Swan Hellenic 2025/26 Cruises

Historically, Swan Hellenic were pioneers, taking guests to places others had only dreamt about. We are meticulous about every aspect of our cruises – and have been for 70 years. Today, we sail to places unreachable by others, seek immersive experiences, and make discoveries that change the way we see the world. Through a discerning eye, the wonders of the world take on a richer hue. Travel with Swan Hellenic, and you’ll see more with us.

Delivering intuitive service, our warm and friendly crew will do their utmost to ensure you leave us having had the trip of a lifetime. Now, with our exciting new voyages to the polar regions, we’ve paired the latest polar ice-class technology with stylish sophisticated interiors.

SH Diana can accommodate 192 guests in 96 staterooms and suites, the vast majority with large balconies.

The PC 6 ice-class vessel is fitted with extra-large stabilizers for exceptional passenger comfort, offers spacious 5-star accommodation, and the 125 m-long ship has been specially made to explore the most inspiring and inaccessible places on the planet. SH Diana shares unique design features with her sister ships – SH Minerva and SH Vega – and has a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room, and swimming pool with poolside grill.

The new ship also has key differences, including a dedicated presentation, lecture theatre, and onboard Tender boats to take guests ashore in greater comfort than the customary expedition Zodiacs.

EMBRACING NEW HORIZONS

Swan Hellenic has teamed-up with Chopra, a leading integrative health company founded by world-renowned pioneer Dr. Deepak Chopra, to create Explore & Restore – an extraordinary new program of transformative well-being voyages.

This is holistic travel at its finest – gently strip away the layers of everyday life with daily yoga, self-reflective journaling and meditation sessions, and find your place in the natural world on awe-inspiring cultural expeditions. Prepare to awaken your spirit and unlock your inner explorer, as you tap into the growth, patience, and renewal that’s all around you!

Cruises You’ll Love If You’re Under 35

If you’re a twenty-something, or even in your early thirties and looking for your next big adventure, consider booking a cruise. Bear with us. While cruises were at one time geared towards retirees and families, today’s cruises offer a host of amenities and excitement for young adults. You can even find themed cruises. We’re talking everything from Craft Beers Cruises on Celebrity Cruises to the Rock Boat XIX Cruise on Norwegian Pearl (cruise with a variety of well-known rock bands). So, before you say ‘”Bon Voyage” to a cruise vacation, check out these cruises you’ll love if you’re under 35.

MSC Cruise Line | For: Deal Seekers

How about a cruise line that offers fantastic cruise deals, specifically for 18-29-year-olds? MSC provides special shared cabin rates specifically for this age group. Just quote Young & Young when booking. Aside from great bars and restaurants, the nights heat up with a variety of activities such as the classy White Party, groovy Flower Glory Party, wild Carnival Party and more. Spend your days taking part in sports tournaments and professional dance classes.

Carnival Cruises | For: The Party Crowd

Carnival is all about the fun. With some of the best nightlife on the seas, you can expect to get down at the Nightclub, where Dj’s spin your favorite tunes. Prefer live music? You’ll have access to the best bands at sea, nightly. Aside from evening entertainment, onboard activities keep the adventures in high gear. Sail on Carnival Vista and Horizon for the ultimate thrill, Skyride. The equivalent of riding a bike, only instead of being on the ground, you’re soaring high above the ship. And, if you’re looking to lounge sans kids, the adult-only sundeck, Serenity, is available on most all ships.

U by Uniworld | For: Millenials

River cruises aren’t just for your grandparents. U by Uniworld takes a fresh approach to riverboat cruising with activities, geared toward twenty and thirty-year-olds. Onboard life consists of Paint & Wine, Silent DJ Parties, Mixology classes, and even Rooftop Camping. Oh, and there’s complimentary wifi access across the ship, which is typically unheard of. The so-called millennial cruise line’s laid back vibe is all about you.

Virgin Voyages | For: Adults Only

If your goal is to escape little ones, this is your ship. Virgin Voyages is an 18 and older cruise. Unlimited wifi, meals, group workouts, and tips are all included in your journey. As sophisticated as it is fun, your late nights will merge into leisure mornings with epicurean bounties at 20 plus eateries and a range of fitness classes from high-intensity workouts to restorative yoga.

Royal Caribbean | For: You Name It

A little bit of everything, from the robot mixologists that pour your drink to the 40-foot long surf simulator, we promise you will be entertained from sun up to sundown. Give lady luck a spin at the Casino Royale before heading to the English Pub or Champagne Bar. Spend your days sunning at the relaxing indoor-outdoor retreat, the Solarium, Royal Caribbean’s adults-only pool featuring swimming pools, whirlpools, lounge areas, and lagoons. If you’re having a hard time deciding, Royal Caribbean covers all the bases.

Deal Alert: Avalon Waterways

FREE RIDE SALES EVENT

Free to be. Free to see. Jump ship to the liberating world of Avalon Waterways river cruises.

