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Swan Hellenic Cruises
The world of Swan Hellenic invites you to "discover the unavailable to others"
70 years after its first pioneering cruise, Swan Hellenic is proud to return to the world’s waters with two brand new expedition ships. The hardware will be cutting edge but the core values that underpinned the brand and served its guests so well from its inception remain in place. As does the passion for exploratory travel to the globe’s furthest far flung places.
The ships will be built in the Helsinki shipyard in Finland and will combine the latest polar ice-class technology with stylish sophisticated interiors. Think boutique luxury hotel with contemporary sophistication! Which we call ‘Scandi-luxe’ Chic, spacious and well-planned cabins feature generously sized bathrooms, comfortable in-room dining facilities and unobstructed views from cabins and public spaces. The intention is to provide an unobtrusive relaxing background that allows guests to be fully immersed in breathtaking sceneries.
Understated elegance might be another way of phrasing what awaits a Swan Hellenic guest.
At the very heart of our brand is the onboard team with our guests’ personal wellbeing their foremost priority. Delivering superior service, our warm and friendly crew will do their utmost to ensure the trip of a lifetime. Every time.
The expedition programme will offer immersive exclusive bucket list experiences for the discerning traveller with a curious mind. Our innovative itineraries are meticulously planned and executed by world-class experts.
In the Arctic unique possibilities include in the exploration Siberian Islands like Franz Josef, Lyakhovsky Islands and in addition Siberian rivers. In fact, we will be offering the exclusive opportunity to explore the Yenisei river, a real gem rich in natural wonders and orthodox communities from another time. The best guest speakers and lecturers in the business will be enriching our guests on board every day providing unique insights into the places, people and nature of our journeys.
- Over 70 years of cruise expertise offering the highest safety standards in the industry.
Why book with Swan Hellenic?
- Over 70 years of cruise expertise offering the highest safety standards in the industry.
- New 5 star expedition ships featuring modern Scandinavian inspired design showcasing unobstructed views and oceans of outside space.
- Intuitive & unobtrusive service as our onboard team strive to anticipate our guests’ unspoken needs & provide a truly personal service.
- Enriching cultural expeditions around the world including unique Russian Far East river & ocean adventures.
Russian Far East
Rest of World
Destinations
Arctic
Explore the northernmost part of Earth on an epic voyage to the beguiling Arctic region, following in the footsteps of the few intrepid hearts who have reached the top of the world - pioneers, polar scientists and those with insatiable wanderlust.
This is a life goal that you will never forget with extraordinary landscapes from serrated mountain peaks, rich river valleys and narrow fjords to beautiful wildlife including walruses, polar bears and majestic whales
Antarctic
Discover the extraordinary wilderness of Antarctica on an epic once-in-a-lifetime expedition in sophisticated elegance.
From mesmerising icebergs and dramatic glaciers to mountain peaks, your journey around the White Continent will enthral and amaze you.
Magnificent albatrosses accompany you through this pristine environment. Get up close to lounging seals, admire unique birdlife and whales accompanied by polar experts.
Russian Far East
A trip to the remote and mysterious Russian Far East is an incredible immersion into a region that was the ancestral home of displaced peoples, with areas restricted to travel for Soviet military reasons only, places that were won and lost in World War II, and as the northern part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a land of fiery lava and bubbling hot springs.
This great, pristine wilderness is largely uninhabited, yet its snow-tipped peaks, smoking volcanoes, lush tundra and abundant wildlife make it a joy to discover.
Rest of World
Imagine tracing a languid route through some of the most beautiful destinations on the planet, while exploring the past, present and even future of each port of call.
When 71 percent of our earth is covered in water, there is simply so much for us to discover. From iconic, historic cities in regions such as Europe, the Far East and South America to far-flung island idylls in the South Pacific and Caribbean, our luxurious and stylish ships visit many regions all around the world.
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Experience
What To Expect On A Swan Hellenic Cruise
Sailing with Swan Hellenic today will take your expedition cruise to the next level. Sailing on the newest boutique expedition ships, our exciting new voyages to the polar regions pair the latest polar ice-class technology with stylish sophisticated interiors. Discover what life onboard Swan Hellenic has to offer.
Historically, Swan Hellenic were pioneers, taking guests to places others had only dreamt about. We are meticulous about every aspect of our cruises - and have been for 70 years. Today, we sail to places unreachable by others, seek immersive experiences, and make discoveries that change the way we see the world. Through a discerning eye, the wonders of the world take on a richer hue. Travel with Swan Hellenic, and you’ll see more with us.
