Cruise & Ferry Review - Spring/Summer 2021

6 9 Swan Hellenic has included expansive windows, balconies and outside spaces onboard Minvera to enable guests to make the most of wildlife-spotting opportunities focus on the polar regions, Swan Hellenic plans to offer cultural expeditions to all seven continents. “In the North, we are working on exclusive itineraries in the Russian Arctic. Other countries on our itineraries include New Zealand, Japan, Papua New Guinea and Canada,” says Zito. “In addition, we will create a unique combination of ocean-based and river expeditions through our partnership with Vodohod Russian River Cruises. These have never been available to the public before.” Swan Hellenic’s itineraries have been carefully developed to minimise days at sea. “The destinations have quite intense programmes, so guests will welcome the rare days at sea as an opportunity to relax and prepare for the next adventure,” says Zito. “You see, we don't just take our passengers to explore the most extraordinary places on earth. We also give them the company of like-minded people and renowned experts, who offer eye-opening lectures and are on hand to answer informal questions and discussions throughout the cruise. So, when they choose Swan Hellenic to ‘see what others don’t’, they can be sure they will do so with the full perspective of real insight into the history, culture, wildlife, flora, geology and geography of the place. Briefings before and recaps after each disembarkation supplement these lectures and talks, stimulating a relaxed social environment that encourages the sharing of experiences.” Swan Hellenic’s curated itineraries combine well- and lesser-known destinations. “The aim is to bring our guest to travel comfortably ‘deeper’ in the destination – going as far as possible from the beaten path,” explains Zito. “Antarctica remains a bestseller, but – perhaps quite surprisingly – the Pacific Ocean Islands and Russian Far East are in great demand.” The re-birthed Minerva will be built at Finland’s Helsinki Shipyard, which has specialised in ice-breakers and cruise vessels for over 100 years. “Unlike the majority of our competitors, we have chosen the Polar Code 5, a class that allows year-round operation in polar water. This will extend our presence in the polar regions and offer increased safety thanks to a highly reinforced hull and propellers,” says Zito. The five-star expedition ship will feature a modern Scandinavian inspired design, showcasing unobstructed views and generous outside space. “Most of the ship was designed in-house – we