SH Vega

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.

When you sail with Swan Hellenic, as well as visiting remote, unusual destinations, you’ll be traveling with friendly onboard experts. Renowned in their fields, these easy going specialists are on hand throughout your journey. From historians and naturalists, to meteorologists and ornithologists, our expedition team bring unparalleled knowledge to your adventures. Whether you chat with them at dinner, grab a morning coffee together, or catch one of their fascinating lectures, our onboard experts’ unique insights are enriching and interesting.

GEOLOGISTS | Love landscapes? Gain a deeper understanding of how your surroundings were formed from the knowledgable geologists you meet on board – and change the way you see the world forever.

ORNITHOLOGISTS | Will you spot a snow petrel, puffin, or rockhopper penguin when you travel with us? Learn about the incredible birds you encounter from our onboard ornithologists!

ACTIVITY LEADERS | From kayaking excursions and Zodiac expeditions, to hiking trips and private tours, you can rely on our experienced activity leaders to guide you on your adventures.

PHOTOGRAPHERS | Our photography experts are always happy to help you with your camera work. Chat to them and learn how you can best capture movement and light in the far-flung places you visit.

NATURALISTS | Our expert naturalists are the next best thing to traveling with Charles Darwin. Chat with them to get a new understanding of organisms, habitats and the natural world.

MARINE BIOLOGISTS | Catch up with our onboard marine biologists for absorbing stories about the whales, dolphins and other marine species you encounter on your Swan Hellenic voyage!

HISTORIANS | Our historians bring the past to life for you with incredible stories and unmatched knowledge of the places you visit with them.

EXPEDITION LEADERS | The experts in charge of your excursions make sure you're in the right place at the right time to experience amazing wildlife and stunning landscapes on your travels.

BOTANISTS | Identifying plant life is easy with our onboard botanists! Get insights into ecosystems and climate whether you’re at sea or on land.

ARCHAEOLOGISTS | Consult our archaeology experts to discover what lies beneath your feet, and uncover the lost cities and ancient civilizations that shaped history.

One thing we’ve discovered over the years is that our inquisitive, like-minded passengers share a thirst for knowledge. Sound familiar? Well, you’ll be pleased to hear we always select our lecturers and guest speakers with this in mind. We choose experienced people who give engaging and stimulating talks on a wide range of subjects that are relevant to the places we visit…

Our guest lecturers have a wealth of specialist knowledge, which helps you fully embrace the amazing destinations you travel to with Swan Hellenic. Each lecture offers interesting insights into the destinations you’re visiting – think history, culture, flora, wildlife – and this really helps you get the most from your time with us. Plus, briefings before each disembarkation, and recaps afterwards, enhance our lectures and talks, encouraging everyone to share their experiences in a fun, friendly atmosphere.

We’ve been inviting exclusive guest speakers to join us on our voyages since we pioneered expedition cruising back in the '50s, and we’re still just as passionate about selecting the right people now. Available throughout your journey, our friendly lecturers are around to bring their specialist knowledge to your adventures wherever you go, and whatever you do! Exploring side-by-side, you’ll discover things together, creating unforgettable memories that will stay with you forever.

Searching for a new level of clarity and connection? Swan Hellenic has teamed-up with Chopra, a leading integrative health company founded by world-renowned pioneer Dr. Deepak Chopra, to create Explore & Restore – an extraordinary new program of transformative well-being voyages…

Embracing new horizons

Inspired by the healing properties of the sea, our new approach to well-being has been designed to take you on the ultimate voyage of self-discovery. Swan Hellenic and Chopra were drawn together by their mutual passion for inner and outer exploration – finding new ways to connect with one’s inner self and forge a deeper bond with the natural world. Swan Hellenic’s boutique ships are designed to immerse you in the environment, offering intimate, informal spaces that blend seamlessly with Chopra’s approach to well-being.

What can you expect?

Explore & Restore cruises let you fully engage with your senses in the present moment, and welcome a deeper level of awareness…

• Awaken your spirit and form a deeper understanding of who you are in introspective, expert-led workshops.
• Immerse yourself in nature and feel the flow of the natural world as you find flexibility and peace with sunrise and evening yoga sessions set in the wild.
• Nourish your whole self with delicious Ayurveda-inspired meals, based on signature Chopra recipes.
• Unlock your inner explorer and reveal your place in the world on awe-inspiring excursions.
• Connect with the rhythm of life as you enjoy local music and traditional dancing!
• Gain a deeper connection to Mother Earth, and find calm with daily meditation in nature.
• Discover the secrets of locally sourced herbs in a fun masterclass, and much more!

Mind & body balance

Set off on an Explore & Restore cruise, and you’ll be embarking on a special journey, designed to rejuvenate and nurture, unlock your purpose, and bring you closer to the wonders of life. With powerful expert-led workshops, and exciting excursions, you’ll have the chance to reveal your place in the world and form a deeper connection with your authentic self. Our new well-being voyages are ideal for anyone interested in learning more about themselves, their travel partners, or travelers simply searching for unforgettable experiences!

Reconnecting with nature

The immersive expeditions on Swan Hellenic’s new Explore & Restore cruises are designed to help you connect with the natural world – and reconnect with yourself. Get ready to tune in to life’s magical flow, and embrace transformative experiences that enrich your personal development. Whether you’re trekking through lush rainforests, kayaking along pristine coastlines, or observing wildlife in their natural habitats, each expedition on your Explore & Restore voyage is your chance to absorb the wisdom of nature and connect with the planet in a unique way.

Ayurvedic Delights

Swan Hellenic’s new Explore & Restore cruises recognize the holistic importance of food, and our enlightening journeys are designed to nourish your body and soul with remarkable experiences and wholesome, healing meals. Ayurveda (which translates to 'knowledge of life') is a natural system of medicine, which originated in India over 3,000 years ago. And you’ll have the chance to enjoy delicious Ayurveda-inspired dishes as part of your Explore & Restore journey. Based on signature Chopra recipes, these light, savory meals have been created to nourish your whole self. Our 5-star chefs use locally sourced, organic produce, and their menus always include clean, vegetarian and vegan options. So, as well as immersive expeditions, and daily yoga and meditation, the food you eat on your voyage will also help you leave feeling better than ever.

Your well-being voyage awaits

Ready to embark on an extraordinary voyage of self-discovery? Our new well-being voyages give you time to explore your inner and outer worlds, and space to understand and connect with your true feelings in awe-inspiring destinations.