1 December 2025

Jane Howlett, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events

Aurora Expeditions launched its latest luxury polar expedition cruise ship in Hobart today ahead of the vessel’s maiden voyage.
Named after famed Antarctic explorer Sir Douglas Mawson, the state-of-the-art ship will begin its journey with a circumnavigation of Tasmania before continuing south towards Antarctica.
The inaugural voyage honours Tasmania’s role as a starting point for significant Antarctic exploration spanning more than 100 years, including those led by Sir Douglas Mawson himself.
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, said the maiden voyage demonstrates Tasmania’s strength and growing appeal as a destination for luxury expedition cruising.
“Hobart is a recognised gateway to the Antarctic, so it is exciting to welcome the Douglas Mawson to Hobart ahead of its maiden voyage and historic journey south,” Minister Howlett said.
“Small expedition cruises to Antarctica present an opportunity for Tasmania, putting us on the radar of travellers from around the globe who are interested in these world-class offerings.
“Tasmania offers bespoke experiences, quality food and produce, unique natural landscapes and a chance to get off the beaten path, making us a key destination for small-ship, luxury expedition cruiselines.
“Cruises are an important part of the tourism industry and experience shows us a ship call to a Tasmanian port is often a catalyst for many travellers to book another visit to our state.”
The Douglas Mawson cruise ship is equipped with cutting-edge sustainable technology to minimise environmental impact, including filtration systems that capture up to 99% of microfibres preventing them from entering the ocean.
Tasports CEO Anthony Donald said the maiden voyage reinforced Hobart’s position as an international gateway to Antarctica.
“Cruise expeditions like the Douglas Mawson put Hobart and Tasmania on the international map and position our state as a must-see tourism destination,” Mr Donald said.
“Importantly, the cruise industry supports local business and local jobs, generating approximately $149 million in economic benefit and supporting 453 jobs in the last financial year.”
Douglas Mawson can carry a maximum of 130 passengers for polar expeditions, and 154 for small ship cruises.
Departing Hobart on 2 December, the ship’s inaugural voyage around Tasmania will be led by environmental scientist and adventurer Tim Jarvis AM, before heading south to Antarctica and the Sub-Antarctic Islands.
For more information on the Douglas Mawson, visit:
https://www.aurora-expeditions.com/ship/douglas-mawson