Aurora Expeditions’ second cruise ship Sylvia Earle started the maiden voyage to Antarctica (roundtrip from Ushuaia Argentina via Drake Passage) on December 10th.
The line's Chief Executive Officer, Michael Heath is onboard along with ~120 passengers on the 12-day “Spirit of Antarctica” expedition.
Heath said they were excited to be leaving Ushuaia behind them and sailing to Antarctica on Sylvia Earle, as she explored the white continent for the first time. He added the vessel was looking amazing and performing well.
Sylvia Earle has an Ulstein X-BOW, a revolutionary inverted bow design, for operating across tempestuous waters creating smoother/faster crossings that help increase passenger comfort and reduce fuel consumption.
Public spaces onboard include multiple bars, restaurants, a library lounge, a lecture theater, social relaxation and wellness areas, a gym, a sauna, an outdoor heated swimming pool and jacuzzis, as well as expansive decks offering panoramic views.
According to Michael Heath, with their focus on education and conservation, their goal was to immerse their travelers "in some of the world’s most secluded and wondrous places such as the Antarctic Peninsula in a relaxed, fun and informal onboard setting."
“Our highly experienced Expedition Team will be guiding and enriching our passengers while we experience myriad excursions by water and land, with enthralling activities ranging from Zodiac cruises to walks and hikes, sea kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling, photography, wildlife watching, camping and snowshoeing. All while creating lifelong ambassadors for the planet.”
Sylvia Earle will operate 9 voyages visiting the Antarctic Peninsula this season prior to heading to Costa Rica and the Panama Canal in April 2023.