Sylvia Earle

X-BOW™

The ship’s expeditions face some of the worst Mother Nature can throw at us. However, this won't be problem with the introduction of the patented X-BOW™, created by Norwegian ship designer ULSTEIN. As one of the leaders in marine engineering, ULSTEIN's X-BOW™ is an inverted bow concept that's been built on over 100 vessels in the shipping industry.

Hydraulic viewing platforms 

Although there is no doubt that you'll love the aesthetics of the Sylvia Earle, we are all here to admire the spectacular landscape and spot the elusive wildlife in their natural habitat. To ensure you get the best views possible, the new ship features unique viewing platforms, custom-built which fold out hydraulically for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds – make sure your camera is locked and loaded!

Zodiac launching platform

Zodiacs are a vital part of getting up close and personal on your adventure – sneaking into areas that the Sylvia Earle can't reach. On this new ship, there are specially designed launching platforms that enables us to load Zodiacs easily and quickly, allowing you to spend more time exploring on the two to three daily landings. There are 15 Zodiacs that are boarded from either side of Deck 3 (sea level), perfect for when there is a group of fluffy cute penguin chicks that we need a photo of!

Custom-built activity platform

Regardless of your destination, there will be a number of additional activities offered to allow you to see more of the environment. From kayaking and diving to climbing and ski touring, it's these optional activities that often leave the biggest impression on your trip as a whole. Onboard the Sylvia Earle, there is a spacious preparation and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with expert activity guides.

Environmentally friendly

Climate change and carbon emissions continue to be major issues that everyone needs to be aware of and actively managing. Preserving and protecting the environment with the upmost importance and this is reflected in several features on the Sylvia Earle. This includes reduced emissions into the air and sea, lower energy consumption, high fuel efficiency, reduced light pollution for minimal wildlife disruption and lower on-board plastic use. It's vital to also mention the state-of-the-art virtual anchoring technology of the X-BOW™, which means the ship can float anchorless while launching Zodiacs, kayaks etc, without disturbing delicate sea floor areas.

Safety features

Safety is always a critical element of polar operations, with the Sylvia Earle featuring the most up-to-date and concise safety technology across our fleet. This starts with the return-to-port equipment – not compulsory on a ship of this size – which duplicates the propulsion system. This enables the ship to maintain operating systems and comfort in the event of engine failure. Furthermore, the Sylvia Earle is Polar Code 6 compliant, holds BV class and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS requirements. It's also built with a Rolls Royce stabiliser system.  If there's an incident or accident during your adventure, the ship has an on-board, fully-stocked medical centre – where the trained medical team can provide necessary treatment in a timely fashion.  Safety continues to be an issue that our team takes very serious and the Sylvia Earle allows us to create an environment where you can concentrate on the brilliant landscape and wildlife, without worrying about your wellbeing.

Accommodation

After a long day exploring the wonders of your destination, you need somewhere where you can simply relax and take a break from real life.  The Sylvia Earle is the perfect place to take five and recuperate after exploring – with creature comforts and wellbeing considered as part of the overall design. All staterooms have private bathrooms, personal storage options, twin and double-bed configuration options, ample storage, international power outlets and a daily cabin service, as well as all the basic amenities that you'll need onboard.

Of course, the prospect of unexpected wildlife encounters is always on the table so your accommodation needs to have a view as well! Across four of the five stateroom categories you'll find large floor to ceiling windows that offer prime observation opportunities around the clock. Additionally, there are private balconies in roughly 80% of the staterooms, allowing you to watch the world float past and take in the salty air of the open ocean.

Another great feature of the accommodation on the Sylvia Earle are the interconnecting staterooms. If you're part of a family or group who want some privacy, but still want to be close to each other, these staterooms are the perfect option.

Regardless of your chosen stateroom, you can enjoy fully-serviced accommodation on the Sylvia Earle!

Captain's Suite

Stateroom & balcony combined size: 43.8m2 (471.5 ft2)
The largest of all the rooms, the singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite, you'll need to get in early to secure this suite. 

Junior Suite

Stateroom & balcony combined size: Up to 41.6m2 (447.8ft2)
The four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony. 

Balcony Stateroom Superior

Stateroom & balcony combined size: 29.2m2 - 35.2m2 (314.3ft2 - 378.9ft2)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superiors are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Located on Deck 4 and 6, the Staterooms feature floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area. Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathroom.

Balcony Stateroom Category A

Stateroom & balcony combined size: 19.5m² - 28.7m² (209.9ft² - 308.9ft²)
There are three categories of Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the stateroom size.
The 23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are premium rooms, and the most abundant on board. These staterooms are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator. 

Balcony Stateroom Category B

The 17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are a standard room, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These staterooms are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6. 

Balcony Stateroom Category C

The 11 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are the most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These staterooms are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.

Balcony Stateroom - Solo!

To support your solo travel adventures, from the 2026 Arctic and Beyond season, the ship will offer 2 dedicated Balcony Stateroom Category A, B & C - Solo cabins on every sailing, with no single supplement.

Aurora Stateroom Superior

Stateroom size: 19.9m2 - 20.8m2(214.2ft2 - 223.9ft2)
Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Aurora Stateroom Triple Share

Stateroom size: 22.67m2 (244ft2)
There are two Aurora Stateroom Triples featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms.