Amazing Cruise Destinations
FAQs
Aura Expeditions explores a wide array of destinations chosen for their natural beauty, remarkable biodiversity, geological wonders, and fascinating archaeological sites.
With Aura Expeditions, you can journey to the life-changing Antarctic region, which includes the Antarctic Peninsula, South Georgia, and the Falkland Islands. You can also venture into Arctic regions, encompassing the Norwegian Arctic, Svalbard, Greenland, and the Canadian Arctic. Additionally, discover hand-picked global destinations, such as the cultural and natural wonders of the British Isles and unique regions of Latin America, each offering incredible biodiversity.
Aura Expeditions’ voyages are designed to provide passengers with immersive and educational experiences in remote and polar regions. Our expeditions prioritise:
- Cultivating a spirit of adventure through activities like hiking, kayaking, and even polar plunges
- Observing and learning about the unique wildlife of these regions, including penguins, seals, whales, polar bears, and diverse bird species
- Offering insights into the local cultures and histories of destinations
- Exploring the natural beauty of polar areas, from rugged peaks to glaciers to icebergs, aboard small, purpose-built ships, Zodiacs, or on-shore excursions with your knowledgeable Expedition Team
The duration of Aura Expeditions’ expeditions varies depending on the specific itinerary and destination. Generally, our expeditions last from approximately 10 to 20 days or more.
Whether it’s an adventure at sea or on land that excites you, we offer an extensive range of included and optional activities to make the most of your time in some of the world’s most beautiful places.
- You can expect to get off the ship 2-3 times a day* to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the region through Zodiac cruises, shore landings, or special activity programs
- Observing polar wildlife like polar bears, penguins, whales, and seals in their natural habitats
- Optional adventure activities like kayaking, snorkelling, and even scuba diving (on select voyages)
- Enriching presentations and lectures from experts in your Expedition Team
- Opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning landscapes and wildlife, with expert photography guides on hand to help hone their skills
- The chance to take a daring dip into the icy waters of the polar regions.
- Our participative Citizen Science program offers a range of activities designed to deepen your connection to the natural world and actively contribute to ongoing scientific research
The minimum age for children on our voyages is 8. Any person under 18 years of age must travel with their legal guardian.
On the other hand, we have welcomed travellers in their 90s onboard, so if you have a thirst for adventure and a suitable level of fitness, you’re welcome to join us!
To make the most of our voyages, you should be in good general health and able to walk reasonable distances, sometimes over uneven terrain. If you have physical limitations, please inform us well in advance of your departure.
It’s mandatory for each passenger to provide a signed medical form from their general practitioner. For specific activities such as kayaking, snowshoeing, and snorkelling, we have different fitness requirements depending on the activity.
Yes, Aura Expeditions always has a team of experienced expedition guides and experts on their voyages, referred to as the “Expedition Team“.
Our world-class Expedition Team includes local guides and specialist guides, such as marine biologists, ornithologists, divemasters, geologists, historians, photographers, kayak guides, naturalists, and more, depending on the region.
With a ratio of 1:7, our Expedition Team is always ready to answer your questions and enhance your voyage, ensuring it’s educational, adventurous, memorable, and safe.
One of the most enthralling aspects of embarking on an expedition with Aura Expeditions is the opportunity to witness a remarkable array of wildlife in some of the Earth’s most remote and untouched corners.
Antarctica is home to an impressive variety of creatures that have adapted to the harsh environment, including eight charming species of penguins, six types of Antarctic seals, and magnificent whales that migrate to these frigid waters during the summer months. Below the surface, you’ll discover a mesmerizing world of marine biodiversity. From tiny single-celled algae, the foundation of the Antarctic food chain, to the diminutive yet crucial krill, the keystone species of the Antarctic ecosystem. Find out more about ‘what animals live in Antarctica’.
As you venture through the Arctic, you might find yourself in the company of some of the most iconic Arctic animals. Keep a keen eye out for the awe-inspiring polar bear, a symbol of the Arctic’s untamed wilderness. Musk oxen, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, and a remarkable variety of birdlife also inhabit this frigid expanse. These resilient creatures have evolved to thrive in extreme conditions, making any encounter with them an undeniably extraordinary experience.
Every global destination promises its distinct wildlife encounters, making each Aurora Expedition an exhilarating opportunity to explore the world’s natural marvels. The diversity of animals you’ll encounter varies depending on your chosen expedition. In Scotland, you may be captivated by the abundant birdlife. Journey to Patagonia, and you could encounter the delightful guanaco. Embark on an adventure to Costa Rica for the chance to spot a leisurely sloth, among other fascinating creatures.
Whether you’re interested in the captivating landscapes of Antarctica, the Arctic’s breathtaking wonders, or any of our other incredible destinations, our website provides insights into the intricacies of each adventure. Our itineraries offer a glimpse into the exciting world of Aura Expeditions, highlighting what awaits you on your next journey.
You can also download or order our most recent Antarctica brochure, or our Arctic & Global brochure for an overview of our voyages.
Our our knowledgeable and friendly team or your preferred travel agent can provide personalised guidance and insights to make your expedition with Aura Expeditions unforgettable.
Shipboard attire is relaxed and casual. Jeans, jumpers, and long-sleeved shirts are recommended for indoor wear in the polar regions. However, you’ll want to ensure your jacket is within reach for impromptu wildlife sightings.
While formal clothing is not necessary, some people like to have a more elegant outfit for the captain’s welcome and farewell drinks.
Every passenger on our polar expeditions will be supplied with an expedition jacket upon boarding. However, it is vital to pack the appropriate cold and wet weather gear for your landings, including waterproof trousers and gloves.
Refer to our suggested packing list, which explains the types of layers and materials we recommend.
Aura Expeditions maintains an unwavering commitment to responsible, considerate travel. As one of the first operators to become members of both IAATO and AECO, we take our responsibility seriously.
Our goal is to be at the forefront of sustainable expedition travel globally. We have an ongoing Sustainability in Action plan aimed at ensuring we implement tangible actions to preserve the planet and assist us in realising this objective.
Some of our sustainability initiatives include:
- Supporting the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals
- Upholding our 100% Climate Neutral certification
- Using new, state-of-the-art ships with sustainable technology and designs, including Ulstein’s X-BOW®
- Encouraging travellers to make informed choices and travel responsibly
- Honouring female conservationists
- Prioritising education and enrichment on board, as well as participation in our Citizen Science Program
- Transforming our expeditioners into lifelong champions for the planet