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Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle

Sylvia Earle—Aurora Expeditions’ second next-generation X-BOW® ship—carries just 130 guests on science-focused voyages from Antarctica to the High Arctic. Named for famed oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, the vessel pairs hydrodynamic efficiency with expedition-ready features: fold-out hydraulic viewing platforms, four rapid-loading Zodiac doors, and a dedicated science center that invites passengers to join real research projects. Inside, floor-to-ceiling glazing, warm Scandinavian woods, and an airy glass-walled atrium keep the ocean in constant view. This is adventure cruising in comfort, designed for travelers who value meaningful exploration over glitz.

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Ship Statistics

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2010

Launch Year

10944

Gross Tonnes

142

Length

18

Width

EUR

Currency

14

Max Speed (Knots)

264

Capacity

145

Crew

132

Cabins

Facilities

Accommodation

All 76 outward-facing cabins include ocean views, private bathrooms, ample storage, and individual climate control; approximately 85 percent feature a furnished balcony. Thoughtful details—Australian toiletries, USB charging ports, and personal gear lockers—create a cozy retreat after brisk landings.

Stateroom & Suite Categories

  • Captain’s Suite (≈ 45 m² / 479 ft² including balcony) – Located forward on Deck 7; the most spacious suite featuring a large lounge area, walk-in wardrobe, en-suite bathroom, and expansive private balcony.
  • Junior Suite (≈ 42–43 m² / 452–468 ft² including balcony) – Found on Deck 7; includes separate lounge area, private balcony, and enhanced amenities.
  • Balcony Stateroom Superior (≈ 29–35 m² / 314–379 ft² including balcony) – Located on Decks 4 and 6; spacious design with comfortable seating area and balcony access.
  • Balcony Stateroom Category A (≈ 24–28 m² / 259–301 ft² including balcony) – Situated on Decks 4 and 6; offers a larger layout and optimal positioning for stability.
  • Balcony Stateroom Category B (≈ 24–25 m² / 254–267 ft² including balcony) – Midship on Decks 4 and 6; includes convertible twin/king bedding and a seating area.
  • Balcony Stateroom Category C (≈ 21–25 m² / 225–267 ft² including balcony) – Located forward on Decks 4 and 6; features floor-to-ceiling windows and a private balcony.
  • Aurora Stateroom Triple Share (≈ 21–23 m² / 230–245 ft²) – Also on Deck 3, with porthole windows; designed for families or groups with three single beds.
  • Aurora Stateroom Twin Share (≈ 16–23 m² / 170–245 ft²) – Located on Deck 3 with porthole windows; ideal for expeditioners seeking simplicity and comfort.
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Dining

Culinary Philosophy

Meals celebrate fresh regional produce—King George whiting in Australia, Patagonian lamb in the south—paired with Australian and New Zealand wines. One-sitting, open-seating service fosters an expedition camaraderie that continues long after dessert.

Restaurants & Bars

  • Main Dining Room — panoramic venue serving buffet breakfasts and three-course lunches and dinners
  • Bistro & BBQ Deck — al-fresco grills on calm days; hearty post-landing lunches indoors when weather turns
  • Observation Lounge Bar — espresso by morning, Antarctic-themed cocktails at night
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Onboard Facilities

Neutral Nordic palettes, steel-blue textiles, and extensive glazing keep nature front-and-center. A full wrap-around deck and fold-out platforms deliver unobstructed wildlife views even in brisk winds.

Indoor & Outdoor Spaces

  • Glass-Atrium Lounge spanning two decks at the bow
  • Tiered Lecture Theater for science talks and films
  • Hydraulic Viewing Platforms on Deck 5 for eye-level photography
  • Two Jacuzzis and sheltered Sun Deck
  • Cardio-equipped Gym, sauna, and massage room
  • Mudroom with lockers and boot dryers beside four Zodiac doors
  • Open-bridge access when conditions allow
  • 24-hour Medical Clinic
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Deck Plans

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More Information About Sylvia Earle

Brand Heritage

Aurora Expeditions—founded in 1991 by legendary mountaineer Greg Mortimer—pioneered small-group adventure cruises. Sylvia Earle (launched 2022) is the line’s second purpose-built X-BOW® ship and the first named for a female scientist.

Design Description

The inverted Ulstein X-BOW® slices through swell, reducing pitch and fuel burn. Interiors echo coastal Australia with pale timbers, basalt-gray accents, and sustainable fabrics.

Unique Features

  • X-BOW® Hull for smoother, greener crossings
  • Hydraulic Viewing Platforms that fold out from the hull
  • Dynamic Positioning virtual anchoring to protect fragile seabeds
  • Science Center with microscopes and citizen-science lab benches
  • Redundant Return-to-Port propulsion for enhanced safety

Sylvia Earle´s itineraries

Emblematic Antarctica

Discover the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula on this 10-night luxury expedition aboard L’Boreal.

  • 8 days
  • Le Boréal
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