By
Alex Smith |
AE Expeditions’ new cruise ship Douglas Mawson has successfully completed its sea trials ahead of its scheduled delivery in September.
Conducted from 26 June to 2 July 2025, the tests evaluated a range of the ship’s key systems, including propulsion, navigation and safety.
“Sea trials are one of the most important steps in bringing a ship to life,” said Michael Heath, CEO of AE Expeditions. “We’re thrilled with the results and can’t wait to welcome our expeditioners aboard ‘Douglas Mawson’ for her inaugural voyages later this year.”
Douglas Mawson can accommodate up to 130 passengers for polar expeditions and 154 for small ship cruises. Onboard features include a lecture theatre, science centre, heated outdoor pool, mudroom facilities and multiple dining venues.
The ship is now undergoing the final stages of construction at Chinese shipyard CMHI ahead of its delivery in September. Douglas Mawson will then begin operation by sailing a ‘Mawson’s Antarctica’ itinerary for its inaugural voyage, following in the footsteps of its namesake’s expeditions. It will then continue into a full 2025/26 Antarctica season.
Douglas Mawson is the seventh and final Infinity class vessel constructed by Sunstone Maritime Group, and the third to join AE Expeditions’ fleet.