Anyone who is an adventurer has certainly considered exploring the icy lands of the Antarctic continent at least once in their lives. The good news is that with the luxurious ships of Swan Hellenic Cruises, you can fulfill that dream in the greatest possible comfort.
More exclusive trips are with everything, and even more so when it comes to exotic destinations, little explored by men. Those who love these places are especially ecotourists, with a more adventurous spirit and who enjoy unforgettable walks through very different corners of the world. With that in mind, Swan Hellenic Cruises has launched an incredible novelty: a luxury cruise through Antarctica.
This high-end expedition is new to the South American maritime tourism market. And the reception of the tour through the frozen lands of the Antarctic continent was so good that there is already a forecast for new launches, also of ships with structure for the ice of that region. Therefore, great opportunities to get to know Antarctica up close are to be expected very soon.
Want to know more about this amazing trip? When are the next cruise departures to the Antarctic Pole? Read on to find out all about Swan Hellenic's cruises through the coldest part of the planet.
In this post you will read:
- What is SH Minerva like?
- What is it like to travel with Swan Hellenic
- Expeditions in Antarctica
- When is the next departure to Antarctica?
- Cruise travel insurance
- Swan Hellenic's role in the world
- Sobre a Swan Hellenic
- Explore
- FAQ
What is SH Minerva like?
The SH Minerva is, in a nutshell, an incredible ship. It is a boutique vessel, with capacity for 152 passengers. Its size is perfect for explorations on the Antarctic continent, as tourism in this region is regulated by the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO), which has some restrictions, such as huge ships, to protect the site.
Inside, the building has a sophisticated and modern decor, with Scandinavian-style cabins. The whole atmosphere is very cozy, in the ideal way that an accommodation in such icy lands should be. The refinement and welcoming interior contrasts with the freezing and almost inhospitable climate of the surroundings, making SH Minerva an unforgettable safe haven.
In the outdoor area, the wide spaces allow an incredible dazzle of the surrounding landscape. There are nine decks to enjoy the view or even have breakfast while watching the sea and the glaciers. There's even a pool and jacuzzi available, as well as a spa with massages, a gym and a sauna with a view.
In all, there are 76 cabins available to accommodate travelers, 60 of which are equipped with balconies (even with the cold weather, the landscape there makes it worth having this comfort), in addition to 16 exclusive suites, with two environments. Oh, and the Swan Nest, a common area at the extreme tip of the bow, perfect for observation, is also worth mentioning.
The SH Minerva is a five-star ship built for voyages in icy regions. It even has a PC 5 polar rating, suitable for expeditions in environments such as Antarctica.
What is it like to travel with Swan Hellenic
With a high standard of sophistication and elegance, traveling with Swan Hellenic Cruises is to guarantee absolute comfort, even in places with such an exotic climate, as is the case of Antarctica. The ship offers first-rate service, with super personalized service and offering the best quality items.
The crew, comprising about 120 people, makes the staff dedication ratio almost 1×1, as it differs so little from the number of passengers. This is directly reflected in what is offered to each of the travelers on board, who are called by name and have their particularities noted, thanks to the attention of each member of the team.
Right at the beginning of the trip, passengers receive a turquoise blue thermal coat and a complimentary backpack. Rubber boots are available for everyone to protect themselves from the extreme cold during the walks, as well as binoculars, which are a hand on the wheel for explorations.
In the cabins, the housekeeping service is daily and the minibar is well stocked (already included in the price paid). The SH Minerva package also includes unlimited internet, bar, meals and cabin service (so you can have breakfast on your own balcony). Flights to Buenos Aires, city accommodation and transfers to Ushuaia are also included.
To complete, there are specialists, speakers and scholars of the marine biome integrating the staff, which makes the tour much more interesting. That's because it's one thing to visit a beautiful place, but understanding more about it, with a professional, makes the experience even better.
Traveling like this, with so much zeal on the part of the company, is quite a differentiator. After all, going to more isolated places with a high standard infrastructure is something quite privileged in the market. However, Swan Hellenic stands out in this regard, especially among cruises and expeditions to extreme regions of the planet.
Expeditions in Antarctica
As amazing as the entire ship is, all decorated with maximum comfort and sophistication, the main star of any trip is always the destination. And because it is Antarctica, one of the most remote and unexplored areas on the globe, this highlight is even more pronounced – and you can check this out with anyone who has visited this area of the extreme south of the Americas.
The SH Minerva passengers land expeditions take place at different points in the Antarctic Circle. There are itineraries that stop at the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, Elephant Island, the South Shetland Islands and, of course, the Antarctic Peninsula. Depending on the trip chosen, the route makes these stops, but not all Swan Hellenic departures are so complete (weather can also interfere).