Delivering intuitive service, our warm and friendly crew will do their utmost to ensure you leave us having had the trip of a lifetime. Now, with our exciting new voyages to the polar regions and Russian Far East, we’ve paired the latest polar ice-class technology with stylish sophisticated interiors.
In Cabin Experience
If you want to travel in sophisticated luxury including first-class accommodation and personal service, you have come to the right place.
Your stylish, spacious en-suite cabin is your luxurious home from home – a place to relax and recharge for the next day’s adventures. Soft wood fittings, earthy tones and textures and well-placed lighting features make the rooms a place of retreat, rather than just somewhere to sleep and through your window or floor-to-ceiling balcony doors you will be able to admire the ever-changing scenery.
Expect supremely comfortable beds, luxurious bathrooms, ample storage and a separate living area and bedroom.
Bars & Restaurants
Swan Hellenic’s plethora of dining options provide guests with an appetite for global flavours a tempting variety of options, from sun chasing early riser’s breakfast through to late dinner and 24 hour room service.
The onboard restaurants serve modern international delicacies featuring regional cuisine and ingredients creating a unique once-in-a-lifetime dining experience.
World renowned chefs will prepare culinary experiences from the destinations visited, pairing the latest international trends with untasted regional delights.
Bespoke & private dining experiences will be offered both inside and outside (depending on the weather conditions and routing). Offering guests superb the opportunity to enjoy and explore top-tier culinary skills and the local landscape that is home to distinctive unique flavours of seasonal ingredients, alongside fine wines.
Room Service
No matter what time of day, our carefully curated In-Cabin Dining Menu traverses perennial international favourites and a plethora of international delicacies, providing a world-class gastronomic experience in the comfort of your own cabin.
Start your morning right with a nourishing selection of breakfast dishes – from a healthy yoghurt, granola and local seasonal fruit to a heartier regionally inspired eggs benedict. Or opt for a more intimate lunch or dinner, served al fresco on your private veranda.
Room Service may also be ordered from the Swan Restaurant during regular dining hours.
A selection of late-night snacks and light bites has been created to pair perfectly with your In-Cabin movie. Please refer to the In-Cabin Dining Menu to place your order.
Room Service is available 24 hours a day.
Service Style
Swan Hellenic is all about intuitive personal service. Our warm and welcoming crew aims to please, and wants nothing more than to give you the best experience possible. Need a double espresso to get you going in the morning? Noted. Prefer your bed made up a certain way? We’ve got that. Absorbed by the views or the conversation at dinner? You won’t even notice the restaurant staff is there. We’ve been in the business a long time and we know what passengers expect from a well-trained crew. If there’s anything we can do to improve your time on board, let us know.
Lecture Programme
Exploratory travel is in our DNA, which is why our polar experts are focused on ensuring our guests return home having had the most authentic experience possible. Our inquisitive, like-minded passengers share a thirst for knowledge. Swan Hellenic’s lecturers and guest speakers are carefully selected to give engaging and stimulating talks on a wide range of subjects that are relevant to each itinerary. They bring specialist knowledge and insight into the scientific, geographic and historical understanding of the remote polar regions that allows the customer to fully embrace the wondrous environments in which they are travelling.
The Photography Lab
Capturing the right images of your voyage has never been more important. And on an expedition cruise to exceptional destinations there’s a lot you can do to enhance your pictures. Whether you're shooting on your phone, or a camera, our experts on-board will offer tips on downloading and upskilling as well as editing to ensure you capture the best memories possible.
But we’ve taken it one step further. Our state-of-the-art photography lab is dedicated to ensuring guests capture every moment from their once-in-a-lifetime trip. This is a fun place to come and learn, ask questions and swap tips with fellow passengers. Private tuition available on request.
Excursions
No stone is left unturned when it comes to researching our shore excursion programmes. All aspects of the itinerary are carefully planned in detail by a knowledgeable, well travelled team to ensure each aspect of the cruise is delivered to the highest possible standard.
We’ve thought of all our guests, including the less mobile. Our 12-person hard-hulled zodiacs, the boats that take guests off the ship, have been designed for increased comfort and manoeuvrability so that everyone can get up close and personal with their majestic surroundings.
As well as our daily zodiac excursions there are opportunities for polar kayaking and trekking and for the brave… The Polar Plunge.
