Cruise From Iceland To Svalbard on the Sh Vega

11 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
/media/s4zhaf0m/ship-icon.png
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
  • Grímsey has one of Iceland’s largest tern nesting sites and largest puffin colonies.
  • Hriseyjarfjall Mountain is the highest point and offers views of the surrounding landscape and the vast expanse of Eyjafjörður fjord.
  • Húsavík, overlooking Skjálfandi Bay, is famed for whale watching, especially the endangered blue whale. 

Embark on a breathtaking journey from Iceland to Svalbard, delving into some of the northernmost regions of the world. This extraordinary itinerary begins in the vibrant city of Reykjavik and guides you through stunning locations such as Jan Mayen Island, before culminating in the icy grandeur of Longyearbyen, maximising your Arctic exposure and experience.

Throughout this expedition sailing, you'll have the chance to visit a series of remarkable destinations. Experience the majestic Dynjandi waterfall and explore the charming streets of Isafjordur. In northern Iceland, find solace on Grimsey Island, where thousands of seabirds await, and soak in Icelandic culture on Hrisey Island.

Your expedition journey concludes in the ethereal beauty of Svalbard, home to polar bears and staggering glaciers. Engage in a myriad of activities that further enrich your Arctic adventure. Participate in an optional kayaking expedition in Svalbard with the Swan Hellenic team or relax during the rejuvenating days at sea, unwinding on observation decks or mingling with fellow travellers, while keeping a watch for marine and bird life.

Expand your knowledge with on-board lectures and workshops. This cruise promises an unforgettable blend of exploration, relaxation, and Arctic wonder.

Map & Cruise Itinerary

Make sure there is sufficient time to explore this diminutive but dramatic capital city. Despite its small size, you won’t be short of things to see and do. To get your bearings, take the elevator to the top of Hallgrímskirkja. This church, designed by famed Icelandic architect Gudjón Samuelsson is one of the most distinctive buildings in town. When you return to earth, visit the city’s other renowned building Harpa Concert Hall, located at the heart of Reykjavík's regenerated harbour – also the home of the Maritime Museum. 

Iceland is well-known for its spectacular waterfalls. The iconic Dynjandi waterfall, located in the Westfjords region, is regarded as one of Iceland’s most impressive and majestic waterfalls. At the top, the cascading water is roughly 100 feet wide and tumbles down about 330 feet into the fjord. Its name Dynjandi means, “the thundering one” and its vast size, enormous sound, and sheer force is overwhelming. It has also been nicknamed, ‘The Bridal Veil’ because of the way the water sprays and spreads over the rocks.

Two colossal terraces of sheer rock stand either side of this extraordinarily located town - which rides a jutting spit onto an immensity of black fjord water. Surprisingly, considering the remoteness of its location and its compact size, Isafjordur is a modern and lively place to visit, offering a great choice of cafes and delicious restaurants – which are well stocked to impress visitors. The town is a perfectly located base for adventures amongst Iceland's fantastic wilderness - with skiing, hiking and water-sports popular pursuits among visitors.

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.

The snow-covered stratovolcano Beerenberg dominates the ice cap and glaciers at the northeast end of Jan Mayen Island. Halfway between Svalbard and Iceland, this Norwegian island's only residents are the Norwegian Armed Forces or meteorological station staff. Purple saxifrage and endemic dandelions grow next to the black sands, while northern fulmars, Brünnich’s and black guillemots and little auks make Jan Mayen an important birding area.

Days at sea are the perfect chance to relax, unwind and do whatever takes your fancy. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, trying to spot a whale from the deck, reading a chapter or two, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to the green days spent exploring on land.

Svalbard is the kingdom of the polar bears, deep in the Arctic Circle, featuring varied polar landscapes and gargantuan glaciers. Beyond magnificent fjords in the north, the remaining sea ice serves as prime hunting grounds for polar bears. Closer to Longyearbyen, tundra and beaches replace snow and ice. Alongside 600 polar bears, this Arctic hotspot is home to walrus, Svalbard reindeer, ringed seals and arctic fox.

The world's most northerly town, Longyearbyen, on Spitsbergen, Svalbard's largest island, also claims the most northerly high street and pub. It's home to The North Pole Expeditions Museum chronicling early pole-reaching efforts by air. Arctic waters around are populated by whales, including bowheads and narwhals, while walruses are regularly seen hauling out.

Fares & Departure Dates

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 Oceanview Low 

Suite Oceanview SH Minerva SH Vega
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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
More details

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 Balcony D5 

Balcony Suite SH Minerva SH Vega
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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
More details

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 Balcony D6 

Balcony Suite SH Minerva SH Vega
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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
More details

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 Suite 

SH Diana Suite 3106
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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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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STARTING AT:
PER PERSON
£6,195

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
More details

Show details

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.

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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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