Aurora Expeditions, in partnership with Dr Sylvia Earle and Ocean Geographic, is excited to invite you aboard the “Arctic Climate Expedition 2025”
The BIG ACE – the Bears, Ice, Glaciers, Arctic Climate Expedition 2025 begins from Longyearbyen, Svalbard, and navigates northward to go beyond 80°N in pursuit of the remaining Arctic ice shelf. The voyage will aim to proceed (weather permitting) eastward towards Kritøya, circling around Austfonna, one of the largest glaciers on the planet. Throughout, the aim will be to encounter and observe a diverse array of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, puffins, and arctic foxes, amidst the stunning backdrop of sea ice platforms and calving glaciers. With Svalbard boasting an astounding 2100 glaciers, this expedition promises an unparalleled natural spectacle.
Hosted by Dr Sylvia Earle in her 90th birthday year, this expedition will honour Dr Earle’s lifelong advocacy for the world’s oceans by inviting changemaker passengers to use their own voice, contributing their various talents or ‘superpowers’ to instigate meaningful conversations and spur action to safeguard the planet for future generations.
BIG ACE seeks to lobby for the protection of the Arctic, foster a collective appreciation of our planet’s fragility and mitigate the impact of climate change through the power of the arts. The Arctic, where warming occurs at a rate four to five times greater than the global average, is undergoing significant degradation.
As a Certified B Corporation™, we’re committed to driving positive change and contributing to a more sustainable future. The Arctic Climate Expedition 2025 is a key initiative towards fulfilling that goal – building ambassadors for the conservation and preservation of our planet.
BIG ACE isn’t confined to scientists and researchers; this epic project calls for an assemblage of 110 global citizens and we welcome people of all ages, nationalities, educational and professional backgrounds. Each participant will be asked to contribute their specialised expertise for a collective cause, using their unique voice. Whether through storytelling, film production, poetry, music, art, education, lobbying, or other avenues, every participant will play a vital role in championing the Arctic’s cause.
Days 1-2 Arrive in Oslo & BIG ACE Conference
Day 3 Fly to Longyearbyen
Day 4 Embarkation
Days 5–12 Svalbard
Day 13 Disembark in Longyearbyen, fly to Oslo
Please note:
Vessel Type: Luxury Expedition
Length: 104 meters
Passenger Capacity: 126
Built / Refurbished: 2020/2021
Launching in October 2021, the Sylvia Earle honours renowned oceanographer and marine conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle. As the first female chief scientist of NOAA and a Time Magazine Hero for the Planet, Sylvia’s legacy lives on through this state-of-the-art expedition vessel designed for sustainability and exploration.
Built for challenging waters like the Drake Passage, the Sylvia Earle features the cutting-edge Ulstein X-BOW® for smoother sailing, reduced fuel consumption, and better speed through rough seas. Inside the bow, the stunning Glass Atrium Lounge offers panoramic views.
Between landings, enjoy the heated saltwater open-air pool, jacuzzis, gym, sauna, and optional massages in the Wellness Centre. The ship is fitted with advanced safety features, including dual propulsion systems and a fully equipped medical clinic for remote travel.
A champion of responsible travel, the ship runs one of the world’s cleanest marine engines, reducing emissions by up to 80%. Virtual anchoring protects delicate seabeds by avoiding traditional anchors.
Expedition-ready, the Sylvia Earle includes four sea-level Zodiac platforms for fast and safe transfers to shore. Adventure gear is prepped in spacious, expert-designed activity areas with lockers and drying zones for wetsuits and dry suits—perfect for kayaking, diving, and other optional activities.
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.
Price: $26990 AUD
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.
Price: $29180 AUD
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 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.
Price: $29910 AUD
Cabin & balcony combined size: 21m2 - 24.8 m2 We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. These are classified as A, B or C depending on the cabin size. 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.
Price: $31370 AUD
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.
Price: $33410 AUD
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.
Price: $36330 AUD
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.
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.
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