A floating ambassador for the planet.
The Sylvia Earle is Aurora Expeditions’ flagship state-of-the-art expedition vessel, purpose-built for discovery, comfort, and responsible travel to some of the world’s most remote natural environments. A floating ambassador for the conservation of the planet, the Sylvia Earle pays tribute to marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering women in conservation – Dr. Carden Wallace AM, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos and Hanli Prinsloo – with public decks honouring their contributions.
Carrying a maximum of 130 expeditioners, the Sylvia Earle serves as a comfortable base camp for adventure, designed so you can experience the natural environment as much as possible in smaller, more intimate groups.
Key Features & Design
Purpose-Built for Exploration: Designed with the advanced Ulstein X-BOW® hull, the Sylvia Earle offers a smoother ride with reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions, enhancing both performance and environmental efficiency.
Small Ship Advantage: With a maximum capacity of around 130 expeditioners spread across 71 cabins, she delivers an intimate, community-focused expedition experience.
Expedition Ready: The ship carries 15 Zodiacs with four dedicated boarding doors for rapid, safe access to shore and wildlife-rich areas. Mudrooms and gear preparation areas support activities like kayaking, diving, skiing, and more.
- Industry-Leading Safety Systems: The Sylvia Earle includes return-to-port redundancy and an onboard medical clinic designed for remote expeditions.
Onboard Experience
The Sylvia Earle focuses on comfort, education, and connection:
Enrichment & Science: A fully equipped Citizen Science Center and lecture facilities deepen understanding of local ecosystems, culture, and conservation.
Social & Relaxation Spaces: Guests can gather in spacious lounges, observation areas, and the library. The wellness deck features a gym, sauna, heated pool, and two jacuzzis—perfect for unwinding between excursions.
Dining & Community: Meals are served in open-seating dining spaces, encouraging connection and camaraderie among expeditioners, with tea, coffee, and snacks available throughout the day.
Cabins
Guests can choose from a range of comfortable staterooms and suites, most with stunning ocean views and private balconies. Categories include:
Captain’s Suite and Junior Suites (largest, premium options)
Balcony Staterooms in multiple tiers
Superior & Triple Staterooms for flexible group or family travel
All cabins offer ensuite bathrooms, climate control, entertainment systems, and thoughtful storage space.
Attachments
Gallery
