13
Captain's Suite
CSS
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.
Suites
13
10
Junior Suite
JSS
3
Balcony Stateroom Superior
SBSS
2
Balcony Stateroom Category A
BSAS
4
Balcony Stateroom Category B
BSBS
4
Balcony Stateroom Category C
BSCS
2
Balcony Stateroom Category A - Solo
BA1S
4
Balcony Stateroom Category B - Solo
BB1S
3
Balcony Stateroom Category C - Solo
BC1S
1
Aurora Stateroom Superior
SASS
1
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
AS3S
Captain's Suite
CSS
Junior Suite
JSS
Balcony Stateroom Superior
SBSS
Balcony Stateroom Category A
BSAS
Balcony Stateroom Category B
BSBS
Balcony Stateroom Category C
BSCS
Balcony Stateroom Category A - Solo
BA1S
Balcony Stateroom Category B - Solo
BB1S
Balcony Stateroom Category C - Solo
BC1S
Aurora Stateroom Superior
SASS
Aurora Stateroom Triple Share
AS3S
Dining
7
Dining
Varies
6
The Rockhopper Restaurant
Varies
1
Gentoo
Casual
Dining
Varies
The Rockhopper Restaurant
Varies
Gentoo
Casual
Life on board
Observation Points
Lounge
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 …
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
Bar
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
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 observatio …
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
Lounge
Experience the Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow, featuring huge windows and superb views to the front of the ship.
Observation Lounge
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.
Citizen Science
Education
Travel is always the best educator and we offer the chance to enrich your curiosity and expand your knowledge and understanding of the places we travel to. There is no better learning opportunity than being in the field with subject matter experts. Our Citizen Science Program is designed to be an interactive forum of like-minded travellers to share new discoveries and deepen their connection to the natural world in a relaxed, informal and fun env …
Citizen Science
Travel is always the best educator and we offer the chance to enrich your curiosity and expand your knowledge and understanding of the places we travel to. There is no better learning opportunity than being in the field with subject matter experts.
Our Citizen Science Program is designed to be an interactive forum of like-minded travellers to share new discoveries and deepen their connection to the natural world in a relaxed, informal and fun environment – both on board our ships, on our fascinating shore expeditions and in our zodiacs.
You can make a difference as we can provide invaluable data to the scientific community through you taking part. You too can become an ambassador for the protection of our majestic but fragile blue planet when you return home by sharing what you have learned.
What is Citizen Science?
Citizen Science is the collection and analysis of data relating to the natural world by members of the general public, typically as part of a collaborative project with professional scientists around the world.
Why Take Part?
Aurora Expeditions travels to some of the most unique and remote places on the planet. It is challenging for scientists to spend time in these areas, so any observations we contribute can be extremely valuable.
Gathering and sharing data is also a great way to engage and educate ourselves in pressing issues that concern us at a local, regional and global level.
How Does it Work?
Members of our passionate Expedition Team, together with a Citizen Science Coordinator, will be on hand to introduce and assist you with the projects being conducted on your voyage.
Expert guidance on the collection, storage and sharing of new scientific data will not only greatly enhance your voyage experience, but help you gain more knowledge of our ever-changing natural environment.
From the biggest mammals to the smallest marine creatures, the important part you play in our Citizen Science projects will help protect and preserve the planet for generations to come.
Our Projects
Our passengers can contribute to global research, collecting data in some of the most hard-to-reach, under-studied places on Earth. Our Citizen Science Program covers seven projects that span the globe, to advance understanding of marine ecosystems, birdlife, climate change and polar environments.
Please note: As some of our Citizen Science projects are location- and weather-dependent, we cannot operate all of the projects on all voyages. We will endeavour to include as many projects as possible on your voyage with ample time allocated to them on a day-to-day basis.
- HappyWhale uses photo ID to track individual whales. Guests can photograph encounters and log them on the database, improving knowledge about migration, population health and behaviour.
