Sylvia Earle

On our small purpose-built ship, the Sylvia Earle, 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. Featuring the Ulstein X-BOW® design, it cuts through the swell for a smoother transit through waves while minimising its environmental impact.

• Length: 104.4m
• Breadth: 18.4m
• Draft: 5.1 m
• Ice-Class: 1A, Polar Class 6

• Propulsion: Tier 3 compliant engines
• Cruising Speed: 12 Knots
• Stabilizers: Rolls-Royce Aquarius 100 Zero-Speed Stabilizers

TECHNOLOGY & FUEL

• Ulstein X-BOW® hull, shore power, virtual anchoring, and heat recovery systems.
• SCR technology, ballast water treatment and HVO biofuel compatibility.

CO2 Emissions

The Ulstein X-BOW® hull improves hydrodynamic efficiency, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Shore-power capability and heat-recovery systems enhance energy efficiency by reducing onboard energy demand. SCR technology lowers NOx emissions, while successful HVO biofuel trials demonstrated approximately 90% lower fuel-related emissions compared with conventional marine fuel.

Waste Management

MARPOL-compliant waste treatment systems support responsible onboard operations. Advanced ballast water treatment helps minimize ecosystem impact before discharge, while reverse-osmosis desalination reduces reliance on port freshwater supplies. Refillable water stations, single-use plastic reduction initiatives, and eco-certified cleaning products contribute to a more sustainable onboard environment.

Citizen Science Programs

Sylvia Earle features a dedicated onboard Citizen Science Centre, enabling guests to participate in scientific initiatives throughout each voyage. Passengers contribute to wildlife and environmental monitoring, including whale identification, seabird observations, ocean-health studies, and microplastic sampling. Swan Hellenic collaborates with Reef Life Survey to support research on Antarctic marine biodiversity and ecosystem health, connecting exploration with meaningful scientific contributions.

Local First Initiative / Communities

Swan Hellenic’s Sylvia Earle reflects a commitment to ocean conservation and responsible exploration, inspired by the legacy of Dr. Sylvia Earle. The company supports collaboration with organizations such as Reef Life Survey, Oceanites, and Mission Blue, promoting marine protection, scientific awareness, and respect for the fragile environments and communities visited.

• 38.9m² (418.71 ft²)
• 2 guests (2 single beds, 1 double)
• En-suite bathroom
• Balcony
• Deck 7 – Front

• 29.2m² – 35.2m² (314.3ft² – 378.9ft²)
• 2 guests (2 single beds, 1 double)
• En-suite bathroom
• Balcony
• Deck 4 & 6 – Mid

• 18.8m² – 21.8m² (202.4ft² – 234.7ft²)
• 2 guests (2 single beds, 1 double)
• En-suite bathroom
• Balcony
• Deck 4 & 6– Fore & Aft

• 16.8m² – 21.6m² (180.8ft² – 232.5ft²)
• 2 guests (2 single beds, 1 double)
• En-suite bathroom
• Balcony
• Deck 4 & 6

• 20m² (215.3ft²)
• 3 guests (1 double bed + twin bed)
• En-suite bathroom
• Porthole
• Deck 3 – Front