Douglas Mawson: Ship Details and Overview
The Douglas Mawson is a purpose-built Antarctic expedition vessel launched for the 2025 season and named after the legendary Australian explorer Sir Douglas Mawson.
Designed for smooth, efficient travel through polar waters, the ship features an advanced Ulstein X-BOW® hull to reduce pitching in open seas and improve both fuel efficiency and passenger comfort — a key asset when crossing the Southern Ocean en route to Antarctica.
Douglas Mawson accommodates up to 130 guests depending on season and itinerary, with a well-qualified international crew and expedition team to support immersive exploration experiences. Its design blends modern nautical technology with thoughtful interior space planning, allowing for panoramic observation lounges, multiple outdoor viewing decks, and dedicated zones for science, learning, and relaxation.
A broad cabin mix - including suites, balcony staterooms, solo cabins, and triple cabins - makes the ship accessible to couples, solo travellers, families, and small groups alike. Most cabins feature private balconies or expansive windows that keep the polar landscape in view.
On board you’ll find wellness amenities such as a heated outdoor pool, two Jacuzzis, gym and sauna, as well as a Citizen Science Centre and lecture theatre for day-to-day educational programming throughout your voyage
Save Big on Your Antarctic Cruise
Antarctic cruise deals don’t last long – some cabins sell for 30–40% less than the regular price.
We check every major provider each month to uncover limited-time offers so you can experience the world’s last great wilderness for less.
Douglas Mawson Ship Overview
Specifications
Facilities
Two restaurants, Bar & lounge areas, Observation lounge(s) & panoramic viewing platforms, Heated outdoor swimming pool, Two outdoor Jacuzzis, Gym & fitness centre, Sauna, Citizen Science Centre, Lecture theatre, Library & atrium lounge spaces, Mudroom / gear storage & Zodiac loading platforms, Boutique / gift shop, Medical clinic, Starlink Wi-Fi throughout public spaces
Equipment
Zodiacs, snorkelling gear, kayaks, snowshoes, skis, camping
Cabin Options
Deck 3 — Aurora Cabin Single
Decks 3 & 7 — Aurora Cabin Single Superior
Deck 3 — Aurora Cabin Triple
Deck 3 — Aurora Cabin Twin
Deck 7 — Aurora Cabin Superior
Decks 4 & 6 — Balcony Suite A/B/C
Decks 4 & 6 — Balcony Suite Superior
Deck 7 — Junior Suite
Deck 4 — Captain’s Suite
On-Board Facilities
Public Area Facilities
Douglas Mawson’s public spaces are designed as a floating basecamp for Antarctic discovery. Multiple observation lounges and panoramic decks throughout the vessel provide uninterrupted views of icebergs, wildlife and remote coastlines, while large picture windows invite natural light into the main lounges and library.
Guests can deepen their understanding of the polar environment in the Citizen Science Centre and lecture theatre, where presentations, microscopy stations and interactive programs help foster a connection to the region’s ecosystems. Dining facilities include two restaurants and casual indoor and outdoor eating spaces, often arranged to maximise scenic viewing.
After shore excursions, travellers can relax poolside in the heated outdoor swimming pool or unwind in one of two Jacuzzis, or stretch out in the sauna or gym. Smaller social zones like the bar, atrium lounge and boutique offer informal places to mingle, rest or prepare gear between excursions. Comprehensive medical facilities and ample seating areas ensure comfort throughout the expedition.
Cabin Facilities
Cabins aboard Douglas Mawson are thoughtfully appointed to balance comfort with polar practicality. Nearly all rooms have private en-suite bathrooms, often with showers, ensuring privacy after daily excursions.
Most staterooms - especially Balcony Suites - feature walk-out balconies or floor-to-ceiling windows that bring stunning Antarctic scenery right into your cabin. Suites and larger rooms include separate lounge or seating areas for relaxing, and walk-in wardrobes or ample closet space for expedition gear storage. Standard amenities include centralized climate control, a desk area, a safe, and a 42″ flatscreen TV in most cabins.
Some larger cabins offer minibars and additional perks like complimentary binoculars. Solo cabins are designed to maximise space while maintaining storage and comfort, with some positioned near the mudroom for quick access to Zodiac boarding. Strategic cabin placement across multiple decks offers options for quieter aft/lower-deck accommodation or elevated vantage points with scenic views.
Save Big on Your Antarctic Cruise
Antarctic cruise deals don’t last long – some cabins sell for 30–40% less than the regular price. We check every major provider each month to uncover limited-time offers so you can experience the world’s last great wilderness for less.
Mark W
USA
Ship Photos
Activities Offered
| Activity | Details | Offered? |
|---|---|---|
| Camping | ||
| kayaking | ||
| Snorkelling | ||
| Snowshoeing | ||
| Skiing | ||
| Zodiac cruises | ||
| Photography workshop | ||
| Shore hiking | ||
| Helicopter tour | ||
| Scuba diving |
FAQ
If you would like to know more, please leave a comment below and we will endeavor to get back to you within 24 hours! Alternatively, please see our FAQ page here. If you would like to get a cruise quote, please use this form.
Thank you - AntarcticaGuide Team