SH Minerva

SWAN HELLENIC

ON DECK Route: Arctic and Antarctic Maiden Voyage: November 2021 Owner / Operator: Swan Hellenic Flag State: Malta Interior Design: Tillberg Design of Sweden Contractor: Almaco Shipyard: Helsinki Shipyard Inc www.swanhellenic.com

Tillberg Design of Sweden has been selected design the accommodation and public spaces for two luxury expedition vessels owned and operated by Swan Hellenic. Part of the Vega Class project, both will be delivered by turnkey contractor Almaco.

Currently under construction at Helsinki Shipyard, SH Minerva and its yet-to-benamed sister ship are part of ambitious plans to relaunch the British-born cruise line, which was acquired by a private consortium earlier this year. “I am proud to announce the rebirth of Swan Hellenic, a pioneering iconic travel brand with the mission to be the leader in cultural expedition cruising,” commented CEO Andrea Zito at the launch. “The new Swan Hellenic retains its British heritage whilst being international in outlook. Aimed at the traveller, who wishes to explore, experience and enrich whilst the infinite beauty of the world and its inhabitants in a safe and sustainable way.”

The 115m-long vessels feature the latest polar ice-class technology and are designed to journey to remote destinations; SH Minerva will cruise the Arctic and Antarctic during the winter and in tropical waters in the spring.

Interiors follow a Scandi-design aesthetic that extends to the observation lounge, restaurant and club lounge as well as the 76 cabins. “Defining a new generation of expedition ships for the legendary Swan Hellenic has been incredibly inspiring and rewarding for us,” comments Fredrik Johansson, Tillberg Partner and Executive Project Director. “We are humbled by the trust and confidence that has been placed in us throughout the design process, working closely with a team that has a very clear vision for its iconic brand but which also gave us the creative freedom of a blank slate.”

SH Minerva will take its maiden voyage in November 2021, while the second vessel will debut in April 2022.