Cruise From Canada To Iceland on the Sh Vega

12 day expedition
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    Class of ship

    Midsize Expedition Ship
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    Sustainability

    Hybrid Diesel Electric, Science Centre
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    Passenger Berths

    152
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    Zodiacs

    10 MK5 + 2 MK6
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    Ice Class

    PC5 Rating
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Class of ship
Midsize Expedition Ship
/media/2flfscuh/leaf-icon.png
Sustainability
Hybrid Diesel Electric, Science Centre
/media/uz3memek/bed-icon.png
Passenger Berths
152
/media/n3mjsfr5/zodiac-icon_3867.png
Zodiacs
10 MK5 + 2 MK6
/media/jzdbslpr/iceclass_2.png
Ice Class
PC5 Rating
  • Discover the friendliness of 'Newfies' and the maritime history of St. John's, Canada's easternmost city.
  • Marvel at nature's raw power among the majestic icebergs gliding through Iceberg Alley.
  • Discover the rugged beauty of Newfoundland and Greenland and visit historical Viking settlements.

Embark on a luxurious expedition sailing from Canada to Iceland, beginning in the vibrant port city of Halifax, Nova Scotia. This captivating journey takes you across the North Atlantic, visiting various scenic destinations such as St. John's, Newfoundland, and the intriguing shores of Greenland before reaching Iceland's contemporary capital Reykjavik.

The legendary Drake Passage is known for its wild beauty and abundant seabirds, including albatrosses, which accompany the ship as you begin your polar adventure. Onboard, you’ll enjoy lectures from experts and have time to relax and acclimate.

The SH Vega is a modern expedition vessel equipped with a PC5 ice-strengthened hull and advanced stabilisers, ensuring a comfortable journey through polar regions. Onboard amenities include observation decks, lecture programs, photography workshops, and fine dining options.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

Founded as a naval base in 1749, Halifax’s seafaring history is well-grounded with the Canadian Museum of Immigration, where one million Europeans landed up until 1971, and the Noon Gun that has fired from the Citadel fortress since 1857. When the Titanic struck the iceberg at 11:40 pm, April 14, 1912, ships set sail from here. Many victims are buried at Fairview Lawn Cemetery, while the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic displays rescued artefacts.

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.

Saint Pierre and Miquelon, a French archipelago south of Newfoundland, offers diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. The main island, Saint Pierre, serves as the capital and includes a cathedral and the Musée Héritage offering a glimpse into the region's past. Marked trails traverse bogs, subarctic meadows, undergrowth, and coastal paths with chances to spot seals, dolphins, whales and rorquals. Over 300 bird species inhabit the archipelago.

Old meets new in the province's capital (metro-area population a little more than 200,000), with modern office buildings surrounded by heritage shops and colorful row houses. St. John's mixes English and Irish influences, Victorian architecture and modern convenience, and traditional music and rock and roll into a heady brew. The arts scene is lively, but overall the city moves at a relaxed pace.For centuries, Newfoundland was the largest supplier of salt cod in the world, and St. John's Harbour was the center of the trade. As early as 1627, the merchants of Water Street—then known as the Lower Path—were doing a thriving business buying fish, selling goods, and supplying alcohol to soldiers and sailors.

St. Anthony is a town on the northern reaches of the Great Northern Peninsula of the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. St. Anthony serves as a main service centre for northern Newfoundland and southern Labrador.

Narsarsuaq, a gateway to South Greenland with a WWII air base, is rich in history and biodiversity. Close to the Greenland Ice Sheet and Erik the Red's Norse settlement, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, it bears reminders of its wartime past. The Greenland Arboretum, a wooded haven, flourishes with wildflowers in summer, guiding paths to viewpoints, all within 6km of the impressive Greenland ice sheet.

Qassiarsuk is the newer, Greenlandic name for this small village. Brattahlid is the older, Norse name. Here we tour the foundation remains of the manor house of Erik the Red, who found Greenland after being banished from Iceland and Norway for murder. We will also visit the site of the first Christian church ever built in North America (physiographically speaking), see a recently unearthed Norse graveyard that contains remains of 144 Norse colonists, and have a chance to admire Hans Lynge’s remarkable bronze sculpture of Erik the Red.

