2025's Best Cruises: Explore East Antarctica With Aurora Expeditions in December

Key facts

• Highlight: Spend the holidays on a polar expedition to East Antarctica aboard a new ship
• When: 24 days, starting December 11
• Ship Capacity: The Douglas Mawson can accommodate up to 130 passengers
• Starting Price: From $26,770 per person

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During this epic voyage, passengers will get to visit Mawson’s base and be treated to exceptional polar scenery, as well as exciting wildlife sightings of Adélie penguins, orcas, snow petrels, yellow-eyed penguins, royal albatross, New Zealand seals, and more.

Photos: Aurora Expeditions

While the Douglas Mawson is being purpose-built for expeditions to some of the most challenging and remote locations in the world, it will also feature some very comfortable amenities. After a full day of trekking on the ice searching for wildlife, passengers will be able to relax in the two hot tubs, the heated outdoor pool, or the sauna, or work out in the gym. Two restaurants are on board for when it’s time to indulge and fuel up for more adventures.