Are you interested in visiting unique places? Searching for your next unforgettable bucket list adventure?! Well, Swan Hellenic prides itself on taking you to see what others don’t, and if you’re wondering if that’s just a catchy slogan, think again! If you want to visit remote, off-the-beaten track destinations, and enjoy exceptional cultural, geographical and wildlife excursions, a voyage with Swan Hellenic is just what you need, because when we say you’ll see what others don’t, we really mean it.
See what others don’t
Set sail on an expedition cruise with Swan Hellenic, and you’ll get to explore remote places and vibrant cultures, and experience authentic, once-in-a-lifetime moments with like-minded people. Our ships are designed to give you extraordinary, panoramic views, that immerse you in your surroundings no matter where you are on board. So no matter where you’re sailing with us, you’ll get to connect with the world like never before!
Swan Hellenic pioneered cultural expedition cruising back in the '50s, and we’re proud to explore the world with the same passion and inquisitiveness today. We're always looking to expand our horizons by visiting exciting new destinations, which is why we’re often the first cruise ship (or one of very few ships) to stop at the amazing places we visit.
Our ships are the first to visit
Our ships have been the first to visit many ports thanks to Swan Hellenic’s innovative approach to discovering the world with you. For instance, SH Diana was the first ship to visit the historic coastal town of Elmina, in Ghana. This enchanting fishing port is home to historic castles and dungeons, ancient buildings that tell the tales of the region's gold, ivory and slave trading past. Experience the sights and sounds of Elmina’s old town with its atmospheric alleys and fascinating Posuban, shrines to ancient Asafo warriors. Then investigate the oldest and largest European building in Africa, the 15th-century Portuguese castle, the Castle of Elmina, and uncover the dark history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2025 and 2026 will see these voyages returning, along with SH Diana being the first ship to visit even more ports. Will you be joining us? In 2025, the ship will lead the way in visiting Ilha Baia dos Tigres (Tiger Bay Island) in Namibia. Angola’s largest island is a pristine oasis surrounded by vast dunes that plunge into the Atlantic Ocean. Once a vibrant fishing village, you’ll get to explore this majestic island, which is now an uninhabited, otherworldly ghost town.
SH Vega will also lead the way in visiting the Faroe Islands' Kalsoy Island in 2025. Situated in the northern part of the Faroe Islands, between Eysturoy Island and Kunoy Island, this secluded Nordic archipelago has breathtaking views, rugged terrain, steep basalt cliffs and beautiful valleys. The west side of the island is known for its impressive black basalt wall, while the eastern side has green, fertile slopes, and the island has a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere.
2025 will see SH Vega become one of the first cruise to visit Playa Quesera, in Costa Rica too. Part of Curú Wildlife Refuge on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Quesera counts as one of the country's best beaches. With views of Isla Tortuga, this secluded spot stands out with its aquamarine waters, rugged rock formations and swaying palms with tropical birds.
Rarely visited, never forgotten
SH Diana explores destinations rarely visited by other cruise lines too. Located between Sicily and Tunisia, Italy’s exotic Pantelleria Island is also known as the 'black pearl of the Mediterranean'. This bewitching volcanic island has a rich blend of cultural influences, culinary delights, and traditional architecture. It’s home to striking landscapes, dark lava rock, rugged peaks and a craggy coastline, punctuated by sharp cliffs, magical caves, and glittering, blue waters.
Datça and Dalyan in Turkey, are two more amazing destinations SH Diana sails to that are hardly every visited by other ships. One of Turkey’s hidden gems, Datça is known for its pristine beaches, pine forests and olive groves, and untouched rugged scenery. Meanwhile, cruise the Dalyan River, flanked by intriguing ancient Lycian rock tombs.
Another rarely visited destination SH Diana sails to is Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles. One of the world's largest coral atolls, this World Heritage Site consists of four large coral islands, enclosing a shallow tropical lagoon, surrounded by a reef. Home to some the largest and oldest tortoises in the world, over 100,00 Aldabra giant tortoises live here, and can sometimes be spotted grazing on short turf.
Your world is waiting
So, if you want to explore rarely-visited, remote destinations, Swan Hellenic really do have you covered. From the Arctic to Antarctica, and Africa to Latin America – our ground-breaking voyages will take you to places few people have ever been. Sail with us on one of our stylish boutique ships, and we’ll do our best to provide unforgettable, enriching experiences that leave you with remarkable memories you’ll treasure forever.