Aurora Expeditions Greg Mortimer: Antarctic

Named after the co-founder of Aurora Expeditions, Greg Mortimer is the company’s first purpose-built expedition vessel. The ship has been designed to offer small-scale polar cruising, flexible itineraries, multiple landing opportunities, all the latest safety features and modern comforts within an informal and family-friendly environment. 

Accommodating up to 100 passengers on polar expeditions, there is a friendly and intimate vibe on-board. Passengers enjoy a wide choice of cabins which include en-suite bathroom with hair dryer, storage space, safe, 42-inch flat-screen TV, international power outlets and small sofa. All but the basic category of room, have private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows and there are interconnecting rooms for families. Passengers can enjoy family-style dining in the restaurant or relaxing in one of the two lounge bars and there is a last night farewell four-course dinner and cocktails. Complimentary beverages and snacks are available 24-hours a day.

There are several on-board observation spaces including hydraulic platforms for bird, wildlife and scenery viewing and the ship operates an open bridge policy, so passengers can join the captain and officers to see navigation practises and mapping techniques in action. There is a lecture room for learning more about the region, a library and Wellness Center with a gym, sauna and spa. Passengers also enjoy flexible and plentiful shore excursions in a fleet of Zodiac boats, along with a wide range of activities enjoyed from the custom-built activity platform which include polar snorkeling and sea kayaking.

The Greg Mortimer has several personalized features including a unique XBOW bow, which provides greater stability than a traditional bow and Zodiac launching platforms reducing the time for loading and launching the boats. The boat also meets the latest Polar Class 6 requirements for ice-strengthened vessels, has return-to-port equipment in the event of engine failure and a fully stocked medical center.