Aurora Expeditions’ Sylvia Earle Ship Review [2025]

When it comes to expedition cruising, few ships are as well-equipped for polar exploration as Aurora Expeditions’ Sylvia Earle.

Named after Sylvia Earle, the first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, this vessel pays tribute to her extensive contributions to marine conservation.

Purpose-built for adventure, this state-of-the-art vessel combines cutting-edge technology with comfort, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking to explore the remote and breathtaking landscapes of the polar regions.

We recently spent three weeks onboard the Sylvia Earle in Antarctica, South Georgia, and the Falkland Island, navigating some of the most awe-inspiring regions on Earth.

From the penguin-speckled beaches of the Falklands to the wildlife-rich shores of South Georgia and the ice-covered landscapes of the Antarctic Peninsula, this journey was an unforgettable deep dive into some of the planet’s last true wilderness areas.

But what really sets this ship apart? Is the Ulstein X-BOW® design as smooth as advertised? How does the onboard experience compare to other expedition vessels?

And most importantly – is the Sylvia Earle worth booking for your next polar cruise adventure?

Having worked in Antarctica since 2017, Alesha has clocked up 7 trips to the Peninsula on 5 different vessels, and I have visited Antarctica 15 times on 6 vessels.

So it’s safe to say we have a fair bit of experience down here.

In this detailed Sylvia Earle review we break down everything you need to know about the ship, including cabin options, dining, onboard amenities, expedition logistics, and the overall experience.

Whether you’re planning a future trip or simply curious about what it’s like to sail on one of the world’s most advanced expedition vessels, this guide has you covered.

Let’s dive in.

SPECIAL DEAL: Thinking about booking a trip with Aurora Expeditions? We have negotiated a very special deal for readers of NOMADasaurus for any of their polar trips! Email us at hello@nomadasaurus.com to find out more.

Key Takeaways

• The Ulstein X-BOW significantly reduces movement in rough seas, making crossings like the Drake Passage more comfortable. Passengers experience less motion sickness compared to traditional expedition…