SH Minerva departed Ushuaia on a 10-day Antarctic voyage on 30 December, its maiden cultural expedition cruise.

Guests spent the new year exploring the sights and wildlife of Antarctica in the company of expedition leader Pablo Brandeman, polar expert Steve Blamires and ornithologist Andy Bunten.

“We are immensely proud to have welcomed our first guests aboard this wonderful new ship to live unique new experiences that advance the revered Swan Hellenic tradition, taking them to see what others don’t in exceptional comfort and style," said the line’s chief executive Andrea Zito.

The Swan Hellenic brand was relaunched in July 2020 aiming to breathe new life into the cultural expedition cruising the line was renowned for in the 1950s.

Minerva is the first of three ice-class vessels the line is set to deploy, with room for 152 passengers. It will be operated by an onboard team of 120.

Cruises will feature input and appearances from a broad expedition team comprising expert guides, speakers and lecturers.