Svalbard Odyssey on the Sylvia Earle

11 day expedition
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    Class of Ship

    Midsize Expedition Ship
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    Sustainability

    B-CORP, Climate Neutral, Ship to Shore Power, Science Centre, Dynamic Positioning (DP)
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    Passenger Berths

    132
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    Zodiacs

    15
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    Ice Class

    PC6 Rating
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
Class of Ship
Midsize Expedition Ship
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
B-CORP, Climate Neutral, Ship to Shore Power, Science Centre, Dynamic Positioning (DP)
/media/dx3mvpdd/bed-icon.png
Passenger Berths
132
/media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png
Zodiacs
15
/media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png
Ice Class
PC6 Rating

Expedition overview and highlights

  • Explore the Svalbard archipelago in depth, with flexible routing that maximises opportunities for wildlife viewing and wilderness exploration

  • Spot iconic Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, whales, reindeer, and nesting seabirds in their natural habitat

  • Experience the magic of the midnight sun, with extended daylight hours for photography, wildlife viewing, and exploration

  • Travel aboard the Sylvia Earle, a modern expedition vessel offering expert-led Zodiac excursions, lectures, and comfortable accommodations

Wild, windswept, and wonderfully remote, Svalbard is a place where the Arctic feels vast and alive. On this Svalbard Odyssey aboard the Sylvia Earle, you’ll journey deep into a land of sculpted glaciers, rugged fjords, and pack ice drifting beneath the midnight sun. With flexible itineraries that respond to nature’s rhythm, this expedition cruise offers the chance to encounter polar bears, walruses, whales, and seabird colonies in their natural habitat. From silent zodiac cruises to tundra walks led by expert guides, every moment brings you closer to the raw beauty and fascinating ecology of the High Arctic. It’s an unforgettable voyage through one of the world’s last true wildernesses.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

Having made your way to Oslo, check in at our group hotel at Oslo Airport. Please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.

The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Airport Hotel, Oslo Gardermoen

This morning, please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to the airport for our charter flight to Longyearbyen for embarkation. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. In Longyearbyen, explore the town on a guided excursion tour.

On the drive to Camp Barentz, located in Advent Valley, your guide will give you an introduction to Longyearbyen’s fascinating history. Once at Camp Barentz we enjoy a presentation in the large ‘lavvo’ - a traditional building common in northern Norway. You will also have the opportunity to meet the friendly huskies and perhaps pick up some souvenirs. A visit to the Svalbard Museum is included back in town before embarking the vessel in the late afternoon.

After the tour, you will be transferred directly to the pier to embark in the late afternoon. Settle into your cabin before attending important safety briefings and enjoy the thrill of departure as we ‘throw the lines’ and set sail.

Note: the excursion is contingent on the arrival time of our charter flight to Longyearbyen.

Svalbard offers Arctic wilderness at its best. The members of our experienced Expedition Team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to tailor our day-to-day itinerary, choosing the best options, based on the prevailing weather, sea-ice conditions and the possibility of encounters with wildlife.

Phenomenal fjords, magnificent mountains ranges, and a polar desert rich in fossils, set the stage for heroic tales of early exploration. See walrus hauled-out on sea ice or on beaches. On land, we stretch our legs on walks across tundra carpeted in brightly coloured wildflowers. We visit towering cliffs noisy with nesting guillemots and puffins, and scree slopes that hold Svalbard’s largest little auk colonies. Most memorable will be encounters with the majestic polar bear on pack ice.

If you have chosen an optional activity such as kayaking, you will have an opportunity to enjoy that activity when conditions allow. For those who are enthusiastic to participate in a polar plunge, as soon as conditions are suitable, you will hear the announcement to prepare for an exhilarating dip – a memory you will savour for years to come.

During the early morning, we cruise into Longyearbyen and disembark at approximately 8.00 am. Farewell your Expedition Team and enjoy some free time before transferring to the airport for your return charter flight to Oslo to continue your journey.

Note: the arrival time in Oslo is contingent on the approved allocated flight slot of our charter flight to Longyearbyen, which we expect to receive in February 2025.