The largest town in southern Greenland, Qaqortoq has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Upon arrival in this charming southern Greenland enclave, it's easy to see why. Qaqortoq rises quite steeply over the fjord system around the city, offering breath-taking panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, deep, blue sea, Lake Tasersuag, icebergs in the bay, and pastoral backcountry. Although the earliest signs of ancient civilization in Qaqortoq date back 4,300 years, Qaqortoq is known to have been inhabited by Norse and Inuit settlers in the 10th and 12th centuries, and the present-day town was founded in 1774. In the years since, Qaqortoq has evolved into a seaport and trading hub for fish and shrimp processing, tanning, fur production, and ship maintenance and repair.

Sprawling Reykjavík, the nation's nerve center and government seat, is home to half the island's population. On a bay overlooked by proud Mt. Esja (pronounced eh-shyuh), with its ever-changing hues, Reykjavík presents a colorful sight, its concrete houses painted in light colors and topped by vibrant red, blue, and green roofs. In contrast to the almost treeless countryside, Reykjavík has many tall, native birches, rowans, and willows, as well as imported aspen, pines, and spruces.Reykjavík's name comes from the Icelandic words for smoke, reykur, and bay, vík. In AD 874, Norseman Ingólfur Arnarson saw Iceland rising out of the misty sea and came ashore at a bay eerily shrouded with plumes of steam from nearby hot springs. Today most of the houses in Reykjavík are heated by near-boiling water from the hot springs. Natural heating avoids air pollution; there's no smoke around. You may notice, however, that the hot water brings a slight sulfur smell to the bathroom.Prices are easily on a par with other major European cities. A practical option is to purchase a Reykjavík City Card at the Tourist Information Center or at the Reykjavík Youth Hostel. This card permits unlimited bus usage and admission to any of the city's seven pools, the Family Park and Zoo, and city museums. The cards are valid for one (ISK 3,300), two (ISK 4,400), or three days (ISK 4,900), and they pay for themselves after three or four uses a day. Even lacking the City Card, paying admission (ISK 500, or ISK 250 for seniors and people with disabilities) to one of the city art museums (Hafnarhús, Kjarvalsstaðir, or Ásmundarsafn) gets you free same-day admission to the other two.

Fares & Departure Dates

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 Oceanview Low 

Suite Oceanview SH Minerva SH Vega
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Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Two single or one double
Rooms 0 room
Footage 215 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony No
View Ocean
Location Deck 4
Suitable for Couples or solo travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use.
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 Oceanview Medium 

Suite Oceanview SH Minerva SH Vega
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Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Capacity Up to 2
Beds Two single or one double
Rooms 0 room
Footage 215 sq ft.
Windows Yes
Balcony No
View Ocean
Location Deck 4
Suitable for Couples or solo travellers
Accessibility None
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use
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 Balcony D5 

Balcony Suite SH Minerva SH Vega
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Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Capacity Up to 3
Beds
Rooms 0 room
Footage 269 sq ft.
Windows None
Balcony Yes
View Ocean
Location Deck 5
Suitable for Couples
Accessibility Two single or one double
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use
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 Balcony M5 

SH Diana Balcony Stateroom 3098
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Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Capacity Up to 3
Beds Two single or one double
Rooms 0 room
Footage 269 sq ft.
Windows None
Balcony Yes
View Ocean
Location Deck 5
Suitable for
Accessibility None
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use
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 Balcony D6 

Balcony Suite SH Minerva SH Vega
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Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Capacity Up to 3
Beds Two single or one double
Rooms 0 room
Footage 269 sq ft.
Windows None
Balcony Yes
View Ocean
Location Deck 6
Suitable for
Accessibility None
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use
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 Suite 

SH Diana Suite 3106
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Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m2 (108ft2) private balcony.

Capacity Up to 4
Beds King size
Rooms 2 rooms
Footage 430 sq ft.
Windows None
Balcony Yes
View Ocean
Location Deck 5 and 6
Suitable for
Accessibility None
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use, free Wi-Fi and binoculars
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 Premium Suite 

Minerva Vega Premium Suite
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Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m2 (129ft2) private balcony.

Capacity Up to 4
Beds King size
Rooms 0 room
Footage 505 sq ft.
Windows None
Balcony Yes
View Ocean
Location Deck 6
Suitable for
Accessibility None
Amenities Smart HDTV, mini-bar, Espresso coffee machine, kettle, bathrobe, slippers and towels for gym and pool use, free Wi-Fi and binoculars
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About the SH Vega

Swan Hellenic SH Vega, Exterior 3

Making her maiden voyage in July 2022, our 5 star elegant Scandi-design boutique ship offers you an intimate setting from which you will be fully immersed in all the sights and scenery of your voyage.For now, sit back, relax and take a moment to get to know your expedition ship.Introducing SH VegaOur brand new ship, named after the first ship to cross the Arctic Northeast Passage, has been designed to journey to off the beaten path destinations and remote polar regions in style and comfort.Built in Finland’s famous Helsinki Shipyard, SH Vega was made for wonderful cruising experiences. Welcoming spaces to relax on board, unobstructed views throughout the ship, and world-class restaurants, staterooms and amenities mean sailing on SH Vega is always a pleasure.

