Australian expedition cruise company Aurora Expeditions is making significant progress in environmental protection, scientific cooperation and community involvement across the globe, according to its newly released 2025 Impact Report.
The company has introduced groundbreaking initiatives that move beyond traditional sustainability measures, with its Ocean Regeneration program standing out as a particularly innovative approach to environmental stewardship.
Ocean Regeneration Replaces Carbon Offsetting
Aurora Expeditions has completely transformed its approach to environmental compensation by launching its Ocean Regeneration program, which replaces conventional carbon offsetting methods. For every passenger who sails on one of their ships, the company now funds the planting of kelp forests and seagrass meadows, supports coral restoration projects, and facilitates the removal of plastic waste destined for our oceans.
The program has already demonstrated impressive results, with 4,716 kilograms of ocean-bound plastic waste removed from vulnerable marine environments. Additionally, the company has funded the planting of 4,716 units of new marine life, creating tangible benefits for ocean ecosystems.
Cutting-Edge Technology Reduces Environmental Footprint
Aurora claims to be the first expedition company to implement CounterCurrent's AI ship routing technology, which enables vessels to navigate with ocean currents rather than against them. This intelligent routing system significantly reduces fuel consumption and associated emissions during voyages.
Through a partnership with Cleaner Seas, the company has also become the first expedition operator to install microplastic filters on its ships. These innovative filtration systems, initially installed on their third vessel Douglas Mawson, capture up to 99% of microfibres before they can enter the marine environment.
In another industry-leading achievement, the Sylvia Earle became the first Infinity Class ship to successfully trial 100% biofuel, achieving an impressive 90% reduction in fuel-related emissions compared to standard marine oil.
Expanding Partnerships and Educational Outreach
With 35 years of operational experience, Aurora Expeditions continues to strengthen its commitment to protecting the pristine environments it visits. The company has expanded its collaborations with global conservation leaders including Mission Blue, CleanHub, and Veritree, supporting habitat restoration projects from the Coral Triangle to British Columbia.
More than 74,000 children across 195 countries have accessed free environmental education courses filmed in Antarctica, the Arctic and Iceland through Aurora's partnership with Upschool. This educational initiative represents a significant investment in inspiring the next generation of environmental advocates.
The company has also provided $364,000 worth of in-kind expedition support for environmental scientists and researchers, along with $140,000 in direct donations to conservation organisations.
Leadership Perspective on Responsible Travel
Michael Heath, CEO of Aurora Expeditions, maintains a realistic outlook about the company's environmental responsibilities. "Every expedition leaves a footprint," Heath acknowledges. "Our responsibility is to minimise that impact and create a shift in the way people think so that they come back with a passion to protect our planet."
Sasha Bush, Sustainability Manager for the company, adds that as explorers of polar regions, the company serves as both witnesses to environmental change and participants in the solution. "From supporting ocean regeneration and community-led conservation, to inspiring the next generation of climate advocates, our Impact Report reflects the ripple effect that responsible travel can create," Bush explains.
Fleet Expansion and Cultural Partnerships
Aurora's two purpose-built small ships, Greg Mortimer and Sylvia Earle, will be joined by a third vessel, Douglas Mawson, in December 2025. The new ship will incorporate the latest environmental technologies, including the microplastic filtration system that has proven so effective.
The company continues its support for the Inuit Community Ambassador Program in partnership with The Oxen Network, an Inuit-led not-for-profit organisation based in Canada. This initiative creates valuable cultural exchange opportunities across Arctic voyages and ensures that local perspectives remain an integral part of every travel experience in the region.
As part of its ongoing commitment to sustainable practices, Aurora will remove salmon from onboard menus beginning with the 2025–26 season, implementing stricter sustainable seafood practices throughout its operations.
The comprehensive 2025 Impact Report demonstrates Aurora Expeditions' multifaceted approach to environmental responsibility, combining technological innovation, community engagement, and scientific collaboration to create a new standard for sustainable expedition travel.
