Author Archives: Andrew Castles

 

 

 

Last Minute Swan Hellenic 2023/24 Antarctica Cruises

 

Call Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 to secure SAVINGS of up to 60%

 

Have you always wanted to visit Antarctica on a luxury expedition cruise, but the prices have seemed a little out of reach? Well, now's the chance to tick this incredible destination off your bucket-list with some incredible last-minute cruise fares we’ve just received from our partner Swan Hellenic cruises.

If you’re quick, you can SAVE up to 60% off the regular brochure prices on selected Antarctica cruises departing in December 2023 and January 2024, but there’s limited staterooms available and you do need to book and pay by 10 November 2023.

 

 

 

 

Cruising to Antarctica with Swan Hellenic

 

Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of modern expedition ships, all launched in the past two years. SH Vega accommodates just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the brand-new and slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. Both boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room. 

There’s also three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.

 

 

 

 

Click here to see more about SH Vega

 

Click here to see more about SH Diana

 

 

Last Minute Savings with Expedition Cruise Specialists

 

You will need to be quick to secure these outstanding savings of up to 60% off regular fares. To reserve your cabin call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists while there’s still space available on 1800 90 20 80.

These great deals apply on the following expedition cruises:

 

9 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 11 to 20 December 2023

Oceanview Stateroom – Normally $19,358 per person – NOW $9,599 per person

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,555 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.

 

 

 

10 Night Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Vega

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 12 to 22 December 2023

Oceanview Stateroom – Normally $21,187 per person – NOW $9,599 per person

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,288 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Sail across the Drake Passage to discover the unforgettable frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the White Continent’s breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Watch out for extraordinary wildlife in this icy world too, including elephant seals, humpback whales, and thousands of Adélie penguins. This voyage lets you live your Antarctic dream, and visit places where few people go.

 

 

 

9 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 20 to 29 December 2023

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $24,555 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.

 

 

 

10 Night Antarctica Peninsula Discovery aboard SH Diana

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia –29 December 2023 to 08 January 2024

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $26,961 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Travel across the legendary Drake Passage to the frozen Antarctic Peninsula - where you'll discover mesmerising icy wonders like the Gerlache Strait and the magnificent Antarctic Sound. Step ashore, meet curious penguins and explore otherworldly frozen landscapes. Sail on Zodiac boats through ice-choked waters, searching for seals, whales and seabirds, and journey alongside polar specialists as you share in their vast knowledge of these isolated regions.

 

 

 

 

11 Night Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Vega

 

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 13 to 24 January 2024

Balcony Stateroom – Normally $26,427 per person – NOW $10,399 per person

 

Sail across the Drake Passage to discover the unforgettable frozen wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula. Explore the White Continent’s breathtaking landscape, with its free-floating tabular icebergs, massive glaciers, and awe-inspiring ice cliffs. Watch out for extraordinary wildlife in this icy world too, including elephant seals, humpback whales, and thousands of Adélie penguins. This voyage lets you live your Antarctic dream, and visit places where few people go.

 

 

 

 

You will need to be quick to secure these outstanding savings of up to 60% off regular fares. To reserve your cabin call the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists while there’s still space available on 1800 90 20 80.

 

Please note all prices depart from and return to Ushuaia in Argentina. The cruise prices do not include transport to and from Argentina, visa fees or pre/post programme accommodation. All prices are in Australian Dollars and reflect the last-minute discount. This offer is not combinable with any other discount, is cruise only and is subject to availability. The offer is valid for new bookings only made with Expedition Cruise Specialists between 01 and 10 November 2023 or until sold out / withdrawn.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Our polar expedition partner Swan Hellenic has just released their 2024/25 Antarctica season with discounts of up to 40% off regular brochure fares on selected cruises when you book your expedition to the White Continent before 18 November 2023.

A leading name in travel dating back almost eighty years, Swan Hellenic now focuses on expedition and cultural cruising, with one of the newest fleets in the field. Launched in 2022 and 2023 respectively, Swan Hellenic’s newbuilds SH Vega and SH Diana are both rated to Polar Class 5 and have been specially designed to maximise the expedition experience while also providing 5-star luxury surrounds in a boutique environment.

