Swan Hellenic’s SH Minerva Set to Launch Inaugural Asia-Pacific Cultural Cruise Series

Swan Hellenic is set to launch its inaugural cultural expedition cruises in the Asia-Pacific region in 2026 with the return of the SH Minerva. This ship, which marked the brand’s relaunch, will operate a series of seven cruises—five in April and May and two in September. These itineraries can be taken individually or combined; one highlight includes a continuous 55-day journey spanning from the Solomon Islands to northern Japan.

After finishing its Antarctic season, SH Minerva is scheduled to depart from Honiara on April 5, 2026, and embark on five cultural expeditions covering the Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Japan. Each stop offers a unique experience, allowing guests to connect successive voyages without revisiting the same destination. The series will conclude in Otaru, Japan, on May 30, 2026.

The first three cruises from Honiara to Jayapura, then Jayapura to Sorong, and Sorong to Manila, will follow Swan Hellenic’s Cruise Plus format, which includes hotel accommodations, charter flights, and transfers to remote embarkation points. The latter two cruises, from Manila to Hiroshima and Hiroshima to Otaru, will be recognized as Cruise Only due to their accessibility via scheduled flights.

In September 2026, the SH Minerva will return to Japan for two additional cultural expeditions: one from Otaru to Hiroshima (September 1-10) and another from Hiroshima to Itozaki-Onomichi (September 11-20). Both itineraries can be combined for an extended trip.

These voyages will showcase remarkable destinations renowned for their natural beauty, cultural significance, and maritime history, including the coral-rich Raja Ampat, the Batanes Islands, the volcanic landscapes of Kagoshima, and the scenic Kerama Archipelago. Bookings are currently available through Swan Hellenic’s website and authorized agents.

For more details, visit Swan Hellenic Cruises.

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