Swan Hellenic Cruises

80 Reviews
S H M I N E R V A

About Swan Hellenic Cruises

The Swan Hellenic name was revived in 2020, marking the return of the 70-year-old British discovery cruise brand under new ownership and with two all-new expedition ships.

The original Swan Hellenic line -- which operated with one 353-passenger ship, Minerva -- ceased operating in 2017 following the collapse of its parent company All Leisure Holidays Ltd. In 2017 Canadian-owned G Adventures purchased the brand name and it has now been purchased by the new standalone company which is trading under the well-known name.

The first of two 152-passenger expedition ships -- SH Minerva (the name of the original Swan hellenic ship) -- launched in November 2021 and operated in the Antarctic; followed by a second ship, SH Vega, in May 2022.

  • More about Swan Hellenic Cruises

  • Who goes on Swan Hellenic cruise ships?

  • Do I have to dress up on a Swan Hellenic cruise?

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SH Vega
SH Vega render

9 Night
Antarctic Peninsula Discovery

59 Reviews
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SH Vega
SH Vega render

9 Night
Cultures And Wilds Of Peru, Utria And The Darien

59 Reviews
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Cruise Critic Favorite
SH Diana
Swan Hellenic Diana (Photo/Swan Hellenic)

11 Night
Eastern Mediterranean

16 Reviews
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SH Vega
SH Vega render

10 Night
Western Europe

59 Reviews
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6 Night
Soul, Samba, And Sea: Journey To The Heart Of Braz...

59 Reviews
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11 Night
Madagascar And Its Islands

16 Reviews
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10 Night
Paradise Islands Of The Indian Ocean

16 Reviews
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13 Night
Africa West Coast

59 Reviews
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8 Night
Secrets Of Sicily

16 Reviews
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10 Night
Mysteries Of Carthage And The Moors

16 Reviews
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8 Night
Iceland In Depth

59 Reviews
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11 Night
British Isles

59 Reviews
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10 Night
Central America Discovery

16 Reviews
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11 Night
Weddell Sea And Antarctic Peninsula

16 Reviews
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10 Night
Costa Rica & Panama Canal Discovery

16 Reviews
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Swan Hellenic Cruises Tips, Activities, and Overview

Who goes on Swan Hellenic cruise ships?

The reinvented company has said it will "retain its British heritage whilst being international in outlook" and will be aimed at passengers with "inquisitive minds" that want to explore and experience destinations in a sustainable way.

Do I have to dress up on a Swan Hellenic cruise?

No. The onboard dress code is relaxed and there are no formalities at mealtimes. Jeans, trousers, smart sportswear, polo shirts and long-sleeve tops paired with trainers or flat boat shoes are all fine. For excursions pack clothes appropriate for the weather in the region being visited. On polar expeditions heavy duty rubber boots are provided for the duration of the cruise and all passengers receive a complimentary expedition jacket to keep.

Is everything free on Swan Hellenic cruises?

Yes. The high number of inclusions cover a one-night hotel stay with breakfast prior to the cruise, airport and ship transfers, all meals including 24-hour room service, coffee, tea, soft drinks and an open bar, onboard lecture programme, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and tips.

What are Swan Hellenic’s most popular activities?

In keeping with the brand's original ethos, Swan Hellenic specialises in providing enriching cultural expeditions. Onboard activities revolve around expert lectures covering topics such as history, science and geography and subjects relevant to the itinerary. There is also a photography lab to help passengers capture the best moments from their trip, swap tips with others and book optional private tuition. The immersive experience continues on shore with excursions that provide a real insight into places visited.

Why go with Swan Hellenic?

Enlightening small ship cruising with attention to detail and personal service

Best for: Active and inquisitive cruisers looking for unique experiences around the globe

Not for: Passengers that like to party and have plenty of onboard entertainment

Swan Hellenic Cruises Cruiser Reviews

Take the Plunge (Polar)!

Everything was top notch from the pre cruise hotel to the ship, the excursions, the food and the staff!The gym had nice equipment, the excursions and expedition staff were all amazing!Read More
Antarctica 2024

few6-10 Cruises

Age 66s

Great trip!

There was always a fabulous cheese board at lunch and tons of fruit, so great to take some cheese and grapes to the room and relax with the gluten-free crackers I always travel with.Overall, we loved the SH Vega and would sail with them again - we had a great trip and thank all the staff for everything they did to make sure it was a trip of a lifetime.Read More
Penguin_TO

couple2-5 Cruises

Age 56s

Excellent Service and Education. Bad Communication

So we intentionally sailed into rough seas and we lost a full expedition day (which is my major complaint) 2) The ship had a very diverse customer base which was great.1) The Captain made the decision to cut the last day of expedition and return to port early despite claiming rough seas except the day we departed, the seas were rougher than any of the following days.Read More
Rololand

couple2-5 Cruises

Age 48s

Luxurious Adventure in Antarctica

This does give a feeling of apprehension (myself included) but after a couple of days of witnessing how hard the onboard team work to get the best of the time available (3 operations in one day, last minute changes to grab opportunities, etc) you will quickly put your trust in them to make it the best experience of your life.We originally said that Antarctica was a once in a life time destination but having been, we'd also go back with Swan Hellenic again for the abundant wildlife and dramatic scenery.Read More
Chris_88

couple2-5 Cruises

Age 36s

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