By
Alex Smith |
Australian expedition cruise company Aurora Expeditions is to sail its first ‘Antarctic Climate Expedition’ in 2023, with the invitation-only voyage to be led by oceanographer and conservationist Dr. Sylvia Earle.
Guests can now register interest for the expedition, which will be limited to about 100 passengers. They will comprise thought leaders in the fields of science, art, education and economics, along with conservationists and corporate executives.
“This will be a climate expedition like no other that can have a real impact on the future of our relationship with life on Earth,” said Earle. “February 2023 will be a moment in time of a gathering of great minds, a brains trust, for commitments to resolve what it takes to move from where we are now to a better future. This can be your legacy; you can help change the current course from a catastrophic outcome to a healthy, habitable planet.”
The 12-day ‘Antarctic Climate Expedition’ starts on 13 February 2023, with two nights and a full-day conference in Ushuaia, Argentina, followed by a nine-day voyage onboard Aurora Expeditions’ new ship, Sylvia Earle and a post-voyage night in Punta Arenas, Chile. The itinerary will feature the Drake Passage, Aitcho Islands off the Antarctic Peninsula, Hope Bay, Brown Bluff, Enterprise Island and Lemaire Channel, among other destinations.
During the expedition, those onboard will attempt to develop strategies to reduce carbon emissions in response to the consequences of environmental change. Expedition members will help formulate 23 resolutions to inspire changes and achieve global net-zero emissions by 2050. Other outcomes will include a series of lectures, a feature documentary, exhibitions and a book.
“The stories and images from this game-changing expedition aim to encourage the way people see and understand the Antarctic,” said Monique Ponfoort, CEO of Aurora Expeditions. “We invite you to be part of the legacy that helps bring about a healthy, sustainable and habitable planet. This is a unique opportunity to discover the beauty and majesty of Antarctica, the last pristine wilderness of penguins, seals, seabirds, glaciers and icebergs, in the company of Dr. Earle and her special guests.”
Named in honour of Earle, the new purpose-built Sylvia Earle is designed for expedition voyages, featuring an Ulstein X-Bow that reduces vibrations during sailing. The ship also features a modern lecture lounge, a Citizen Science Centre, multiple observation areas, Zodiac launching platforms, mud room, gym, spa and wellness centre.