When there is no berth to come alongside, most ships will anchor offshore and tender their guests to land. At times, SH Diana also does this. However, her sophisticated DP system allows her to maintain a precise position and heading without the use of anchors or mooring lines. The system uses thrusters and propellers that are automatically adjusted based on inputs from various sensors and positioning systems, such as GPS, gyroscopes, and wind sensors. In the context of an expedition ship, dynamic positioning is advantageous because it allows the vessel to remain stationary in challenging environments like open water or near delicate ecosystems, such as coral reefs or ice fields, where anchoring would be impractical or damaging. It also ensures the vessel can hold its position for activities like scientific research, underwater exploration, or launching smaller boats or submersibles for close-up observation, even in adverse weather or ocean conditions.

Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland and entering service in 2023, SH Diana (named after the Roman goddess of light, the moon, hunting and the wilderness) offers an elevated travel experience. Whether you’re taking in remarkable scenery from the panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, this 5-star ship has everything and more covered.

To ensure her guests can all enjoy the destinations she visits, onboard there are 14 MK5 Zodiacs as well as two covered tender boats, guaranteeing smooth and regular landings for activities ashore, including kayaking, wildlife watching, hiking and more.

Onboard accommodations range from spacious and elegantly designed Oceanview staterooms to luxurious 41m² suites that offer a private balcony and separate living and sleeping areas. One of the most unique features in almost every stateroom grade is a flame-effect fireplace, something I became very fond of when winding down in the evening and gearing up for another exciting day of exploring.

Public areas include a spacious Observation Lounge, Stargazing Deck, spa and gym, outdoor infinity pool and the Pool Bar & Grill, Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, library, Swan’s Nest, Expedition Lab, Card Room and BaseCamp. With 127 crew and a maximum capacity for 192 guests, SH Diana also offers one of the highest guest-to-crew ratios within expedition cruising.

My favourite area onboard was the Observation Lounge, located right at the front of the ship on Deck 7. This is essentially the beating heart of the ship. It features panoramic views (great for watching the waves crashing over the bow in rough seas) offers quick access to the outside deck for wildlife spotting and is also where all events take place, including the daily expedition briefings.

SH Diana is an excellent choice for those wanting to experience immersive and responsible expedition cruising while enjoying luxurious and dedicated onboard comforts. Her Expedition Team is highly knowledgeable and always approachable – she’s the ideal choice for photographers and wildlife watchers. The service is second to none, with included excursions offered in every port and the opportunity to book optional excursions.