Latest news

"Astronomy helps people understand how we know what we know – and why science still matters.""The carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen in us were cooked in the cores of red giant stars long before Earth even formed."From flying aboard NASA’s SOFIA 747 observatory to decoding the atmospheres of exoplanets, astronomer Dana E. Backman translates complex cosmic discoveries into compelling narratives for students, teachers, and lifelong learners alike. He also brings decades of stargazing and scientific storytelling to travelers aboard Swan Hellenic cruises. His career spans NASA, academia, and the SETI I...

Watching polar bears hunt, exploring fjords, and the deafening sound of silence? Stanford-educated engineer-turned-Greenland-advocate, Arielle Montgomery shares her thoughts on photography, climate change, and the best way to really see Greenland…You've visited every town in Greenland. What does that journey mean to you?Arielle: I am a completionist, so I am one of the few foreigners and one of the only Americans that have been to every town in Greenland. The more I traveled, the more I realized how little the outside world understands about Greenland beyond icebergs and climate change. The m...

Expedition Leader, Mariam Pousa "The nature of the remote places we visit is unpredictable, but that’s what makes them so special!"We spoke to Swan Hellenic’s Expedition Leader, Mariam Pousa, to get the lowdown on life changing adventures, ever-changing environments and more…Hey Mariam, can you tell us about being an Expedition Leader?Mariam: Sure! What I love most of being an Expedition Leader is helping shape truly memorable moments for our guests—especially knowing that, for many, this is a once-in-a-lifetime journey. No two voyages are ever the same, and that’s part of what makes this wor...

Penguins, staying warm and kick-stepping?! Our Corporate Expedition Leader, Antony Jinman gives us the lowdown on our new snowshoeing excursions…Hi Antony, what makes Antarctica such a special place for snowshoeing?Antony: It has to be the remoteness and pristine polar environment! The opportunity to walk on the wild-side. For me, it’s Antarctica’s dramatic mountainous landscape climbing out of the rich blue ocean that offers an adventure and view like no other.What can guests expect from a typical snowshoeing excursion with Swan Hellenic?Antony: A typical snowshoe adventure lasts for about 1....

Penguins, princesses, and polar dreams: meet the explorer living her bucket list"Being immersed in nature is always so exhilarating—it has a way of surprising us and drawing us into the moment."She’s celebrated birthdays with penguins and Captains, planted a baobab in Madagascar, and dreamt under stars in Yemen. For seasoned solo traveler Pina Nadia Tarlecki, expedition cruising isn’t just a special getaway—it’s a lifestyle of curiosity, freedom, and unforgettable encounters…Hi Pina, as someone who's often on the move, what do you love most about expedition-style cruises?Pina: The intimacy of ...

Cruise and Beach Holiday: A Unique Experience Imagine sailing on an elegant cruise ship through crystal-clear waters, enjoying luxury and comfort while relaxing on breathtaking beaches. Combining a cruise with a beach holiday offers the perfect way to experience a diverse journey — from exciting discoveries at sea to peaceful days on the sand. With Swan Hellenic, you can fully embrace this combination. Their cruises not only offer spectacular views and unforgettable moments but also take you to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including the Seychelles, the Caribbean, Belize, and B...

Lecturer and accredited bird ringer Sue Walsh talks to us about her journey into ornithology, the art of bird ringing, and what guests can look forward to when birdwatching aboard our ships.Hi Sue, how did you first become involved in ornithology?Sue: I grew up in London without real knowledge or interest in the natural world around me. However, I ended up studying geology at university and that changed my perspective. I started to observe the landscape and try to understand how it had been formed. It wasn’t until my thirties that I started to become interested in birds. I was camping in Scotl...

Planning your dream cruise to Greenland with Swan Hellenic? Beyond the excitement of exploring icy landscapes and immersing in Inuit culture, packing can be a key part of your preparation. Don't worry, we've got you covered! This guide will help you curate the perfect wardrobe for your Arctic adventure, ensuring you're comfortable, stylish, and ready for anything.What to Pack for a Greenland CruiseGreenland's weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. Think layers and versatility. Focus on practicality and comfort, as exploration is a key part of the experience. Remember, we foster a relax...