Aurora Expeditions is marking 35 years since its founding in Sydney in 1991, tracing a path from a small Australian Antarctic operator to a global expedition brand operating 73 itineraries across seven continents and 26 countries.
Founded by Greg and Margaret Mortimer, the company operated its first Antarctic expedition in 1992, after becoming one of the first operators to join the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators in 1991.
Key milestones span three decades
Aurora introduced ice camping and kayaking on the Antarctic Peninsula in 1994, operated the first commercial climbers’ expedition to the Peninsula in 1995, launched its first Arctic expedition in 1997, introduced diving in Antarctica in 1998, and in 2001 operated the first passenger expedition retracing Shackleton’s route across South Georgia.
Later milestones include flights to Antarctica in 2012, polar snorkelling in 2016, and the introduction of the Ulstein X-BOW hull design across its fleet, first on Greg Mortimer in 2019, followed by Sylvia Earle in 2022 and Douglas Mawson in 2025, completing its current fleet of three purpose-built expedition ships.
In 2024, Aurora became the first cruise line to achieve Certified B Corporation status, and in 2025 launched Ocean Regeneration, a circular-impact model focused on decarbonisation.
Founders and long-time travellers reflect on the company’s history
Margaret Mortimer recalled the early voyages for the connection they created with expeditioners experiencing Antarctica for the first time. Dick Smith AC, a long-time friend of the Mortimers who helped launch the company, has travelled to Antarctica seven times and described landing at Elephant Island aboard Polar Pioneer as one of the most moving experiences of his life.
Michael Alscher, co-owner of Aurora Expeditions, said the company’s focus remained on the purpose behind its growth.
“On any given day now, anywhere in the world, there are 500 people on our ships. That’s pretty incredible when you think about it. But what matters most is giving those people an experience that helps them understand why these places are so special – and why they need to be protected,” Alscher said.
Aurora has released a 35th anniversary video featuring founders, past expeditioners and long-time associates reflecting on the company’s history.
