Sylvia Earle
Launched in Autumn 2022, this state-of-the-art ship honours the highly accomplished marine biologist and oceanographer, Sylvia Earle.
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AE Expeditions (also known as Aurora Expeditions) are one of the most experienced polar expedition cruise operators, having been sailing and innovating in Antarctic waters for more than 30 years. They are true industry pioneers in small ship exploration, with an unwavering commitment to sustainability issues and a constant desire to discover what lies beyond the next iceberg.
Swoop has a long and close relationship with AE Expeditions. Working with them for over a decade, we’ve become their biggest and most trusted global partner – building a close relationship that lets us introduce Antarctica to our travellers with ease.
Proudly working with every operator in the industry
Swoop says
I love working with AE Expeditions – Swoop’s relationship is so deep that we feel just like family. They have such a deep commitment to sharing the best of Antarctica with our travellers – and their modern X-bow ships always cut a stylish dash among the ice.
Otto Lock Antarctica Specialist
Who are AE Expeditions?
AE Expeditions (also known as Aurora Expeditions) were founded in 1991 by Greg Mortimer, one of Australia’s most celebrated mountaineers. They were the first Australian member of IAATO (the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators).
One of the early pioneers of small-ship polar cruising, AE Expeditions operate three vessels: the Greg Mortimer, the Sylvia Earle and their newest ship, the Douglas Mawson, which had its inaugural voyage in November 2025. All three are built using the innovative X-bow design – AE Expeditions were the first operator to launch this technology in Antarctic waters.
Like Swoop, AE Expeditions are a certified B Corp.
Why Swoop loves working with AE Expeditions
- Swoop has worked closely with AE Expeditions since 2015. We’re their most significant global partner, with strong mutual support between our teams.
- As a fellow B Corp, we share AE Expeditions deep commitment to sustainable business practices at the ends of the Earth. All AE Expeditions' trips are carbon neutral.
- All AE Expeditions' ships are purpose built for modern polar expedition cruising, but with the majority of cabins having balconies they're not short on comfort.
- AE Expeditions use their deep polar experience to remain innovative, so we're regularly able to offer unusual itineraries alongside the Antarctic Peninsula classics, like the Weddell Sea and the Antarctic Circle.
- Whether you want to sail to Antarctica, fly, or travel in a combination of the two, we can always find an AE Expeditions departure for you.
- We sail regularly with AE Expeditions, and always appreciate how they limit the number of guests to just 130 passengers despite being able to accommodate more, to give one of the best staff to guest ratios in the business.
- We love AE Expedition’s strong focus on adventure activities, from kayaking and paddling to camping. They were the first operator to offer snorkelling in Antarctica.
- Swoop are strong supporters of polar citizen science, and AE Expeditions are very strong in this field, with their ship outfitted with their own laboratories.
What Swoop travellers think about AE Expeditions
AE Expeditions trips scored 4.4/5 from 481 reviews
Swoop's trips with AE Expeditions
Price Match Promise - We’ll match any price you find elsewhere for the same trip
AE Expeditions' ships
Greg Mortimer
With its eye-catching X-Bow design and state-of-the-art onboard technology, the Greg Mortimer is unquestionably redefining the future look of polar expedition ships.
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Douglas Mawson
Launched in November 2025, this powerful ice-strengthened vessel is equipped with the latest nautical technology. It offers a range of creative Antarctic itineraries.
Discover MoreSwoop works with every major Antarctic operator
Swoop’s unrivalled network of trusted partners across the polar fleet make it easy to find your dream Antarctic adventure.
Our expertise means we can offer impartial advice on which operator, ship, and departure is best for you.
And our Price Match Promise means that we’ll always match any price you find elsewhere for the same trip.
Ready to plan your Antarctic adventure?
1. Listen
We'll spend some time listening to your aspirations, then discuss the kind of experience that might suit you.
2. Match
Next we'll discuss the options, shortlist the best trips for you and present you our impartial recommendations.
3. Reserve
We'll place a 24 hour hold on your preferred option - without obligation - whilst we talk through the details.