Fares & Departure Dates

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 Aurora Stateroom Superior 

Aurora Stateroom Superior 410 Sylvia Earle 2895
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Located on Deck 7, these comfortable Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two twin beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 185 sq ft.
Windows Full size window
Balcony French balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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Room size: 17.2m² - 18.1m² (185.1ft² - 194.8ft²)

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 Balcony Stateroom C (Forward / Aft) 

Balcony Stateroom Category C 601 Sylvia Earle 2908
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11 Balcony Stateroom C rooms are most economical balcony cabins, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These staterooms are scattered throughout Deck 4 & 6.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 181 sq ft.
Windows Full size window
Balcony Private balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4 & 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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Room size: 16.8m² - 21.6m² (180.8ft² - 232.5ft²)

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 Balcony Stateroom B (Off Midship) 

Balcony Stateroom Category B 603 Sylvia Earle 2904
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17 Balcony Stateroom B rooms are the Sylvia Earle's standard rooms, 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.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 203 sq ft.
Windows Full size window
Balcony Private balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4 & 6
Suitable for Families, groups, couples, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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Room size: 18.8m² - 21.8m² (202.4ft² - 234.7ft²)

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 Balcony Stateroom A (Midship) 

Balcony Stateroom Category A 610 Sylvia Earle 2899
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23 Balcony Stateroom A rooms are the ship's 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.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 226 sq ft.
Windows Full size window
Balcony Private balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4 & 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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Room size: 21m² - 28m² (226ft² - 301.4ft²)

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 Balcony Stateroom Superior 

Balcony Stateroom Superior 616 Sylvia Earle 2909
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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.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 1 room
Footage 285 sq ft.
Windows Full size window
Balcony Private balcony
View Ocean view
Location Decks 4 & 6
Suitable for Couples, groups of two, solo passengers
Accessibility Wheelchair accessible
Amenities Private ensuite, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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Room size: 26.4m² - 31.2m² (284.2ft² - 335.8ft²)

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 Junior Suite 

Junior Suite 705 Sylvia Earle 2917
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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.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 420 sq ft.
Windows Full size window
Balcony Private balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 7
Suitable for Couples, groups of two
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, separate lounge area, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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Cabin inclusions: a 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only), 1 x free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini Bar (stocked only once), a free bottle of champagne per suite, a gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite.

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 Captain's Suite 

Captain's Suite 420 Sylvia Earle 2913
Captain's Suite 420 Sylvia Earle 2915
Captain's Suite 420 Sylvia Earle 2912
Captain's Suite 420 Sylvia Earle 2911
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The largest of all 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.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds One double or two single beds
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 437 sq ft.
Windows Full size windows
Balcony Private balcony
View Ocean view
Location Deck 4
Suitable for Couples, groups of two
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, lounge area, walk-in wardrobe, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
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 Aurora Stateroom Triple 

Aurora Stateroom Triple 307 Sylvia Earle 2898
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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.

Capacity Up to 3
Beds One double or two single beds plus an third twin bed
Rooms 1 room
Footage 215 sq ft.
Windows Porthole window
Balcony None
View Ocean view
Location Deck 3
Suitable for Groups of three, families, solo passengers
Accessibility None
Amenities Private ensuite, mini bar, 42" flat-screen TV, room safe, closet space, desk area, room-controlled thermostat
More details

Cabin inclusions: a 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only), 1 x free pair of binoculars per suite, free stocked mini Bar (replenished as needed), a free bottle of champagne per suite, a gratuity of $15 USD per person per day for the crew is included with each suite.

