Aurora Expedition’s second purpose-built expedition vessel honours the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Dr. Sylvia Earle. As the first woman to become chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and named by Time Magazine as its first “Hero for the Planet” in 1998 – this vessel pays tribute to Dr. Earle’s long-standing conservation efforts for marine protected areas and ocean wildlife. Like the Greg Mortimer ship, the Sylvia Earle also features the revolutionary Ulstein X-Bow® for faster, smoother sailing and contains a unique glass atrium lounge inside the bow for stunning panoramic views. The ship also features a heated swimming pool and jacuzzis, where you can admire impressive scenery while watching the world go by from the top deck.
Sylvia Earle
State of the Art Lecture Facilities
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.
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.
Library
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.
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.
Jacuzzis & Sun Deck
There are two jacuzzis on the top outside deck which offer amazing views of the world outside.
Gym & Sauna
During your voyage, enjoy complimentary access to the gym or visit our sauna, which we highly recommend after the Polar Plunge!
Dining
One of the most important parts of any expedition is the food! Whatever adventures the day holds, you will be fuelled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning/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 Welcome and Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetisers, followed by a 3 course meal.
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.