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SH Minerva was built in Finland’s Helsinki Shipyard, and offers a truly unforgettable cruising experience. Unobstructed views throughout the ship, welcoming spaces to relax, and world-class restaurants, staterooms and amenities make traveling on this modern cruise ship a complete pleasure.
Fantastic bucket list trip to Antarctica. All the details were handled smoothly, from the pick up in Buenos Aires to the farewell again in Buenos Aires. Staff and crew were so very helpful, attentive and considerate. Our cabin was wonderfully comfortable and scenic, with huge port windows almost floor to ceiling. There was tons of storage, and a curtain to separate bedroom from living area. The food was fresh, plentiful and delicious. It was so great to be on a smaller, more personable ship, and we got to know staff and fellow travelers. The onboard experts and lectures were outstanding and informative. Best of all though, we had a sense of genuine, personal caring from staff on board. The expeditions were so exciting, and safely managed. We also got to keep some cool gear- parka I love, waterproof backpack and water bottle. We saw thousands of penguins, lots of other birds, humpbacks and orcas. Highly recommend this cruise line and ship!
I’ve cruised several times on various size ships with a variety of cruise lines, and this was by far the best crew and hospitality staff I’ve encountered. The expedition team got to know us and were as excited as we were on each expedition. They guided us and encouraged us as we trudged through snow. The hospitality staff, including the kitchen team, were thoughtful, helpful and extremely friendly. They took time to understand our likes, dislikes and allergies. They were readily available and took very good care of us. The team’s eagerness to provide a stellar experience made this cruise an even better one. The ship itself is well cared for and state of the art. The food was high quality and plentiful. Antarctica is a beautiful place to visit, walk on and zodiac around. To have the experience of a lifetime, I suggest taking a Swan Hellenic cruise when you go!
My husband and I recently completed the "Antarctic Wonders" cruise on the beautiful SH Minerva. I can honestly say that everything about this adventure was extraordinary. It was our first "Expedition Cruise" and the whole experience was amazing from start to finish. I would absolutely recommend it to others without hesitation. The staff (including the Captain, Hotel Director, Doctor and Expedition Leader by the way) were exceptional and approachable. The ship's capacity is 152 passengers but there were only 91 guests traveling on this particular voyage. Naturally, this made for a certain level of personalized service, but each and every staff member went out of their way 24/7 to ensure a perfect experience for all passengers. The dining and bar staff (Zerik, Allan, Silvester, Roan, Sagar) addressed us all by name after the 1st day. Beyond that, they were kind, funny and extremely accommodating. I must say that the other passengers were very welcoming as well. It seemed that we were all up for the adventure of a lifetime and we shared a "life changing" experience with one another that bonded us in an unexpected way. The food was all made from scratch daily and we enjoyed 5 star meals that were incredible. Chef Eddy can "read the room" and he tailored meals to fit the needs and desires of a diverse group of people (literally from all over the world). It was impressive and delicious. Our stateroom was lovely. It had more storage than any previous ship I have traveled on as well as an electric fireplace that was so charming! The common areas are also elegant but inviting and comfortable. The spa was beautiful and I enjoyed a massage with Jun that was outstanding. The sauna and hot tub offered views outside the ship that were spectacular. We didn't hop into the pool, but spent a fair amount of time on the deck enjoying the tables with heaters above them. You sure couldn't beat the view at lunch time!! The Expedition team was comprised of experts from many fields (Marine Biology, Ornithology, Geology). They were knowledgeable, helpful and so interesting to talk to. They gave informative lectures and were always available to answer random questions too. We even visited the onboard lab one day! Miriam, our Expedition Leader, was delightful. Her experience and planning allowed us to enjoy maximum time off the ship (via Zodiac cruises or landings) and made the adventure all that we had hoped for and more. The team had a photographer onboard (Werner Kruse) to document our experience and the video and photos we received (at no additional cost) were of "National Geographic" quality. It was a priceless gift of our memories and experience. The weather (and wildlife) was very cooperative during our journey, which I understand is not always the case. However, I can assure you that this team will go above and beyond to deliver the best guest experience possible on any voyage. They also facilitated a "Polar Plunge" for those of us who were interested (30 seconds of chilly, salty exhilaration for endless years of bragging rights!) If you are considering a cruise to the Antarctic Peninsula (and if you haven't been, you should be!), I would urge you to travel with Swan Hellenic. Their attention to detail (and, it should be noted, safety) is unmatched in my opinion. Go for it!