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About the Sylvia Earle

AE Expeditions Sylvia Earle, Staffa, Scotland, Pia Harboure

Introducing our new ship, the Sylvia Earle. A floating ambassador for the planet. Launching in December 2022, we invite you to join us on our purpose-built ship the Sylvia Earle in her inaugural season to Antarctica. Connect with like-minded travellers in a meaningful way on perspective-altering voyages to some of the most remote, unique and spectacular places on the planet.The Sylvia Earle is a floating ambassador for the conservation of the planet. Paying tribute to Dr. Sylvia Earle and six pioneering conservationists with public decks honouring their contributions and shining a light on their important conservation causes.Certified 100% Climate Neutral, with a fully equipped Citizen Science Centre, expert lectures and participative Citizen science programs, to enrich your knowledge and connection to the places we travel to.The Sylvia Earle is a comfortable base camp for adventure. With a maximum of 132 expeditioners, our aim is to get you off ship experiencing the natural environment as much as possible and our smaller groups also mean we can tread lightly, making a positive impact to the environment.Each of the vessel’s public decks bear the names of six pioneering female conservationists – Dr. Carden Wallace AM, Joanna Ruxton, Sharon Kwok, Bernadette Demientieff, Dr. Asha de Vos and Hanli Prinsloo – along with a deck dedicated to Dr. Earle herself. The scientists are inspiring leaders in their fields, and as part of the deck theming, will educate our expeditioners on the impressive and important conservation work they continue to do.

From the moment you step onto the Sylvia Earle, we aim to give you the best hospitality service possible. Starting with the official Captain's Welcome, as our guests, you're welcome to 24 hours complimentary coffee, tea and snack facilities in addition to a range of different menu options and courses for each meal. 

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, Dining Room, Sylvia Earle, Richard I'Anson-1

Dining

One of the most important parts of any expedition is the food! Whatever adventures the day holds, you will be fuelled-up with hearty meals and delicious morning/afternoon teas cooked by our onboard chefs.

Meals are a great time to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open seating dining area. Share stories with your fellow travellers and ask our expedition team questions that may have come up during the day.

Tea, coffee and snacks are available 24 hours a day, and our chefs offer different menu options and courses for each meal. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild.

We also invite you to join your captain and expedition team for informal Captain’s Welcome and Farewell drinks, with complimentary beverages and cocktail appetisers, followed by a 3 course meal.

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, The Rockhopper Restaurant, Deck 8, Sylvia Earle, Pia Harboure-1

The Rockhopper Restaurant

More information coming soon.

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, Gentoo Restaurant, Deck 5, Sylvia Earle, Pia Harboure-1

Gentoo

More information coming soon.

When you’re relaxing during a sea day or you have a little downtime on the ship between excursions, what is there to do onboard the Sylvia Earle? Plenty!The Sylvia Earle is also decked out with other facilities for your enjoyment. There is a library on Deck 5 with books and maps and a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!

AE Expeditions, Passengers use hydraulic viewing platforms onboard Greg Mortimer, Antarctica; Scott Portelli

Observation Points

Let's face it – you don't want windowless rooms when travelling around some of the most beautiful locations around the world. This is why the Sylvia Earle is designed with plenty of dedicated observation spaces – ideal for keen bird spotters, wildlife watchers and those wanting to watch the scenery go past.

From the indoor 180-degree lounge and outdoor 360-degree open deck, both on deck 8, to the 270-degree open sundeck on level 7, there are plenty of observation points to share around the ship! 

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, Blue Hope Bar, Deck 8, Sylvia Earle, Pia Harboure-1

Bars & Lounges

Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down.

The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with.

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, The Library, Sylvia Earle, Richard I'Anson-2

Library & Multimedia Centre

With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, plug in and organise your photos or play board games with newfound friends.

Choose from our range of informative non-fiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals, novels and a selection of children’s books and board games.

Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on Deck 7.

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, Sylvia Earle Observation Deck, Benjamin Tan and Masano Kawana

Glass Atrium Lounge

Experience the Glass Atrium Lounge inside the bow, featuring huge windows and superb views to the front of the ship.
AE Expeditions, Greg Mortimer - Observation Deck 1

Observation Lounge

The Observation Lounge can be located on deck 8.

One of the great benefits of travelling with AE Expeditions is the number of optional activities that you can participate in. From kayaking and skiing to diving and climbing, these are one-in-a-lifetime opportunities that you need to take advantage of.Aboard the Sylvia Earle there is a specially designed launching platform for all activities, a concept overseen by our activity experts. This area also includes individual lockers in the expansive mudroom and rapid drying areas for wetsuits so you can quickly get warm after exploring in the elements!  