What Is Included
At Swan Hellenic, we want to ensure your experience with us is an effortless experience, leaving you to make the most from your expedition, which is why we have included the following within your cruise fare:
INCLUSIONS FOR ARCTIC & RUSSIA FAR EAST CRUISES
One night pre-cruise hotel accommodation with breakfast
Transfer from the airport to the hotel on the day prior to embarkation
Transfer from the hotel to the port for embarkation
Transfer from the port to the airport on return
Onboard accommodation
All meals onboard including room service 24 hours a day
Coffee, tea, soft drinks & select alcoholic beverages 24 hours a day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
Shore excursion programme led by our expert expedition team
Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka
Use of rubber boots for shore landings
Basic WIFI inclusion (Premium WIFI available)
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
INCLUSIONS FOR ANTARCTICA CRUISES
Return flights: Buenos Aires to Ushuaia or Santiago to Ushuaia
One night pre-cruise hotel accommodation with breakfast
Transfer from the airport to the hotel on the day prior to embarkation
Transfer from the hotel to the port for embarkation
Transfer from the port to the airport on return
Onboard accommodation
All meals onboard including room service 24 hours a day
Coffee, tea, soft drinks & select alcoholic beverages 24 hours a day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
Shore excursion programme led by our expert expedition team
Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka
Use of rubber boots for shore landings
Basic WIFI (Premium WIFI available)
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
INCLUSIONS FOR REST OF WORLD CRUISES
One night pre-cruise hotel accommodation with breakfast
Transfer from the airport to the hotel on the day prior to embarkation
Transfer from the hotel to the port for embarkation
Transfer from the port to the airport on return
Onboard accommodation
All meals onboard including room service 24 hours a day
Coffee, tea, soft drinks & select alcoholic beverages 24 hours a day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
On shore transfer per port of call
Basic WIFI inclusion (Premium WIFI available)
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Ship Safety
Passenger safety is of paramount importance, which is why the SH Minerva and Vega Class combine the latest on-board hardware and ergonomically designed expedition areas with cutting edge hull design. It is assigned a Polar Class notation PC5 - the highest classification awarded to an ice-strengthened hull. The PC5 classification is combined with oversized stabilisers which provide excellent motion control ensuring the most comfortable operation on our passage through the polar regions. This means we can transport our guests safely into the remotest areas as the safety, enjoyment and education of our guests is our priority.
Fitness & Spa
Fitness is a key part of the daily routine for many. Just because you’re on holiday your wellbeing routine need not stop.
SH Minerva and Vega’s state-of-the-art gym will please the most discerning of fitness fiends. Here, you will find everything from cardio machines and stretch bands to weights. We will also be offering a range of instructor-led classes. Why not try a morning stretch class or book a fitness assessment with one of our specialist body coaches?
You don’t have to be pounding the treadmill to enjoy our fabulous on-board fitness and spa facilities. Relax and revive in the sauna, outdoor pool or one of the jacuzzis and book yourself in for a healing massage or facial.
Our fitness areas are spotlessly clean, with luxurious changing facilities, water and towels provided.
Cruise With Confidence
Making expedition cruising more flexible in a time when it is most needed.
Swan Hellenic's Cruise with Confidence policy allows our guests the ability to cancel their cruise departing on-or-before November 2021, up to 2 months before the sail date and receive a Future Cruise Credit.
The credit can be used toward any cruise that sets sail through December 31, 2021, or 12 months past the date of your cancelled sailing — whichever is further into the future.
Useful information
What is not included in the cruise fare?
Additional activities such as kayaking, private tours and special arrangements, plus private Zodiac tours, cost extra.
In destinations other than the polar region we will have a list of shore activities-excursions for each port of call planned and communicated 9-12 months prior to departure, In each of those destinations there will always be a basic activity free of charge included in the package. Other excursions or private arrangements will be at extra charge as published in the above mentioned list.
Laundry, premium wines and spirits, plus purchases from the ship’s boutique and any spa treatments are not included. Basic WiFi will be free where available on SH Minerva and Vega Class with additional data packages available for purchase on board.
You will need to purchase your own visas where required, travel insurance, flights, domestic transfers and any hotel requirements pre or post cruise, unless otherwise stated within the itinerary description.
If I travel alone, is there a single supplement?
Yes. There are no single rooms on board. The single supplement will be 1.70 times the price per person.
How far in advance should I book?
