Aurora Expeditions, renowned for its intrepid journeys to polar extremes like Antarctica and the Arctic, is charting a new course into warmer waters. Starting in 2026, the company will launch a series of small-ship cruises that mark its foray into the Mediterranean, Atlantic Coast, and Southeast Asia. This expansion represents a significant shift from their usual remote destinations, offering travelers a novel blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
Expanding the Adventure
Aurora Expeditions has long been synonymous with daring explorations of icy frontiers, but CEO Michael Heath believes that “adventure means different things to everyone.” Heath expressed enthusiasm about the company’s new direction: “We are committed to giving our passengers immersive, educational and adventurous small-ship experiences, no matter where they choose to explore.” The new voyages aim to bring Aurora’s distinctive approach to travel—characterized by rich cultural experiences and high levels of personal engagement—to regions previously unexplored by the company.
The company’s confidence in branching out stems from the success of its existing non-polar voyages. Destinations like Costa Rica and Scotland have proven popular, reinforcing Aurora’s belief in its ability to deliver exceptional experiences across diverse locales.
New Itineraries on Offer
Aurora’s new cruise offerings will feature several exciting itineraries. The “Moor than a Myth” voyage spans 13 days, journeying from Marrakech, Morocco to Barcelona, Spain. Passengers will visit culturally rich cities such as Casablanca, Seville, and Palma de Mallorca, delving into Morocco’s intricate medinas, Moorish architecture, and Spanish citadels.
Another highlight, the “Luck of the Irish” cruise, will take travelers on an 11-day round-trip from Dublin, Ireland. This itinerary includes stops in Cork and Galway, with scenic sailings along the majestic Cliffs of Moher.
For those seeking a Mediterranean adventure, the “Myths of the Mediterranean” cruise offers an 18-day journey from Athens, Greece to Naples, Italy. Guests will explore iconic ports like Mykonos, Santorini, and Dubrovnik, enjoying a rich blend of historical and cultural sights.
A Focus on Cultural Immersion
Aurora’s new small-ship cruises will continue the company’s tradition of deep exploration, albeit in a more temperate setting. Passengers can expect curated programming that emphasizes cultural immersion and educational experiences. “Our programming will focus on cultural immersion, culinary experiences, and education by our specialist onboard storytellers,” Heath noted. Excursions will include exploring ancient cities, visiting farms and vineyards, and touring iconic sites such as the Alhambra in Spain and perfume-making workshops in France.
Each port will offer up to three excursion options, allowing guests to tailor their experiences according to their interests.
Pricing and Inclusions
The cost of these new Mediterranean and Atlantic Coast cruises varies depending on the itinerary and sailing date. For instance, Mediterranean cruises start at $9,116 per person based on double occupancy, while Atlantic Coast voyages begin at $11,196. These fares encompass a range of amenities, including meals, drinks (wine and beer with dinner), Wi-Fi, and entry fees for tourist and historic sites.
With this expansion, Aurora Expeditions is poised to bring its signature adventurous spirit to new regions, offering travelers a unique blend of exploration and cultural enrichment. As they venture into these less remote yet equally captivating destinations, the company’s commitment to experiential travel promises to deliver unforgettable journeys on the high seas.