Swan Hellenic’s plethora of dining options provide guests with an appetite for global flavours a tempting variety of options, from sun chasing early riser’s breakfast through to late dinner and 24 hour room service.The onboard restaurants serve modern international delicacies featuring regional cuisine and ingredients creating a unique once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. World renowned chefs will prepare culinary experiences from the destinations visited, pairing the latest international trends with untasted regional delights.Bespoke & private dining experiences will be offered both inside and outside (depending on the weather conditions and routing). Offering guests superb the opportunity to enjoy and explore top-tier culinary skills and the local landscape that is home to distinctive unique flavours of seasonal ingredients, alongside fine wines.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Swan Restaurant 6

The Swan Dining Room

As the main venue for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the Swan Restaurant serves gourmet creations from award-winning chefs. Our 152-seat restaurant serves international and regional cuisine, focused on quality local ingredients from the special destinations we visit. With an open seating policy, you can dine at your leisure, from breakfast through to dinner.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Swan Restaurant PRIVATE DINING ROOM 3

The Swan Restaurant Private Dining Room

Private dining experiences are also available at Chefs table in main restaurant. These intimate meals are bespoke and the executive chef along with our sommelier will curate a tailor made menu with wine pairing. We take it the extra step, adding the concept of wine education and carefully explaining each new pour as it complements the dish. Private dining experiences are offered at an additional cost and need to be booked in advance.
Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Club Lounge 5

Club Lounge

Vibrant and welcoming, the Club Lounge acts as a hub for relaxed get-togethers, 24 hours a day. With a variety of delicious food on offer – from freshly baked pastries and coffee, and traditional British afternoon tea, to tapas-style dining, and freshly made pizza – whatever you choose, it’s sure to be the perfect complement to a panoramic view of the glittering ocean.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Room Service 1

Room Service

No matter what time of day, our carefully curated In-Cabin Dining Menu traverses perennial international favourites and a plethora of international delicacies, providing a world-class gastronomic experience in the comfort of your own cabin.

Start your morning right with a nourishing selection of breakfast dishes – from a healthy yoghurt, granola and local seasonal fruit to a heartier regionally inspired eggs benedict. Or opt for a more intimate lunch or dinner, served al fresco on your private veranda.

Room Service may also be ordered from the Swan Restaurant during regular dining hours.

A selection of late-night snacks and light bites has been created to pair perfectly with your In-Cabin movie. Please refer to the In-Cabin Dining Menu to place your order.

Room Service is available 24 hours a day.

We know how important outdoor space is, so our spacious, relaxing public spaces provide wide open, unobstructed views throughout the ship. The destination will always be in view.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Observation Lounge 28

Observation Lounge

With its expansive panoramic sea views, friendly, welcoming atmosphere, and comfy, luxurious seating, the Observation Lounge is a great place to relax. Enjoy a quiet moment, read a good book, or sit back and savor your favorite tipple as you get to know your fellow guests.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Library 5

Library

Take time to relax in one our spacious viewing areas and enjoy our wide selection of rich reference and other reading materials in the stylish library.

Swan Hellenic SH Minerva Swan Nest ship

Swan's Nest

Take a pew in the forward-facing Swan’s Nest observation platform for extraordinary 180-degree views.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Reception 3

Reception

The Reception can be found on Deck 4.

Swan Hellenic SH Minerva Photography

The Photography Lab

Capturing the right images of your voyage has never been more important. And on an expedition cruise to exceptional destinations there’s a lot you can do to enhance your pictures. Whether you're shooting on your phone, or a camera, our experts on-board will offer tips on downloading and upskilling as well as editing to ensure you capture the best memories possible.

But we’ve taken it one step further. Our state-of-the-art photography lab is dedicated to ensuring guests capture every moment from their once-in-a-lifetime trip. This is a fun place to come and learn, ask questions and swap tips with fellow passengers. Private tuition available on request.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Beauty Boutique 4

Boutique

The Boutique can be found on Deck 7.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Bridge 3

Bridge

The Bridge can be found on Deck 8.