With any wish-list trip it is important to book as far in advance as possible in order to secure your preferred cruise dates and flights.
You might also want to reserve a particular cabin category and it is worth bearing in mind that suites and interconnecting rooms for family or friend groups are always in demand.
All suites will have the ability to connect with the balcony room next door. We recommend booking at least one year in advance.
Do I have to pay for the trip in full when I book?
Guests have the ability to hold their booking free of charge for 48 hours. Bookings can be reserved with a 25% deposit, with full payment taken 90 days prior to departure.
How cold does it get?
Antarctic
The Antarctic Peninsula is the warmest part of the continent (summer 2019 saw one of the warmest on record, with one research station recording 17.5°C).
Prepare for at least -5°C and for temperatures to feel much colder than that if there is a wind chill.
January is the warmest month to visit.
The Arctic
The average Arctic summer hovers around 0°C in June through September. In general, Arctic summers are short and cool.
Do I need to pre-book excursions?
In destinations outside of polar regions, we will have a series of shore excursions available to book for each port of call 9-12 months prior to departure. Within each of those destinations there will be an activity or transfer included free of charge. To ensure you do not miss out, we would recommend booking ahead of your cruise.
More information will be provided in your personal, pre-trip documentation packs.
Zodiac excursions do not need to be pre-booked.
Are the ship's wheelchairs accessible?
We offer an Oceanview cabin that’s been specifically designed to be completely ADA compliant and therefore includes a fully operable wheelchair access wet unit.
The ship itself has two lifts serving every passenger deck except the Stargazing top deck, which is therefore more difficult to access, as are the Aft Marina and Swan’s Nest forward observation platform. Moreover, we do not have any special equipment facilitating access to the swimming pool, jacuzzi and sauna. Otherwise our ship is entirely at your disposal.
Many of the expeditions ashore in remote places are by zodiac. Boarding them and returning aboard can present challenges for wheelchair users. In addition, polar expedition terrain can of course itself be problematic. But these challenges are by no means always insurmountable. Our highly-experienced crews are trained to provide reliable advice and assistance. They will always make every effort to ensure our wheelchair-using guests enjoy a memorable experience of each destination.
Our general guidance, however, is to recommend that wheelchair users travel with a companion for their ease and enjoyment.
At the same time, guests who prefer to remain aboard, where we naturally continue to provide a complete service, can fully appreciate the beauty of the magnificent remote areas visited in a way that’s worlds apart from any towering giant cruise liner. Our panoramic interiors and ample open decks enable you to enjoy a truly immersive and intimate experience of the inspiring surroundings.
ANTARCTICA CRUISES
Where is Antarctica – and how do I get there?
Antarctica is the southernmost of the world’s seven continents and is surrounded by the Southern Ocean. The Antarctic Peninsula is the closest point to land and can be reached in two days from the tip of South America.
Guests will fly to Argentina, or Chile, and then take an onward flight to Ushuaia , located at the very tip of South America. Your ship will depart from Ushuaia.
When is the best time to visit Antarctica?
The visitor season straddles the southern hemisphere’s spring and summer (November to March), and although weather can never be guaranteed you should see plenty of sunshine.
In spring, visitors can expect to see more sea ice and dramatic icebergs – a big draw for many. Bear in mind that in early spring proposed stops may have to be rescheduled if they remain ice-bound, or a sudden drop in temperature overnight causes ice to re-freeze. This is also the mating season for seabirds and mammals including breeding elephant seals.
In summer the chances of seeing whales – including humpback, orca and minke – are greater. Penguin chicks and seal pups are in abundance. As the Austral summer progresses you will experience almost 24-hour daylight.
The continent is at its warmest between mid-December and mid-January.
I’ve been to the Arctic, would I enjoy Antarctica?
The two destinations share several characteristics and our itineraries to both of these destinations emphasise scientific appreciation and historical understanding.
If you enjoy immersing yourself in pristine, off-grid wilderness and seeing extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat, then there is no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy both the Arctic and Antarctica.
The wildlife is surprisingly different in both places - you’ll only see penguins in the Antarctic not Arctic, for example.
Extreme temperatures aren’t for everyone. Life on board the ships will follow similar patterns with the day comprising a combination of informative and engaging talks, expert-led excursions, fine dining and relaxation time on our luxury boutique ship.
Our ships have plenty of outdoor space to take in your surroundings.
For guests, the journey to Antarctica (around two days in total) is a consideration however.
