Aurora Expeditions, known for their polar adventures, has unveiled their second expedition ship, Sylvia Earle, which joins the fleet alongside their Greg Mortimer, launched in 2019. Designed specifically for Antarctic journeys, the Sylvia Earle boasts an innovative inverted bow design, the Ulstein X-BOW, aimed at enhancing fuel efficiency and facilitating smoother, quicker navigation through icy waters and waves. This is particularly advantageous for crossing the notoriously turbulent Drake Passage, appealing to environmentally-conscious travelers.
Originally introduced with the Greg Mortimer, the Ulstein X-BOW hull design is rapidly becoming the benchmark for polar exploration vessels—recently adopted by ships such as Lindblad Expeditions’ National Geographic Explorer and National Geographic Endurance, Albatros Expeditions’ Ocean Victory, and Vantage Cruise Line’s Ocean Explorer. Besides the X-BOW feature, the eight-deck Sylvia Earle offers a Citizen Science Center where guests can engage in scientific research and observations led by a Citizen Science member and the ship’s expedition team, whether onboard, ashore, or during zodiac excursions.
“Our mission is to immerse our explorers in the world’s most remote and enthralling locations, fostering lifelong advocates for the planet,” explained Aurora Expeditions’ chief marketing officer, Hayley Peacock-Gower. “With over 30 years of experience, Aurora Expeditions is known for pioneering adventure and discovery, always emphasizing responsible travel at the heart of our values.”
The Sylvia Earle, purpose-built for climate-neutral Antarctic exploration, honors Dr. Sylvia Earle, a distinguished marine biologist and National Geographic explorer-in-residence. Celebrating women’s contributions to science, the vessel also dedicates six public decks to trailblazing female conservationists, including Dr. Earle, Dr. Carden Wallace AM, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos, and Hanli Prinsloo.
To enhance passengers’ understanding of the Antarctic environment, the ship includes a lecture hall where guests can attend presentations that complement their shore adventures like sea kayaking, snorkeling, hiking, and zodiac cruises. It also features a mudroom and sea-level launch deck for convenient access on excursion days.
Though Antarctica is rugged and untamed, passengers on board will enjoy comforts like multiple restaurants and bars, observation areas, heated hot tubs, an infinity pool, and fitness and spa services. Cabins are spacious and modern, resembling hotel rooms more than typical expedition ship quarters, with nearly all offering private balconies, and suites providing separate lounge areas.
On December 10, 2022, Sylvia Earle will embark on her inaugural Antarctic voyage from Ushuaia, Argentina, accommodating 132 passengers. Aurora’s CEO, Michael Heath, shared his excitement: “We are thrilled our newest ship, Sylvia Earle, is ready and on her way to Antarctica. We look forward to introducing her to our partners and welcoming a new generation of adventurers seeking discovery and transformative experiences.”
