*** CHILE VISAS ***
Please note that Australian passport holding guests visiting Chile for 72 hours or longer, will require a visa for Chile that also requires a Chilean sponsor. This visa is currently very difficult for Australians to obtain, and we recommend Australian passport holders choose a cruise without Chile stays of longer than 72 hours. Other nationalities may or may not be subject to these conditions.
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As Antarctica laps up the last of the summer sun and the landscape bathes in dappled light, its inhabitants show no signs of slowing down. Sail across the famed Drake Passage to and from Antarctica, admiring spectacular seabirds and approaching the ice as the explorers of old did – by sea. With one eye on the sky, watching for skuas, terns or cormorant chicks, you will also need one eye on the water`s surface. This time of year is when humpback whales are peaking in numbers and when you may see penguin chicks heading out for their first swim.
Highlights:
– Hone your ice and wildlife photography skills.
– In Zodiacs, explore quiet bays and coves in search of wildlife and marvelling at dazzling icebergs.
– Observe extraordinary wildlife including migrating whales and moulting penguins.
– Sail the Chilean Fjords, keeping watch for the many seabirds and marine wildlife including dolphins, sea lions and whales preparing to return to warmer climates for the winter.
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Spirit of Antarctica Cruise featuring the Chilean Fjords Cruise & Stay package includes:
– Transfer from airport to hotel*
– 1 night`s hotel accommodation in Punta Arenas with breakfast plus welcome reception at group hotel (dinner not included)
– Half day city tour in Punta Arenas prior to embarkation including transfer to the port
– Luggage transfer from your hotel to ship
– 11 night Antarctica expedition cruise aboard the Sylvia Earle from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia
– Daily cabin service
– All meals, snacks, tea and coffee onboard
– Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner onboard
– Captain`s Welcome and Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages
– All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises
– Educational lectures and guiding services from expedition team
– Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
– A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket (yours to keep)
– Complimentary use of muck boots during the voyage
– Comprehensive pre-departure information
– Port surcharges, permits and landing fees
– Transfer from port to airport*
Exclusions:
-Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination charges
-Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges
-Hotels and meals not included in itinerary
-Optional excursions not included in the itinerary
-Optional activity surcharges
-All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, wi-fi, email or phone charges.
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PRICING:
The fares shown here are full brochure fare. Please contact us for your best current offer. All rates are in USD – U.S Dollars.
Solo Travellers – 50% solo supplement. Contact us for pricing and availability.
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Note: A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Special Conditions
Special Validity Dates
Cruise Itinerary
| Date | Activity | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| 13 Mar 2025 | Punta Arenas, Chile |
Hotel | |
| 14 Mar 2025 | Punta Arenas, Chile |
Embark | |
| 15 Mar 2025 | Chilean Fjords |
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| 16 Mar 2025 | Drake Passage |
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| 17 Mar 2025 | Drake Passage |
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| 18 Mar 2025 | Antarctic Peninsula |
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| 19 Mar 2025 | Antarctic Peninsula |
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| 20 Mar 2025 | Antarctic Peninsula |
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| 21 Mar 2025 | Antarctic Peninsula |
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| 22 Mar 2025 | Antarctic Peninsula |
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| 23 Mar 2025 | Drake Passage |
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| 24 Mar 2025 | Drake Passage |
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| 25 Mar 2025 | Ushuaia, Argentina |
Disembark |
All itineraries and ports of call at the discretion of the cruise line subject to local weather conditions and may change without notice.
11 Night Cruise sailing from Punta Arenas to Ushuaia aboard Sylvia Earle. Hotel stay pre-cruise in Punta Arenas.
Day 1 Arrive Punta Arenas/Hotel
Arrive in Punta Arenas, where you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred with your fellow expeditioners to your assigned pre-voyage hotel. If you are already in Punta Arenas, we ask you to make your way to your hotel. Check-in is from 3.00 pm.
Upon arrival, please visit the Aurora Expeditions hospitality desk in the lobby between 3.00 pm and 7.00 pm, to collect your luggage cabin tags, and confirm if you wish to join our Punta Arenas tour tomorrow. Our team will confirm details regarding your embarkation day, answer any questions and provide you with information about where to dine or purchase last minute items.