Apart from my cruise, is there anywhere else I can visit as part of the trip?
We recommend spending some time in the region’s stunning national parks.
From Ushuaia it is possible to visit Tierra del Fuego – there are treks and walks of various lengths.
In Chilean Patagonia (near the port city of Punta Arenas) there are trips to Torres del Paine National Park, known for its spectacular glaciers, lakes and pampas.
Other iconic sights in Latin America include the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu in Peru, Iguazu Falls in Brazil and Cartagena in Colombia.
ARCTIC CRUISES
How do I get to The Arctic?
Depending on which destination your expedition ship leaves from (Tromso, Svalbard, Kangerlussuaq), you should be able to book flights fairly easily to the main departure point.
Note that flights to and from the ship are not included unless otherwise specified. (View the what’s included section at the end of each itinerary).
I’ve been to Antarctica, would I enjoy The Arctic?
The two destinations share several characteristics and our itineraries to both of these destinations emphasise scientific appreciation and historical understanding.
If you enjoy immersing yourself in pristine, off-grid wilderness and seeing extraordinary wildlife in its natural habitat, then there is no reason why you shouldn’t enjoy both the Arctic and Antarctica.
The wildlife is surprisingly different in both places - you’ll only see polar bears in the Arctic not Antarctica, for example.
Life on board the ships will follow similar patterns with the day comprising a combination of informative and engaging talks, expert-led excursions, fine dining and relaxation time on our luxury boutique ship. Our ships have plenty of outdoor space to take in your surroundings.
Flights to the Arctic are usually shorter. Bear in mind that despite less jet lag, long nights of midnight sun will affect your body clock.
BEFORE YOU GO
What do I need to pack? Do I need formal clothing?
Expedition cruises are primarily concerned with what happens outside the ship, so dress codes are very relaxed. There are no formalities at mealtimes.
At breakfast and lunch, you will wear the clothes you are going outside in (minus the outer gear). Once you have changed out of your expedition gear in the evening you will want to put on something casual and comfortable. And it is always worth having an extra layer at hand if you are the type that likes to rush out on deck when something is spotted.
During the daytime around the ship, you will want casual trousers, jeans or smart sportswear, long-sleeve tops and thin jumpers plus a bodywarmer and/or other layers. It will be warm and comfortable inside.
Evening is casual too – perhaps pack a couple of casual shirts and or skirts/dresses. Keep footwear to a minimum. On board a pair of lightweight trainers or similar (useful for when trying on gear for size) will suffice, while slippers should be worn in your cabin only.
For shore excursions, you will be provided with Swan Hellenic Expeditions parkas and rubber muck boots.
How much luggage allowance will I have?
The international allowance (and the number of checked bags) will depend on your airline and class of travel. When booking onwards internal flights to your departure port, check that airline’s allowance. Some only permit 15kg per person. It is usually possible to buy an extra 5kg but be sure to do this online for both the outward and return flights, before you travel, and keep a copy of the confirmation number and/or email.
Who will my fellow passengers be?
Our typical guest is well-travelled, curious and eager to learn about the places they visit. Our passengers care about the environment, too, which is why our expert wildlife guides always travel ashore with passengers. In this more intimate cruising environment, where like-minded people are seeking genuine destination immersion, good relationships are easily formed.
Due to the small-group touring philosophy, there will also be opportunities to meet fellow passengers on your trips ashore, and in the evening, at the daily/evening recap.
Will I get seasick?
Not everyone feels the effect of motion sickness. If you know you are prone to it or are unsure, visit your doctor and see advice regarding the best preventative medicine for you (you will need to take tablets prior to boarding). A good pharmacist should also be able to offer advice over the counter. Check for any conflicts with existing medication. Regular cruisers use various methods including tablets, patches and PSI/acupressure bands, but it is not a case of one size fits all. If you need medical assistance onboard, our doctor is on hand with advice.
For our Antarctica cruises, bear in mind that the Drake Passage can be rough. You may be lucky but if you do become unwell remember: it is important to keep hydrated and to eat little, and often (dry toast, biscuits or crackers are good).
Do not look at the waves or other moving objects. Don’t use electronic devices, watch the TV or attempt to read. Avoid alcohol, fatty or spicy foods.
Are vaccinations required?
No vaccinations are required for visiting The Arctic or Antarctic. However, it is recommended that you have all your up-to-date vaccinations for tetanus and flu.
Should I buy a camera?
