Aurora Expeditions’ Douglas Mawson was officially named in Sydney on 27 November 2025 before embarking on her inaugural trip to Tasmania. This milestone marks history as the first expedition vessel featuring Ulstein’s X-BOW® design to operate in Australian waters. More than a striking visual signature, this pioneering hull shape represents a breakthrough in maritime engineering.

Aurora already operates two X-BOW® vessels, the Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle. So why add another?

Because the design delivers exceptional performance, passengers love it.

Guests consistently report less vibration, better sleep, and more time exploring destinations instead of crossing seas. Thanks to its compact size and X-BOW technology, the Douglas Mawson can access remote locations beyond the reach of larger cruise ships, bringing travellers closer to the heart of each destination for a truly immersive experience. And with reduced wave resistance, this design also helps lower the vessel’s carbon footprint.

Why X-BOW matters

Unlike traditional bows that ride over waves, the X-BOW slices through them.

Aurora Expeditions highlights three key benefits:

• Smoother sailing in rough seas – minimised slamming and motion
• Improved fuel efficiency – reduced environmental impact
• Quieter, more comfortable cruising – for guests and marine life alike

Proven in the world’s most challenging polar regions, this innovation now brings its advantages to Australian expedition cruising.

A vessel developed for discovery

While the X-BOW is its most distinctive feature, the Douglas Mawson is purpose-designed for exploration from bow to stern. The unique bow shape creates extra interior space, offering more areas to relax, learn, and prepare for adventure. Guests can enjoy spacious observation lounges, a dedicated Citizen Science Centre, and wellness facilities. Designed for intimate expeditions, the ship accommodates just 154 guests across eight decks, with 86 cabins and suites.

About the CX103 vessels

So far, seven vessels of the ULSTEIN CX103 design have been ordered by U.S.-based SunStone Ships. All vessels are on long-term charters by various operators.

Ulstein Power & Control delivers integrated power packages to all seven vessels, tailored for diesel-electric propulsion and hybrid readiness. The ULSTEIN IAS (Integrated Automation System) and ULSTEIN PMS (Power Management System) automate critical functions with a strong focus on safety, while optimising fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Remote service capability ensures fast, global support from Ulstein’s service centre, minimising the need for on-site personnel and maximising operational uptime.

Press Release