Arctic / Antarctica
CNH Tours - Cultural and Natural Heritage Tours
Why this trip?
THE NORTHWEST PASSAGE
Let us find a trip most suited to your expectations
While we select one particular trip each year to highlight on our website and for which we at times arrange to have a tour leader, the ship / dates / itinerary we choose may not necessarily correspond with your particular interests / availability. Thankfully, there are several ships that offer variations on a Northwest Passage trip each year, but trying to figure out exactly what the offer is on ones' own can be a bit confusing / overwhelming. If our selected trip does not align with your parameters, CNH Tours and our Polar Destination Expert can help you find a Northwest Passage trip that does. Reach out to us to start a conversation: danna@cnhtours.com
Why the Northwest Passage?
The fabled Northwest Passage was just beyond reach for centuries, as explorer after explorer sought but failed to find the short route from Europe to Asia. Frobisher, Hudson, Franklin, Cooke... all tried, none succeeded.
On this trip, you'll follow in their wake, but in a very comfortable ship. You'll get a first-hand impression of the challenges they faced in their small, ill-fitted wooden vessels. You'll see the land and icescapes they would have seen. Beyond that, you'll have the opportunities to meet the locals in a more congenial way and spot the wildlife that call the high north home.

Dates / Price / Booking / What's Included
DATES (TWO DEPARTURES IN 2027)
- 30 Aug - 13 Sept 2027 (Starts in Toronto, ends in Calgary)
- 12 - 27 Sept 2027 (Starts in Calgary, ends in Toronto)
PRICE:
Balcony Category B: US$19,495.00
What's Included
- All transfers as mentioned in the itinerary.
- One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Toronto/Calgary on Day 1 (depending on your trip).
- One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Calgary/Toronto on Day 15(depending on your trip).
- Charter flight from to Nuuk on Day 2.
- Charter flight from Resolute on Day 15.
- On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service.
- All meals, snacks, tea, coffee, soft drinks and juices during voyage.
- Beer and house wine with dinner.
- Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
- All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
- Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
- Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
- One 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket.
- Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
- Comprehensive pre-departure information.
- Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
- Gratuities during excursions and enrichment program for local guides, drivers, venues and local sites.
- Wi-Fi. Please note we travel to remote regions and therefore the connection can be unreliable.
Additional Inclusions for CNH Tours Guests Only:
- Complimentary carbon offsets
- Complimentary US$200,000 emergency medical evacuation insurance
- The services of your dedicated Polar Destination Expert - on hand to answer your questions and help you prepare for your trip.
What's not included
- International or domestic flights – unless specified in itinerary.
- Transfers – unless specified in itinerary.
- Airport arrival or departure taxes.
- Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
- Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
- Hotels and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
- Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
- All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to, alcoholic beverages (outside of dinner service), on board gratuities*, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, email or phone charges.
*A $15 USD per person per day gratuity for the crew is automatically added to your onboard account. It is at your discretion if you would like to remove the tip (or adjust the amount) when you settle your bill. It is not necessary to tip the expedition team members. This gratuity amount is included for suites as part of their ‘Suite Benefits’.
Itinerary: Starting in Toronto - 30 Aug. '27
DATES: 30 August - 13 September. Starts in Toronto, ends in Calgary

