SH Minerva

SH Minerva is the first of three newbuild vessels for Swan Hellenic Cruises, launched in August 2021 and inaugurated in December that year. She is a small ship with 76 staterooms carrying a maximum of 152 passengers, built with a PC5 ice-classed hull for operations in extreme climates.

Minerva and her sistership are ice-class expedition vessels designed for operations in extreme climates, from tropical waters to polar regions with heavy ice conditions. The purpose-built expedition ships feature Scandinavian-inspired interiors, large outdoor observation areas for wildlife viewing, science and expedition facilities, and three dining venues: the Dining Room Restaurant, Club Lounge & Bar, and Pool Bar & Grill. Cabins showcase rich natural materials, Scandi-chic comfort, and spacious open perspectives out to sea. The majority of staterooms feature large balconies, with 5-star accommodation for 152 passengers served by a team of 120 crew.

Each voyage is supported by a team of approximately 12 expedition specialists, guest lecturers, and guides. Swan Hellenic cruises include accommodation, all meals including room service, open-bar beverages, shore excursions, onboard lectures and entertainment, gratuities, and Wi-Fi access. For polar voyages, expedition gear such as rubber boots is provided, and each passenger receives a complimentary expedition parka.

SH Minerva does not offer dedicated children's facilities. The vessel was named after the 1989-built MS Minerva, which sailed for Swan Hellenic between 1996 and 2020. The ship suits curious travellers seeking cultural and expedition-focused voyages with small-group intimacy and in-depth exploration of remote destinations, from the polar regions to distant corners of the Asia-Pacific.