INSPIRATIONAL DESTINATIONS
The Swan Hellenic passion for discovery cruising, has created an inspiring range of itineraries which visit the most colourful and charismatic corners of the world. The variety of places and continents, means you can take your pick of stunning scenery, intriguing people and fascinating places, safe in the knowledge that Swan's style of exploration will do justice to them all.
Look out too for cruises on individual themes: this year we feature destinations, on board activities and excursions specially selected to illustrate a variety of popular interests, which include classical music, famous gardens, art or fine food and wines.
A UNIQUE TRAVEL EXPERIENCE
Cruising in the comfort of Minerva, your floating country house hotel, you will find yourself relaxed and ready to enjoy the many pleasures of every port of call. Each itinerary is meticulously planned to include a rich variety of famous and lesser-knowen destinations - from ancient cities to tiny islands - chosen to show off dazzling highlights and hidden treasures and give a memorable taste of what life is like in countries visited along the way. Every destination brings a change of scenery, culture and tempo and a new tempting range of different things to do. As these are too good to hurry, our generous schedules allow plenty of time for you to enjoy them in the way that suits you best.
INCLUSIVE EXCURSIONS
Each port of call offers a choice of special tailor-made excursions, led by experienced local guides, the cost of which is included in your fare. They might lead you into a jungle or on safari, round ancient monuments, fascinating museums and palaces and the chance to discover rich and colourful cultures, perhaps similar or worlds away from your own. You may choose instead to sample a local speciality - anything from snorkelling to a sampan ride! For those occasions when you prefer to explore independently, our knowledgeable staff on Minerva, will provide as much detailed information as you require. Leisurely evenings in port, provide further opportunities for everyone simply to soak up the atmosphere, or to linger over the local cuisine.
DISCOVERY WITH EXPERTS
Swan Hellenic passengers see the world through expert eyes. Discovery begins on board Minerva, where experts introduce every port of call and bring each destination to life. Often with well-known names and faces - and all distinguished in their own particular field - our Guest Speakers share their fascinating insight into different areas and aspects of the cruise. Informal and entertaining, their talks are designed to cover popular subjects with general appeal. Topics featured, range from flora and fauna to music and military history, or food and wine to archaeology and art.
EXCEPTIONAL VALUE — NO HIDDEN COSTS
We realise how important excellent value for money is, so in your fare we include return flights and transfers to Minerva, a choice of tailor-made excursions at each port of call, all tips, port taxes and all meals and accommodation on board.
In addition to the above, on Antarctic Expeditions all bar drinks onboard (excluding premium brands and champagne), an Epedition Parka and back pack are also included. As well as a post-cruise jounal of your voyage.
REASSURANCE
Swan Hellenic has been arranging imaginative discovery holidays for over 50 years and is fully bonded. The company complies with the bonding requirements of the Civil Aviation Authority for all fly cruises booked from this brochure, which ensures the protection of your monies, once paid to Swan Hellenic, and covers the cost of repatriation to the UK. Swan Hellenic is also a member of the Passenger Shipping Association and is bonded accordingly. This ensures the protection of your monies, once paid to Swan Hellenic, for all other holidays contained within this brochure and covers the cost of repatriations to the UK.
YOUR VERDICT: 'SWAN HELLENIC REALLY ARE THE BEST'
Swan Hellenic is delighted to have been voted Best Cruise Line in the Guardian/Observer Travel Awards, 2002. Votes compiled from more than 15,000 reader responses gave the company an overall score of 96.7% for quality of service. This gave us the highest score out of the twenty categories of awards and put Swan Hellenic significantly ahead of all other cruise operators.
In addition, we have previously won the Telegraph Travel Award, for Best Cruise Line and the British Cruise Awards for the Best Small Ship.
The 2002 Holiday Which? members' survey placed Swan Hellenic at the top of the cruise companies league table and we were awarded the top ratings for accommodation.
Our passengers' vote of confidence reflects the commitment to all-round quality of service and value for money, which has made Swan Hellenic the market leader in discovery cruising.
We look forward to welcoming you on board Minerva, to share our pleasure in exploring the great destinations of the world in the distinctive, Swan Hellenic style.
