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Looking for next level expedition cruising? SH Diana is just what you need! The newest addition to our fleet combines cutting-edge technology with stylish, sophisticated design, and the ship’s special ice-resistant PC6 hull means it’s able to visit some of the world's most inaccessible regions. This new generation polar class ship is our largest, and features elegant interiors – including exclusive onboard art – wide unobstructed views, a spectacular grand staircase, and dedicated expedition facilities, so you can explore the world in style and comfort.
We recently returned from a 17-night expedition cruise. The destinations and wildlife sightings—including countless penguins, sea lions, dolphins, and humpback whales—were absolutely phenomenal, and the expedition team itself was fantastic. However, the experience fell far short of the luxury standard advertised by the cruise line. Our frustrations began even before departure: we had to call three times to receive our final documents, and the customer service on the final call was particularly poor. Onboard, the small ship offered limited amenities—just one restaurant and one bar. While the crew members were amazing, personable, and made a real effort to know us, the operational planning often didn’t match the expedition pace. We missed breakfast three times due to early excursions (6-7 AM departures), as the restaurant closed at 9 AM and wasn’t adjusted for returning guests. The food was generally just okay. Although the soups and breads were excellent, the menu lacked variety—salad dressings remained the same almost the entire cruise, and seafood like shrimp or scallops was nearly absent aside from one shrimp cocktail night, lobsters tail night. The beverage package was also disappointing. Many premium liquors (e.g., Grey Goose) were excluded and required extra payment, which is often included in base packages on other lines. The cocktails were mediocre. Overall, the trip was unforgettable because of the breathtaking landings and wildlife. Yet, for a line marketing itself as luxurious, the customer service, dining flexibility, and amenities did not meet expectations. Because of this mismatch between promise and reality, we would not book with them again.
This was my first cruise to Swan Hellenic and I got to admit that it exceeded my expectations. Everything from facilities, to food and staff was high level and totally worth the investment. There is no other cruise line that offers such an amazing trip that not only includes Antartica but also Falklands and South Georgia (which are must see places). It is also worth noting that having zodiac landings, like Swan Hellenic has , is crucial to be in a real expedition cruise, as it offered us access to very unique and untouched places. The expedition team in particular was excellent and always worried about our safety and providing very in-depth knowledge about the landscape and wildlife that we encountered. For example, Emil and Ab are bird experts that know so much about penguins that it made a huge difference in not only seeing this beautiful birds but also knowing more about them. Of special mention is the expedition leader Mark, who was always looking for the best spots for us to go depending on weather conditions and what it offered us (like the chance to see so many whales, birds, seals and penguins jumping from icebergs). I would definitely do this cruise again!
Fantastic experience. Everything was flawless: boat, crew, expedition guides - even the weather helped. Diana´s size is ideal since it´s large enough to have some facilities (spa, gym, sauna, etc) but small and agile to reach place others can´t. I was worried that 17 days - with many of them at sea - would be too much but time flew by. Hats off to the crew and guides - they made the difference. My cabin had a decent varanda - and plenty of storage space for clothes. The bathroom was good (good water pressure in the shower) but could only fit one person at a time. Food was great and plentiful, and staff were always able to adjust to your preference. There were a lot of ethnic dishes as an option. The gym was small but appropriate for the ship´s size, with good equipments. The excursion team was fantastic, always transmitting safety, experience and knowledge, on and off the zodiacs.
The whole experience was super incredible! My family & I will never forget this trip! We had the best team! We were so lucky that the drake passage was just smooth that people call it drake lake, we were able to arrive earlier thus giving us our first bonus zodiac landing, we had 2 bonuses!!! We were able to do all planned zodiac landings plus the 2 bonuses because of a very good weather and wonderful planning by the expedition team. They also made sure everyone is safe throughout the whole journey. All activities were balanced, 1 zodiac landing either in the morning or afternoon and 1 zodiac cruise. There were also discussions, not all of it we were interested in but there was for everyone whichever your interest may be. We joined the lab tour wherein the kids got to see under the microscope. We also joined the talk about the penguins and how antarctica cruises started.
Love this cruise so much! stunning wildlife (penguins, whales), majestic scenery (icebergs, glaciers). The passage for the Drake was calmed and not too dramatic. the weather was just perfect, manageable winds and temperature not too low, it was usually around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Wonderful and modern ship, love the expeditions, all expedition team are experts in what they do. Everybody in the team go above and beyond to make all passengers feel comfortable. The chefs cook very delicious food. All expedition activities are super cool and interesting to see all marine wildlife not only pinguins but whales, southern elephant seals and abundant species of Antarctic snow petrels. One of my favorite activities was kayaking. Ilene the coordinator of the activity is an expert in Kayaking, she makes sure that everybody enjoys and takes the best of the experience. I highly recommend this cruise and ship company Swan Hellenic to all who want to have an unforgettable experience such as a cruise to the Antarctic!
Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and Kusmi tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica.
When it comes to dining on your expedition cruise, our ships have a variety of welcoming venues.
From the gourmet offerings of the Swan Restaurant, and the Pool Bar & Grill’s delicious dishes, to the relaxed tapas-style dining of the Club Lounge, you’ll find exquisite cuisine, skillfully prepared by top chefs.
Plus, our carefully curated in-room menu offers a relaxing dining experience in the comfort of your own stateroom
If you are looking to experience the remote Polar regions or explore truly off-the-beaten path destinations and cultures of our spectacular planet, then you are in great company. Swan Hellenic exists to provide its guests with authentic, intimate and unforgettable moments in extraordinary locations and remote landmarks.
SH Diana has been designed for immersive experiences, with extensive outside deck areas, multiple observation points and bright, open and relaxing public spaces with unobstructed views.
Take time to indulge and invigorate your senses…
Please note: there are no dedicated children's facilities on board.