Many camera outlets will also rent cameras, so if you are not sure whether to spend money on a new camera, then look into hiring equipment before you leave home.
For more about photography on board, visit our blog section.
Can I fly drones?
Unfortunately, you cannot bring nor fly drones onboard. The flying of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is prohibited or strictly regulated in several countries we sail to.
What currency do I need?
On board
On-board currency is the USD. Onboard spend will be added to your final bill. It is worth taking a debit/credit card in case of any problems paying your bill. Remember to tell your bank before travelling to avoid having your card refused.
Antarctica
There is no official currency as Antarctica does not belong to one country. It is governed by the Antarctic Treaty System (ATS) signed by various nations.
The Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands are British Overseas Territories and as such use GBP.
Arctic/Russian Far East
Destinations on our Arctic and Russian Far East cruises include Norway, Russia, Greenland (Denmark), Canada and Alaska.
Check your itinerary for which destinations are covered. In most cases, you will only need currency at the beginning and end of your cruise, and for souvenirs, as most other expenses will be covered on your cruise.
LIFE ON BOARD
What is the food like on board? Do you cater to all dietary requirements?
On our elegant expedition ships, we pride ourselves on offering an extraordinary culinary experience that combines varied international trends in food and drinks, sometimes with a local accent, with healthy, energy-packed ingredients and plenty of protein for the explorer in you. Menus will please the most discerning of palates, with healthy menus showcasing fresh, local ingredients and menus to serve special dietary requirements.
Breakfast will include a wide range of hot, cold and cooked-to-order items. Expect daily chef ‘specials’ and eggs cooked to order. As well as plenty of fruit, nuts, sprinkling seeds (such as chia) and fresh juices there will be home-made bread, granola and other cereals, salmon and cooked meats and cheeses, yoghurt and porridge/oatmeal.
Lunch might consist of a salad bar and soup and other starter items followed by pasta, fish, meat, veggie options and a variety of hot and cold desserts. There will always be a cheese board and coffee and tea. House wines and beer are served with lunch or dinner.
Dinner is served a la carte, and will be akin to fine dining, with friendly informality. Expect nothing but the finest dishes – creative, healthy and with service to match. Enjoy our choice of fine wines, served throughout the meal.
Dietary requirements - most dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan and diabetic will be catered for and there will also be gluten-free options. Please make clear any special requests at the time of booking as we cannot guarantee options will be available once the cruise departs.
Where are meals served?
The Swan Restaurants will serve breakfast, lunch and dinner. Our restaurant is free seating.
The Club Lounge will offer 24-hour dining, lighter dishes and snacks.
Expedition passengers are generally outgoing and friendly and like to mingle with fellow passengers. In the evening our maître d’ can accommodate any special requests.
Room service is also available as and when you're in the mood for some quiet time.
Will there be an open bar / self service or manned bar?
Our ships have a very well stocked bar with a selection of soft drinks, wines and beers included within your cruise fare. A selection of premium beers, wine and spirits are available at an additional cost.
Expedition passengers are generally outgoing and friendly and like to mingle with fellow passengers. In the evening our maître d’ can accommodate any special requests.
What are the cabins like?
Your cabin is your elegant home away from home – a place to relax, recharge and admire the ever-changing scenery. Expect superb beds, minimum noise and vibration and a separate entrance, living area and bedroom. We also offer interconnecting suite and balcony rooms for families and groups.
Our cabins range from 19 sqm (Oceanview cabins) to 49 sqm (Premium Suite). The stylish and contemporary Scandi-design, decor is on a par with the best of the world’s boutique hotels. Softwood fittings, earthy tones and textures and thoughtful lighting make the rooms a place of retreat, rather than just somewhere to sleep. All have wardrobes, a desk, comfy seating areas and personal safes and mini-bars. There will be USB ports for charging devices.
Ensuite bathrooms are equally roomy with large sinks, glass-enclosed rain showers and plenty of storage space.
Will I have a balcony?
Our Suites and Balcony cabins have a balcony with chairs and a small table. Depending on your cabin category balconies range from 6 to 12 sqm.
What is there to do on board?
Take time to relax in one our spacious viewing areas and enjoy our wide selection of rich reference and other reading materials in the stylish library. We make guest wellbeing our priority, so you can work out in our state-of-the-art gym, enjoy a massage or enjoy the thermal suite, and try some yoga or stretch classes. Or just kick back in the elegant bar area or your scandi-design cabin retreat.