PLEASE NOTE: Ice and weather conditions are constantly changing in the Arctic. Though the icepack is at its minimal level during our trip there, and while our ship has a very high ice rating, some places may be inaccessible. Your expedition leader and the captain of the ship will decide, on a day to day basis, where the ship will sail to, and where activities can take place. Your safety is priority #1.
Day 1 Arrive Toronto
Having made your way to Toronto, take the complimentary hotel shuttle and check in at our group hotel at Toronto Airport. Please visit the Aurora 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 procedures and the charter flight to Nuuk tomorrow. You will receive Aurora Expeditions cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Accommodation: Westin Toronto Airport Hotel (or similar)
Day 2 Fly to Nuuk, embarkation
Please ensure that your luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board.
After breakfast at the hotel, board our charter flight to Nuuk, where the Sylvia Earle awaits. After embarkation, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew.
Day 3 Sisimiut
After a morning sailing north towards the Arctic Circle, we arrive in Sisimiut, Greenland’s second largest town. Sisimiut is located approximately 54 kilometres (33.5 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, meaning that during summer, you can experience the midnight sun here. The town is famous for the old blue church with the gate made of whale bone. In the cosy museum next door to the church, you will find an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house as well as exhibits of local history and early life in Greenland.
Approximately 4,500 years ago, the Saqqaq culture arrived from Canada and settled in the area. They lived here for approximately 2,000 years, after which they mysteriously disappeared from the area. The Dorset culture arrived around 500 CE and stayed until the 1200s until they were replaced by the Thule culture, and today, the majority of the population of Sisimiut are descendants of the Thule culture.
Day 4 Ilulissat
In the afternoon we arrive in Ilulissat. Known as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’, this region produces some of the most dazzling icebergs found anywhere on Earth. Hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord viewpoint and stand in awe of its immensity. Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Glacier, is the most productive glacier – not only in Greenland but the entire Northern Hemisphere. It produces 20 million tonnes of ice each day, all floating into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay.
Days 5-6 Northwest Greenland expedition cruising
Explore the remote northern reaches of West Greenland, where traditional Inuit settlements cling to the rugged coastline and towering icebergs drift through the deep, clear waters. Every day presents new possibilities, guided by your expedition team, who will hunt for the perfect location to explore the stunning fjord systems by Zodiac. Vast fjord systems such as Uummannaq Fjord, offers endless opportunities for adventure, every corner revealing jaw-dropping views, monumental icebergs, and vibrant rock formations that beg to be explored. Whether you’re cruising silently through the ice-choked waters, hiking across the colourful tundra, or visiting one of the remote communities that dot the coast, the options for discovery are limitless. Kayakers can paddle among the floating icebergs while keeping an eye out for humpback and minke whales. With the spirit of true expedition cruising, this region invites you to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Greenland’s northern frontier.
Day 7 At Sea
Find a spot in one of our many observation lounges and enjoy the spectacular surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region that you’re travelling through.
Day 8 Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
After clearance into Canada, we hope to visit Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), a captivating Inuit community nestled on the northern tip of Baffin Island. Surrounded by towering ice-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine fjords, this remote outpost offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. As you step ashore, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local Inuit, whose deep connection to the land is evident in their culture and lifestyle. Immerse yourself in their traditions through engaging cultural encounters and gain insights into their unique perspective on life in the Arctic.
Days 9-14 Northwest Passage expedition cruising
In genuine expeditionary style, our itinerary for the following days is heavily dependent on weather conditions and unpredictable sea ice. The following places are some that we hope to visit.
Devon Island (Tallurutit)
At a latitude of almost 75° degrees north, we are now truly in the High Arctic. Here, nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of wildlife, giving the area the moniker ‘wildlife superhighway’ of the Arctic. Devon Island (Tallurutit) is the largest uninhabited island on Earth and features stunning geology, with flat-topped mountains and glacial valleys giving Devon Island its unique character. We hope to visit Dundas Harbour to enjoy offers walks on undulating tundra, and perhaps some birdwatching. A dilapidated Royal Canadian Mounted Police outpost and remnants of a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post can be found here. In the bay, walruses are often present. Other possible places that we might visit include Croker Bay and Maxwell Bay.
Maxwell Bay (Tasiujaq)