Expeditioners arriving after 7.00 pm will find a welcome pack waiting for them at check-in. We ask you to visit our hospitality desk tomorrow between 8.00 am – 10.00 am.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Day 2 Embarkation
This morning, enjoy breakfast and check-out. Please ensure your cabin luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Take your cabin luggage to hotel reception, prior to, or at check-out. Your luggage will be stored and transferred directly to the port for clearance, to be placed in your cabin ahead of your arrival on board. Please keep any valuables or personal items with you throughout the day.
The township of Punta Arenas was founded in the 1500s and is the gateway to the Strait of Magellan. It was originally established as a prison colony and later the biggest commercial and supplying centre of all vessels travelling between the Pacific and Atlantic Ocean. The town has since made a name for itself as the central base for exploring Patagonia and Antarctica. At first glance, Punta Arenas may not seem like much of a destination, but if you have time to walk around, you’ll discover many unique and interesting things to see in this southern town. One thing you may notice is the colonial-style architecture, including Palacio Sara Braun, built in the late 1800s. At the centre of Punta Arenas’ old town is Plaza Muñoz Gamero, the park-like square surrounded by tall trees and a lush vegetation. In the middle of the plaza is a statue dedicated to Ferdinand Magellan, discoverer of the Strait of Magellan and the first European to cross the Pacific Ocean. We recommend a walk along the waterfront promenade, from which you will see the island of Tierra del Fuego and the Strait of Magellan in the distance. You will also be able to see the Maritime Monument, representing the first settlers in the area, many shipwrecks abandoned from old trading days, and you may also be lucky enough to see the cormorants taking off over the sea.
At approximately 4.00 pm, you will be transferred to the port for embarkation.
Once aboard, you’ll have time to settle into your cabin before our important mandatory briefings. As the ship pulls away from port, we’ll gather on the deck to farewell Punta Arenas and commence our adventure to Antarctica.
This evening get to know your fellow expeditioners and friendly expedition team and crew at a welcome dinner to celebrate the start of a thrilling adventure to Antarctica.
Days 3 Chilean Fjords
Sail along the legendary Beagle Channel and enjoy splendid scenery of fjords and channels flanked by majestic mountains. Keep watch for the many seabirds and marine wildlife including dolphins, sea lions and whales preparing to migrate to Antarctica to fatten up on plentiful krill. In the evening, we exit Nassau Bay, sail past Cape Horn and prepare to enter Drake Passage.
Days 4-5 Drake Passage Crossing
As we commence the Drake Passage crossing, we make the most of our time getting comfortable with the motions of the sea. Our expedition team prepare you for our first landing with important wildlife guidelines and biosecurity procedures and start our lecture program to help you learn more about Antarctica’s history, wildlife and environment.
Our wildlife experiences begin as we enjoy watching and photographing the many seabirds, including majestic albatrosses and giant petrels following our vessel. On sea days, you may can enjoy the facilities on board the vessel including the gym, wellness centre or the relaxing in one of the observation lounges.
Nearing the South Shetland Islands and the tip of the Antarctic Peninsula on the afternoon of day four, the excitement is palpable with everyone converging on one of the observation decks watching for our first iceberg. The ocean takes on a whole new perspective once we are below the Antarctic Convergence and are surrounded by the surreal presence of floating ice sculptures. The memory of your first big iceberg sighting is likely to remain with you for a lifetime. Time and weather permitting, we may attempt our first landing in Antarctica by late afternoon.
Days 6-10 Antarctic Peninsula
It is almost impossible to describe the feeling of arriving in Antarctica. Spotting your first iceberg and taking a deep breath of some of the most fresh, crisp air on earth is an experience that will stay with you forever.
Once we arrive, the western side of the Antarctic Peninsula and the South Shetland Islands are ours to explore, and we have a host of choices available to us. Because we are so far south, we will experience approximately 18-24 hours of daylight and the days can be as busy as you wish.
Your experienced expedition team, who have made countless journeys to this area, will use their expertise to design your voyage from day to day, choosing the best options based on the prevailing weather, ice conditions and wildlife opportunities.