 

 

While Swan Hellenic’s fleet – which will soon be expanded with the return of SH Minerva – is deployed on a year-round schedule to all corners of the globe, Antarctica remains the drawcard for many travellers, and with great savings on offer now is the ideal time to secure your place.

 

Swan Hellenic 'In Shackleton's Footsteps' Expedition

Perhaps the highlight Antarctic cruise available as part of Swan Hellenic’s 2024/25 Earlybird Savings is the 18-day, all-encompassing ‘In Shackleton’s Footsteps’ expedition cruise which combines the three ‘jewels in the crown’; Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands. There’s two departures on offer aboard the flagship SH Diana, 22 December 2024 and 19 January 2025. Prices for the 18-day expedition start at AUD $28,288 per person, twin share in a spacious Oceanview Stateroom. 

Expeditioners joining this voyage will follow in the wake of one of history’s greatest explorers on this extraordinary cruise. They will be able to experience the incredible endless icy wilderness of the Antarctic Peninsula, just as Ernest Shackleton and his crew would have done as they commenced their quest to cross the ice to the South Pole. 

See the 'In Shackleton's Footsteps' Itinerary and pricing

 

 

 

There will also be the opportunity to step ashore on Elephant Island, where Shackleton’s men would survive two Antarctic winters. Along the way, there will be the chance to observe penguins, seals, whales and seabirds that, unlike Shackleton’s ship, Endurance, have no issues thriving in this formidable environment. 

Before crossing the infamous Drake Passage back to Ushuaia, SH Diana will stop at the Falkland Islands, allowing travellers to discover a haven for a host of endemic birdlife, and meet the proud, resilient locals.

 

 

Other Swan Hellenic 2024/25 Antarctica Earlybird Cruises

 

In addition to the ‘In Shackleton’s Footsteps’ expedition, Earlybird Savings of up to 40% are also available on the following cruises:

 

18 Day Long Arc to Antarctica aboard SH Vega

Buenos Aires to Ushuaia – 18 November to 05 December 2024

Earlybird Prices from AUD $28,288 per person, twin share

 

11 Day Antarctica Peninsula Odyssey aboard SH Diana

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 03 to 13 December 2024

Earlybird Prices from AUD $17,536 per person, twin share

 

14 Day Antarctica Peninsula in Depth aboard SH Vega

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 15 to 28 December 2024

Earlybird Prices from AUD $22,144 per person, twin share

 

13 Day Antarctica Peninsula In Depth aboard SH Diana

Ushuaia to Ushuaia – 15 to 27 February 2025

Earlybird Prices from AUD $20,608 per person, twin share

 

All prices are in Australian Dollars in an Oceanview Stateroom. Please enquire with our team for 40% savings on other cabin and suite types.

 

 

Swan Hellenic’s Fleet

 

Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of three modern expedition ships, all launched in the past two years. Sister-ships SH Vega & SH Minerva accommodate just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. All three of these boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room. 

All three ships feature three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.

 

 

To find out more about Swan Hellenic’s 2024/25 Antarctica Earlybirds and how you can save up to 40% off brochure fares when you book by 18 November 2023, contact the knowledgeable team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80.

 

 

 

Please note that Earlybird prices are subject to availability and limited to new bookings only made between 18 September and 18 November 2023 or until sold out.

 

 

 

While the Kimberley Coast might be the most instantly recognisable expedition cruising destination in Western Australia, the lesser-known Houtman Abrolhos Islands should also be on any adventure traveller’s bucket list!

Located approximately 70 kilometres off the coast of Geraldton (around 400 kilometres north of Perth), the Abrolhos abound with natural wonders, spectacular marine and bird life and nautical history. Consisting of 122 islands, travellers can enjoy diverse experiences in the Abrolhos, from swimming up close to Australian sea lions, meeting the local crayfisherman, and some great snorkelling over pristine coral reefs and the wreck of the legendary Batavia.

 

 

 

 

Perhaps the best way to experience the Abrolhos Islands is on a five-day cruise with Eco Abrolhos Cruises. When you explore this region aboard the classic catamaran Eco Abrolhos you’ll cruise in a group of no more than 32 travellers, while being expertly looked after by a team of locals who will make sure you experience the best that these rarely-visited islands have to offer.  

