Aurora Expeditions

Story

Founded in 1991, Aurora Expeditions was established by Greg and Margaret Mortimer with a vision to take small groups of travelers on transformative journeys to the world's most remote regions. Named after Sir Douglas Mawson's historic ship, the company was built on the belief that immersive, personal expeditions inspire lifelong ambassadors for the protection of pristine environments and became one of the first expedition operators to join the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO). In 1992, Aurora Expeditions completed its first Antarctic voyage, followed by several pioneering achievements, including introducing ice camping and kayaking on the Antarctic Peninsula in 1994, leading the first commercial climbing expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula in 1995, launching its first Arctic voyage in 1997, pioneering the first diving expedition to the Antarctic Peninsula and the first expedition to Australia's Northern Territory and Kimberley Coast in 1998, and operating the first passenger expedition retracing Shackleton's footsteps in 2001. The company continued expanding its leadership by becoming one of the first operators to join the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO) in 2003, introducing its first British Isles expedition in 2005, launching flight-inclusive Antarctica expeditions in 2012, pioneering polar snorkeling in the Arctic in 2016, and unveiling the world's first passenger vessel featuring the Ulstein X-Bow® in 2019. In 2020, Aurora Expeditions was recognized as the World's Leading Polar Operator at the World Travel Awards, and in 2022, the company expanded its fleet with the purpose-built Sylvia Earle. Today, Aurora Expeditions continues to operate small-group expedition voyages across Antarctica, the Arctic, and other remote coastlines, combining innovative exploration, purpose-built ships, and a strong commitment to sustainability as a Certified B Corporation™, while helping protect the world's wild places for future generations.

Mission

Take you on immersive small-ship expeditions that create meaningful connections with the world's wildest places while inspiring their protection for future generations. Aurora Expeditions delivers expert-led adventures, flexible itineraries, exceptional onboard experiences, and responsible exploration that bring remote landscapes, wildlife, and history to life.

Vision

Lead the future of small-group expedition travel by continually pioneering innovative experiences, setting the highest standards for sustainable exploration, and protecting the planet's most remote environments. Aurora Expeditions strives to inspire every traveler to become a lifelong advocate for the natural world through authentic, educational, and transformative journeys.

Since 1991, Aurora Expeditions has remained committed to sustainability, building on the vision of legendary mountaineer Greg Mortimer and Margaret Mortimer, both passionate environmentalists. As a Certified B Corporation™ (B Corp), Aurora Expeditions demonstrates verified social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. When you travel with Aurora Expeditions, you help support a company that inspires, educates, and advocates for the protection, preservation, and regeneration of wild places around the world. Beyond reducing environmental impact, Aurora Expeditions takes meaningful action to create positive change and foster a global community of ambassadors for the planet. By continuously advancing technology, operations, and expedition practices, Aurora Expeditions strengthens responsible travel while staying true to its purpose and values.

Planet
When you explore with Aurora Expeditions, you help support efforts to reduce environmental impact at sea and protect fragile ecosystems. Conservation initiatives, responsible tourism, and sustainable operational practices help safeguard extraordinary destinations for future generations.

People
Every journey helps support local communities and the people who make each voyage possible. Aurora Expeditions empowers local partners, creates meaningful opportunities for expedition teams, and strives to leave a positive legacy wherever you travel.

Science
Aurora Expeditions transforms expedition ships into mobile research platforms by partnering with leading scientists to collect data on wildlife, ocean health, and climate change. You also have the opportunity to participate in citizen science programs, contributing valuable data that supports real-world research and conservation.

Innovation
Aurora Expeditions leads through action by testing new technologies and continually improving operations. These innovations help reduce environmental impact and drive meaningful change across every expedition.

Certified B Corporation™
As a Certified B Corporation™, Aurora Expeditions meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification reflects an ongoing commitment to purpose-driven business practices.

Impact Report
Aurora Expeditions publishes a biennial Impact Report that tracks progress, highlights achievements, and outlines future goals. The report provides a transparent view of how purpose, vision, and values guide actions that benefit both people and the planet.