We generally make landings or Zodiac excursions twice a day. You will want to rug up before joining Zodiac cruises along spectacular ice cliffs or among grounded icebergs, keeping watch for whales, seals and porpoising penguins. Zodiacs will also transport you from the ship to land, where you can visit penguin rookeries, discover historic huts and explore some of our favourite spots along the peninsula.
While ashore we aim to stretch our legs, wandering along pebbly beaches or perhaps up snow-covered ridgelines to vantage points with mountains towering overhead and ice-speckled oceans below. If you have chosen an optional activity, you will have the option to do participate in the activity whenever conditions allow, and of course keen polar plungers will have the chance to fully immerse themselves in polar waters – conditions permitting! The polar plunge can take place at any time during the voyage, so listen out for the announcement from the expedition team and get ready for the most exhilarating dip of your life!
In addition to Zodiac cruises and shore excursions, we may ship cruise some of the narrow, dramatic straits separating offshore islands from the mainland, or linger in scenic bays to watch whales travelling or feeding. This is a great time to enjoy the observation lounge or make your way to the bridge (open at the captain’s discretion) for uninterrupted views of Antarctica in all its splendour. Listen out for the creak and deep rumble of glaciers as they carve into sea. Take a quiet moment to experience the wonder of the pristine paradise of the splendid white continent.
Days 11-12 Drake Passage Crossing
Enjoy a final morning landing in the South Shetland Islands before we re-enter the Drake Passage for our return journey to South America.
With lectures and film presentations to complete our Antarctic experience, there is still plenty of time to enjoy the magic of the Southern Ocean and the life that calls it home. There is time for reflection and discussion about what we have seen and experienced. We hope you become ambassadors for Antarctica telling your family, friends and colleagues about your journey to this magical place, advocating for its conservation and preservation so that they might one day visit the region to experience what you have been lucky to see and do here.
As we approach the tip of South America, our Captain may sail close to legendary Cape Horn, weather and time permitting.
Day 13 Disembark Ushuaia
During the early morning, we cruise up the Beagle Channel, before quietly slipping into dock in Ushuaia, where we will be free to disembark around 8.00 am. Farewell your expedition team and fellow passengers as we all continue our onward journeys, hopefully with a newfound sense of the immense power of nature.
On disembarkation, passengers on flights departing prior to 14:00 will be transferred directly to Ushuaia Airport, while those fortunate enough to be continuing their travels in this spectacular region of the world, will be transferred to their post-voyage Ushuaia accommodation. Passengers flying after 14:00 will have time to explore Ushuaia, prior to an afternoon airport transfer, the details of which will be provided onboard prior to disembarkation.
Note: At the conclusion of the voyage, we do not recommend booking flights departing Ushuaia prior to 12.00 pm on the day of disembarkation in case there are delays.
Sylvia Earle honours the highly accomplished marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer, Sylvia Earle. As the first female chief scientist of the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and named by Time Magazine as its first Hero for the Planet in 1998 – this vessel pays tribute to Sylvia’s long standing conservation efforts for marine protected areas and ocean wildlife. Sylvia Earle will be actively involved in the development of her namesake.
Crossing the notorious Drake Passage or the Denmark Strait, our expeditions face some of the most intense conditions nature can throw at us. The Greg Mortimer is at the cutting edge of nautical technology: robust, powerful and up to the task.
Ship Profile & Stats
- Maiden Voyage: 2021
- Passenger Capacity (dbl): 126
Ship Amenities
- In Room Safe
- Room Controlled Thermostat
- Flat Screen Television
- 1 x mug per person
- 1 x drink bottle per person
- 1 x 3-in-1 polar jacket per person (polar voyages only)
- 1 x drybag backpack per person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Ship Facilities
- State of the art lecture facilities
- Library
- Mudroom
- Swimming Pool
- Spa
- Jacuzzi’s
- Gym
- Main Dining Room
- Activity launching platform
- Ship shop
- Observation lounge
- Top deck restaurant
- Bars
- Upper glass atrium lounge
- Lower glass atrium lounge
- Medical centre
- Lift(s)
At Aurora Expeditions wilderness is a passion they share with others by taking small groups of like-minded people to some of the most isolated places on our planet. From the polar regions of Antarctica and High Arctic to the wilds of Costa Rica, Scotland, Patagonia and more, Aurora Expeditions aims to create special expedition-style cruises that foster an understanding and appreciation of our natural world.
