Sylvia Earle

This purpose-built expedition vessel honours the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. As the first female 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 Sylvia’s long standing conservation efforts for marine protected areas and ocean wildlife.
Named in honour of renowned marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer Dr Sylvia Earle, this purpose-built expedition vessel reflects a strong connection to ocean conservation and scientific discovery. Launched in 2022, the ship accommodates a maximum of 130 guests and combines expedition capability with contemporary comfort. Its innovative Ulstein X-BOW® design delivers smoother ocean crossings, improved fuel efficiency and enhanced stability, making it ideally suited to remote polar and wilderness destinations.

One of the vessel's most distinctive features is the striking Glass Atrium Lounge located in the bow, where floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife. Guests can also enjoy a heated swimming pool, two outdoor jacuzzis, a sauna, gym, library, observation lounges and a dedicated Science Centre that supports learning and citizen science initiatives throughout the voyage. With spacious public areas, expert-led presentations and multiple viewing locations around the ship, there are plenty of opportunities to relax, socialise and deepen your understanding of the regions being explored.

Designed with expedition travel at its core, the vessel enables guests to spend as much time as possible in the natural environment. Efficient Zodiac embarkation points, purpose-built expedition facilities and dedicated activity preparation areas support a wide range of exploration opportunities, from shore landings and wildlife encounters to optional adventure activities on selected voyages. The ship's smaller passenger capacity also allows for a more intimate and immersive expedition experience.

The vessel's operator is widely regarded for its commitment to sustainable travel and environmental stewardship. As a certified B Corporation, it supports a range of ocean regeneration, marine habitat restoration and conservation initiatives around the world. These efforts are complemented by low-impact ship design, fuel-efficient technology, virtual anchoring systems that help protect sensitive seabed environments, and operational practices aimed at reducing waste and minimising environmental impact. This focus on responsible exploration makes voyages aboard the Sylvia Earle particularly appealing to travellers seeking a more environmentally conscious way to experience some of the world's most remote destinations.

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Sylvia Earle Deckplan

Sylvia Earle deck plan

Specifications

  • Cabins: 71
  • Number of passengers: 132
  • Crew & Staff: 60
  • Guide to Guest Ratio: 1:8
  • Decks: 6
  • Length: 104m
  • Beam: 18.4m
  • Draft: 5.1m
  • Year Built: Launching in 2022
  • Speed: 10-12 knots

Cabin Details

Aurora Triple Stateroom

22.67m2 (244ft2) located on deck 3, 2 single beds, private en-suite bathroom, porthole window, desk area, closet space, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat-screen TV.

Aurora Triple Stateroom
Aurora Triple Stateroom
Aurora Superior Stateroom

20.1-22.3sqm, located on deck 7, french balcony, double bed, private en-suite bathroom, desk area, 42" flat screen TV, room-controlled thermostat, safe, closet space.

Aurora Superior Stateroom
Aurora Superior Stateroom
Balcony Stateroom (C)

21 - 24.8sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4 & 6, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, floor to ceiling window, desk space, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.

Balcony Stateroom (C)
Balcony Stateroom (C)
Balcony Stateroom (B)

21 - 24.8sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4 & 6 (fore and aft), twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, floor to ceiling window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.

Balcony Stateroom (B)
Balcony Stateroom (B)
Balcony Stateroom (A)

21 - 24.8sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4 & 6 (close to internal stairs/elevator), twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, floor to ceiling window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.

Balcony Stateroom (A)
Balcony Stateroom (A)
Superior Balcony Stateroom

30.5 - 40.2sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, full size window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe & 42" flat screen TV.

Superior Balcony Stateroom
Superior Balcony Stateroom
Junior Suite

38.9sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 7, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, full size window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe, 42" flat screen TV & separate lounge area.

Junior Suite
Junior Suite
Captain's Suite

44.5sqm (cabin + balcony), located on deck 4, twin or double bedding, private en-suite bathroom, full size window, desk area, closet space, private balcony, room-controlled thermostat, safe, 42" flat screen TV & separate lounge area.

Captain's Suite
Captain's Suite

Frequently asked questions about Sylvia Earle

The minimum age for guests travelling on the Sylvia Earle is 8 years.
The standard single supplement is 50% of the twin-share fare, subject to cabin availability and voyage-specific conditions. We often have a range of promotions for singles on this and other vessels so please contact us and our specialist team will be happy to send you the details.
Yes, the Sylvia Earle vessel allows cabin sharing for solo travellers to avoid paying extra solo fees. You are paired with a same-gender roommate who is also willing to share. This option is available for most cabin types.
Included expedition experiences generally feature guided shore landings via Zodiac, Zodiac cruises and wildlife viewing, expert-led lectures and presentations from the expedition team, and access to onboard facilities including the library, observation lounges, gym, sauna and jacuzzis. Guests can also enjoy educational and interpretive activities focused on the destination’s wildlife, history and environment. Some adventure activities, such as kayaking, diving, snowshoeing and skiing, may be available on selected voyages; however, these are typically optional and may incur an additional charge.
The Sylvia Earle carries a maximum of 130 passengers and features 71 cabins across 8 decks.
Yes. Wi‑Fi is available onboard. As the vessel operates in remote regions, connection speeds and reliability may vary depending on location and satellite coverage
Cabins are equipped with Australian/New Zealand-style power outlets (Type I) and USB charging points. International travellers may require a travel adaptor.
The vessel offers modern facilities and an elevator, making it more accessible than many expedition ships. However, guests should be aware that expedition cruising often involves Zodiac boarding, wet landings and walking on uneven terrain ashore. Travellers with limited mobility should discuss their individual circumstances before booking to determine whether the voyage is suitable for their needs.