Today we proudly announced our 2025-2026 itineraries, taking travelers to extraordinary destinations that other cruise lines overlook. With a commitment to curating truly off-the-beaten-track experiences, our luxury, purpose-designed boutique ships, SH Diana and SH Vega, will make maiden calls to 34 exclusive locations across the globe. These cruises cater to travelers eager for discovery, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes that remain untouched by mainstream tourism.
Hermanus, South Africa: A First for Expedition Cruises
In an exciting development, Swan Hellenic’s SH Diana will make its inaugural call to Hermanus, a charming town southeast of Cape Town, in November 2025. Known for its rich natural beauty, Hermanus offers guests a unique blend of historic allure and marine diversity. From Fernkloof Nature Reserve in the Kleinrivier Mountains, celebrated for its exceptional flora, to a scenic 12 km cliffside pathway, travelers can witness seasonal whale migrations and bustling penguin colonies up close. SH Diana will return to Hermanus in 2026, providing further opportunities to experience this uncharted destination.
Uncovering Brazil’s Hidden Treasures
Swan Hellenic’s SH Vega has arrived in Brazil, set to explore the picturesque locales of Trancoso, Itacaré, Morro de São Paulo, and the untouched Abrolhos Archipelago for the first time. The Abrolhos Archipelago stands out as a secluded paradise, teeming with a diverse marine ecosystem and lush vegetation. This remote destination offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore an ecosystem where endemic species thrive. SH Vega’s itinerary for 2025-2026 includes additional, equally unique Brazilian coastal destinations, promising new adventures for curious travelers.
Expanding Horizons: Unique Destinations Across Continents
Swan Hellenic’s reach goes far beyond South Africa and Brazil. Thanks to the compact design of its luxury ice-class vessels, SH Diana and SH Vega can access remote destinations across multiple continents, bringing passengers to places like:
- •Vaeroy (Lofoten, Norway) - a stunning archipelago known for its dramatic cliffs and rich marine life.
- •Doñana National Park (Spain) - a biodiverse reserve ideal for birdwatching and experiencing Spain's natural beauty.
- •Elmina (Ghana) - rich in cultural history, offering a unique window into Ghana's past.
- •Loango National Park and Mayumba (Gabon) - where pristine beaches meet lush rainforests.
- •Ilha Baia dos Tigres (Angola) - an island steeped in history and rare beauty.
Each itinerary has been expertly crafted to take guests deep into these remarkable destinations, promising rich experiences that reflect Swan Hellenic’s dedication to cultural exploration.
Highlights from the 2025-2026 Itineraries
For travelers passionate about exploring destinations rarely touched by tourism, Swan Hellenic’s itineraries offer access to an array of hidden gems, including:
- •Kalso, Faroe Islands
- •Kinsale, Ireland
- •Pantelleria, Italy
- •Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles
- •Datça, Turkey
- •Kilwa Kivinje, Tanzania
- •Georgetown, Guyana
- •Cajari and Aquiqui rivers, Amazon Ecoregion
Plan Your Adventure
Full details of these exclusive cultural expeditions and travel packages are available through our website and our network of expert luxury travel advisors, including Virtuoso. With thoughtfully crafted itineraries and a commitment to “see what others don’t,” our2025-2026 cruises redefine expedition travel, offering unparalleled access to some of the world’s most extraordinary and unexplored locations. Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, natural beauty, or unique wildlife experiences, our itineraries provide the ultimate journey beyond the ordinary. For those ready to explore what lies off the beaten path, 2025-2026 promises an adventure like no other.