My Antarctica Wonders expedition with Swan Hellenic aboard SH Minerva was nothing short of extraordinary. From the very first moment, airport pickup, to the final charter flight back to Buenos Aires, every detail was flawlessly handled. This is expedition cruising done right. The crew and expedition team were absolutely stellar, knowledgeable, warm, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Their expertise elevated every landing and Zodiac ride, making each day both educational and awe-inspiring. My cabin was exceptional. A spacious, beautifully designed room with a private balcony, a cozy fireplace, and let’s talk about the bed, one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in at sea. After long days exploring Antarctica, it felt like returning to a luxurious sanctuary floating at the edge of the world. The itinerary and expeditions exceeded every expectation. Each landing delivered unforgettable moments, but one experience stands out above all: kayaking among whales. Yes, multiple whale encounters, up close, in complete silence except for the sound of them surfacing nearby. It was pure magic. And of course… penguins. Lots of penguins. More than I ever imagined, in every direction, going about their adorable, chaotic lives. The food - plentiful, delicious, and well presented. We enjoyed impeccable service as well. The staff never stops smiling - it is genuine! Swan Hellenic’s end-to-end experience was seamless and stress-free: the pre-night hotel, charter flight to Ushuaia, and return to Buenos Aires were impeccably organized. Traveling to Antarctica can feel daunting, but Swan Hellenic removes all the worry and replaces it with confidence, comfort, and wonder. Simply put, I cannot give Swan Hellenic and the SH Minerva enough praise. This was a once-in-a-lifetime journey made exceptional by a company that truly understands expedition travel, and does it with elegance, heart, and excellence. If Antarctica is on your bucket list, this is the way to do it.
This ship picked me. As a travel advisor I was given the opportunity to join several other advisors on this voyage. This line and ship are 5 star all the way. Fly from US to Argentina and after that Swan Hellernic took care of everything else. Transportation to hotel, hotel and meals before getting on ship as well as flight to get to vessel, all included in price of cruise. Alcohol beverages and tipping also included. We had a balcony room,very large even a crackling fireplace ( no real flame) Small refrigerator and coffee pot. Meals were buffets breakfast and lunch, including served outside on nice days. Dinner: first and last night buffet others sit down with several options each evening, all very good to excellent . Many lectures and personal very friendly and often stayed and talked with guests after. Excursions twice daily and only 1 time deemed unsafe and moved to another location. Not much night life but not needed after full day ready to return to our cabin by 10. I would highly recommend this line for Antartica and will hopefully try it again to other destinations
Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
Amenities include TV service, stocked minibar with soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and Kusmi tea bags; towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica.
When it comes to dining on your expedition cruise, our ships have a variety of welcoming venues.
From the gourmet offerings of the Swan Restaurant, and the Pool Bar & Grill’s delicious dishes, to the relaxed tapas-style dining of the Club Lounge, you’ll find exquisite cuisine, skilfully prepared by top chefs.
Plus, our carefully curated in-room menu offers a relaxing dining experience in the comfort of your own stateroom
If you are looking to experience the remote Polar regions or explore truly off-the-beaten path destinations and cultures of our spectacular planet, then you are in great company. Swan Hellenic exists to provide its guests with authentic, intimate and unforgettable moments in extraordinary locations and remote landmarks.
We know how important outdoor space is, so our spacious, relaxing public spaces provide wide open, unobstructed views throughout the ship. The destination will always be in view.
Fitness is a key part of the daily routine for many. Just because you’re on holiday your wellbeing routine need not stop.
SH Minerva and Vega’s state-of-the-art gym will please the most discerning of fitness fiends. Here, you will find everything from cardio machines and stretch bands to weights. We will also be offering a range of instructor-led classes. Why not try a morning stretch class or book a fitness assessment with one of our specialist body coaches?
You don’t have to be pounding the treadmill to enjoy our fabulous on-board fitness and spa facilities. Relax and revive in the sauna, outdoor pool or one of the jacuzzis and book yourself in for a healing massage or facial.
Our fitness areas are spotlessly clean, with luxurious changing facilities, water and towels provided.
Please note: there are no dedicated children's facilities on board.