There’s five grades of accommodation to choose from aboard Eco Abrolhos, starting with the budget-conscious Lower Deck cabins up to the top-of-the-range King Bed Deluxe Staterooms. There’s also plenty of deck space, including the Top Deck Lounge which offers panoramic views and a spacious dining room. 

Cruises operate over the summer months, and usually sell out well in advance, however we do have a small number of cabins available for the coming 2023/24 season, making it an ideal time for you to experience the incredible Abrolhos Islands for yourself.

 

5-Day Abrolhos Islands Highlights

 

Experience Marine Life

The Abrolhos Islands lie in the flowing Leeuwin current which provides the perfect environment for spectacular coral outcrops and marine life. Watch the Australian sea lions frolic in the waters alongside bottle nose dolphins and huge Samson fish.

Sea Bird Sanctuary

The birdlife is amazing with over 90 specific and rare species identified and often cited as the world’s most important sea bird breeding colony. September and October is the peak breeding season and the best time to witness hatchlings.

Whale Of A Time

Migratory whales such as the humpback whale, are frequent visitors and can often be seen breaching, and at play in the warm waters and are a site to behold. Whales typically migrate for breeding in the months from May through December.

Dive Into History

Discover the fascinating and gruesome history of the Batavia shipwreck - the mutiny, the savagery, the maritime skill, and the rescue. Eco Abrolhos will visit up to four different locations!

Discover Island Culture

Learn about the rich history based around Crayfishing and fishing, visit the fishing camps and meet the locals. Try your hand at catching the iconic Baldchin Groper!

Seafood Bounty

Eco Abrolhos's onboard chef prepares the freshly caught local crayfish and reef fish for you to enjoy. Eco Abrolhos serves buffet style meals and dietary requirements can be catered for.

 

To book your Abrolhos Islands eco-cruise give the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists a call today on 1800 90 20 80.

 

 

 

 

 

2023 / 24 Abrolhos Islands Schedule

Itinerary Details

To allow for maximum time in the Abrolhos, on most cruises you will cruise from Geraldton to the Abrolhos at the start of the itinerary, and then fly back to Geraldton at the conclusion (or vice versa). See details against each departure date.

This 5-day Abrolhos Islands expedition is the ultimate way to explore and experience the very best of the Abrolhos Islands. From sunrise to well after sunset your days will be filled with a variety of activities. Each expedition is tailor made to make the best of the weather, tidal and seasonal conditions.

Availability shown below is accurate as at 03 August 2023.

 

26 to 30 September 2023

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,265 per person

Single Traveller: $3,685 per person

 

03 to 08 October 2023

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,410 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,265 per person

Single Traveller: $3,685 per person

 

10 to 14 October 2023

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,410 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,265 per person

Single Traveller: $3,685 per person

 

 

 

 

17 to 22 October 2023 – Astronomy Cruise

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

Learn about the night sky on this themed cruise. The Guest speaker will take you on a Stargazing Space Adventure.

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,530 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,015 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,385 per person

Single Traveller: $3,805 per person

 

24 to 28 October 2023

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,530 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,015 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,385 per person

Single Traveller: $3,805 per person

 

 

 

 

01 to 06 February 2024 - SPECIAL

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,530 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,015 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,385 per person

Single Traveller: $3,805 per person

 

08 to 12 February 2024 - SPECIAL

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,410 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $3,895 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,265 per person

Single Traveller: $3,685 per person

 

 

 

 

15 to 20 February 2024 – WA Wine & Seafood - SPECIAL

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

Sample WA Wine & local Seafood on this culinary themed cruise.

