Swan Hellenic
Eminent Guest Speakers and Onboard Entertainment
- Guest Speakers – With programme of talks – including site and deck talks where appropriate – focused on the itinerary and the destinations visited, teasing out the intrinsic nature of each country and site visited. Guest Speakers are chosen not only for their specialist knowledge and passion for their subject, but also for their communication skills
- After Dinner Speakers – These can include highly regarded politicians, authors, actors, broadcasters and journalists, each specially selected to appeal to Swan Hellenic passengers.
- Entertainers – After dinner, relax and enjoy a varied programme of entertainment which might include classical or operatic performances, light-hearted quizzes or sparkling revues as well as occasional performances by local musicians, singers and dancers when Minerva is in port overnight.
- Workshops – Days at sea are the ideal time in which to try something new or develop existing skills. Under the expert guidance of specially invited tutors develop your bridge skills, discover a talent as a writer, or try your hand at painting, wine appreciation, choral workshops, yoga or tai chi.
River Cruising – Inclusive Value
- Shore Exclusion are included in your cruise fare – With Swan Hellenic, an inclusive shore excursion programme is central to your cruise experience and is included in your fare. The insights provided by a Swan Hellenic Guest Speaker will give you an enhanced appreciation of the history, culture, art and architecture of the towns, cities and landscapes of the Rhône and Saône and the Rhine before you even step ashore.
- A Host of European Delights – Their Rhône and Saône cruise includes walking tours in Avignon, Arles and Viviers. Visit the great medieval abbey of Cluny, admire the Papal Palace in Avignon and marvel at the Roman architecture of Vienne, founded by Julius Caesar. City tours of Strasbourg, Basel and Koblenz feature on our Rhine itinerary.
- Their Team is at Your Service – A Swan Hellenic Cruise Director and Shore Excursions Manager are on hand throughout your cruise. They will ensure that everything runs smoothly from the moment you embark your river cruiser to the time you disembark.
- Complimentary Drinks with Dinner – From 2016 your Swan Hellenic river cruise fare includes a selection of drinks with dinner. You can choose from house wine and daily recommendations from the wine menu by the glass, beer or soft drinks to accompany your evening meal – all at no extra cost.
The Swan Distinction
For more than half a century Swan Hellenic has been perfecting the art of discovery cruising, leading the way to some of the world’s most intriguing destinations. Travel in comfort and style to cities of music, culture and art, sites of ancient civilisations, remote villages, iconic coastlines and inspirational landscapes and, during leisurely days at sea, let our renowned Guest Speakers’ in depth talks illuminate the history and culture of each destination.
- Cruise in country house comfort on board our flagship Minerva – a name synonymous with small ship discovery cruising
- Discover more – each cruise itinerary is a unique, cultural travel experience
- Travel with world class Guest Speakers who look forward to sharing their expertise and enthusiasm with you
- Benefit from all inclusive fares, including an extensive, tailor made, shore excursion programme in each port (worth up to £500 per person on a 15-day cruise) and all gratuities on board and ashore.
- Book with an experienced, award winning British company, established in 1954
- Enjoy friendly professional service from the long serving Swan team, Captains, senior officers and members of Minerva’s ship’s company, each dedicated to ensuring that you enjoy your holiday with them
Exceptional Inclusive Value
- An integrated programme of talks by Guest Speakers
- Entrance fees to places of interest featured in the shore excursion programme
- A cruise book designed and produced for your cruise, with detailed destination and excursion information
- A team of experienced staff onboard Minerva
- All meals, including Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Parties followed by Gala Dinners
- Morning coffee and afternoon tea onboard Minerva
