05 Sep 2024
Highlights:
- First expeditions to Southeast Asia – Indonesia and Borneo
- Brand new style of exploration – Small Ship Cruises to the Mediterranean, Atlantic Coast and British Isles
- New solo cabins on every sailing
- Solar Eclipse 2026 voyage and new Arctic combinations
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (5 September 2024) – Aurora Expeditions, a pioneer in responsible and immersive small ship exploration, has today released its new 2026 Arctic and Beyond season including the company's first-ever voyages to Southeast Asia, the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Coast, as well as new dedicated solo cabins on every sailing.
The season features 42 departures including new expedition voyages to Indonesia and Borneo, an opportunity to view the 2026 solar eclipse from Greenland on the popular 'Jewels of the Arctic' itinerary, as well as new Arctic destination combinations on its polar voyages, travelling with a maximum of 130 passengers. In addition, Aurora's best-selling voyages to Costa Rica and Scotland are included in the 2026 program, including a second shorter seven-day voyage to Costa Rica.
The 2026 Arctic and Beyond season also introduces a brand-new style of exploration – 'Small Ship Cruises' – visiting the Mediterranean, Atlantic Coast, British Isles and Ireland, which will be a distinct program alongside the company's popular core offering of polar and remote area expeditions. More than ordinary sightseeing voyages, this new style of immersive exploration will offer curated experiences guided by storytellers and framed by included pre and post land programs, as well as a choice of all-inclusive shore excursions at every port.
To cater to growing demand from the solo traveller segment, Aurora Expeditions will also be introducing 10 dedicated solo cabins per sailing with no solo supplement across its fleet of three small ships. These will be offered across a variety of stateroom categories commencing from this new Arctic and Beyond 2026 season.
“The Aurora style of travel is focused on destination immersion and responsible small ship exploration in a relaxed and informal setting – and is consistent no matter which corner of the planet we are exploring,” commented CEO Michael Heath.
“Our 2026 Arctic and Beyond season heralds an exciting evolution for Aurora Expeditions. We have grown from our core offering of polar and remote area expeditions to a greater diversity of destinations, climates and exploration styles to allow our passengers to experience more. We are also extending an even greater invitation to our adventurous solo passengers, with a commitment to offering 10 dedicated single berth cabins – with no solo supplement – on every sailing commencing from this new season.
“With us soon to welcome the Douglas Mawson to our fleet of small ships, we are thrilled to have the opportunity to diversify and innovate our offering for both our loyal passengers who have joined us in the past, as well as those yet to discover the Aurora difference.”
Highlights of the 2026 Arctic and Beyond program:
EXPEDITIONS
Oslo/Reykjavik, 02-26 August 2026 on the Sylvia Earle – Experience the magic of a total solar eclipse! Embark on an extraordinary adventure to Scoresbysund, Greenland, sailing through stunning Arctic landscapes as we position ourselves for the celestial spectacle. Feel the anticipation grow as the moon gradually eclipses the sun, casting an ethereal glow. Witness the breathtaking moment of totality – 2 minutes and 18 seconds of darkness transformed into daylight by a dazzling diamond ring.
Bali/Singapore, 24 October-08 November 2026 on the Greg Mortimer
Embark on an extraordinary voyage across the heart of the Indonesian Archipelago to Singapore, a region of unparalleled natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This 16-day expedition invites you to explore a tapestry of islands, each offering unique treasures to discover. From the pristine waters of Raja Ampat to the ancient temples of Java and the orangutan of Central Kalimantan, this journey promises a fusion of adventure, culture, and wildlife experiences.
Aberdeen/Reykjavik, 17-29 May 2026 on the Greg Mortimer
Encompassing some of the wildest, most rugged outliers of the North Atlantic Ocean and Iceland, this distinctive voyage offers a fascinating journey through time. Discover the captivating archaeological sites of Jarlshof, teeming bird cliffs at Fair Isle, and the Faroe Islands' dramatic landscapes, shaped by millennia of ocean and wind. Then forge northwards to Iceland, one of the most geologically active places on earth, where snow-capped peaks tower above vast glaciers and active volcanoes rumble beneath the surface, a constant reminder of the planet's raw power.
San José/San José, 23-29 April 2026 on the Sylvia Earle
Costa Rica, meaning 'rich coast', is a nature lover's paradise. While it is a small country, Costa Rica contains approximately 6 per cent of the world's biodiversity. Roughly a quarter of the country is made up of protected jungle, and we are incredibly fortunate to explore the region on land and sea. We hope to observe the unique wildlife including a number of indigenous birds and animals such as the Marbled Wood Quail, hummingbirds, toucans, spider monkeys, iguanas, sloths and perhaps the rare and endangered Scarlet Macaw.
SMALL SHIP CRUISES
Marrakech/Barcelona, 20 June-02 July 2026 on the Douglas Mawson
Follow the captivating narrative of the Moorish Empire, and the Iberian Christians whose cultures collided to forge the kingdoms of Spain and Morocco. This voyage incites our senses with spicy tales of royal liaisons and imperial battles as we explore the labyrinths of Morocco's medinas, Moorish architecture, Spanish citadels and Andalucian villages. No two days are the same on this exotic encounter as we engage with cultures whose vibrant characters and lifestyles are infectious.
Dublin/Dublin, 08-26 May 2026 on the Douglas Mawson
A land of heroes and heroines, the outspoken and the underrated, Ireland's story twists and turns. Spellbound by its layered culture, we dig deep into its past to understand its
present. We search the cliffs, castles, backstreets and hollow tree trunks of Ireland and Northern Ireland for tales of four-leaf clovers, leprechauns and pots of gold, as we immerse ourselves in the witty and wondrous world of Ireland's greatest export; the Irish.
Athens/Naples, 14 September-01 October 2026 on the Douglas Mawson
This epic journey navigates legendary kingdoms, mythical lands, and ancient sites as we explore Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, Croatia, Italy and Sicily. Discover tales of all-powerful gods and heroic figures, opulent communities and political turmoil. Witness the enduring legacy of Sicilian feuds, piratic treasures, and the tumultuous reigns of tyrannical Roman emperors. This voyage promises experiences as diverse and captivating as the peoples that have shaped these lands, as we collect enough intriguing tidbits and inspiring trivia to last a lifetime.
For more information about Aurora Expeditions and to view the full new season of voyages, visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au
To view and download the new season brochure, visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au/brochures
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For all media enquiries, please contact Svetlana Monastyrsky//
PR Manager
+ 61 452 604 514 e: svetlana@auroraexpeditions.com.au
Notes to Editors
Image credits: Cathy Finch Photography/Shutterstock
About Aurora Expeditions
Aurora Expeditions is an award-winning Australian-owned adventure travel company that has pioneered experiential travel for over 33 years. A Certified B Corporation™️ and proudly carbon neutral, at the heart of each experience is a commitment to the protection and preservation of our planet.
Founded on the guiding principles of adventure and endless exploration, our carefully curated small-ship voyages offer immersive activities, more time off ship and thoughtful enrichment programs in some of the planet's most remote and incredible places.
Aurora's two purpose-built small ships, Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle are designed for global discovery. The company's third ship, Douglas Mawson, will set sail in December 2025.