Maxwell Bay is a broad, sheltered inlet that offers outstanding opportunities for exploration both on land and by sea. The surrounding tundra landscapes provide excellent hiking, with sweeping views of the rugged coastline and inland valleys. Wildlife is abundant in this remote area: muskoxen and caribou roam the open terrain, while polar bears are occasionally seen along the shoreline or on ice floes. The sheltered waters of Maxwell Bay are a haven for marine mammals, including harp seals, ringed seals, and bearded seals. Walruses are sometimes spotted hauled out on the ice or rocky beaches, adding to the rich wildlife experience. Birdlife is also notable, with seabirds such as glaucous gulls and northern fulmars often seen soaring overhead. The bay’s numerous coves and inlets create a sense of discovery at every turn, making it a rewarding destination for Zodiac cruises and shore landings.
Beechey Island (Iluvilik)
At the western end of Devon Island lies Beechey Island (Iluvilik), where we plan to land. Named after Frederick William Beechey, the island is a designated Canadian National Historic Site. During the Franklin expedition of 1845–46, Franklin attempted to sail through the Northwest Passage with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, with perilous results – three of his men are buried here. Roald Amundsen landed at Beechey Island in 1903, during the first successful voyage by ship to fully transit the Northwest Passage from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
Radstock Bay
Just a short distance away, Radstock Bay offers a captivating contrast to the open sea. Here, we’ll disembark via Zodiac onto a beach strewn with remnants of the past. Explore the ruins of a Thule village nestled beneath the imposing Caswell Tower, where well preserved stone dwellings coexist with artifacts from later explorers. Witness the stark beauty of this remote bay, characterised by its dramatic cliffs, gravelly beaches, and the scattered remains of whale skeletons that have shaped the landscape and the lives of those who called it home.
Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
On the southern side of Lancaster Sound from Beechey Island lie the towering bird cliffs of Prince Leopold Island (Appait), a historic site where in 1848, English explorer James Clark Ross overwintered during the search for the missing Franklin expedition. Prince Leopold Island is the most important bird sanctuary in the Canadian Arctic, with approximately 500,000 birds nesting here in summer. Ringed seals are often spotted on the sea ice around the island and polar bears often lurk nearby.
Port Leopold
Port Leopold, a barren, windswept bay on the northeastern corner of Somerset Island (Inuktitut Kuuganajuk), is steeped in history. Here, the crews of HMS Enterprise and Investigator were forced to endure a harsh winter while searching for the lost Franklin expedition. Their presence is indelibly marked on a rock engraved with "1849" and the ships' initials. The desolate landscape is punctuated by a lone Hudson Bay Company hut, a failed trading post from the 1920s.
We hope to hike and explore the coastline, discovering the historic Hudson Bay Company house and intriguing Inuit archaeological sites. Be amazed by the otherworldly formations shaped by the region’s freezing and thawing cycles, which our expedition team will detail during recap. Nearby, a cairn marks the spot where Ross's rescue expedition left vital supplies.
Elwin Bay (Ikpiarjuk)
Situated on the southeastern coast of Somerset Island, Elwin Bay is a breathtaking, wide inlet famous for its wildlife, particularly polar bears. This area was historically used by hunters and today remains an important habitat for bears who hunt along the ice edge and swim between the scattered ice floes. During summer, beluga whales are sometimes seen offshore, and the rocky beaches may reveal evidence of Arctic foxes and seabird colonies. The surrounding landscapes offer stunning contrasts, from rolling tundra to rugged limestone cliffs. Elwin Bay’s rich natural history and raw beauty make it a highlight for wildlife photography.
Batty Bay, Somerset Island
Nestled along the northeastern coast of Somerset Island, Batty Bay is a narrow, sheltered fjord steeped in Arctic exploration history. In the 1850s, it served as a winter refuge for expeditions searching for Sir John Franklin’s lost ships. Here we will hike the surrounding tundra slopes and trace the paths of early explorers. The calm waters of the bay are perfect for Zodiac cruising, with opportunities to spot ringed seals on ice floes and polar bears along the rocky shoreline. The cliffs and rugged terrain also attract a variety of nesting seabirds.
Bellot Strait
Bellot Strait is one of the most legendary waterways of the Arctic; a narrow, fast-flowing channel that separates the northern tip of the Boothia Peninsula from Somerset Island. Just two kilometres wide at its narrowest point, this passage is known for its strong tidal currents, shifting ice, and dramatic scenery. Bellot Strait marks the northernmost point of mainland North America and was first navigated by explorers seeking the elusive Northwest Passage. Today, it remains a thrilling and challenging route for expedition vessels. Wildlife is often seen along the shores and in the water, including polar bears, seals, and occasionally beluga whales riding the tides. Steep cliffs and rugged hills frame the strait, offering a dramatic backdrop for cruising.
Day 15 Disembark in Resolute, fly to Calgary
In Resolute, farewell the crew, expedition team and fellow travellers before a Zodiac shuttle whisks you ashore. Transfer to the airport for a charter flight to Calgary, where you will transfer to your group hotel and stay overnight.
Accommodation: Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown / Beltline District
Day 16 Depart Calgary
After breakfast, check-out of your room and you will be transferred to the airport to continue your journey.
Itinerary: Starting in Calgary - 12 Aug. '27
DATES: 12 - 27 September. Starts in Calgary, ends in Toronto.

