AE Expeditions: Life-Changing Small-Ship Adventures

Founded by legendary explorer Greg Mortimer, AE Expeditions (part of Aurora Expeditions) takes you to the world’s most remote and pristine places. Travel in small groups, led by expert teams, for a truly immersive, flexible, and sustainable adventure.

Why Choose AE Expeditions?

AE Expeditions offers a pioneering approach to adventure travel, with small group numbers (average 132 guests), purpose-built ships, and a world-class expedition team. Enjoy more time off the ship, a relaxed onboard atmosphere, and a genuine commitment to sustainability and conservation.

Small Groups & Purpose-Built Ships

Average 132 guests, cutting-edge X-Bow ships for smoother sailing and access to remote areas.

Sustainability in Action

100% climate neutral, B-Corp certified, and a world-leading Citizen Science programme.

Expert-Led Exploration

Highest guest-to-guide ratio (1:7), immersive activities, and engaging onboard lectures.

A Flexible, Immersive Expedition Experience

Every AE Expeditions voyage is shaped by the environment and your expedition leader’s expertise. With 2–3 landings per day (weather permitting), you’ll explore by Zodiac, guided hike, or kayak, and enjoy spontaneous wildlife encounters and off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Meet the AE Expeditions Fleet

Greg Mortimer

132 guests, 74 crew, 79 staterooms, 2019 year of launched, 8 decks. Refurbished 2019.

Sylvia Earle

132 guests, 74 crew, 70 staterooms, 2021 year of launched, 8 decks.

Douglas Mawson

154 guests, 24 crew, 86 staterooms, 2035 year of launched, 8 decks.

What’s Included with AE Expeditions

Fully-serviced stateroom or suite
All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during your voyage
House drinks with dinner
Beer and house wine with dinner
Shore excursions (Zodiacs, hikes, landings)
Entry fees to historic or tourist sites
Port surcharges, permits and landing fees
Expert lectures and enrichment
Complimentary 3-in-1 polar jacket on polar voyages
Complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage
Complimentary use of fitness centre
Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi onboard

Optional Activities

Enhance your expedition with optional activities including kayaking, diving, snorkelling, snowshoeing, alpine trekking, stand-up paddleboarding, camping, and more. Activities vary by itinerary and must be pre-booked.

Find Your AE Expedition

Use our live search to find your perfect AE Expeditions voyage. Filter by destination, date, ship, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes AE Expeditions different from other cruise lines?

AE Expeditions offers small-ship, flexible adventure travel to the world’s most remote places. With a guest-to-guide ratio of 7:1, more time off the ship, and a focus on sustainability and citizen science, every voyage is designed for genuine exploration and learning.

What’s included in my expedition fare?

Your fare includes pre-voyage accommodation, airport transfers, selected sightseeing tours and charter flights, all shore excursions, a 3-in-1 expedition jacket, water bottle, use of boots and wellness facilities, house drinks with dinner, all port charges and landing fees, expert lectures, and more.

What is the Citizen Science Programme?

The Citizen Science Programme lets guests participate in real research projects—collecting data, making observations, and learning from onboard experts. It’s a fun, interactive way to contribute to science and conservation.

Are there activities for adventurous travellers?

Yes! Optional activities include kayaking, diving, snorkelling, snowshoeing, alpine trekking, skiing, climbing, and even camping in Antarctica. Activities vary by itinerary and must be pre-booked.

How many people are on each voyage?

AE Expeditions voyages average just 132 guests, ensuring a personal, small-group experience where everyone can participate in excursions.