Aurora Expeditions has launched its second purpose-built ship, Sylvia Earle.

The ship, which is a sister to Greg Mortimer, will embark on its inaugural voyage from Ushuaia, Argentina, to Antarctica on 10 December.

Named after the renowned marine biologist, oceanographer, explorer and conservationist Dr Sylvia Earle, the vessel will act as a “floating ambassador for the conservation of the planet”, Aurora Expeditions said in a statement.

Sylvia Earle has been designed to accommodate an average of 132 passengers per voyage.

It features the Ulstein X-BOW, an inverted bow designed for smoother and faster ocean crossings, which helps to reduce fuel consumption.

Public spaces include multiple restaurants and bars, social relaxation and wellness areas, and an outdoor heated swimming pool, as well as a gym, spa and sauna, a library lounge, and lecture theatre.

Zodiac docks, a changing room and mudroom are also available, as is the Science Centre, described as “the hub for a variety of participative and educational citizen science programmes”.

Aurora Expeditions ‘beyond thrilled’

Aurora Expeditions CEO Michael Heath said: “We are beyond thrilled to announce our newest ship, Sylvia Earle, is in the water and on her way to Antarctica.

“We cannot wait to introduce her to our loyal trade and consumer partners worldwide and, of course, a new generation of global expeditioners in search of adventure, discovery and extraordinary life-changing experiences.”

The line’s chief marketing officer Hayley Peacock-Gower added: “Our goal is to immerse our expeditioners in some of the world’s most remote and fascinating places and, in doing so, create lifelong ambassadors for the planet.

“More than 30 years in the making, Aurora Expeditions has a track record for pioneering adventure and discovery – and respectful travel is at the core of our ethos.”

In February 2023, Aurora Expeditions will operate its Antarctic Climate Expedition cruise, taking place on Sylvia Earle.

The 12-day cruise, which will be led by Dr Earle, will “address the warming climate and loss of ice in the southern polar region”.

Image: Aurora Expeditions