Aurora Expeditions' U.S. Bookings Rise 37% for Antarctic Season
Aurora said the season was its largest Antarctic program to date, spanning thirty voyages and an estimated eight hundred nineteen landings. North American travelers accounted for one in three expeditioners.
Aurora Expeditions reported a 37 percent year-over-year increase in U.S. bookings for its 2025-26 Antarctic season, with North American travelers accounting for one in three of its expeditioners. The company said the season was its largest Antarctic program to date, covering 30 voyages and an estimated 819 landings.
The operator’s U.S. growth was more than three times the 11.5 percent expansion recorded for the broader North American Antarctic market in the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators’ 2025-26 Visitation Report. Aurora also said passenger volume rose 30 percent.
Trade partners and regional sales
“More than ever, travelers are looking for meaningful experiences, more time off ship and a deeper connection to the places they visit,” said David Tanguay, head of global sales at Aurora Expeditions.
Aurora recently named Beth Mercier as vice president of sales for North America. Tanguay said Aurora’s sales priority is giving trade partners the “product knowledge, tools and expertise” needed to convert demand.
Fleet growth and CEO search
The North American gains follow Aurora’s expansion to a three-ship fleet. The current lineup, Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle and Douglas Mawson, carries a maximum of 130 passengers on Expedition departures and 154 passengers on Small Ship Cruises, with Douglas Mawson launched in December 2025.
Michael Heath resigned as chief executive officer in May after four years leading Aurora, and the company said its board had begun a recruitment process for his successor.
Aurora said the board would work with Heath on a “smooth and orderly transition” while the search continues.