- eBird is the world’s largest biodiversity-related Citizen Science project, collecting bird observations from around the globe. Aurora passengers help to track species distribution and population changes.
- Our passengers are invited to record cloud conditions, with observations submitted to NASA GLOBE Cloud contributing to climate modelling.
- Our Citizen Scientists measure water clarity by lowering a Secchi disk, recording visibility, and sharing data with scientists that are studying the effects of climate change on ocean ecosystems. This builds a long-term global dataset, and each voyage contributes new observations from some of the least-studied waters in the world.
- Snow algae are microscopic organisms that grow on snow and ice, influencing melt rates. The Snow Algae Study engages passengers in photographing and recording snow algae sites, contributing to global research into how these organisms influence the Antarctic environment. This study is supported by the latest science from the National Snow and Ice Data Center.
- FjordPhyto invites passengers to explore phytoplankton diversity in polar fjords and coastal waters. Using simple tools, they collect samples to help scientists track phytoplankton health and its response to changing ocean conditions. These observations enhance understanding of the base of the marine food and how climate change is altering polar ecosystems. *Only available on Antarctic voyages.
- We are proudly the first expedition company to facilitate the development and execution of the TIPI pilot project, using thermal imaging to measure polar ice conditions. This project combines science, technology and storytelling to create robust datasets while engaging the public in polar research. We are collaborating with founder Joe Muise to deliver high-quality scientific outcomes.
Excursions
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 dedi …
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
Education
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
Lectures
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
Mud Room
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
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 flu …
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
Excursions
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.
Sauna & Spa
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
Gym
In between landings, enjoy complimentary access to the onboard gym.
Swimming Pool & Sun Deck
Pool
There are also two jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.
Deck plans
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
Cruises on Sylvia Earle
Across the Antarctic Circle
From £14,884 pp
Across the Antarctic Circle
From £21,715 pp
Across the Antarctic Circle
From £17,652 pp
Antarctic Explorer
From £17,278 pp
Antarctic Women’s Expedition: Fly the Drake
From £21,014 pp
Antarctica Active: All Inclusive Activities
From £12,503 pp
Antarctica Complete
From £25,869 pp
Costa Rica & the Panama Canal
From £10,335 pp
Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula
From £24,479 pp
Forever Irish
From £8,591 pp
Iceland & East Greenland: Through the Lens Photography
From £10,346 pp
Iceland: Circumnavigating the Land of Fire & Ice
From £12,078 pp
In Shackleton's Footsteps
From £21,766 pp
Jewels of the Arctic: Svalbard & East Greenland
From £15,068 pp
Jewels of the Arctic: Svalbard & East Greenland
From £12,667 pp
Jewels of the Arctic: Svalbard & East Greenland
From £17,511 pp
Las Palmas to Lisbon: The Sands of Time
From £7,048 pp
Northwest Passage
From £20,516 pp
Northwest Passage
From £17,247 pp
Northwest Passage
From £16,228 pp
Northwest Passage: The Northern Lights
From £16,876 pp
Norwegian Fjords & Svalbard Explorer
From £11,616 pp
Patagonia & Chilean Fjords
From £10,958 pp
South Georgia, Falklands & Antarctic Odyssey
From £25,989 pp
Spirit of Antarctica
From £12,328 pp
Spirit of Antarctica
From £11,907 pp
Spirit of Antarctica: Whale Migration
From £13,892 pp
Spitsbergen: Realm of Ice & Wildlife
From £8,546 pp
Svalbard Odyssey
From £11,696 pp
The Isles of the British Isles
From £9,748 pp
Wild Antarctica featuring the Weddell Sea: In Partnership with New Scientist Discovery Tours
From £22,163 pp
Wild Greenland: An Active Arctic Expedition
From £9,923 pp
Wild Scotland
From £9,146 pp
Wild Scotland
From £10,398 pp
Wild Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords
From £11,981 pp
Wild Scottish Isles & Norwegian Fjords
From £12,078 pp