In a world where travel is often synonymous with hustle and bustle, there’s something truly magical about embarking on a journey that feels more like a voyage of discovery. Sailing the Atlantic Ocean on Swan Hellenic SH Vega along Africa West Coast offers travelers a unique opportunity to discover hard to reach places that are often cut off from tourism infrastructure. If you want to explore off the beaten path places, then you’re like me. Come see why a trip on Swan Hellenic is unlike any other!
A Heritage of Exploration
Swan Hellenic has a storied history dating back to the mid-20th century, when it first set sail to explore the remote islands in Greece and then continued to other captivating destinations. With a focus on cultural immersion and authentic experiences, Swan Hellenic quickly earned a reputation as a pioneer in expedition cruising. Today, this tradition continues as Swan Hellenic takes explorers to both Antarctica and the Arctic, but continues exploration across Africa and beyond.
The legacy continues with SH Vega and SH Diana. These small ship luxury vessels pay homage to their predecessors while incorporating modern amenities and comforts while also being PC5 and PC6 ice breakers. From their sleek design to intimate atmosphere, every aspect of the SH Vega, the ship I sailed in west Africa, is crafted to enhance the traveler’s journey. With just 152 passengers max, a trip on the SH Vega is guaranteed to be a refined experience taking you to locations big ships just can’t go!
As I previously reviewed the SH Diana there really isn’t much about the ship to tell, so instead I am going to focus on the experience. The ships are almost identical! Only the art is different. Also the SH Vega only a a sauna not a steam room, but otherwise it’s the same floor plan and what matters most is the destination!
Swan Hellenic Western Africa Cruise
Swan Hellenic offers unique expedition cruise routes in both West and East Africa. Yet what makes them unique is they are the only cruise line that hugs the West Coast of Africa and they are all inclusive. Everything you can imagine is included in the price!
Their small ships stop in Angola, Congo, and Gabon. We visited with local communities and went on a guided ATV ride through rivers and the national park! Swan Hellenic is the only cruise and expedition company that offers truly original itineraries in Africa.
They also continue on to more common cruise stops such as Sao Tome, but then stop at small secondary island of Principe as well! For those looking to get off the beaten path you can also explore the voodoo capital of the world, both Togo and Benin. Again two countries which typically do not host cruise ships!
My trip on Swan Hellenic was unlike any other expedition I had been on. Although there were experiences that felt more like a traditional cruise, it was stopping in the ports where no cruise ships stop and experiencing the nuances of Africa with little to no tourism infrastructure that made every second of this trip special!
And although the price seems high, at the end of the day I find it to be a hell of a deal. After all on Swan Hellenic EVERYTHING is included for staff gratuities to port fees, even an excursion in every port, open bar, and 24/7 room service!
Traveling Congo – Visiting Pointe-Noire
Unlike other cruises that just visit a port for a few hours and then move on, one thing I loved about this trip was that we had 3 full days in the Congo. The ship stayed docked in Pointe-Noire and we really had the opportunity to explore the country. On the first day we traveled by plane to Braziville to explore the capital of the Republic of Congo. Having a full city tour, visiting markets, the raging rapids of the Congo river, and exploring the cultural highlights of this vibrant country.
Yet the real highlight of leaving the ship behind was the Gorilla encounter (video). Visiting a local rehabilitation center about 2 hours from Brazzaville we were able to observe gorillas in nature. Smelling the sweet musk of these animals and watching them along the riverbanks was unreal. No words. Purely majestic.
After a night in Brazzaville and both gorilla encounters and cultural experiences we flew back to Pointe-Noire. Here the local government was so excited to welcome back Swan Hellenic, they put on a party. We enjoyed local dance performances, delicious dishes, drinks and more. Everyone from the Governor to the mayor was present, plus hundreds of locals. The entire experience was unlike anything I’d ever experience. Locals excited to meet travelers. Congolese excited to share their culture with outsiders and all of us exchange stories over food and drinks.
If there’s one thing that brings people together, it’s food!
Military Helicopters and Chimpanzees
If the first two days in Pointe-Noire weren’t amazing enough, the third day takes the cake. Waking up early, we left the ship and went back to the airport around 7am. Here we met with the local military and boarded soviet designed Mil mi-17 helicopters!
Up up and away we went! With the group spread across two Mi-17s we chopped up the entire coast of the Congo, flying for over 45 minutes until landing in the Conkouati reserve near the Gabon border (video). We were able to see the entire mostly undeveloped coastline of the Congo! Never in my life would I think I would have an experience like this!
The day was just getting started, because next we jumped into jeeps and headed through the reserves. Next up Chimpanzees. We boarded boats and went to a refuge for chimps. Again a rehab center for rescue chimpanzees injured elsewhere. Saving and rehabbing hundreds of chimps, this place was a mecca of beauty!
An Immersive Experience
What sets Swan Hellenic apart is its commitment to immersive travel. From local tours around Ganvie –the home of over 20,000 people at the largest floating lake village in Africa – to connecting with chocolate farmers in Sao Tome, to relaxing and barbecuing and taking part in local dances and traditions with villages in Togo, there’s truly nothing else like this.
Onboard experts, including historians, naturalists, and cultural specialists, accompany guests on their journey, offering insights and perspectives that bring each destination to life. We learn as we go, making this trip not just a vacation, but an experience and enrichment opportunity. For two weeks I had time to both relax and connect with the locals and culture. Every day aboard the SH Vega is an opportunity for discovery.
Special Swan Hellenic Africa Cruise Deal
Speaking of Swan Hellenic. I have a Special deal to bring to readers of this blog that I should share here. If you want to book, please email me for the best booking deals and onboard credit bonus!
Travel with me in April 2026 on the next segment in Western Africa. Crucibles of West Africa Slavery coast 2026. You can save 28%! But only when you book via Scott & Thomas travel. Starting at less than $10,00 per person, you can save over $2,900. More details about my special offer here.
Immerse yourself in vibrant cultures, fascinating history, and breathtaking wildlife as you cruise along the West African coast. Set off from Senegal’s capital and end in Dakar Tema, Ghana. You will visit colorful cities, such as Takoradi, famous for its bustling Market Circle, and Freetown, home to the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary. We will explore the Bijagós Islands, an 88-island archipelago with lush mangroves and wooded savannas. Come see parts of the world that are typically overlook and difficult to travel.
The Future of Exploration
As we look to the future of expedition travel, there’s no doubt that Swan Hellenic will play a leading role. Helping share a new way we cruise and explore the world. The food was top notch, I enjoyed amazing experiences unlike any other, and not only disconnected with my life at home but connected with locals. I couldn’t have asked for a better vacation and I cannot wait for my next opportunity to travel with Swan Hellenic again!
With their unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and adventure, the SH Vega represents the pinnacle of luxury expedition cruising. When you’re ready to get off the beaten path, contact me at Scott & Thomas Travel. Not only do I know the ships, I know the experience. Plus I have access to some unique deals too! Direct email here.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first voyage, there’s never been a better time to experience the wonders of the world aboard the SH Vega. So why wait? Start planning your next adventure today and discover the magic of Swan Hellenic for yourself.