AE Expeditions Hiking, Scoresbysund, East Greenland, Matt Horspool-1 (1)

Excursions

Although the ship is fun, the real enjoyment comes from the many shore excursions that are available. Depending on weather conditions, it may be possible for multiple landings, taking a look at everything from rock formations and ancient ruins to cute groups of penguins. We know time is of the essence in these wild locations, so the Sylvia Earle has been designed to carry 15 Zodiacs, which means you can maximise your time on shore.

From four dedicated sea level launching platforms, transfers are quicker, safer and enable you to get closer to the action for a longer period of time. Just remember to charge your camera before you step onto the Zodiac!

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, The Sylvia Earle, Science Centre, Bartosz Stróżyński-1 (1)

Science Centre & Lounge

Learn more about the world we explore with our onboard naturalist and expedition team in our science centre, or enjoy superb views to the front of the ship.
AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, Lecture Theatre, Sylvia Earle, Richard I'Anson-1 (1)

Lecture Theatre

On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to deepen your understanding of the region you’re visiting.

Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering topics as broad as history and culture, biology and climate change, but they have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate and entertain.

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, Mudroom, Sylvia Earle, Richard I'Anson-1 (1)

Mudroom

No need to take your wet expedition gear back to your cabin to dry. Keep your cabin warm and cosy by leaving your outer jackets and pants in the mudroom.

The mudroom is your launchpad for all shore excursions and activities. Here, you will have access to a locker when you can hang your gear up to dry, and store your boots between excursions.

Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Exterior 0 (1)

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! 

Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Exterior 1 (1)

Custom-Built Activity Platform

Regardless of your destination, we offer a number of additional activities 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. On board the Sylvia Earle, there is a spacious prep and loading platform for these activities and more – designed in consultation with our expert activity guides. 

There is a Wellness Centre complete with gym equipment, sauna and spa. Feeling a little sore after walking around all day? Treat yourself to a massage∘ at the Wellness Centre and feels the aches disappear!

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, The Sauna, Sylvia Earle, Pia Harboure-1

Sauna & Spa

You are welcome to visit the wellness centre during your voyage where you can use our sauna (which we highly recommend after the polar plunge!) or book a massage (additional cost applies).

AE Expeditions, SYLVIA EARLE, The Gym, Sylvia Earle, Pia Harboure

Gym

In between landings, enjoy complimentary access to the onboard gym.

AE Expeditions Syliva Earle - Pool, Credit. Pia Harboure

Swimming Pool & Sun Deck

There are also two jacuzzis on the top outside deck with amazing views of the world outside.

Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Deck 8

Deck 8

  • Observation decks
  • Observation lounge
  • Bar
  • Top deck restaurant
  • Elevator
  • Seating area


Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Deck 7

Deck 7

  • Bridge
  • Elevator
  • Gym
  • Wellness Centre / Sauna
  • Bar
  • Swimming pool & sun deck
  • Jacuzzis
  • Junior Suite
  • Aurora stateroom Superior
  • Observation decks

Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Deck 6

Deck 6

  • Upper glass atrium lounge
  • Library
  • Elevator
  • Balcony stateroom (A,B,C)
  • Balcony stateroom Superior

Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Deck 5

Deck 5

  • Lower glass Atrium lounge
  • Lecture room & lounge
  • Assembly Station
  • Reception
  • Dining room
  • Ship Shop
  • Elevator
  • Dining room
  • Bar
  • Citizen Science centre

Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Deck 4

Deck 4

  • Elevator
  • Captains Suite
  • Balcony stateroom (A,B,C)
  • Balcony stateroom Superior
  • Expedition desk
  • Main entrance


Aurora Expeditions Sylvia Earle Deck 3

Deck 3

  • Elevator
  • Aurora Stateroom Superior
  • Activity launching platform
  • Zodiac Access Points
  • Change room / Mudroom
  • Medical Clinic

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