Swan Hellenic has proudly announced its highly anticipated 2025-2026 itineraries, unveiling a remarkable lineup of exotic and often-overlooked destinations around the globe. Designed for discerning travellers with a thirst for discovery, these luxury itineraries on Swan Hellenic’s boutique expedition ships, SH Diana and SH Vega, introduce 34 maiden calls to unique locales across several continents. Each destination has been thoughtfully selected to provide immersive experiences, cultural enrichment, and stunning natural landscapes that remain unspoiled by mainstream tourism.
Hermanus, South Africa: A First for Expedition Cruises
Among the standout destinations, Swan Hellenic’s SH Diana will chart new waters by making its inaugural call to Hermanus, South Africa, in November 2025. Nestled southeast of Cape Town, Hermanus offers a wealth of natural beauty and marine biodiversity. This captivating coastal town is celebrated for its whale-watching opportunities along a scenic 12-kilometer cliffside pathway, as well as for the vibrant flora of Fernkloof Nature Reserve, set against the majestic Kleinrivier Mountains.
Diana will return to Hermanus in 2026, giving passengers multiple chances to explore this rich, untouched locale.
Brazil’s Hidden Gems
SH Vega, Swan Hellenic’s other luxury vessel, is set to navigate Brazil’s coastal treasures, with a route taking travellers through the charming villages of Trancoso, Itacaré, Morro de São Paulo, and the secluded Abrolhos Archipelago. Known for its abundant marine ecosystem, the Abrolhos Archipelago provides a pristine escape where diverse species flourish in an untouched habitat. These carefully curated Brazilian ports offer nature lovers a truly distinctive view of Brazil’s breathtaking and often overlooked coastal beauty.
Expanding Horizons: Unique Destinations Across Continents
The compact, ice-class design of SH Diana and SH Vega enables Swan Hellenic to reach remote and hidden destinations. Highlights of the 2025-2026 itineraries include unique locations such as:
- Vaeroy (Lofoten, Norway) – A breathtaking archipelago famed for its dramatic cliffs and rich marine life.
- Doñana National Park (Spain) – A biodiversity hotspot perfect for birdwatching and capturing Spain’s natural allure.
- Elmina (Ghana) – A culturally significant town offering deep insight into Ghana’s history.
- Loango National Park and Mayumba (Gabon) – A stunning convergence of pristine beaches and lush rainforests.
- Ilha Baia dos Tigres (Angola) – An isolated island with a captivating landscape and historical significance.
Highlights from the 2025-2026 Itineraries
Swan Hellenic’s upcoming itineraries promise an extraordinary array of destinations rarely frequented by other cruises. Among the planned stops are:
- Kalso, Faroe Islands
- Kinsale, Ireland
- Pantelleria, Italy
- Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles
- Datça, Turkey
- Kilwa Kivinje, Tanzania
- Georgetown, Guyana
- Cajari and Aquiqui rivers, Amazon Ecoregion
With its dedication to crafting culturally enriching and eco-conscious voyages, Swan Hellenic continues to set the benchmark for luxury expedition cruises, offering travellers a rare chance to connect with the world’s hidden gems in comfort and style.
