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Aurora Expeditions’ inaugural Antarctica voyage on the Sylvia Earle underway

Aurora Expeditions’ newest purpose-built small ship, the Sylvia Earle, set sail on her maiden voyage to Antarctica from Ushuaia, Argentina on 10 December with CEO Michael Heath, an expedition team and around 120 expeditioners on board.

Aurora Expeditions’ newest purpose-built small ship, the Sylvia Earle, set sail on her maiden voyage to Antarctica from Ushuaia, Argentina on 10 December with CEO Michael Heath, an expedition team and around 120 expeditioners on board.

The full-capacity ship has crossed the infamous Drake Passage and is en route to Antarctica on Aurora Expeditions’ 12-day Spirit of Antarctica expedition.

Named for godmother and marine biologist and explorer Dr Sylvia Earle, the ship has a focus on education and conservation.

The Sylvia Earle features a revolutionary inverted bow design, creating smoother and faster crossings for tempestuous crossings that help increase passenger comfort and reduce fuel consumption. 

She will operate nine Antarctic voyages this season before heading to Costa Rica and the Panama Canal in April 2023.

Mr Heath said: “We are excited to be leaving Ushuaia and sailing to Antarctica on the Sylvia Earle as she explores the white continent for the first time.”

Aurora Sylvia Earle in Ushuaia Ania Baranek
The Sylvia Earle docked in Ushuaia. Image: Ania Baranek/Aurora Expeditions

“Our highly experienced Expedition Team will guide our passengers while we experience myriad excursions by water and land. Activities range from Zodiac cruises to walks and hikes, sea kayaking, scuba diving, snorkelling, photography, wildlife watching, camping and snowshoeing.”

“With our focus on education and conservation, our goal is to immerse expeditioners in some of the world’s most secluded and wondrous places in a relaxed, fun and informal onboard setting – all while creating lifelong ambassadors for the planet.”

For more info, head to auroraexpeditions.com.au