Aurora (1789 ship)

The Aurora was a merchant vessel built in France in 1789. Details regarding her specific dimensions, build materials, and original owner are currently scarce. The Aurora is primarily known for its role in transporting convicts to the penal colony of New South Wales, Australia, as part of the Second Fleet.

She departed England in 1790 as part of the Second Fleet, carrying male convicts, provisions, and supplies. The Second Fleet is infamous for its high mortality rate among convicts due to disease, overcrowding, and poor treatment during the voyage. While exact figures vary depending on the source, the Aurora itself experienced a significant number of deaths during the journey to Australia.

Upon arrival in Sydney Cove, the surviving convicts were disembarked, many in weakened and diseased conditions. The Aurora then continued its voyage, engaging in trade and transport in the region. Further details of her subsequent voyages and eventual fate are not readily available in comprehensive historical records.