New AE Expeditions ship heads to Antarctica on maiden voyage

AE Expeditions’ second purpose-built ship has embarked on its maiden voyage to Antarctica.

Sylvia Earle is heading from Ushuaia, Argentina, with chief executive Michael Heath and 120 passengers on board.

The 132-passenger ship has an inverted bow design called the ‘Ulstein X-Bow’ to help it sail “across tempestuous waters creating smoother and faster crossings”, the line said.

Public spaces include restaurants and bars, wellness areas, an outdoor heated swimming pool and Jacuzzis, a gym, sauna, a library lounge, and lecture theatre.

Heath said: “We are excited to be leaving Ushuaia behind us and sailing to Antarctica on the Sylvia Earle, as she explores the white continent for the first time.

“She is looking amazing and performing well. With our focus on education and conservation, our goal is to immerse our expeditioners in some of the world’s most secluded and wonderous places such as the Antarctic Peninsula in a relaxed, fun and informal onboard setting.”

Sylvia Earle will operate nine voyages in Antarctica this season before heading to Costa Rica and the Panama Canal in April 2023.