Aurora Expedition Cruising - and the New X-Bow hull ship

Helen Vincent on 12 June 2019
What a lovely day out we were treated to with Aurora Expeditions - kayaking in the Solent and a high speed rib ride to the Needles, spending time with the passionate staff from Aurora Expeditions.

What is expedition cruising?

The first expedition voyage to Antarctica was some 25 years ago for Aurora and their spirit of adventure still burns just as bright.

There are limited group numbers to ensure voyages remain intimate and as bespoke as possible. As a small-ship expedition, they have the flexibility to take advantage of fantastic opportunities as they present themselves, such as unexpected wildlife displays or spontaneous shore landings. The thirst for adventure shows no bounds and offers activities and experiences like no one else. From polar diving with penguins, sea kayaking with whales and rock-climbing in Greenland, Aurora Expeditions have it all.

Small ships = greater freedom and flexibility. At Aurora Expeditions, small groups make a big difference. Ships boast one of the lowest passenger capacities in expedition cruising and treks take a maximum of 20 hikers. This leads to smoother transitions, longer and more relaxed landings, and a more personal experience with nature. No matter where you are exploring, they aim for two excursions, and in some cases, it can be up to three excursions per day. The ship is also built for expedition cruising with sea-level Zodiac-launching platforms, special adventure preparation spaces and fantastic viewing platforms. You’ll be whisked ashore on an adventure or be cruising in a Zodiac in no time.

What is very exciting is their new ship, one of the X-Bow hulls. I would love to go on this new modern amazing ship with all it's high tech and eco credibility. The Greg Mortimer, named after the co-founder, utilises some of the latest advancements in naval design and technology to revolutionise the small ship expedition cruising experience. The X-Bow® hull makes sailing smoother and faster, and the new virtual anchoring system uses GPS and high-tech steering to hold the ship’s position so that sea floor is protected. Shore excursions are also made easier with four sea-level Zodiac-loading platforms and an activity preparation area, designed in close consultation with world-renowned expedition and activity leaders. The ship is due for completion in October 2019.

Contact me details of all their destination, Falkland, Antarctica, Patagonia, Iceland and Costa Rica - 20% discount and no single supplement on special cruises.