Travel company Aurora Expeditions has launched its second purpose-built small ship, Sylvia Earle, which is set to embark on its first voyage from Argentina to Antarctica on 10 December 2022.
Focusing on education and conservation, the new ship was named for well-known marine biologist and explorer Dr Sylvia Earle, and aims to be a floating ambassador for conservation.
“We are beyond thrilled to announce our newest ship, Sylvia Earle, is in the water and on her way to Antarctica,” Aurora Expeditions chief executive officer Michael Heath said.
“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.”
Alongside its more serious conservationist mission, Aurora hopes to keep guests entertained in a relaxed, fun and informal setting aboard the vessel.
Designed to accommodate an average 132 passengers per voyage, the Sylvia Earle boasts staterooms and suites with private balconies, multiple restaurants and bars, wellness areas, outdoor heated swimming pool and jacuzzis, a gym, spa and sauna, library lounge, science centre, lecture theatre, and expansive decks.
The ship also features the “revolutionary” Ulstein X-BOWâ, which Aurora describes as an inverted bow for “smoother and faster ocean crossings” that will reduce fuel usage.
Zodiac docks will help prepare passengers for off-ship excursions led by an experienced expedition team.
“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,” Aurora chief marketing officer Hayley Peacock-Gower said.
“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.”
The Karryon touch
Karryon founder and managing director Matt Leedham helped design the exterior of the new vessel at the request of former general manager of Aurora Expeditions Monique Poonfort.
Meanwhile, Aurora Expeditions has released its latest Arctic & Beyond 2024 program, with a newly expanded schedule.
Aurora is also offering travellers up to 25 per cent off when booking an Arctic or global destination before 31 December.
“Our new Arctic and Beyond 2024 program continues to deliver the best of the polar regions as well as multiple destinations in warmer waters,” said Peacock-Gower.
For more information on the Arctic 2024 program, click here. Or for more information on Aurora, visit www.auroraexpeditions.com.au.
