Name: Iceland & East Greenland - Under the Northern Lights
Brand: AE Expeditions

Overview

Setting sail from Dublin, Douglas Mawson invites you on a memorable 11-night AE Expeditions cruise through the stunning waters of Europe and Ireland. Along the way, you'll visit Belfast, Galway, and Waterford, exploring a new destination almost every day. Whether you're relaxing on deck on a sea day or exploring ashore, this AE Expeditions journey offers something for everyone. Available from £5,248 per person - a fantastic opportunity to explore Europe and Ireland aboard the Douglas Mawson.

AE Expeditions

AE Expeditions is a small Australian cruise line which specialises in off-the-beaten-track voyages led by remote area experts.

The company’s adventurous co-founders, Greg and Margaret Mortimer, established AE Expeditions in 1991 and had by the following year, already begun running voyages to Antarctica

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-2

Dublin

Set along the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin welcomes cruisegoers with a vibrant tapestry of history. Here, the echoes of past glories mingle with the rhythm of modern life. The city's maritime climate, tempered by the Gulf Stream, offers mild winters and cool summers, ideal for leisurely exploration. Wander through cobbled streets lined with centuries-old pubs, where the crackle of a turf fire beckons. Beyond the tourist troves, Dublin reveals its authentic soul, a testament to Ireland's resilience and creativity. And did you know? Dublin's literary heritage boasts more Nobel laureates per capita than any other city, a testament to its enduring cultural significance.

Day 3

Waterford

Waterford, famed for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant maritime legacy, invites you to delve into its captivating history. Set against the backdrop of ancient castles and bustling quays, this city resonates with tales of seafaring adventurers and skilled craftsmen. The mild coastal climate, kissed by Atlantic breezes, offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, making it a haven for those seeking an authentic Irish experience. Away from tourist traps, Waterford unveils hidden gems and local treasures, providing a genuine glimpse into the soul of Ireland. And did you know? Waterford boasts the world's oldest operational lighthouse, guiding ships safely home for over 800 years.

Day 4

Cork

Day 5

Bantry

Day 6

Dingle

Nestled on Ireland's rugged west coast, Dingle captivates with its ancient charm and maritime legacy. Its renowned history, steeped in tales of seafaring adventures and Celtic folklore, beckons travelers to explore its enchanting streets. The climate, kissed by Atlantic breezes, offers a refreshing escape from the bustle, inviting cruisegoers to savor authentic experiences. Dingle's authenticity shines through its vibrant pubs, where traditional music fills the air, and local artisans showcase their craft. As a showcase of the real Ireland, Dingle boasts the highest number of native Irish speakers, preserving the Gaelic language and enriching the cultural tapestry of the region.

Day 7

Galway

Galway, steeped in the maritime saga of the Claddagh fishermen, welcomes travelers with open arms to its vibrant shores. The temperate climate, kissed by the Atlantic breeze, offers a refreshing escape from the mundane. Here, authenticity thrives, offering cruisegoers an immersive experience beyond the beaten path. Explore the colorful streets pulsating with traditional Irish music and bustling markets, or venture to the rugged Connemara landscape, where tales of ancient folklore echo through misty valleys. As the gateway to the Gaeltacht, Galway proudly preserves the Irish language, a testament to its cultural significance. Don't miss the mystical allure of the Aran Islands, where time stands still amid ancient stone forts and windswept cliffs.

Day 8

Killybegs

Nestled within the rugged coastline of Donegal, Killybegs beckons with tales of maritime glory. Once a bustling fishing port, its storied past intertwines with the salty breeze that sweeps across its shores. Here, amidst the wild beauty of Ireland's northwest, travelers find solace in authenticity, away from the bustling tourist circuits. The climate, shaped by the mighty Atlantic, offers a raw and invigorating experience, ideal for those seeking a true taste of Ireland. As the gateway to the majestic Slieve League cliffs, Killybegs unveils a breathtaking panorama, where land meets sea in a dance of timeless grandeur.

Day 9

Londonderry

Day 10

Belfast

In Belfast, the echoes of its shipbuilding legacy reverberate through time, beckoning travelers to explore its maritime heritage. Amidst the bustling streets, whispers of the Titanic's construction resonate, reminding visitors of the city's pivotal role in maritime history. The climate, kissed by the Irish Sea's bracing winds, offers a refreshing escape for those seeking an authentic experience. Beyond the typical tourist haunts, Belfast unveils hidden gems, from traditional pubs echoing with lively tunes to quaint cobblestone streets steeped in character. As a showcase for Northern Ireland's resilience, Belfast's vibrant spirit endures, captivating cruisegoers with its unwavering charm.

Day 11

Dublin

Days 1-2

Dublin

Day 3

Waterford

Day 4

Cork

Day 5

Bantry

Day 6

Dingle

Day 7

Galway

Day 8

Killybegs

Day 9

Londonderry

Day 10

Belfast

Day 11

Dublin

154

Passengers

Crew

2025

Launched

8500t

Tonnage

104m

Length

18m

Width

12kts

Speed

Decks

USD

Currency

Douglas Mawson

Adventure has a new name. Setting sail in 2025, our new state-of-the-art ship, the Douglas Mawson, is the last in a line of purpose-built vessels that have redefined small ship expedition cruising.