Lectures are led by the foremost experts in their field to allow you to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings, learning about the environment, flora, fauna, geology, climate and history of a destination.
Our photography lab supports your own personal adventure on board, allowing you to capture your journey and those exceptional moments that will last a lifetime. Professionals are on hand to guide you with free classes to help you record your memorable encounters, with private assistance on demand at a cost.
Take a pew in the forward-facing Swan’s Nest observation platform for extraordinary 180-degree views.
What is WiFi like on board?
WiFi is available but we ask all guests to bear in mind that we are cruising in an extremely remote area so coverage is patchy and speeds may not be what you are used to.
Basic WiFi is free where available, with a range of data packages available for purchase onboard.
Is there a doctor on the cruise?
All ships have a medical room and a ship's doctor onboard.
How clean is the ship?
Both ships will be compliant with the strictest Public Health and hygiene standards of the industry for all the activities on board including all the food handling and processing.
We go to great lengths to ensure cleanliness and sanitation onboard. The air distributed on board is disinfected by latest generation of advanced oxidation UV cells for the maximum protection against viruses and bacteria.
There are plenty of hand sanitiser stations around the ship and you will be encouraged to sanitise your hands before and after going ashore and always before mealtimes. In order to protect the environment, we also adhere to strict biosecurity rules. You will be asked to walk through a cleaning solution on leaving and re-boarding the ship.
What is your policy on sustainability, and what about the company’s environmental credentials?
Our ships have been designed and built in accordance with the latest sustainable practices.
Onboard we are reducing the use of paper and single-use plastic onboard the ship
Our ships use dynamic positioning technology which allows our ships to remain in locations without dropping anchor, which in turn reduces our environmental impact.
Whilst in port, we use batter power which reduces the burning of fuel. As our ships are new, they are fitted with SCRs (Selective catalytic reduction units)
Water filtration onboard allowing guests to choose between still and sparkling water. Guests can use their complimentary refillable bottles to reduce the amount of plastic bottled water in use.
Finally, our staff follow strict guidelines to limit our footprint in the destinations we visit. We are constantly reviewing our sustainability policy and always looking at ways we can leave a positive impact wherever we take our guests.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
From penguins, seals and whales in Antarctica, to walruses, polar bears and Arctic foxes in the Arctic, your Swan Hellenic cruise will guarantee you see plenty of wildlife..
How close do we get to wildlife?
Observing from a distance is the best mantra. Official guidelines require passengers to keep a minimum of five metres away from the wildlife, though penguins (in Antarctica), in particular, are curious creatures and unafraid of humans, so this may not always go to plan!
Whilst among wildlife walk slowly and keep noise to a minimum. If wildlife changes its behaviour, stop moving, or slowly put more distance between you. Animals are particularly sensitive to disturbance when they are breeding (including nesting) or moulting.
Your guides will keep a watchful eye at all times but do keep your distance.
How physically active do I need to be?
The ships are very well designed with side and aft marina embarkation allowing everyone to safely and easily embark on zodiacs.
Good mobility is essential, particularly for getting on and off the Zodiacs ashore. We have made the ride to shore as stable as possible by using superior quality non rigid keel zodiacs which will make possible for you to land-beach in the most interesting location.
For less mobile guests we will provide to sightsee in the destination and cruising around ice, icebergs, reefs etc with our specially designed hard keel zodiacs .
There will always be guided walks of various difficulties level so that you can choose the plan that suits you best. Those wishing to partake in more active excursions, such as kayaking, will need prior experience.
How do we ‘land’ ashore?
The Zodiac nudges up to a ‘beach’ or an island. Sometimes the boat captain will use the tide to push the boat ashore. Expedition guides and crew will hold the Zodiac stable while passengers slide their legs over the side and wiggle toward the front of the boat before stepping out. This may mean stepping into the water but there will be someone to help you and the muck boots will prevent you from getting wet.
Do you have rest days from excursions?
Most guests will want to partake in at least one excursion per day but if you wish to sit some excursions out there is plenty to do on the ship. Many of our cruises also have sea days, when we do not land. Visit the library, get to know your fellow guests, attend the photography lab or one of our scientific-based lectures, watch a film on your in-room TV or enjoy the views from the observation lounge. You will never be bored!
Can I smoke onboard?
Smoking is permitted in designated areas on Deck 8 aft portside and on Deck 4 mid ship portside.
There is no smoking in any indoor area nor on balconies.
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