There are stops on land practically every day, in two shifts: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The groups are identified (Swan Hellenic's own blue parka already helps with this), and the procedures are very well organized. On each trip, professionals accompany the travelers, offering information about the place and the species of animals seen. It's a unique experience that stays in the memory forever.
When is the next departure to Antarctica?
If you were excited about this trip to Antarctica, you can already start planning to live this adventure in the following season. Swan Hellenic Cruises has confirmed seven sailings on the SH Minerva's upcoming season via the South Pole, with dates starting in late November.
Each trip will have a different duration, with the longest ones being also more complete, as is to be expected. In case you are interested, the scheduled dates are as follows: 22/11 (9 nights), 01/12 (9 nights), 10/12 (9 nights), 19/12 (10 nights including Christmas), 29/12 10 (08 nights, including New Year's Eve), 01/2023/11 (19 nights) and 01/18 (XNUMX nights).
In addition to the SH Minerva, Swan Hellenic will also launch another vessel, the SH Vega, which should depart and arrive in Ushuaia, as well as the one already in operation.
The departures of this new vessel are scheduled for the following dates: 04/12 (10 nights), 14/12 (15 nights, including Christmas), 29/12 (10 nights, including New Year's Eve), 08/01 (11 nights ), 19/01 (10 nights), 29/01 (11 nights), 09/02 (12 nights until Shrove Tuesday) and 21/02 (12 nights, starting on Shrove Tuesday).
Cruise travel insurance
Before booking your tour, it is also important to get a good travel insurance plan that covers cruises. With it you guarantee medical and legal assistance according to the amount defined in the insurance - that is, if you have a bad feeling, hurt and even need to be rescued, you will be covered to be attended, without spending anything more for it.
Travel insurance is important on any trip, and in cases of more isolated places, it is even more recommended. After all, the destination is more isolated, in addition to the extreme temperatures there, which is already a great reason to take extra care with your well-being and fullness, isn't it?
Therefore, having travel insurance for cruises is highly recommended and, if you want to see even more information about this service, just read our complete guide about it.
Swan Hellenic's role in the world
Swan Hellenic Cruises already had offices all over the world, from Europe, the US or even Asia, as well as partners in other strategic locations, including Scandinavian countries and even Oceania. Now, however, the partnership with the Brazilian tourism market opens up new business possibilities with customers from all over South America.
Thus, the whole world can have contact with the specialized service in luxury cruises that the company offers. It is a great opportunity for those who have always wanted to take a trip by ship, but do not give up comfort and all that is best in the sector. And, of course, combining all this with the incredible destinations that Swan Hellenic visits, such as Antarctica, with SH Minerva.
Sobre a Swan Hellenic
The British Swan Hellenic has existed since the 50s, but went through a long period of hiatus and changes of command, being relaunched in July 2020. The inauguration of the expedition ship to Antarctica, SH Minerva, was a presentation in style. for brand operations.
In addition to Minerva, Swan Hellenic will also make available another vessel to meet the Antarctic demand. The SH Vega is another five star, polar class PC 5 and ice expedition cruiser, which will begin operations soon, in May of this year.
Both ships have a maximum capacity of 152 passengers, distributed in 76 state-of-the-art cabins. There is also planning for the launch of an even larger cruise, a PC 6 class, pax of 192 guests and 96 cabins and suites, which should arrive at the end of 2022.
In fact, the company's cruises are focused on luxury tourism, always with a more historical and cultural footprint in their itineraries. This is evident in the itinerary prepared for the crew on board the ships that go to the coldest territory on Earth: always surprising and detailed.
It is also worth noting that Swan Hellenic ships are all built in compliance with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) standards. That is, they follow the safety standards indicated for the total safety of human life on the high seas.
Explore
Find out more information and book your trip on the company's official website:
https://www.swanhellenic.com/
FAQ
What is Swan Hellenic Cruises?Swan Hellenic is a cruise company, active in the luxury market, and leader in the follow-up of cultural and historical expeditions. Learn more about Swan Hellenic ships going to Antarctica.
What is it like to travel to Antarctica with Swan Hellenic?Going to such a different place is already unforgettable, but being aboard Swan Hellenic ships elevates the experience even more. Check out more information about the interior of the cabins and other areas of SH Minerva.
What are Swan Hellenic's next departures to Antarctica?In the season starting in November 2022, Swan Hellenic will operate two ships with multiple departures. See in the full post the dates of the ship trips to Antarctica.
How much does it cost to travel to Antarctica with Swan Hellenic?As it is a high-end market, the price of a cruise trip with Swan Hellenic is compatible with the same category trips on the market. On the official website you can check the exact values.