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,630 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,115 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,485 per person

Single Traveller: $3,905 per person

 

22 to 26 February 2024 - SPECIAL

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,530 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,015 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin

Twin Share: $3,385 per person

Single Traveller: $3,805 per person

 

 

28 February to 03 March 2024 - SPECIAL

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,410 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $3,895 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,265 per person

Single Traveller: $3,685 per person

 

 

 

 

06 to 11 March 2024 

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,710 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,170 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,510 per person

Single Traveller: $3,950 per person

 

13 to 17 March 2024 

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,960 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,420 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,760 per person

Single Traveller: $4,200 per person

 

19 to 23 March 2024 

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,710 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,170 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,510 per person

Single Traveller: $3,950 per person

 

 

 

 

26 to 31 March 2024 

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,710 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,170 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,510 per person

Single Traveller: $3,950 per person

 

02 to 06 April 2024 

5 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,710 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,170 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,510 per person

Single Traveller: $3,950 per person

 

08 to 13 April 2024 - Pearls & Plates (Extra Day)

6 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

Includes a special long table lunch.

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $5,960 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $5,310 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $4,515 per person

Single Traveller: $5,040 per person

 

16 to 21 April 2024 

5 Days from Geraldton | Cruise out / Fly back

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $4,710 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $4,170 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $3,510 per person

Single Traveller: $3,950 per person

 

08 to 13 April 2024 – ANZAC Discovery Tour (Extra Day)

6 Days from Geraldton | Fly out / Cruise back

Coincides with ANZAC Day and includes a special long table lunch.

 

King Bed Deluxe Cabin

Twin Share: $6,300 per person

 

Queen / Double Stateroom

Twin Share: $5,650 per person

 

Lower Deck Cabin 

Twin Share: $4,855 per person

Single Traveller: $5,380 per person

 

To book your Abrolhos Islands eco-cruise give the expert team at Expedition Cruise Specialists a call today on 1800 90 20 80.

 

Discover more about the small ship Eco Abrolhos

 

See the Abrolhos Islands Cruise Itinerary

 

 

Abrolhos Islands Cruise Review

 

See what Steve H from Perth thought of this expedition:

 

“I can’t recommend this trip enough. I’ve done four small ship expeditions off the WA coast and this one was the best. The boat is the perfect size for the Abrolhos. Big enough to be stable and comfortable but small enough to get in and out of all the best places. So many activities every day and different options. Snorkel. Fish. Walk. Pull the cray pots. History tour. Take it easy and read a book. It’s up to you how much you lean in or out of the experience. What was an absolute standout was the skipper’s knowledge of the area - having lived and worked there his whole life - which have the whole trip an intimate insider perspective on the history and life on the islands. Brilliant crew who looked after us and made sure that we got the most out of every experience. Did I mention that I got to dive the 400 year old Batavia wreck?”

 

 

 

 

 

Sure to appeal to explorers and ‘foodies’ alike, Australia’s Coral Expeditions has launched two new culinary expeditions setting sail in late 2024. Discovering Western Australia’s beautiful South-west region, the ‘Whales & Trails’ cruise includes gourmet experiences in the Margaret River wine region, while the ‘Bounty of the Southern Ocean’ programme follows a food and wine tasting-trail between Adelaide and Melbourne.

Travellers will cruise aboard Coral Expeditions’ blue-water flagship, the 120-passenger Coral Adventurer. Launched in 2019, this expedition ship was purpose-built for cruising in the waters of Australia and the South Pacific and features five stateroom grades, ample deck space and common areas, a flexible range of excursion tenders and an attentive Australian & New Zealand crew, including the best expedition teams in the business.

 

Whales & Trails of Western Australia

10 Nights Fremantle to Fremantle aboard Coral Adventurer

Departs Fremantle 05 October 2024

 

See the Itinerary

 

In partnership with Australian Geographic, this inaugural Whales and Trails expedition explores the imposing South-West coastline with adventures on both land and sea. Following the migratory trail of the Humpback, Southern Right and Blue whales, travellers will step ashore each day to experience the renowned vineyards of Margaret River, sections of the iconic Cape to Cape coastal walk and short walks amongst the native wildflowers in full springtime bloom around Dunsborough and Albany. 

In Esperance, travellers will be able to stroll the silica white sands at Lucky Bay – voted #1 Beach in the world. Expert guides will lead the way and share connections with traditional owners in small coastal communities and learn of their history and heritage.  

