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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
Imagine sailing through the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, discovering ancient cities, charming islands, and stunning landscapes aboard a new luxury ship.
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.
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.
Wendy King, great-great-great granddaughter of legendary navigator Phillip Parker King, joined Reef Prince in May 2023 to trace the Kimberley coast from Darwin down to Broome, visiting many of the locations first mapped by her famous ancestor.
King is regarded as one of Australia‘s most famous navigators, and was a brilliant cartographer, conducting four expeditions on the Australian Coast between 1817 and 1822 aboard his cutter, HMS Mermaid. He is perhaps most well-known for his 1820 voyage, which produced the first real maps of the Kimberley Coast, and many locations that still bear King’s name today. It was also on this voyage that the Mermaid was careened, in a location now known as Careening Bay, famous today for its Mermaid Boab Tree.
It was a thrill for the Reef Prince crew, and in particular Cruise Director Paul Hogger, to welcome Wendy aboard and show her the places her ancestor visited, and the trials and tribulations he faced along the way.
Cruise Director Paul also enjoyed the opportunity to learn a lot from Wendy about the more modern history of King family, and other unpublished stories about Phillip Parker King’s adventures.
The team at Expedition Cruise Specialists was thrilled to assist Wendy to discover more about her family history through taking part in this incredible voyage.
The stylish, 36-passenger Reef Prince operates ten-night cruises from Broome to Darwin and vice versa, taking in all of the highlights of Western Australia’s magnificent Kimberley Coast. There’s still a handful of cabins left to secure your place for 2023, or now’s the time to reserve your place to cruise the Kimberley in 2024 to discover all these iconic spots, including Horizontal Falls, Montgomery Reef, King Cascades and King George Falls for yourself.
