South Atlantic cruise: from Antarctica to South Africa

Ushuaia→Cape Town

15.03.28 - 04.04.28

D0828031520SH DIANA

Ports5

Countries5

Nights20

Embark on an unforgettable luxury cruise from Ushuaia, the gateway to the White Continent, through the icy wilderness of the South Shetland Islands, and the captivating Antarctic Peninsula. Your epic voyage will traverse the dazzling landscape of South Georgia before arriving in the vibrant city of Cape Town, South Africa

Cruise Plus

Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

Price on request

Transfer

Night Hotel

Transfer

Cruise

Transfer

Expedition Highlights

A once-in-a-lifetime journey—exploring pristine ice landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and the raw beauty of Earth's last great wilderness aboard our boutique expedition ship.

Antarctic Peninsula

Penguin colonies

Meet Adélie, Gentoo and Chinstrap penguin colonies up close.

Antarctic Peninsula

Icebergs and Glaciers

Listen to the symphony of nature as towering icebergs and colossal glaciers crack and calve.

Lautaro Island, Antarctica

Whales in the wild

Marvel at the sight of whales fluking gracefully in the icy waters.

Antarctic Peninsula

Albatross all around

Spot majestic albatross as they soar alongside the ship across the ocean.

Citizen Science Workshops

During your trip, join Swan Hellenics Citizen Science programs and contribute to real-world environmental research.

Antarctic Peninsula

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about this isolated polar region from our onboard team of experts.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1. Ushuaia

Nestled in the foothills of the snow-capped Martial Range, Ushuaia’s colourful streets and mismatched buildings cascade from the imposing mountains before coming to an abrupt halt at the shores of the Beagle Channel. As one of the world’s southernmost cities, Ushuaia carries its ‘end of the world’ reputation well. The moody weather and dramatic surroundings certainly help. Board your boutique ship before departing for your journey through one of the most captivating wilderness regions of the world

Days 2-3. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Days 4-6. Antarctic Peninsula

Among captivating glaciers, majestic icebergs and snowy islands, the Antarctic Peninsula is where most visitors to the White Continent live their Antarctica dream. It's the most accessible part, with scientific bases and incredible scenery, like the photogenic Lemaire Channel. Shore excursions might include Mikkelsen Harbour, where among gentoo penguins, snowy sheathbills and skuas, Antarctic Weddell seals haul out

Day 7. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Days 9-11. South Georgia

Often called the 'Galapagos of the Poles,' South Georgia has a number of landing sites with tens of thousands of King Penguins and gentoo penguins, making up some of the largest populations in the world alongside harrumphing elephant seals. Among its remarkable sites is Grytviken, the historic whaling station where legendary British explorer Ernest Shackleton (1874–1922) is laid to rest

Days 12-15. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 16. Tristan Da Cunha

Seabirds outnumber humans on this remote British outpost in the middle of the southern Atlantic. Millions of species like the rare yellow-nosed albatross, skuas, terns and petrels, including the endangered Tristan albatross, inhabit the bluffs. Northern rockhopper penguins breed on the beaches, while upwellings attract whales and dolphins. Fur seals also haul out on the island teeming with avian life

Days 17-20. Day at sea

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 21. Cape Town

Between mountains and the ocean, Cape Town is a vibrant, multicultural city with a lively waterfront featuring seafood restaurants, shopping and attractions. A cable car transports visitors to distinctive Table Mountain with sweeping views. Boats head to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.Boulders Beach is home to African penguins, and world-class Stellenbosch vineyards offer wine tastings amid Cape Dutch architecture

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Mark Evans

After university Mark relocated to Australia, settling in the remote Kimberly region. There, he established several eco- tourism businesses and led conservation efforts for sea turtles and marine mammals. His diverse career includes producing environmental films in Tanzania, guiding wildlife tours in Australia and Africa and exploring old-growth forests in the US. While living in Campbell River on Vancouver Island, he pursued his passion as a whale-watching captain and grizzly bear guide. In winter, Mark guides expeditions in the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica.

Javier Cotin

Javier's love for birds and nature has taken him to some of the world's most remote comers. From studying Eleonora's Falcons in the Mediterranean to exploring seabird habitats in Tasmania, he's dedicated his career to understanding and protecting wildlife. With a PhD from the University of Barcelona, Javier's research focuses on how human activity affects bird populations. Now, based in the Pyrenees, his passion for birding and adventure never faces Javier's tales from his ornithology research in faraway lands are as thrilling as they are interesting, and he Can't wait to share them with curious Swan Hellenic guests!

Claire Penny

Claire Penny recently completed a PhD in Organic Geochemistry with the University of Durham and the British Antarctic Survey, analyzing snow petrel stomach oil deposits to model Antarctic ice-sheet behavior. Her research has taken her aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough and HMS Protector. With a background in Geology (University of Aberdeen) and a Master's in Petroleum Geoscience (Imperial College London), Claire combines her academic expertise with a passion for exploration. Her travels vary from Antarctic expeditions to hiking Scotland’s munroes

Alexandra Kormiltseva

Aleksandra went on several expeditions to the Russian Far North when she was at university, and fell in love with the Arctic. Fascinated by stories of polar explorers and the beauty of remote corners of the world, she organised and worked on many expedition tours to the Russian Far East and the Russian Arctic, including a cruise to the North Pole and Franz Josef Land. Aleksandra's goal is to deliver a transformational experience to every guest travelling to the Polar world

Nina Herbert

Originally from the UK, marine biologist and expedition guide Nina has sailed from the Arctic to Antarctica, leading guests and conducting cetacean research across the world’s oceans. With a background in geography and ecology from the University of Leeds, she now works with the Icelandic Orca Project studying killer whales in South Iceland. Passionate about connecting people to the marine world, Nina combines science and exploration to inspire ocean conservation and deepen understanding of our planet’s waters.

