AE Expeditions has confirmed its third new-build ship, Douglas Mawson, will join the fleet in late 2025.

The expedition line announced the 154-passenger ship, which is named after Australian geologist and Antarctic explorer, will also mark the line’s return to East Antarctica for the first time in 15 years.

The ship will be the newest Infinity Class vessel to enter the market alongside its sister ships, Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle.     

Douglas Mawson will feature its high-tech bow made for expedition cruising, two restaurants, two bars, an outdoor heated pool, jacuzzis, gym and sauna, a citizen science centre and lecture theatre.

Most cabins will have private balconies, and for the first time, AE Expeditions will offer several single berth cabins.

CEO Michael Heath said: “We’re thrilled to be launching the newest and final Infinity Class vessel, which we have named in honour of pioneering Australian geologist and explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson.

“We are equally delighted to be offering passengers new itineraries departing from Australia as part of the ship’s inaugural season, including an exploration of Mawson’s Antarctica, which will visit Mawson’s Huts at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay, and New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands. 

AE Expeditions has said Douglas Mawson will begin sailing in December 2025, with the inaugural season to be announced soon.