Sarah Bretz, ContributorAurora Expeditions has released its 2026-2027 season, which will feature 27 unique voyages ranging in length from nine to 34 days. The sailings will take place aboard the line’s three purpose-built expedition vessels Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle, and the brand-new Douglas Mawson.
As part of the new season, travelers will experience the Antarctic Peninsula, east Antarctica & the Ross Sea, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. Returning for the 2026-2027 season are the best-selling ‘Spirit of Antarctica’ and ‘South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey’ itineraries, along with fly voyages the ‘Antarctic Explorer’ and ‘Antarctic Explorer Express.’
Also returning will be the action-packed ‘Antarctica Active: All Inclusive Activities’ voyage featuring camping, snorkeling, snowshoeing, paddling, and more.
New for the 2026-2027 season, the line is introducing the 10-day ‘Taste of Antarctica’ itinerary, perfect for those with limited time who want an introduction to the destination. In addition, the season is packed with specialty voyages including the expedition travel company’s beloved Photography Expedition, a Women’s Only Voyage aboard the Sylvia Earle, and two trips in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours.
Antarctica Season Highlights
Season highlights include:
Photography Expeditions: Antarctica Through the Lens
Aurora Expeditions’ Photography Expeditions offer a chance for travelers to capture Antarctica’s stunning landscapes and wildlife with guidance from top photographers. Whether using a professional camera or smartphone, guests can refine skills through Zodiac cruises, onshore excursions, and expert-led presentations with hands-on guidance both on and off the ship.
- Travel with Nigel Danson in 2026: Punta Arenas/Ushuaia, 12 Days, Feb. 1 – 12, 2026 on the Greg Mortimer — Nigel is a YouTube creator and landscape photographer who runs workshops all over the world to share his knowledge and passion. His philosophy is to seize the moment and capture the essence of his experience.
- Travel with Scott Portelli in 2027: Punta Arenas/Ushuaia, 12 Days, Jan. 25 – Feb. 5, 2027 on the Sylvia Earle — Scott is an international award-winning wildlife, nature, aerial and underwater photographer who has spent thousands of hours filming and photographing remote locations across the globe.
New Scientist Discovery Tours
New Scientist Discovery Tours, inspired by the renowned science and technology publication, offers a unique way to explore the polar regions through a scientific lens. In partnership with Aurora Expeditions, these experiences blend stunning landscapes with discovery and education. As a part of the voyage, guests will enjoy expert-led talks, workshops, and excursions on topics like glaciology and marine biology, joined by Marine Biologist Dr. Russell Arnott.
- Spirit of Antarctica: In Partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours: Ushuaia/Ushuaia, 12 Days, Dec. 7 -18, 2026 on the Douglas Mawson — Join a voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula with fellow curious travelers, in collaboration with New Scientist Discovery Tours. While crossing the legendary Drake Passage, participate in lectures and workshops in the onboard Science Centre, observe seabirds in flight, or connect with your fellow passengers and expedition team. Upon reaching the Antarctic Peninsula, experience the awe-inspiring icy landscapes and encounter the region’s remarkable wildlife.
- Wild Antarctica featuring the Weddell Sea: In partnership with New Scientist: Punta Arenas/Ushuaia, 13 Days, March 2 – 14, 2027 on the Sylvia Earle — The Weddell Sea, known for its expansive sea ice, pack ice and colossal icebergs, provides a striking backdrop for a voyage in partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours. Beyond its icy vistas, the Weddell Sea offers rich opportunities for exploring wildlife, geology and paleontology. Travelers may spot ice seals in their natural habitat and, during onshore excursions, search for fossils including gastropods, large clams, and spiral-shaped ammonites.
Antarctic Women’s Expedition: Fly the Drake
Punta Arenas/Punta Arenas, 10 Days, Feb. 23 – March 4, 2027 on the Sylvia Earle
Embark on an Antarctic adventure with like-minded women, sailing on Aurora’s small-ship expedition vessel, the Sylvia Earle, which pays tribute to Dr. Sylvia Earle, an ambassador to conservation on the planet. In addition, the decks highlight six pioneering women in conservation and their incredible achievements and causes. Aurora is proud to launch this new voyage, which is led by a female Expedition Leadership team, opening the door to new experiences, and new challenges.
Taste of Antarctica
- Ushuaia/Ushuaia, 10 Days, Feb. 9 – 18, 2027 on the Douglas Mawson
- Ushuaia/Ushuaia, 10 Days, March 11 – 20, 2027 on the Greg Mortimer
This expedition offers an ideal introduction to the White Continent, blending breathtaking scenery with moments of discovery. Crossing the legendary Drake Passage by sea, as early explorers once did, expeditioners will witness magnificent seabirds and approach Antarctica in a way that connects deeply with its history and grandeur.
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