As you set sail down the world’s most legendary waters, we’ve curated a collection of the most intriguing experiences to immerse yourself in – both on board and off. With the wind in your hair, whim in your heart and the excursions on your cruising itinerary, the compass is in the palm of your hand to choose any direction you desire. Here’s your window of opportunity on some featured cruise deals and offers!

Long overdue for a trip and open to booking a cruise adventure? Avalon Waterways is enticing travelers to start planning by offering discounts on European cruises. In addition to savings on 2024 cruises, travelers can also get free roundtrip airfare. This sale is an excellent way to save on your travel costs and get your trip plans set well in advance.

There are many benefits to planning your travels ahead of time. You can avoid procrastination and give yourself something to look forward to in the coming months. You may also be able to save on travel costs by planning your trip details now. Avalon Waterways is a company known for its exciting, luxury river cruises.

Credit: Avalon WaterwaysTo take advantage of this deal, travelers must book a qualifying 2024vcruise. By doing this, you will be able to receive a $250 per person discount on the cruise price. You can also take advantage of free roundtrip airfare for each traveler, which adds more value! This promotion allows you to enjoy a fantastic vacation at a much lower cost.

If you’e wondering where to cruise, you have many options since Avalon Waterways cruises to some of the best cities in Europe.

Here are some qualifying cruises that can be booked with this promotion:

10 Day River Cruise Prague to Remich
16 Day River Cruise Basel to Budapest
14 Day River Cruise London to Prague
19 Day River Cruise Budapest to Amsterdam
10 Day River Cruise Port-Saint-Louis to Paris

Start dreaming up your next European adventure! All of these cruises promise plenty of excitement and fun. This summer promotion is the perfect excuse to think ahead about your next cruise.

Be sure to check the offer details and terms and conditions before making a booking.

Seychelles Ultra Luxury ( Land and Sea)

Experience the Seychelles in Luxury

If you’re in need of a phenomenal island getaway, there’s no better place to head than to the Seychelles islands. You can find plenty of adventure at this fantastic destination, and of course breathtaking scenery everywhere you look. Are you dreaming of an adventurous trip full of luxurious touches? Check out some of our favorite luxury trips to the Seychelles.

Explore our list of 17 cruises

Zanzibar, Aldabra & the treasures of the Indian Ocean-Zanzibar.jpg

Considered to be heaven on earth, the Seychelles archipelago actually contains 115 dots of land, some of which remain totally unspoilt and devoid of human activity. With tropical forests, white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, breathtaking sea beds and giant tortoises, the Seychelles ecosystem delights travellers looking to spend time in the last-remaining earthly paradises.

Seychelles: Jewel of the Indian Ocean

Zanzibar, Aldabra & the treasures of the Indian Ocean-N-2302_Y010418_Aldabra©StudioPONANT-Margot-Sib.jpg

The softness of the trade winds, the turquoise of the ocean, the shimmer of the verdant vegetation… the incredible beauty of the islands in the Indian Ocean is striking. During an all-new 14-day expedition cruise aboard Le Jacques-Cartier, time stands still and, between the island country of Madagascar and the Mascarene Archipelago, nature will plunge you into a dream.

Zanzibar, Aldabra & the treasures of the Indian Ocean-Depositphotos_8545032_l-2015_resize_Assomption.jpg

Create Your Own Luxury Seychelles Adventure

You don’t have to do a guided tour if that’s not your style. If you want to explore on your own, there is plenty of fun to be had on the islands. If you love hiking, be sure to visit Spiagge di Anse Marron to explore the quiet beach and hike the challenging but fun trail. While in the capital of Victoria, head to Morne Seychelles National Park to take in all of the incredible beauty. If you want to do some diving while in Seychelles, Aldabra Atoll is one of the best spots.

Antarctica Cruises, 2024

Trade in your sunscreen and sandals for icebergs and adventures when you head for the untouched beauty of the White Continent. With less crowded ports, unprecedented expeditions, and the natural beauty of icy waters and wildlife, Antarctica is quickly becoming a top cruise destination. Check out the top three luxury liners that will sail you to the South Pole.

Silversea Cruises: Silver Cloud

silversea butler use — Credit: Silversea

With the highest space-to-guest and crew-to-guest ratios in expedition cruising, Silver Cloud offers unprecedented comfort to travelers looking to explore Antarctica and beyond. Upon arrival, guests are met by Silversea’s attentive staff and a flute of champagne as they are escorted to their suite by their butler. Onboard, guests enjoy four world-class restaurants. At The Grill, guests dine under the moonlit sky and have the opportunity to cook their food on sourced volcanic rock right at the table. Aside from adventure and aperitifs, the ship boasts the serene Zagara Spa, industry-leading service (be met with a towel as you emerge from the pool), and – unique to Silver Cloud – a state-of-the-art photo studio where budding photographers can transform prints from their cameras.

