explores culturally rich regions including the Mediterranean, Scotland, Ireland, Latin America, and beyond.

“Sea trials are one of the most important steps in bringing a ship to life,” said Michael Heath, CEO of AE Expeditions. “We’re thrilled with the results and can’t wait to welcome our expeditioners aboard Douglas Mawson later this year.”