Named in honor of Dr. Sylvia Earle—a renowned oceanographer, conservationist, and explorer celebrated for her work protecting marine environments—journeys aboard this vessel blend opportunities to both explore and learn about precious, remote environments. Built to reach remote waters and rare destinations, the Sylvia Earle carries guests through polar seas and temperate coastal regions alike, focusing on meaningful engagement with each destination. Explorers aboard this ship are part of a journey that pairs adventure with education and marine awareness, making the experience both active and enlightening.
Built for Expedition and Comfort - At the heart of the Sylvia Earle’s performance is the Ulstein X-BOW®, a forward-angled hull design that slices through waves with less resistance than traditional bows. This reflects the ship’s commitment to responsible travel through efficient fuel use and reduction of emissions and environmental impact. Reinforced for expedition work, the vessel carries up to 130 passengers on polar voyages and can flex to small ship itineraries in other regions. Spacious observation decks and large windows ensure that wherever you are on board, the surrounding seascape stays in sight. Inside, the design is modern and inviting with warm finishes that echo natural landscapes. Staterooms range from cozy ocean-view cabins to generous balcony suites, all with private bathrooms and plenty of storage for gear; many have private balconies so the ocean is never far from view, while larger suites offer added living space and comfort.
Onboard Comfort and Connection - Meals on the Sylvia Earle are flexible and social, reflecting the expedition spirit of the ship. Breakfast and lunch take buffet or open-seating formats that fuels guests for shore landings, Zodiac outings, or water activities. Dinner is heartier, with varied options that suit active days, and wine, beers, and soft drinks are typically included with evening meals. Throughout the ship, social areas invite connection and relaxation. Large lounges and observation spaces feature panoramic views for wildlife spotting and scenic passages. The two outdoor jacuzzis and heated pool provide recovery after long days exploring ashore. A gym and sauna offer wellness options between activities, while the library lounge is perfect for quiet reading or planning adventures.
Voyages Filled with Engagement - The Sylvia Earle supports active participation at every turn. A well-equipped mudroom and dedicated preparation area keep your expedition gear organized and ready to go, with easy access to the Zodiac embarkation platforms. Multiple Zodiac doors help move groups quickly and safely to and from shore, making every landing opportunity seamless. Throughout the voyage, an expert team of guides, naturalists, and specialists lead excursions that are tailored to your interests and the conditions at each destination. Activities are scaled and guided to suit both seasoned expeditioners and adventurers new to this style of journey.
Do More than Explore - The Sylvia Earle is a platform for discovering remote parts of the globe while learning what’s necessary to care for our planet’s diverse environments. Its design supports smooth transitions between life at sea and immersive experiences ashore, with public spaces and amenities crafted to foster exploration, relaxation and learning. For adventurers desiring a voyage that goes beyond sightseeing, and instead invites you to engage with remote environments responsibly and thoughtfully, the Sylvia Earle offers a voyage that matches that spirit.
Narrative text and photos courtesy of Aurora Expeditions. Additional photo credits to: Charlie Zakhia. Natalie Long, Jamie Lafferty, Richard Anson, Pia Harbour, Benjamin Tan, and Masano Kawana.