A Sanctuary for the Intellectual Explorer

HS Minerva

A purpose-built expedition ship where Scandinavian design, cutting-edge technology, and deep cultural exploration converge at the ends of the Earth.

Pool deck on Swan Hellenic's HS Minerva cruise ship
Capacity
152 guests
122 crew
Length
113.5 meters
372.3 feet
Beam
24.3 meters
79.7 feet
Class
PC5 Polar
Hybrid Diesel Electric

A Sanctuary for the Intellectual Explorer

favorite

Open Bridge Policy: One of our favorite parts of the HS Minerva is the open-bridge policy. Unlike larger ships where the navigational bridge is often off-limits, Swan Hellenic invites you into the command center almost anytime. You can wander in, chat with the officers, and watch the high-tech navigational charts as you thread through the Lemaire Channel. It’s the ultimate way to feel like part of the expedition team.

The Swan Hellenic Minerva is a next-generation expedition ship created for travelers who want to go further—without giving up comfort, style, or substance. Purpose-built for polar regions and remote destinations, Minerva blends ice-class engineering with understated luxury, delivering access to some of the world’s most extraordinary places in a quietly sophisticated setting.

Our Take

The HS Minerva is the definition of "Quiet Luxury." While other ships compete on high-tech submersibles or splashy nightclubs, Swan Hellenic has doubled down on sophisticated minimalism and a deep commitment to the "intellectual" side of exploration. We scouted this ship for its incredible sense of space—with only 152 guests, it feels like a private gallery that happens to be floating past icebergs. It is refined, understated, and exceptionally comfortable.

What Stood Out

  • The Observation Lounge: This is the heart of the ship. We love the clean lines and the fact that the design never distracts from the view outside. It’s where the "post-scouting" debriefs happen with the onboard scientists and historians.
  • The Basecamp: Swan Hellenic's mudroom is one of the most logically designed we’ve vetted. It makes the transition from the warmth of your suite to a Zodiac excursion feel organized and effortless, which is a major luxury when you're dealing with heavy polar gear.

Who It’s Perfect For

  • The Modern Scholar: Travelers who prefer a deep-dive lecture from a world-class geologist over a Broadway-style show.
  • Design Aficionados: Those who appreciate mid-century modern aesthetics and high-end Scandi-chic environments.

The Bottom Line

The HS Minerva is a top choice for the traveler who wants an intimate, boutique experience without the "pomp" of high-luxury lines. It is a sophisticated sanctuary for those who prioritize the destination, the science, and the quiet beauty of the frontier.

Swan Hellenic
Expedition Cruises
Cruises
Polar Regions
Europe
Highlights
Regions
Parent Brand
Brochure