The new ship is the second in a series of three expedition cruise vessels, and along with its sister ship, Minerva, has been designed to meet the latest environmental regulations.

Providing accommodation for 152 guests in 76 staterooms and suites, the majority with balconies, Vega is operated by an onboard team of 120.

Departing Tromso again on 30 July, Vega’s inaugural season will see it continue to explore the Arctic, from the Svalbard Archipelago and Iceland’s landscapes to Greenland, the Northwest Passage and Northern Canada.

Then, in Autumn, it’ll make its way down the US East Coast over 12 days, taking in New York, Norfolk and Charleston to Miami.

Swan Hellenic chief executive Andrea Zito said: "We are proud to bring our unique cultural expedition cruises to the Arctic for the first time, welcoming Swan Hellenic enthusiasts new and old onboard our elegant second new ship to see what others don’t."