Meet The Experts on an Aurora Expedition Voyage: Expedition Leaders, Naturalists, Citizen Science Specialists
An expedition with Aurora Expeditions is more than just an immersive experience; it’s an opportunity to travel alongside some of the world’s most knowledgeable experts and scientists in the polar regions and beyond.
From seasoned Expedition Leaders and marine biologists to naturalists, historians and Citizen Science specialists, Aurora’s onboard team brings some of the world’s most remote destinations to life through immersive storytelling, hands-on learning and exploration.
Whether guests are spotting wildlife in Antarctica, learning about fragile ecosystems in the Arctic or contributing to ongoing scientific research, Aurora’s expert-led approach transforms every journey into a deeper connection with the places visited.
Aurora’s Expedition Team is comprised of 120 expert guides with more than 500 years of combined experience exploring the Polar regions. Below, meet a handful of the specialists who help define the Aurora experience and make each voyage as educational as it is adventurous
Howard Whelan is among Aurora’s most renowned Expedition Leaders, being a Senior Polar guide who has been a part of Aurora’s E-team since inception 35 years ago. As an Expedition Leader, he leads activities ranging from interpretive shore strolls and hikes to kayaking, paddling, photography workshops, overnight camp outs and more. In 2002, he even led the Antarctic filming expedition that resulted in the Academy Award-winning film, Happy Feet.
Catherine Buckland is an activity guide with Aurora Expeditions specializing in polar scuba diving. She works closely with Aurora’s dive teams to plan and deliver diving experiences in some of the most remote marine environments on Earth, ensuring every dive is conducted safely, responsibly and in line with Antarctic Treaty and IAATO regulations. Her role combines technical dive leadership, safety oversight and environmental stewardship, helping experienced divers explore Antarctica’s underwater world with confidence and care.
Madison Lacy is a Citizen Science Coordinator with Aurora, acting as the bridge between passengers and scientific research. From questions and lectures to hands-on experiments in the field, her goal is to connect each and every person onboard with the environment being visited. Guests can find her on shore surveying the plans, animal or bird species or aboard a Zodiac helping passengers with water-based experiences.
(Meet The Experts on an Aurora Expedition Voyage: Expedition Leaders, Naturalists, Citizen Science Specialists)