Abercrombie & Kent’s Le Lyrial

Antarctica, Le Lyrial Cruise Ship — Credit: Ambercrombie & Kent

Abercrombie & Kent’s newest charter ship from Ponant is an expeditioner’s dream. Aside from the sleek style and sophistication of the ship itself, and of course the balcony staterooms and suites, the real distinction of traveling on an A&K charter of Le Lyrial is the award-winning team of experts. Akin to an education at sea, A&K’s expeditions are led by the most experienced marine biologists, ornithologists and geologists, along with a shipboard historian who shares tales from Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration. When you’re done exploring, your private butler will tend to your every need, from cocktails on your balcony to arranging for your personal hairstylist.

Quark Expeditions

Antarctica for Quark — Credit: Quark Expeditions

Set for sail in 2024Quark Expeditions unveiled its newest ship in polar explorations. Cutting edge technology, advanced safety measures and a vastly experienced expedition team are just a few reasons to set your sights on this ship. Think of it as a 5-star hotel on the sea. Leaving no stone unturned, guests will have access to dual helicopters, indoor / outdoor dining, spa and fitness, and a rapid Zodiac.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an ice-strengthened ship and an icebreaker ship?

An ice-strengthened ship is a ship made of steel. These ships are made to get through the ice at Antarctica and the Arctic. Nowadays, most of the ships that cruise to Antarctica and the Arctic are ice-strengthened ships. Ortelius and Plancius Read more »

What kind of clothing should I take during my expedition cruise?

We require you to bring a waterproof jacket and pants (minimum 15,000mm rating) for Zodiac cruises to shore. You will also need high rubber boots for trips on Rembrandt van Rijn. Apart from that, our advice is to take warm, windproof, waterproof Read more »

You must be in good general health, and you should be able to walk several hours per day. The expedition is ship-based and physically not very demanding. Although we spend as much time as possible on shore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship i

Read more »

21 photos of Oceanwide Expeditions
About Oceanwide Expeditions

Passionate

Taking you closer to the heart of the polar regions has been our driving passion at Oceanwide Expeditions for over twenty years. Our knowledgeable cruise leaders, committed staff, and thoroughly outfitted vessels are our way of expressing what we care about most: making your cruise to the Arctic and Antarctic truly unforgettable. When you sail with us, you experience a part of the world that is unlike any other. Mountainous glaciers, snow-swept shores, whales and polar bears and vast colonies of penguins make up this world, and they are all part of the surreal ecosystem you can watch unfold before you on your future Oceanwide expedition.

Adventurous

Providing you a travel experience that inspires (and is inspired by) you, that’s what taking you closer to the heart of the polar regions means to us. We get you away from the vessel and into the action as fast as possible: up to two landings per day in the morning and afternoon, with a fleet of inflatable Zodiacs ready to shuttle you past the ice floes and onto the shore. We keep our programs flexible so that you get the most out of whatever surprises nature has in mind. When you sail with us, the cruise is just the tip of the iceberg.

Pioneering

So what exactly is beneath the tip of that iceberg? The pioneering spirit, which all travelers to the polar regions (regardless of age and background) have in common. Guiding our expeditions with passion, tapping into the desire for inspiration and beauty, and always taking you closer to the heart of the Arctic and Antarctic – at Oceanwide Expeditions, that is our promise to you.

Show all polar cruises.

Ponant’s Holiday Savings!

Ponant’s Holiday Offer Includes 10% Savings

Ponant is offering 10 percent additional savings on top of Ponant Bonus rates on select 2023, 2024, and 2025 sailings. The holiday offering was announced by the company in a press release.

Travelers can take advantage of the discounts to explore the fjords of Norway, the subtropical islands of Japan, the snow-covered mountains of Alaska, among other destinations, Ponant said.

While certain restrictions apply, the offer is valid for all new deposited bookings from November 30, 2023, through January 2, 2024.

Several new itineraries are included in the holiday incentive, including expeditions to Japan, Ponant said.

One such adventure will see Ponant teaming up with The Explorers Club, a not-for-profit organization made up of explorers devoted to scientific expeditions of all disciplines, on a seven-night journey to the islands of southern Japan, with stops in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Iriomotejima as well as a remote area home to the largest concentration of blue coral in the world.

Also new is a weeklong “Kyushu’s Secret Islands and Ancestral Heritage” itinerary, which combines the wildlife-rich islands of Jeju and Yaushima, historic coastal villages, and five new ports of call including the island region of Amakusa.

The offer is also applicable to bucket-list itineraries to the polar regions, including a 23-day adventure through the Northwest Passage, a springtime voyage along the East coast of Greenland aboard Le Commandant Charcot, and a weeklong expedition to discover Svalbard.

The complete list of eligible sailings can be found on Ponant’s website. Starting rates range from $4,450 per person, based on double occupancy, exclusive of the ten percent discount. To unlock the savings at time of booking, guests must use discount count XMAS10.

According to Ponant, the offering is subject to availability and may be change