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

SH Diana at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

SH Diana’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-to-ceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes. Bold clean lines blend with wood, metal and natural fabrics to create casual comfort.

Culinary Excellence

Outstanding food is all part of your boutique travel experience. Get ready to explore gastronomic excellence as Swan Hellenic’s world-renowned chefs take you on an international culinary journey

Beauty & Spa

Choose from beauty and wellness treatments, including Balinese inspired massages and body care. It is an easy way to reset between landings.

Fitness & Sauna

Our state-of-the-art gym has everything you’ll need for an invigorating workout, from cardio machines to stretch bands and free weights. Enjoy sessions with personal trainers and relax in sauna with a view.

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Engaging Environment

Whether you’re seeking a moment of quiet reflection, a chance to recharge your batteries, or an opportunity to investigate the wonders of the natural world, the SH Diana has a variety of relaxing and rejuvenating spaces to help make your voyage with us truly unforgettable.

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Mark Evans

After university Mark relocated to Australia, settling in the remote Kimberly region. There, he established several eco- tourism businesses and led conservation efforts for sea turtles and marine mammals. His diverse career includes producing environmental films in Tanzania, guiding wildlife tours in Australia and Africa and exploring old-growth forests in the US. While living in Campbell River on Vancouver Island, he pursued his passion as a whale-watching captain and grizzly bear guide. In winter, Mark guides expeditions in the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and Antarctica.

Javier Cotin

Javier's love for birds and nature has taken him to some of the world's most remote comers. From studying Eleonora's Falcons in the Mediterranean to exploring seabird habitats in Tasmania, he's dedicated his career to understanding and protecting wildlife. With a PhD from the University of Barcelona, Javier's research focuses on how human activity affects bird populations. Now, based in the Pyrenees, his passion for birding and adventure never faces Javier's tales from his ornithology research in faraway lands are as thrilling as they are interesting, and he Can't wait to share them with curious Swan Hellenic guests!

Claire Penny

Claire Penny recently completed a PhD in Organic Geochemistry with the University of Durham and the British Antarctic Survey, analyzing snow petrel stomach oil deposits to model Antarctic ice-sheet behavior. Her research has taken her aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough and HMS Protector. With a background in Geology (University of Aberdeen) and a Master's in Petroleum Geoscience (Imperial College London), Claire combines her academic expertise with a passion for exploration. Her travels vary from Antarctic expeditions to hiking Scotland’s munroes

Alexandra Kormiltseva

Aleksandra went on several expeditions to the Russian Far North when she was at university, and fell in love with the Arctic. Fascinated by stories of polar explorers and the beauty of remote corners of the world, she organised and worked on many expedition tours to the Russian Far East and the Russian Arctic, including a cruise to the North Pole and Franz Josef Land. Aleksandra's goal is to deliver a transformational experience to every guest travelling to the Polar world

Nina Herbert

Originally from the UK, marine biologist and expedition guide Nina has sailed from the Arctic to Antarctica, leading guests and conducting cetacean research across the world’s oceans. With a background in geography and ecology from the University of Leeds, she now works with the Icelandic Orca Project studying killer whales in South Iceland. Passionate about connecting people to the marine world, Nina combines science and exploration to inspire ocean conservation and deepen understanding of our planet’s waters.

South Atlantic cruise: from Antarctica to South Africa

South Atlantic cruise: from Antarctica to South Africa

Cruise Plus

Cruise Plus

Expedition Highlights

Penguin colonies

Icebergs and Glaciers

Whales in the wild

Albatross all around

Citizen Science Workshops

Expert-led Talks

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Overview

Day 1. Ushuaia

Days 2-3. Day at sea

Days 4-6. Antarctic Peninsula

Day 7. Day at sea

Days 9-11. South Georgia

Days 12-15. Day at sea

Day 16. Tristan Da Cunha

Days 17-20. Day at sea

Day 21. Cape Town

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Mark Evans

Javier Cotin

Claire Penny

Alexandra Kormiltseva

Nina Herbert

Endless ways to spend your day

SH Diana at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

Culinary Excellence

Beauty & Spa

Fitness & Sauna

Onboard Discoveries

Engaging Environment

Personal Service

Your Home Away from Home

Staterooms

Oceanview

Balcony

Junior Suite

Suite

Premium Suite

Expedition Highlights

Penguin colonies

Icebergs and Glaciers

Whales in the wild

Albatross all around

Citizen Science Workshops

Expert-led Talks

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Mark Evans

Javier Cotin

Claire Penny

Alexandra Kormiltseva

Nina Herbert

SH Diana at a Glance

Boutique Cruising

Culinary Excellence

Beauty & Spa

Fitness & Sauna

Onboard Discoveries

Engaging Environment

Personal Service

Your Home Away from Home