
Sylvia Earle
A floating ambassador for the planet.
On our small purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, connect with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet. Featuring the Ulstein X-BOW® design, it cuts through the swell for a smoother transit through waves while minimising its environmental impact.
Good for
All meals included, Complimentary beverages, Citizen Science Program, Wellness Centre access, Adventure excursions
What to expect from Sylvia Earle
Overview
A floating ambassador for the planet.
On our small purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, connect with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet. Featuring the Ulstein X-BOW® design, it cuts through the swell for a smoother transit through waves while minimising its environmental impact.
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. With a fully equipped Citizen Science Center, expert lecturers and a participative Citizen Science Program, our aim is to enrich your knowledge and connection to the places we explore.
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.
Accommodation
After a long day exploring the wonders of your destination, you need somewhere where you can simply relax and take a break from real life.
The Sylvia Earle is the perfect place to take five and recuperate after exploring – with creature comforts and wellbeing considered as part of the overall design. All staterooms∘ have private bathrooms, personal storage options, twin and double-bed configuration options, ample storage, international power outlets and a daily cabin service, as well as all the basic amenities that you'll need onboard.
Of course, the prospect of unexpected wildlife encounters is always on the table so your accommodation needs to have a view as well! Across four of the five stateroom categories you'll find large floor to ceiling windows∘ that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in roughly 80% of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean.
Another great feature of the accommodation on the Sylvia Earle are the interconnecting staterooms. If you're part of a family or group who want some privacy, but still want to be close to each other, these staterooms are the perfect option.
Regardless of your chosen stateroom, you can enjoy fully-serviced accommodation on the Sylvia Earle!
Captain's Suite
The largest of all our rooms, the singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite.
Inclusion
- 1 x mug per person
- 1 x drink bottle per person
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
- 1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica voyages only)
- 1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
- 1-hour spa treatment (per person)*
- Free stocked mini bar^
- 1x Free bottle of champagne per suite
^Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
Amenities
- Twin or king bed
- Private en-suite
- Full size window
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Private balcony
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- Seperate lounge area
- 42" flat-screen TV
Junior Suite
The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x mug per person
- 1 x drink bottle per person
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
- 1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica voyages only)
- 1 x free pair of binoculars per suite
- 1-hour spa treatment (per person)*
- Free stocked mini bar^
- 1 x free bottle of champagne per suite
*Valid on 1-hour massage or facial treatment only. Further details provided on board.
Amenities
- Twin or king bed
- Private en-suite
- Full size window
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Private balcony
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
- Seperate lounge area
^Mini bar is stocked only once.
Balcony Stateroom Superior
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x mug per person
- 1 x drink bottle per person
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
- 1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica voyages only)
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Amenities
- Twin or double bed
- Private en-suite
- Full size window
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Private balcony
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
Balcony Stateroom Category A
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are our premium rooms, and the most abundant on board. These staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Amenities
- Twin or king bed
- Private En-suite
- Balcony
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Sofa bed (can sleep 3rd passenger in select cabins)
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite
Balcony Stateroom Category B
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are our standard room, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Amenities
- Twin or king bed
- Private En-suite
- Balcony
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Sofa bed (can sleep 3rd passenger in select cabins)
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category C
Our 11 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These staterooms are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
Amenities
- Twin or king bed
- Private En-suite
- Balcony
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Sofa bed (can sleep 3rd passenger in select cabins)
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category A - Solo
Our 6 Balcony Stateroom A - Solo rooms are our premium rooms, these staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
Cabin inclusions
- A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
Amenities
- Private Ensuite
- Private Balcony
- Full Size Window
- Desk area
- Closet Space
- Room-controlled Thermostat
- Room Safe
- 42" Flat-Screen TV
- Mini Bar
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category B - Solo
Perfect for solo travellers, our two dedicated Balcony Stateroom B - Solo cabins are located at the fore of Deck 6, offering a comfortable retreat after a day of adventure.
Cabin inclusions
- A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
Amenities
- King bed
- Private Ensuite
- Private Balcony
- Full Size Window
- Desk area
- Closet Space
- Room-controlled Thermostat
- Room Safe
- 42" Flat-Screen TV
- Mini Bar
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Balcony Stateroom Category C - Solo
Our two Balcony Stateroom C - Solo cabins are our most economical option, offering all the essentials for a comfortable stay. Conveniently located throughout Deck 6, they provide a cozy retreat for solo travellers.
Cabin inclusions
- A 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only).
Amenities
- Private Ensuite
- Private Balcony
- Full Size Window
- Desk area
- Closet Space
- Room-controlled Thermostat
- Room Safe
- 42" Flat-Screen TV
- Mini Bar
*Please note mini bar items are chargeable in all staterooms except Junior Suite and Captain’s Suite.