 

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

A highlight of this expedition will undoubtedly be the signature winemakers dinner event at famed Leeuwin Estate Winery. This unique dining event will pair Leeuwin Estate’s exceptional “Art Series” wines with a six-course menu featuring locally-grown regional cuisine.

 

 

Expedition Highlights

 

·      Whale watching at Flinders Bay, renowned for its frequent whale sightings and explore the sheltered haven of Point Ann in search of Southern Right Whales and their calves

·      Enjoy a swim in the pristine waters of Hamelin Bay, surrounded by the curious stingrays and other marine species

·      Traversing the scenic coastal vistas on a morning trek along a section of the renowned Cape to Cape trail

·      Walk among native wildflowers in bloom around the coastal landscapes from Dunsborough to Esperance

·      Stroll the silica white sands in the company of native kangaroos at Lucky Bay – voted #1 Beach in the world

·      Learn about Indigenous coastal culture and traditions of the region and share stories whilst we forage for native tucker on ancestral lands

·      Wander the community led Art Trail of Ravensthorpe and hear how collective community engagement has changed the face of this historic goldfield’s town

·      Gain valuable insights from onboard Guest Lecturers Micheline and Curt Jenner who will share their scientific and conservation knowledge of whale research in Western Australia.

 

Expedition Prices

Prices are per person, twin share in Australian Dollars. Enquire for single traveller prices.

 

Coral Deck Stateroom: $9,200 per person

Promenade Deck Stateroom: $11,100 per person

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom: $14,600 per person

Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom: $16,300 per person

Bridge Deck Suite: $20,800 per person

 

 

 

 

Bounty of the Southern Ocean

8 Nights Adelaide to Melbourne aboard Coral Adventurer

Departs Adelaide 01 December 2024

 

See the itinerary

 

 

You’ll savour the freshest of seafoods, experience native ingredients and organic produce accompanied by world class wines, craft brews and artisanal spirits on this 8 night expedition from Adelaide to Melbourne. Foodies will love the opportunity to Indulge in wild ocean farmed abalone on Kangaroo Island and freshly caught Australian lobster in the traditional fishing outpost of Robe. You will also about the myriad culinary and medicinal uses of fungi, and sample native indigenous bush ingredients found in the wild. A highlight will be the opportunity to meet passionate local producers, growers and distillers and share their handicrafts and stories while sampling their artisan products. Connect with nature as they enjoy a leisurely circumnavigation around the remote seal colony of Lady Julia Percy Island and take in the spectacle of a sunset sail by of Victoria’s famed Twelve Apostles. Coral Adventurer’s expert guides will lead the way and will be joined onboard and ashore by local characters.

 

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

Enjoy a special ‘Tastes of the Southern Ocean’ dinner onboard Coral Adventurer in the historic fishing township of Port McDonnell. Hosted by a preeminent regional chef and showcasing the best of South Australian premium wines including pairings from Eden Valley, Barossa, Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale. 

 

 

Expedition Highlights
 

·      On Kangaroo Island sample award-winning, locally farmed sustainable Abalone and taste locally made wines and regional produce

·      Indulge in freshly caught Australian Lobster in the quaint fishing port of Robe and explore the old-world charm of this historic town 

·      Discover the remarkable world of fungi as you learn about their ecological importance and myriad uses with an off-the-grid entrepreneur 

·      Savour artisanal produce paired with premium wines at a local vineyard in the Limestone Coast

·      Circumnavigate a remote island seal colony?on Lady Julia Percy Island  

·      Discover indigenous hinterland bush food and hear how local families seek to educate on the viability of endemic species in food production

·      Learn about the innovative cooperative approach to sustainable agribusiness on the Great Ocean Road  

·      Sail past the Twelve Apostles at sunset and raise a glass to this iconic landscape

·      Enjoy guided walks through the protected wetlands of Phillip Island, understanding the importance of this sensitive and essential ecosystem

·      Hear from a passionate chef, one of the forerunners of championing wild foods as you dine on locally sourced Philip Island produce.

 

EARLYBIRD SAVINGS: Take 10% off the below prices when you book and deposit this expedition by 31 July 2023.

 

Expedition Prices

Prices are per person, twin share in Australian Dollars. Enquire for single traveller prices.