PLEASE NOTE: Ice and weather conditions are constantly changing in the Arctic. Though the icepack is at its minimal level during our trip there, and while our ship has a very high ice rating, some places may be inaccessible. Your expedition leader and the captain of the ship will decide, on a day to day basis, where the ship will sail to, and where activities can take place. Your safety is priority #1.
Day 1 Arrive Calgary
Having made your way to Calgary, you will be met by a representative of Aurora Expeditions and transferred to our group hotel located in downtown Calgary. Upon arrival at your included hotel, please visit the Aurora 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 procedures and the charter flight to Resolute tomorrow. You will receive Aurora Expeditions cabin tags for your luggage. Please clearly label the tags with your name and ship cabin number.
The remainder of your time is at leisure. All meals today are at your own expense.
Accommodation: Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District (or similar)
Day 2 Fly to Resolute for embarkation
Please ensure that your luggage is fitted with cabin tags clearly labelled with your name and cabin number. Any valuables or personal items should be kept on you throughout the day. Your luggage will be delivered to your cabin ahead of your arrival on board.
After breakfast at the hotel, board our charter flight to Resolute, where the Sylvia Earle awaits. After boarding, there is time to settle into your cabin before our important safety briefings. This evening, meet your expedition team and crew.
Days 3-7 Expedition cruising
In genuine expeditionary style, our itinerary for the following days is heavily dependent on weather conditions and unpredictable sea ice. The following places are some that we hope to visit.
Elwin Bay (Ikpiarjuk)
Situated on the southeastern coast of Somerset Island, Elwin Bay is a breathtaking, wide inlet famous for its wildlife, particularly polar bears. This area was historically used by hunters and today remains an important habitat for bears who hunt along the ice edge and swim between the scattered ice floes. During summer, beluga whales are sometimes seen offshore, and the rocky beaches may reveal evidence of Arctic foxes and seabird colonies. The surrounding landscapes offer stunning contrasts, from rolling tundra to rugged limestone cliffs. Elwin Bay’s rich natural history and raw beauty make it a highlight for wildlife photography.
Port Leopold
Port Leopold, a barren, windswept bay on the northeastern corner of Somerset Island (Inuktitut Kuuganajuk), is steeped in history. Here, the crews of HMS Enterprise and Investigator were forced to endure a harsh winter while searching for the lost Franklin expedition. Their presence is indelibly marked on a rock engraved with "1849" and the ships' initials. The desolate landscape is punctuated by a lone Hudson Bay Company hut, a failed trading post from the 1920s.
We hope to hike and explore the coastline, discovering the historic Hudson Bay Company house and intriguing Inuit archaeological sites. Be amazed by the otherworldly formations shaped by the region’s freezing and thawing cycles, which our expedition team will detail during recap. Nearby, a cairn marks the spot where Ross's rescue expedition left vital supplies.
Prince Leopold Island (Appait)
On the southern side of Lancaster Sound from Beechey Island lie the towering bird cliffs of Prince Leopold Island (Appait), a historic site where in 1848, English explorer James Clark Ross overwintered during the search for the missing Franklin expedition. Prince Leopold Island is the most important bird sanctuary in the Canadian Arctic, with approximately 500,000 birds nesting here in summer. Ringed seals are often spotted on the sea ice around the island and polar bears often lurk nearby.
Radstock Bay
Just a short distance away, Radstock Bay offers a captivating contrast to the open sea. Here, we’ll disembark via Zodiac onto a beach strewn with remnants of the past. Explore the ruins of a Thule village nestled beneath the imposing Caswell Tower, where well preserved stone dwellings coexist with artifacts from later explorers. Witness the stark beauty of this remote bay, characterised by its dramatic cliffs, gravelly beaches, and the scattered remains of whale skeletons that have shaped the landscape and the lives of those who called it home.
Beechey Island (Iluvilik)
At the western end of Devon Island lies Beechey Island (Iluvilik), where we plan to land. Named after Frederick William Beechey, the island is a designated Canadian National Historic Site. During the Franklin expedition of 1845–46, Franklin attempted to sail through the Northwest Passage with HMS Erebus and HMS Terror, with perilous results – three of his men are buried here. Roald Amundsen landed at Beechey Island in 1903, during the first successful voyage by ship to fully transit the Northwest Passage from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean.
Maxwell Bay (Tasiujaq)
Maxwell Bay is a broad, sheltered inlet that offers outstanding opportunities for exploration both on land and by sea. The surrounding tundra landscapes provide excellent hiking, with sweeping views of the rugged coastline and inland valleys. Wildlife is abundant in this remote area: muskoxen and caribou roam the open terrain, while polar bears are occasionally seen along the shoreline or on ice floes. The sheltered waters of Maxwell Bay are a haven for marine mammals, including harp seals, ringed seals, and bearded seals. Walruses are sometimes spotted hauled out on the ice or rocky beaches, adding to the rich wildlife experience. Birdlife is also notable, with seabirds such as glaucous gulls and northern fulmars often seen soaring overhead. The bay’s numerous coves and inlets create a sense of discovery at every turn, making it a rewarding destination for Zodiac cruises and shore landings.
