Quark Expeditions vs Aurora Expeditions — a head-to-head on the specs, the amenities, and what each ship is genuinely better at.
Sylvia Earle (2022) is the newer ship by 1 year versus Ocean Explorer (2021). Ocean Explorer is the larger hull at 8,228 GT (~2% bigger). Sylvia Earle sails with fewer guests at double occupancy (130 vs 138).
| Spec | Ocean Explorer | Sylvia Earle |
|---|---|---|
| Year built | 2021 | 2022 |
| Tonnage | 8,228 GT | 8,076 GT |
| Guests (double occupancy) | 138 | 130 |
| Guests (max) | 162 | 140 |
Trophy marks the ship that wins each row. Smaller capacity = more space per guest.
Distinct ports each ship visits in the next 12 months.