SH Vega
SH Vega
The SH Vega is a sophisticated luxury‑expedition vessel that seamlessly marries refined Scandinavian style with cultural immersion and adventurous exploration. As Swan Hellenic’s second new‑build in its next‑generation fleet, she offers a tranquil, boutique ambiance enriched by gourmet dining and beautifully appointed common areas. Limiting her capacity to just 152 guests and staffed by up to 120–141 crew members, SH Vega ensures personalized service and exceptional hospitality on journeys ranging from the Arctic and Antarctic to Africa, South America, and the Mediterranean. Built with a Polar Class 5 (PC5) ice‑strengthened hull and equipped with large stabilizers and hybrid-ready propulsion, this 5‑star expedition ship invites discerning travelers to discover remote destinations in stylish comfort and exemplary environmental standards.
[voyage_widgety_ship_gallery]
Ship Statistics
2010
Launch Year
10944
Gross Tonnes
142
Length
18
Width
EUR
Currency
14
Max Speed (Knots)
264
Capacity
145
Crew
132
Cabins
Facilities
Accommodation
Accommodations aboard SH Vega reflect understated Nordic elegance with natural materials, soft lighting, and a calming color palette. Many staterooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows or private balconies that connect guests directly to the landscapes outside. Each room is designed with comfort, function, and aesthetic harmony in mind.
Suite and Stateroom Categories
- Premium Suite (≈ 49 m² / 525 ft² + ≈ 12 m² / 130 ft² balcony) — Two‑room suite with separate living area and bedroom, located aft on Deck 6, offering superior privacy and comfort.
- Suite (≈ 44 m² / 470 ft² + ≈ 12 m² / 130 ft² balcony) — Elegant two‑room suite with full balcony, situated mid‑ship on Decks 5‑6; ideal for longer voyages.
- Balcony Stateroom (≈ 28 m² / 300 ft² + ≈ 6 m² / 65 ft² balcony) — Well‑appointed staterooms featuring full‑length windows and private balconies; located on Decks 5‑6.
- Oceanview Stateroom (≈ 19 m² / 205 ft²) — Cozy yet stylish cabins with large panoramic windows—perfect for scenic viewing in comfort.
Dining
Culinary Philosophy
Dining aboard SH Vega centers around locally inspired, seasonal ingredients prepared with international flair. Menus change by region, offering elegant presentations that reflect the ship’s diverse itineraries—from Arctic specialties to Mediterranean classics.
Onboard Restaurants & Bars
- Swan Restaurant: The ship’s main restaurant, serving refined global cuisine in an elegant setting with panoramic views.
- Club Lounge: A relaxed venue offering buffet-style meals, snacks, and beverages throughout the day.
- Observation Lounge: Scenic bar and social space ideal for cocktails, storytelling, and quiet contemplation.
- Pool Bar & Grill: Casual al fresco dining near the heated pool, offering light meals and refreshments.
- 24-Hour Room Service: Full in-cabin dining available any time of day or night.
Onboard Facilities
SH Vega’s shared spaces are designed for cultural engagement and comfort, blending Scandinavian simplicity with functionality suited for expedition travel.
Indoor & Outdoor Common Areas
- Swan Restaurant: Stylish dining venue with floor-to-ceiling windows for immersive mealtime views.
- Observation Lounge: Forward-facing lounge with panoramic windows, ideal for wildlife viewing and relaxation.
- Club Lounge: Social hub with informal seating and buffet access.
- Swimming Pool & Jacuzzi: Heated outdoor pool deck with adjacent whirlpool and cocktail service.
- Fitness Center: Fully equipped with cardio and weight machines for passenger use.
- Spa & Wellness Area: Features a massage suite, sauna, and steam room for post-excursion relaxation.
- Panoramic Sauna: A glass-fronted sauna with sweeping ocean views.
- Library: Quiet space stocked with travel literature, regional history, and expedition references.
- Expedition Lab & Mudroom: Used for daily briefings, scientific enrichment, and gear storage before landings.
- Tender & Zodiac Launch Platform: Seamlessly organized disembarkation area for shore excursions.
- Stargazing Deck: Outdoor platform designed for celestial observation and uninterrupted views.
Deck Plans
[voyage_widgety_ship_deck_plans cols=”2″]
More Information About SH Vega
Ship Overview
Entertainment & Onboard Activities
Health, Fitness & Wellness
Family, Kids, and Special Traveler Services
Sustainability & Environmental Stewardship
Testimonials & Passenger Reviews
Brand Heritage
Swan Hellenic has been synonymous with cultural cruising since 1950. Relaunched in the 2020s, the brand focuses on small-ship expeditions that combine luxury service with academic enrichment. SH Vega, delivered in 2022, reflects the line’s commitment to remote exploration with comfort and environmental responsibility.
Design Description
Constructed at Helsinki Shipyard, SH Vega features a sleek, modern exterior with a PC5 ice-strengthened hull and oversized stabilizers for smooth sailing. Her interiors reflect Nordic minimalism—clean lines, muted tones, and warm woods—that evoke calm and elegance.
Unique Features
- PC5 Ice‑Strengthened Hull: Engineered for navigation in challenging polar conditions.
- Hybrid Diesel-Electric Propulsion: Reduces emissions with support from battery systems and SCR technology.
- Heated Outdoor Pool & Jacuzzi: Uncommon luxury for a ship exploring cold regions.
- Panoramic Sauna: Glass-front sauna offering scenic relaxation after excursions.
- Expedition Lab & Mudroom: Spaces for education, safety briefings, and scientific programming.
- Tender Boats & Zodiacs: Around 10–12 craft allow for seamless landings and wildlife exploration.
- Stargazing Deck: Outdoor space designed for astronomy and uninterrupted sky views.
SH Vega´s itineraries
Emblematic Antarctica
Discover the highlights of the Antarctic Peninsula on this 10-night luxury expedition aboard L’Boreal.
- 8 days
- Le Boréal