Devon Island (Tallurutit)
At a latitude of almost 75° degrees north, we are now truly in the High Arctic. Here, nutrient-rich waters support an abundance of wildlife, giving the area the moniker ‘wildlife superhighway’ of the Arctic. Devon Island (Tallurutit) is the largest uninhabited island on Earth and features stunning geology, with flat-topped mountains and glacial valleys giving Devon Island its unique character. We hope to visit Dundas Harbour to enjoy offers walks on undulating tundra, and perhaps some birdwatching. A dilapidated Royal Canadian Mounted Police outpost and remnants of a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post can be found here. In the bay, walruses are often present.
Day 8 Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), Nunavut, Canada
After clearance into Canada, we hope to visit Pond Inlet (Mittimatalik), a captivating Inuit community nestled on the northern tip of Baffin Island. Surrounded by towering ice-capped mountains, vast glaciers, and pristine fjords, this remote outpost offers an unparalleled wilderness experience. As you step ashore, you'll be greeted by the warm hospitality of the local Inuit, whose deep connection to the land is evident in their culture and lifestyle. Immerse yourself in their traditions through engaging cultural encounters and gain insights into their unique perspective on life in the Arctic.
Day 9 Feacham Bay, Baffin Island
Tucked away on the eastern shores of Baffin Island, Feacham Bay is a spectacular, pristine corner of the Canadian Arctic that offers incredible wildlife viewing and unforgettable scenic beauty. Surrounded by towering cliffs and deep fjords, this remote bay is often a haven for wildlife, where muskoxen and Arctic foxes roam the rocky shores, and seals haul out on the ice. The crystal-clear waters of the bay are ideal for Zodiac cruises, where you may spot elusive polar bears hunting along the coast or perhaps witness whales feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.
Day 10 At sea
We exit Canada and cross Baffin Bay to Greenland. Find a spot in one of our many observation lounges and enjoy the spectacular surrounding landscapes. Our talented and knowledgeable expedition members will present informative and entertaining talks about the region that you’re travelling through.
Days 11-12 Northwest Greenland expedition cruising
Explore the remote northern reaches of West Greenland, where traditional Inuit settlements cling to the rugged coastline and towering icebergs drift through the deep, clear waters. Every day presents new possibilities, guided by your expedition team, who will hunt for the perfect location to explore the stunning fjord systems by Zodiac. Vast fjord systems such as Uummannaq Fjord, offers endless opportunities for adventure, every corner revealing jaw-dropping views, monumental icebergs, and vibrant rock formations that beg to be explored. Whether you’re cruising silently through the ice-choked waters, hiking across the colourful tundra, or visiting one of the remote communities that dot the coast, the options for discovery are limitless. Kayakers can paddle among the floating icebergs while keeping an eye out for humpback and minke whales. With the spirit of true expedition cruising, this region invites you to immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Greenland’s northern frontier.
Day 13 Ilulissat
In the afternoon we arrive in Ilulissat. Known as the ‘birthplace of icebergs’, this region produces some of the most dazzling icebergs found anywhere on Earth. Hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Icefjord viewpoint and stand in awe of its immensity. Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as Jakobshavn Glacier, is the most productive glacier – not only in Greenland but the entire Northern Hemisphere. It produces 20 million tonnes of ice each day, all floating into the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay.
Day 14 Sisimiut
After a morning sailing north towards the Arctic Circle, we arrive in Sisimiut, Greenland’s second largest town. Sisimiut is located approximately 54 kilometres (33.5 miles) north of the Arctic Circle, meaning that during summer, you can experience the midnight sun here. The town is famous for the old blue church with the gate made of whale bone. In the cosy museum next door to the church, you will find an excellent reconstruction of an Inuit turf house as well as exhibits of local history and early life in Greenland.
Approximately 4,500 years ago, the Saqqaq culture arrived from Canada and settled in the area. They lived here for approximately 2,000 years, after which they mysteriously disappeared from the area. The Dorset culture arrived around 500 CE and stayed until the 1200s until they were replaced by the Thule culture, and today, the majority of the population of Sisimiut are descendants of the Thule culture.
Day 15 Disembark in Nuuk. Fly to Toronto
Disembark in Nuuk, capital of Greenland, where you say farewell to the crew and expedition team and transfer to the airport for our charter flight to Toronto for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Westin Toronto Airport Hotel (or similar)
Day 16 Depart Toronto
After breakfast, check out of your room and continue your journey. Make your own way to Toronto Airport with the hotel complimentary shuttle.
Your Ship: The Sylvia Earle
Built in 2022, the Sylvia Earle epitomizes the pinnacle of modern expedition cruising. The ship's name pays tribute to marine biologist, oceanographer and explorer Dr. Sylvia Earle. This state-of-the-art vessel was meticulously designed to navigate the world's most remote and challenging waters while providing unparalleled comfort and safety for its passengers.

