Swan Hellenic Launches 2026/27 Antarctic Cruises, Including Cape Town Grand Voyage
Swan Hellenic has officially opened bookings for its highly anticipated 2026/27 Antarctic cruise season, unveiling an exciting lineup of 24 voyages aboard its state-of-the-art expedition ships, SH Vega and SH Diana. Among the highlights is a remarkable 20-night grand voyage departing from Cape Town, offering travelers the chance to explore some of the planet’s most remote and ecologically significant destinations.
The Cape Town voyage will take passengers to extraordinary locations such as Saint Helena, Ascension Island, Tristan da Cunha, the South Sandwich Islands, and South Georgia. This itinerary not only expands Swan Hellenic’s Antarctic program but also integrates regions of immense ecological and historical importance, delivering an unparalleled cruise experience for adventurous travelers.
Round-Trip Adventures and Themed Sailings
In addition to the Cape Town grand voyage, Swan Hellenic’s Antarctic itineraries will include nine-to-thirteen-night round-trip sailings departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, the cruise line’s established homeport for Antarctic operations. These smaller, carefully curated voyages allow for in-depth exploration of Antarctica’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The 2026/27 season also introduces a selection of themed sailings, including Christmas, New Year, and Lunar New Year celebrations. Notably, SH Vega will offer a combined Christmas and New Year 13-night cruise, departing December 22, 2026, giving guests the opportunity to celebrate the festive season while voyaging through the pristine Antarctic wilderness.
New Snowshoeing Shore Excursions
To enhance the immersive experience, Swan Hellenic has added expert-led snowshoeing expeditions to its shore excursion program. Designed to cater to both beginners and seasoned trekkers, this new activity offers passengers an exciting way to explore Antarctica’s icy terrain on foot, providing a fresh perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
“From deep exploration of the Weddell Sea, one of the most pristine intact ecosystems on earth, to our new snowshoeing expeditions, these voyages offer brilliant opportunities to see what others don’t in the world’s last great wilderness,” said Patrizia Iantorno, Chief Commercial Officer of Swan Hellenic.
An Expedition Experience Like No Other
Aboard the SH Vega and SH Diana, passengers can expect a boutique-style expedition experience. The vessels, accommodating 152 and 192 guests respectively, are designed for small-ship travel, ensuring a more intimate and personalized journey. Each ship features spacious staterooms, observation lounges, and expert-led lectures to enrich the voyage. Travelers can also enjoy Zodiac excursions, fine dining, a wellness area, and a Scandinavian-inspired design that emphasizes comfort and panoramic views of Antarctica’s stunning landscapes.
Key highlights of the itineraries include immersive shore landings, Zodiac excursions, and expert lectures, all aimed at providing a deeper understanding of Antarctica’s unique ecosystems and wildlife. From majestic glaciers to encounters with penguins and seals, these expeditions promise an up-close look at one of the world’s most untouched regions.
Sustainable Polar Exploration
The expansion of Swan Hellenic’s Antarctic program reflects the growing demand for small-ship expedition travel, particularly in polar regions where strict environmental protocols guide sustainable tourism practices. By offering controlled visitor numbers and eco-conscious itineraries, Swan Hellenic ensures that its cruises leave minimal impact on the fragile Antarctic environment while providing guests with life-changing travel experiences.
Opportunities for African Travel Professionals
The inclusion of Cape Town as a departure point for the grand voyage presents exciting opportunities for African travel agents and operators. By promoting this unique itinerary, agents can attract travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences that blend adventure, nature, and luxury. The Cape Town voyage, in particular, offers a chance to showcase Africa’s role as a gateway to polar exploration, adding exciting new dimensions to the continent’s tourism offerings.
For African travelers and international adventurers alike, Swan Hellenic’s 2026/27 Antarctic season promises an unforgettable journey, combining cutting-edge expedition cruising with the chance to explore some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. With its focus on sustainability, in-depth exploration, and guest comfort, Swan Hellenic continues to set the standard for polar travel.