The Australian-owned adventure company was initially established in the early 1990¹s by adventures Greg Mortimer and Margaret Werner when they began sharing their love of remote places by organising ship-based trips for keen friends and fellow travellers. Their style to push the boundaries¹ has remained unchanged and they are proud of the fact that their spirit of adventure and exploration is as strong as ever. Their adventure activities are proof of this; with many of their voyages offering polar scuba diving, sea kayaking, camping and mountain climbing.
Deeply committed to education and preservation of the environment, Aurora Expeditions were the founding member of both the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO). All their voyages have expert expedition staff who will help to unlock the wonders of these special places.
Select the Deck to view detail.
Select the Cabin to view detail.
Cabin & balcony combined size: 21m² – 24.8m²
We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size.
Our 23 Balcony Stateroom – A cabins are our premium cabin, and the most abundant on board. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Balcony
Private en suite
Desk Area
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 21m2 – 24.8 m2
Our 17 Balcony Stateroom – B Cabins are our standard cabin, many fitted with interconnecting features making them great for families or groups. These cabins are located at the fore and aft of Deck 4 and 6.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Balcony
Private en suite
Desk Area
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 21m2 – 24.8m2
Our 11 Balcony Stateroom – C cabins are our most economical, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 6.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Balcony
Private en suite
Desk Area
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Aurora Stateroom Superior are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear.
Located on Deck 7, the Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
French Balcony
Private en suite
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
There are three Aurora Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that’s close to the action.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Private en suite
Porthole Window
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
There are four Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they’re close to the mudroom and loading platforms.
*Please note the Aurora Stateroom Triple cabins are only available on certain departures
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed
2 Twin Beds
Private en suite
Porthole Window
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 28m2 – 37.7m2
With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Balcony Stateroom Superior cabins 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 bathrooms.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Balcony
Private en suite
Desk Area
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
Some of these rooms are equipped with wheelchair accessible bathrooms.
Cabin & balcony combined size: 44.5m2
The largest of all our 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.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Balcony
Private en suite
Desk Area
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
1 Free pair of binoculars per suite
1 hour spa treatment per person*
Free stocked mini bar^
Gratuities/tips for crew included – to the value of AU$ 15 per person per day
1 Free bottle of champagne per suite.
*Valid on 1-hour massage or facial treatment only. Further details provided on board.
^Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
Cabin & balcony combined size: 42m2 – 43.5m2
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.
All cabin images of the Sylvia Earle are artist’s impressions only and final results may vary.
Cabin Features:
1 King Bed or 2 Twin Beds
Balcony
Private en suite
Desk Area
Room Controlled Thermostat
In Room Safe
42″ Flat Screen Television
1 Mug Per Person
1 Drink Bottle Per Person
1 3 in 1 Polar Jacket Per Person (Polar Voyages only)
1 Drybag Backpack Per Person (Costa Rica & Panama Canal only)
1 Free pair of binoculars per suite
1 hour spa treatment per person*
Free stocked mini bar^
Gratuities/tips for crew included – to the value of AU$ 15 per person per day
1 Free bottle of champagne per suite.
*Valid on 1-hour massage or facial treatment only. Further details provided on board.
^Balcony Suites and Junior Suites stocked once only, not replenished. Captain’s Suite replenished as needed.
* Unless otherwise noted all pricing is on a per person twin share basis. All prices based on cash payment - credit card fees may apply. Cruise deposit, amendment and cancellation conditions apply. Special conditions may apply - please ask for full details at time of enquiry. All passports, vaccinations and visas are the responsibility of the travelling guest to secure prior to departure from Australia. Any pricing not in Australian Dollars will be converted on the day of payment into the relevant currency based on our daily rate of exchange. Please note that many of the prices shown on this website are not shown in real time. Whilst we endeavour to keep our pricing as up-to-date as possible, the advertised prices shown here may differ slightly from the live prices in our booking system. All pricing and offers are subject to availability at time of booking. Whilst all information is correct at the time of publication, offers are subject to change. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. Please submit any data errors/omissions you may notice on this site.
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