Constructed with the latest advancements in maritime technology, the ship is an ice-class vessel, capable of voyaging to the polar regions with ease. Its revolutionary design ensures smoother sailing in rough seas, reducing motion sickness and enhancing the overall cruising experience. Equipped with cutting-edge stabilizers and environmentally friendly propulsion systems, the ship minimizes its ecological footprint while maximizing efficiency.
Accommodating up to 130 passengers in stylishly appointed cabins and suites, the Sylvia Earle offers an intimate and personalized expedition experience. 85% of the cabins have a private balcony - and each have panoramic windows, private en-suite facilities, and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable retreat after full days exploring Antarctica. The ship also features a modern lecture lounge, multiple observation areas, a gym, sauna, jacuzzies, a mudroom and many other amenities.
Guests can indulge in delicious cuisine prepared by talented chefs, served in the elegant dining room with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The ship's spacious lounge areas, observation decks, and outdoor viewing platforms provide ideal vantage points for wildlife sightings and scenic vistas, while expert guides and naturalists offer insightful lectures and lead excursions ashore.
DECK PLAN









FEATURES
- X-Bow: Used on over 100 vessels in commercial shipping, the distinct Ulstein X-BOW cuts through the swell so you feel fewer vibrations and disturbances, and makes quicker transits through waves. The bow, in combination with Rolls Royce dynamic stabilisers will attenuate (not eliminate) the motion of the ship as it navigates while reducing fuel consumption.
- Efficient zodiac access: The ship carries 15 Zodiacs, which you can board via four dedicated doors, making boarding as quick, efficient and safe as possible and minimising wait times so you can get closer to the action for longer.
- Activities platform: The Sylvia Earle is designed to support a range of off ship activities on land, in kayaks and more. The platform makes the transition from ship to sea or shore as smooth as possible. There is a spacious activity preparation and loading area designed with the input of the guides - who are most familiar with the logistics of moving on and off the ship.
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Hydraulic viewing platforms: In addition to onboard observation areas, the ship features unique hydraulic viewing platforms, which fold out for unobstructed views of passing marine life and seabirds. They can be used during gentle ship cruises or when the ship is stationery when weather conditions allow.
Responsible travel features: Good for the budget and for emissions reductions, the Sylvia Earle operates with low energy consumption, high fuel-efficiency and a streamlined design to deliver a reduction in emissions. It can also utilise virtual anchoring to hold its position using a combination of GPS, steering technology, propellers and thrusters. This protects the sea floor and minimises the damage caused by conventional anchors. All CNH Tours guests have their trip carbon emissions offset in cooperation with The Gold Standard, helping combate climate change and delivering sustainable development.
- Safety features: The ship features industry-leading safety technology that exceeds the requirements for a ship of this size with a world class return-to-port equipment, which duplicates the propulsion system, enabling the ship to maintain operating systems and comfort in the event of engine failure. The ship is Ice Class 1A and Polar Code 6 compliant and is fully compliant with the latest SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) requirements. The ship also features a fully-stocked medical clinic designed for use in remote areas.
ON-BOARD AMENITIES
- State of the art lecture facilities: On all expeditions you will meet naturalists and local specialists, who offer presentations on their area of expertise to deepen your understanding of the region you’re visiting. Join the team in the lecture theatre for presentations covering topics as broad as history and culture, biology and climate change, but they have one thing in common: they all aim to engage, educate and entertain.

