Douglas Mawson

The vessel accommodates 198 passengers and a crew of 102. It is ICE CLASS 1A certified for polar cruising, holds the highest comfort class, and is SOLAS* certified, including a Safe Return to Port passport.

Designed by Ulstein Design & Solutions AS, this vessel is part of the INFINITY class, which introduced the patented X-BOW design to the cruise industry. The X-BOW design enhances stability, reduces noise, and improves fuel efficiency, making it an excellent choice for expedition cruising.

The vessel’s interior design, crafted by Tomas Tillberg Design, prioritizes bringing the outdoors inside. The two-story atrium and spectacular forward bow windows connect passengers to the natural world. It’s all about seamlessly transitioning from the ship’s cosy interiors to the awe-inspiring landscapes beyond. Public spaces include two restaurants, two bars, an outdoor heated swimming pool, a pool bar and Jacuzzis, a gym and sauna, and relaxation and wellness areas. There is also a library lounge, a citizen science centre and a lecture theatre. Observation decks offer panoramic views of wilderness and wildlife.

Although all the SunStone vessels in this class are designed on the same platform, being 104.4 metres long and 18.4 metres wide, they are all customised to accommodate various numbers of passengers and crews. The public spaces are also carefully designed according to the client’s request. 

SunStone's Chines-built vessels

Ship history

2024, March: The operator Aurora Expeditions announced the vessel's name. The ship is named after the Australian geologist and explorer Sir Douglas Mawson. This will be Aurora's third X-BOW expedition cruise vessel, the other being Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle.

2024, May:Keel lay ceremony

2024, November:Launch

After delivery, the ship will be chartered to Aurora Expeditions and embark on her inaugural voyages in autumn 2025.