 

Coral Deck Stateroom: $7,300 per person

Promenade Deck Stateroom: $8,800 per person

Explorer Deck Balcony Stateroom: $11,700 per person

Bridge Deck Balcony Stateroom: $12,850 per person

Bridge Deck Suite: $16,500 per person

 

To find out more about these new culinary expeditions, or secure your place, contact the team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80 or email us.

 

 

For 70 years, the name Swan Hellenic has been synonymous with small ship discovery cruises, and their long and storied history continues in 2024 with a range of expedition cruises around the world aboard their state-of-the-art expedition ships. And, for a limited time, you can save 20% on a selection of expeditions when you book and deposit your 2024 cruise with Expedition Cruise Specialists before 31 July 2023.

 

See the full 2024 Swan Hellenic Cruise Calendar

 

The newly-minted 2024 schedule features an exciting range of culturally-rich and wildlife-focussed itineraries from eight to 21 days in duration to all corners of the globe. A highlight of the year-round schedule is the addition of two new cruise destinations for Swan Hellenic, with new expeditions scheduled for both Cuba and West Africa’s Bijagós Islands. Of course there’s polar expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic on offer, making use of the ships’ highly-rated Polar Code classifications, and an incredible range of ‘Rest of the World’ cruises exploring exclusive exploration opportunities in areas such as Brazil, Africa, Madagascar and the Mediterranean

 

Featured Itineraries

 

NEW Cuba Discovery Itinerary - departs 30 April 2024

Set sail on this 10-day Cuba Discovery cruise aboard the new SH Diana and explore the unique heritage of Cuba.

 

NEW West Africa’s Bijagós Islands - departs 30 April 2024

Explore the remote beauty of West Africa's Bijagós Islands on a captivating 9-day expedition aboard the new SH Vega.

 

Secrets of Sicily - departs 20 August 2024

Discover history at the heart of the Mediterranean on this fascinating 9-day Sicily Highlights with Malta & Lipari cruise on board the new SH Diana.

 

From Magna Graecia to Greece - departs 28 August 2024

Imagine sailing through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, discovering ancient cities, charming islands, and stunning landscapes aboard a new luxury ship.

 

Extraordinary South Africa - departs 06 November 2024

Explore the best of South Africa abroad the 5-star expedition ship SH Diana on this 8-day South Africa Discovery cruise.

 

 

 

Swan Hellenic Cruises operates a fleet of three modern expedition ships, all launched in the past two years. Sister-ships SH Vega & SH Minerva accommodate just 152 expeditioners in a range of suites and cabins, will the slightly larger SH Diana maxes out at 192 travellers. All three of these boutique ships feature the same distinctive comfort and Scandi-design interiors, extensive deck space and dedicated expedition facilities, including a dedicated presentation and lecture theatre, and an expedition mud room. 

All three ships feature three dining venues from which to choose – the Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge and Pool Bar & Grill, and there’s also a state-of-the-art gym, spa, panoramic sauna, club room and swimming pool.

 

See a Swan Hellenic Sample Dinner Menu

 

 

Over recent years, there has been what you might call an arms race in the design of new expedition ships, where the focus is seemingly on ‘more and more of everything’. More restaurants to choose from, more entertainment options, more gadgets and more travellers. While this change has made the concept of expedition cruising more (there’s that word again) accessible to more travellers it can result in the expedition experience being diluted and the destination becoming less important than the ship itself. Gladly, I don’t see Swan Hellenic falling into this trap.

Speaking to Swan Hellenic’s Australia & New Zealand General Manager Brigita Devries recently, it was evident to me that while Swan Hellenic’s ships have all the bells and whistles travellers desire in 2023, it’s still the love of exploration and true expedition cruising that drives the company. Brigita assured me that the focus would always be about maximising the expedition experience, if lunch had to be delayed for a wildlife viewing experience, or a day’s itinerary changed to take advantage of a local festival, the expedition experience will always take precedence.

 

To find out more about Swan Hellenic’s 2024 cruise schedule, and how you can save up to 20% off brochure fares when you book by 31 July 2023, contact the knowledgeable team at Expedition Cruise Specialists today on 1800 90 20 80.