- Library: With floor-to-ceiling windows, the library is a peaceful sanctuary where you can find non-fiction books to read up on the day’s destinations, plug in and organise your photos or play cards or board games with newfound friends. Choose from our range of informative nonfiction titles, wildlife guidebooks, travel journals and novels. Wildlife guides, books and binoculars can also be found on the observation lounge on deck 7.

- Mudroom: No need to take your wet expedition gear back to your cabin to dry. Keep your cabin warm and cosy by leaving your outer jackets and pants in the mudroom. The mudroom is your launchpad for all shore excursions and activities. Here, you will have access to a locker when you can hang your gear up to dry, and store your boots between excursions.

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Gym, sauna and jacuzzis: In between landings, you are welcome to visit the gym or relax in our sauna, which we highly recommend after the Polar Plunge... There are also two Jacuzzis on the top outside deck which offer amazing views of the world outside.

- Dining: Meals are a great time to soak up the expedition camaraderie in our open seating dining area. Share stories with your fellow travellers and ask our expedition team questions that may have come up during the day. Choose from two restaurants: our main venue serving buffet-style meals with à la carte dinner and a reservations-required concept restaurant, Tuscan Grill. Tea, coffee and snacks are available 24 hours a day, and the chefs offer different menu options and courses for each meal. Enjoy the range of house wine, beers and soft drinks included with dinner after a long day in the wild.

- Bars and lounges: Communal meeting areas have always played a major role in fostering the warm camaraderie on board our ships. They are the heart of the expedition, where people meet to share tales from the day, swap photos, keep an eye out for wildlife and watch the sun go down. The bars and lounges on board are refined yet inviting places to gather, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views, and of course friendly bartenders to shoot the breeze with.

Cabins & Suites
If you're going to be spending several days at sea, you'll want be sure you'll have a comfortable cabin. The Sylvia Earle offers 8 different cabin classes. All of them have private ensuites, a desk area, 42" television, closets, individually controlled thermostats, room safe and minibar. No matter which cabin you choose, it will be your cozy private haven during the trip.
Captain's Suite (1)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 44.5m2 (479 ft²)
The largest of all the ship's rooms - for those wanting to go all the way. The ship's 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. The suite has a separate lounge area, a private balcony and a full-sized window.

Indicative layout of Captain's suite lounge - the junior suite lounge is similar, but a bit smaller.

Indicative layout - Captain's and Junior suite bedroom (Junior suite a little smaller)
Junior Suite (4)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 39m2 (419 ft²)
The Sylvia Earle's Junior Suites (still taking you pretty much all the way) offer you 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. The suite has a separate lounge area, a private balcony and a full-sized window.
Balcony Stateroom Superior (5)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 28.2m2 - 40.2m2 (303.5 ft² - 433 ft²)
With a bit more room than the category A rooms, 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.
Balcony Stateroom Category A (23)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 24.1m2 - 28m2 (259 ft² - 301 ft²)
The Balcony Stateroom – A cabins are the ship's premium cabin, and the most abundant on board. They are a bit larger than the Category B staterooms. These cabins are located in preferred positions on Deck 4 and 6 which provides easy access between Decks via the internal stairs or elevator. The stateroom has a private balcony and a full-sized window.

Balcony Stateroom - indicative layout (twin bed configuration - can be converted to King bed)
Balcony Stateroom Category B (21)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 23.6m2 - 24.8m2 (254 ft² - 267 ft²)
The Balcony Stateroom – B Cabins are the 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. The stateroom has a private balcony and a full-sized window.
Balcony Stateroom Category C (14)
Cabin & balcony combined size: 20.9m2 24.8m2 (225 ft² - 267 ft²)
We have three cabin categories of our Balcony Staterooms. The C is the most economical of the balcony staterooms, fitted with all the necessities and comfortable for up to 2 people. These cabins are scattered throughout Deck 4 and 6. The stateroom has a private balcony and a full-sized window. Beds can be configured as twins or king sized.

Stateroom Twin Share (8)
Cabin size: 15.8m² - 22.8m² (170 ft² - 245 ft²)
The Stateroom Twin cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action. These staterooms have porthole windows.

Twin stateroom (King bed configuration - can be configured as twin beds)
Stateroom Triple Share (6)
Cabin size: 21.4m² - 22.8m² (230.34 ft² - 245.41 ft² )
The Stateroom Triple cabins featuring portholes, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms. These staterooms have porthole windows.
