Aurora Expeditions trials AI ocean technology in Antarctica

Aurora Expeditions has expanded its partnership with CounterCurrent following a successful trial of AI-powered ocean forecasting technology in Antarctica. Conducted between December 2025 and March 2026 aboard the Douglas Mawson, the trial utilized CounterCurrent technology to combine AI forecasting, ship-mounted sensors, and real-time ocean observations to optimize maritime routes.

During 126 days of operation across five voyages, the system provided 39 route recommendations and collected over 5,600 environmental observations. Early sea trials demonstrated fuel savings of between 2% and 5% over 24-hour periods. Preliminary modeling suggests that under suitable conditions, savings could reach between 5% and 15%, depending on vessel type, speed, and route.

Upgraded Mark 3 Triton sensors have been installed on three Aurora Expeditions vessels: Douglas Mawson, Sylvia Earle, and Greg Mortimer. The next phase of the partnership will investigate fleet-wide forecasting, allowing data collected by one vessel to improve navigation recommendations for other ships operating in the same region.