Aurora Expeditions names new ship in honour of founder

Australian cruise company Aurora Expeditions will name its ice-class expedition ship Greg Mortimer in honour of its founder.

One of four expedition vessels ordered by US-based company SunStone Ships at China Merchant Industry Holdings in March, the 104-metre-long Greg Mortimer will be built to Polar Class 6 standards.

She will feature an X-bow design, to stop the vessel from rising and falling on waves.

The purpose-built newbuild is likely to include up to 95 passenger cabins, restaurant, lecture space, lounge, a 180-degree indoor observation deck, outdoor viewing areas, gymnasium, sauna and spa.

The 64-year-old Mr Mortimer, who is a recipient of the Order of Australia Medal for mountaineering, founded Aurora Expeditions with his wife Margaret Werner in 1991. 

Aurora Expeditions will launch the Greg Mortimer before its November 2019 Antarctic season.