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. 

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Zodiac Cruising 19 (1)

Excursions

No stone is left unturned when it comes to researching our shore excursion programmes. All aspects of the itinerary are carefully planned in detail by a knowledgeable, well travelled team to ensure each aspect of the cruise is delivered to the highest possible standard.

We’ve thought of all our guests, including the less mobile. Our 12-person hard-hulled zodiacs, the boats that take guests off the ship, have been designed for increased comfort and manoeuvrability so that everyone can get up close and personal with their majestic surroundings.

As well as our daily zodiac excursions there are opportunities for polar kayaking and trekking and for the brave… The Polar Plunge.

For expeditions ashore, there is a heated concierge managed changing room we like to call Basecamp.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Laboratory 7 (1)

Expedition Lab

Love landscapes? Gain a deeper understanding of how your surroundings were formed from the knowledgable geologists you meet on board – and change the way you see the world forever.

Swan Hellenic, SH Diana, Lectures 1 (1)

Lecture Programme

Exploratory travel is in our DNA, which is why our polar experts are focused on ensuring our guests return home having had the most authentic experience possible. Our inquisitive, like-minded passengers share a thirst for knowledge. Swan Hellenic’s lecturers and guest speakers are carefully selected to give engaging and stimulating talks on a wide range of subjects that are relevant to each itinerary. They bring specialist knowledge and insight into the scientific, geographic and historical understanding of the remote polar regions that allows the customer to fully embrace the wondrous environments in which they are travelling.   

Fitness is a key part of the daily routine for many. Just because you’re on holiday your wellbeing routine need not stop. SH Minerva and Vega’s state-of-the-art gym will please the most discerning of fitness fiends. Here, you will find everything from cardio machines and stretch bands to weights. We will also be offering a range of instructor-led classes. Why not try a morning stretch class or book a fitness assessment with one of our specialist body coaches? You don’t have to be pounding the treadmill to enjoy our fabulous on-board fitness and spa facilities. Relax and revive in the sauna, outdoor pool or one of the jacuzzis and book yourself in for a healing massage or facial. Our fitness areas are spotlessly clean, with luxurious changing facilities, water and towels provided.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Pool Deck 5

Heated Outdoor Pool

Our state-of-the-art gym has everything you’ll need for an invigorating workout, from cardio machines to stretch bands and free weights. There are also instructor-led classes available, along with personal trainers, offering everything from resistance training and Pilates, to yoga and meditation.

Enjoy breathtaking vistas with a refreshing dip in our outdoor tub after a relaxing massage or sauna

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Sauna 0

Sauna With A View

Head to Deck 8 for the best views in the world. After a work out in our state-of-the-art gym, relax in our sauna or Jacuzzi and take in those breathtaking vistas along the way.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Spa 6

Spa

At our Balinese spa, including hot stone and bamboo massages, and pampering body care. Our sauna is the perfect place for meditative moments after your onshore activities or to finish a well-deserved pampering session.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Gym 3

Gym

Our state-of-the-art gym has everything you’ll need for an invigorating workout, from cardio machines to stretch bands and free weights. There are also instructor-led classes available, along with personal trainers, offering everything from resistance training and Pilates, to yoga and meditation.

Swan Hellenic SH Vega SH Minerva Beauty Salon 4

Beauty Salon

Choose from one of the many beauty and wellness treatments.

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 9

Deck 9

  • Stargazing Deck
  • Lift

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 8

Deck 8

  • Gym
  • Sauna
  • Spa
  • Jacuzzi
  • Bridge
  • Lift

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 7

Deck 7

  • Lift
  • Swimming Pool
  • Pool Bar & Grill
  • Shop
  • Bar
  • Club Lounge
  • Observation Lounge

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 6

Deck 6

  • Lift
  • Premium Suites
  • Suites
  • Balcony Cabins
  • Swan's Nest

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 5

Deck 5

  • Lifeboats
  • Lift
  • Suites
  • Balcony Cabins

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 4

Deck 4

  • Reception
  • Entrance
  • Lift
  • Launderette
  • Swan Restaurant
  • Ocean View Cabins

Swan Hellenic, MINERVA VEGA deck plans_Deck 3

Deck 3

  • Expedition Lab
  • Base Camp
  • Lift
  • Beauty Salon
  • Clinic
  • Library
  • Zodiac Boarding

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