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New-build Aurora Expeditions ship on schedule for 2021 delivery

The build of Aurora Expeditions’ second state-of-the-art expedition ship is on schedule for delivery in autumn 2021.

The purpose-built Sylvia Earle features the cutting-edge inverted bow, a core design element that is essential to the speed, agility and fuel efficiency of the vessel.

A two-level glass-fronted lounge, incorporating a science centre, will offer views from the front of the ship.

The maiden voyage to Antarctica is due to take place in November 2021.

The bow design, in combination with Rolls-Royce dynamic stabilisers, claims to offer “unrivalled stability” on ocean crossings.

The sister vessel to Greg Mortimer, introduced by the Australian expedition line last October, will also feature an outdoor swimming pool utilising repurposing engine heat.

Aurora Expeditions ships claim one of the lowest polluting marine engines in the world, due to a combination of low energy consumption, high fuel-efficiency and a streamlined design.

The engine delivers an 80% reduction in emissions and can use virtual anchoring to hold its position instead of dropping anchor on a delicate sea floor.

On-board desalination plants convert seawater to fresh water that is safe to drink, enabling the ships to carry less fresh water on sea crossings, further reducing fuel consumption.

Chief executive Monique Ponfoort said: “It is really exciting to see a second X-BOW ship coming into market for Aurora Expeditions. Its innovative, eco-sensitive design captures the essence of small-ship expedition travel pioneered by Aurora Expeditions.

“Exploring the natural world is at the heart of what we do and elements of nature have been brought into the interior design of the Sylvia Earle. 

Education and conservation are integral to our DNA, and ensuring passengers immerse themselves in a destination is of paramount importance to us.

“Our goal has always been to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of the wilderness areas we travel to and we know that the Sylvia Earle is in a strong position to help us achieve those goals.”

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