Aurora Stateroom Superior
Located on Deck 7, these comfortable Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x mug per person
- 1 x drink bottle per person
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
- 1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica voyages only)
Amenities
- Twin or king bed
- Private En-suite
- Porthole window
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Sofa bed (can sleep 3rd passenger in select cabins)
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
There are two Aurora Stateroom Triples featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
Cabin Inclusion
- 1 x mug per person
- 1 x drink bottle per person
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
- 1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Amenities
- Twin single beds
- Private En-suite
- Porthole window
- Desk area
- Closet space
- Room-controlled thermostat
- Safe for storing valuables
- 42" flat-screen TV
Decks
Deck 8
- Observation decks
- Observation lounge
- Bar
- Top deck restaurant
- Elevator
- Seating area
Deck 7
- Bridge
- Elevator
- Gym
- Wellness Centre / Sauna
- Bar
- Swimming pool & sun deck
- Jacuzzis
- Junior Suite
- Aurora stateroom Superior
- Observation decks
Deck 6
- Upper glass atrium lounge
- Library
- Elevator
- Balcony stateroom (A,B,C)
- Balcony stateroom Superior
Deck 5
- Lower glass Atrium lounge
- Lecture room & lounge
- Assembly Station
- Reception
- Dining room
- Ship Shop
- Elevator
- Dining room
- Bar
- Citizen Science centre
Deck 4
- Elevator
- Captains Suite
- Balcony stateroom (A,B,C)
- Balcony stateroom Superior
- Expedition desk
- Main entrance
Deck 3
- Elevator
- Aurora Stateroom Superior
- Activity launching platform
- Zodiac Access Points
- Change room / Mudroom
- Medical Clinic
Kids and Teens
There are no dedicated children's facilities onboard the Sylvia Earle.
Gratuities
Gratuities/tips for crew are included in your voyage fare, to the value of USD$15 per person per day. It is at your discretion if you would like to tip outside of this. It is not necessary to tip the Expedition Team members.
Entertainment
When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Sylvia Earle? Plenty!
The Sylvia Earle is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!
Observation Points
Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Sylvia Earle is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past.
From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there are plenty of observation points to share around the ship!
Bars & Lounges
Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down.
The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with.
Library & Multimedia Centre
With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, plug in and organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends.
Choose from our range of informative non-fiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.
Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on Deck 7.
Glass Atrium Lounge
Experience the Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow, featuring huge windows and superb views to the front of the ship.Observation Lounge
Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on deck 8, the perfect place to relax and watch the incredible landscapes pass by, or spot unique polar wildlife.
Enrichment
One of the great benefits of travelling with AE Expeditions is the number of optional activities that you can participate in. From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of.
Aboard the Sylvia Earle there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!
Excursions
Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on weather conditions, it may be possible for multiple landings, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Sylvia Earle has been designed to carry 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore.
From four dedicated sea level launching platforms, transfers are quicker, safer and enable you to get closer to the action for a longer period of time. Just remember to charge your camera before you step onto the Zodiac!
Science Centre & Lounge
Learn more about the world we explore with our onboard naturalist and expedition team in our science centre, or enjoy superb views to the front of the ship.Lecture Theatre
On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to deepen your understanding of the region you’re visiting.
Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering topics as broad as history and culture, biology and climate change, but they have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate and entertain.
Mudroom
No need to take your wet expedition gear back to your cabin to dry. Keep your cabin warm and cosy by leaving your outer jackets and pants in the mudroom.
The mudroom is your launchpad for all shore excursions and activities. Here, you will have access to a locker when you can hang your gear up to dry, and store your boots between excursions.
Zodiac Launching Platform
Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Sylvia Earle can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings.
There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group of fluffy cute penguin chicks that we need a photo of!
Custom-Built Activity Platform
Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. On board the Sylvia Earle, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides.Dining
From the moment you step onto the Sylvia Earle, we aim to give you the best hospitality service possible. Starting with the official Captain's Welcome, as our guests, you're welcome to 24 hours complimentary coffee, tea and snack facilities in addition to a range of different menu options and courses for each meal.Dining
Whatever adventures the day holds, you will be fuelled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning and afternoon teas cooked by our onboard chefs.
Meals are a great time to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open seating dining area. Share stories with your fellow travellers and ask our expedition team questions that may have come up during the day.
Tea, coffee, and snacks are available 24 hours a day, and our chefs offer different menu options and courses for each meal. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers, and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild.
We also invite you to join your captain and expedition team for informal Captain’s Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetisers, followed by a 3-course meal.
The Rockhopper Restaurant
More information coming soon.
Gentoo
More information coming soon.
Health and Fitness
There is a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage∘ at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!
Sauna & Spa
You are welcome to visit the wellness centre during your voyage where you can use our sauna (which we highly recommend after the polar plunge!) or book a massage (additional cost applies).
Gym
In between landings, enjoy complimentary access to the onboard gym.
Swimming Pool & Sun Deck
There are also two jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.
Other Cruise Information
ClassCruise Type: ocean
Class:
Ship Size: boutique
Style: expedition
Operator Reference: aurora-expeditions
Nursery: none
Child Facilities: none
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