Swan Hellenic has announced its 2026-2027 Antarctic cruise season, featuring 24 voyages ranging from 9 to 13 nights, all departing from Ushuaia (Argentina). Additionally, a 20-night semi-circumnavigation voyage from Cape Town (South Africa) to Ushuaia is available.
The season's centerpiece includes round-trip voyages from Ushuaia, offering 5 distinct itineraries that delve deeply into the Antarctic Peninsula, with 3 routes approaching from the Weddell Sea. Notably, the Weddell Sea is renowned for its pristine waters and historical significance, being the area where explorer Ernest Shackleton's ship, Endurance, met its fate.
Special themed cruises are also on offer, such as a 13-night journey aboard SH Vega from December 22nd, 2026, to January 3rd, 2027, celebrating both Christmas and New Year. The longer 20-night semi-circumnavigation voyage aboard SH Diana will explore remote locations including Saint Helena, Ascension Island, Tristan da Cunha, the South Sandwich Islands, and South Georgia Island, the final resting place of Shackleton.
A new feature for the 2026-2027 season is the introduction of expert-led snowshoeing expeditions, allowing guests to venture further than standard landings. These excursions, typically lasting ~1.5 hours, are suitable for both beginners and experienced participants and are contingent on snow conditions.
Swan Hellenic's boutique ice-class vessels, the 5-star sister ships SH Vega and SH Diana, accommodate 152 and 192 guests respectively. Despite offering a total of 24 Antarctic departures, only 4,777 guest places are available for the entire 2026-2027 season, prompting early booking recommendations.
All cruises are fully inclusive, featuring gourmet cuisine, specialist talks, and hands-on, expert-led expeditions. Bookings are now open, with detailed information available on the Swan Hellenic website.