Environmental scientist and explorer Tim Jarvis AM will sail as Special Guest on Aurora Expeditions’ new ship Douglas Mawson MV on Tasmania circumnavigation.
Tasmanian expedition promises big names and big stories
Aurora Expeditions, renowned for its trailblazing small ship adventures, has announced that celebrated explorer, author and environmental scientist Tim Jarvis AM will sail as Special Guest on the debut voyage of the company’s newest ship, Douglas Mawson MV.
Tim Jarvis is known for retracing Sir Douglas Mawson’s Antarctic story and Sir Ernest Shackleton’s Antarctic legendary survival journey. He will contribute expert talks, film screenings, storytelling and interpretation of throughout Aurora’s inaugural circumnavigation of Tasmania.
His involvement is a natural fit for Aurora Expeditions, whose ethos is deeply entrenched in purposeful exploration, conservation storytelling and classic hands-on learning at sea.
Douglas Mawson MV is named after a heroic explorer
Named in honour of Australia’s pioneering geologist and polar explorer, Douglas Mawson MV is purpose-built for expedition-style adventure. She’ll carry just 130 passengers, making for an intimate experience with a light footprint and a suite of immersive activities. On her inaugural Tasmania voyage, guests can expect wild coastlines, remote islands and marine reserves, plus a chance to join coastal hikes, Zodiac cruises and wildlife encounters. Enrichment programming will be delivered by Aurora Expeditions’ expert crew, with Jarvis adding his unique perspective.
“Douglas Mawson’s legacy is one of courage, scientific curiosity and environmental stewardship,” said Tim Jarvis.
“To help launch a ship that bears his name, while exploring Tasmania’s remarkable wilderness and marine environments, is a privilege. I look forward to sharing field insights and practical ways we can all contribute to protecting the places we visit.”
A natural partnership between explorer and expedition cruise
Aurora Expeditions CEO Michael Heath says, “Tim’s connection to Mawson’s legacy, combined with his decades-long conservation work, from 25zero to the Forktree Project, make him an ideal partner for this milestone voyage. Tim brings unparalleled expertise, passion and perspective to our expedition team, and we’re thrilled to have him aboard for Douglas Mawson MV’s first adventure.”
Years spent exploring Mawson’s life and legacy give Jarvis a unique authority as the ship’s inaugural Special Guest. He’s retraced the explorer’s remarkable polar journeys, bringing history to today’s expeditioners. Beyond polar exploits, Jarvis’s environmental work spans continents, whether spotlighting the vanishing tropical glaciers through 25zero or rewilding South Australian farmland with the Forktree Project. His knack for translating tricky scientific issues into practical, real-world solutions has made him a sought-after speaker and filmmaker. He inspires action, empowering others to make a difference in their own backyards.
Circumnavigate Tasmania on inaugural voyage
The maiden voyage of Douglas Mawson MV promises a historic circuit of Tasmania, unlocking some of the island state’s wildest and most beautiful corners. Think rugged coastlines, secluded islands and wildlife-rich marine reserves paired with a full line-up of off-ship adventures and expert-led activities.
