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Polar Bears in the Changing Arctic: New Scientist Discovery Tours

Dining
+
Beverages
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Wi-Fi
+
Shore excursions
£9,589pp
Voyage Code: AURORASPI003S
moon 7 nights
anchor Sylvia Earle
calendar 3 Jul '27

Cruise overview

Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the Arctic, a land of awe-inspiring beauty and untamed wilderness. Focusing on the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago, we slice through pack ice to find walrus and bearded seals, and sail along spectacular fjords surrounded by jagged mountains that pierce the sky. June is a prime time to witness the Arctic’s vibrant wildlife in action. Marvel at a plethora of species on land and at sea, from Arctic foxes and polar bears to marine giants like humpback and fin whales returning from their tropical wintering grounds. As ice retreats, the tundra blooms and towering cliffs echo with millions of nesting seabirds – a truly unforgettable natural spectacle. Whether you are travelling solo, as a couple or with friends, you will share this adventure with like-minded individuals who cherish the wonders of nature and science. This unique cruise will be co-hosted by New Scientist Discovery Tours, known for its amazing, science-filled tours, cruises and expeditions, all inspired by the journalism of New Scientist, the world’s most popular weekly science and technology publication. Now, in partnership with AE Expeditions, New Scientist Discovery Tours is setting sail to the polar regions to provide breathtaking and illuminating travel experiences that combine the extraordinary natural surroundings with a focus on science and discovery. Enjoy a vibrant program of expert-led talks, workshops, shore visits and Zodiac cruises, covering topics from polar science (including glaciology and marine biology) to the big-picture questions about life, the universe, and what it means to be human.

Oslo
Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen
Spitsbergen
Longyearbyen

Itinerary

Day 1

Oslo

Having made your way to Oslo, you will be met by a representative of AE Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the AE Expeditions hospitality desk to collect your luggage cabin tags and to speak with our ground operations team, who may have information to share with you about pre-embarkation or to provide you with information about where to dine, withdraw cash or purchase last minute items from a local pharmacy or supermarket.


Oslo is the capital of Norway and is also its largest city, situated at the head of Oslo Fjord and surrounded by hills and forests. Home to some 50 museums and full of galleries, cafés, a sculpture park and the Royal Palace, this vibrant city with its handsome 19th-century buildings and wide streets has much to offer. Its history dates back 1,000 years, and includes a rich seafaring heritage that ranges from the Viking era to Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon Tiki expedition. Discover more about this exciting city on our varied selection of excursions.

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Day 2

at-sea At sea

Day 3

Spitsbergen

Day 4

Spitsbergen

Day 5

Spitsbergen

Day 6

Spitsbergen

Day 7

Spitsbergen

Day 8

Longyearbyen

Aurora Stateroom Superiorfrom£9,589pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Cfrom£9,829pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Bfrom£10,389pp
Balcony Stateroom Category Afrom£11,109pp
Balcony Stateroom Superiorfrom£12,149pp
Junior Suitefrom£14,469pp
Captain's Suitefrom£16,469pp
Balcony Stateroom Category A - SoloCall for price
Balcony Stateroom Category B - SoloCall for price
Balcony Stateroom Category C - SoloCall for price
Aurora Stateroom Triple ShareCall for price

Aurora Stateroom Superior

from£9,589pp
Enquire now

Located on Deck 7, these comfortable Staterooms feature french balconies, floor to ceiling windows, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area.

Amenities

  • King or Twin Configuration
  • Lounge Area
  • TV
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Sofa Bed

Ship features

Sylvia Earle combines expedition capability with modern comfort, offering a luxurious base for adventure at the ends of the Earth.

Overview
Accommodation
Dining
Amenities
Wellness
Entertainment
Families
  • Ulstein X-Bow design for stability and efficiency
  • 15 Zodiacs for immersive exploration and landings
  • Four embarkation points for swift boarding
  • Glass atrium observation lounge at the bow
  • Expert-led lectures and workshops onboard
  • 70 staterooms with modern design and ensuite facilities
  • All-inclusive dining with complimentary drinks during dinner
  • Wellness centre with sauna, jacuzzi, and gym
  • Library and Citizen Science Centre for learning and engagement
  • Sustainable design with advanced environmental systems
Sylvia Earle Accommodation

Accommodation

Sylvia Earle offers 70 stylish staterooms, from porthole cabins to balcony rooms. Each features an ensuite, seating area, and flexible twin or double beds. Interconnecting options suit families and groups. Calming tones and natural textures reflect the ship’s ocean connection, creating a relaxing retreat after adventurous days.

Sylvia Earle Dining

Dining

The main restaurant serves freshly prepared meals inspired by local ingredients and global flavours. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner may be buffet or plated, with options for all dietary needs. House wines, beers, and soft drinks are included at dinner, while 24-hour tea, coffee, and snacks ensure guests are always refreshed.

Sylvia Earle Amenities

Amenities

Sylvia Earle’s standout feature is its two-storey glass atrium with panoramic views. Guests enjoy a library, Citizen Science Centre, and wellness zone with sauna, jacuzzi, and gym. Observation lounges offer ideal spots for wildlife watching or simply relaxing at sea in comfort and style.

Sylvia Earle Wellness

Wellness

The wellness centre provides a calm retreat with a sauna, jacuzzi, and massage treatments to ease tired muscles. The fitness area includes cardio equipment and free weights, with stretching sessions offered on select voyages to promote relaxation and recovery.

Sylvia Earle Entertainment

Entertainment

Entertainment focuses on learning and exploration. Daily lectures and workshops led by AE Expeditions’ experts cover wildlife, conservation, and polar science. Evenings in the lounge bring guests together to share stories and enjoy drinks in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Sylvia Earle Families

Families

Though popular with adults, Sylvia Earle welcomes adventurous families with children aged eight and up. Interconnecting cabins and flexible activities suit multi-generational travel, while guided excursions and onboard talks inspire curiosity about nature and discovery.