Swan Hellenic has revealed that its second expedition ship, Vega, has been floated out of dry dock in Helsinki.

The 152-passenger Vega – the sister ship of Minerva – will be delivered to the expedition cruise line in May 2022.

It will then depart on its 11-day maiden cruise on the 29 May, sailing from Leith, Scotland, to explore the Faroe Islands and Iceland, docking in Reykjavík on 8 June.

Swan Hellenic CEO Andrea Zito said: “We are again delighted with the quality of Helsinki’s work. Despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic, everyone at the shipyard has maintained an ambitious schedule to the very highest standards.

“It’s wonderful to see our vision come together so well. We know our guests will love how such similar ships as Minerva and Vega can also be so different, enriching their voyages with us worldwide to see what others don’t.”

Helsinki Shipyard CEO Simo Rastas added: “Vega is a next-generation ship that advances the Swan Hellenic cultural expedition cruising tradition in the inspired mould of her sister ship. We are very proud of our contribution to everything she represents.”

Sailing with Swan Hellenic

On board, Vega will feature an expedition laboratory, marine life library and observation lounge for lectures by expert expedition leaders and specialists from “a wide range of disciplines”, Swan Hellenic said.

It will offer zodiac trips, along with kayaking, trekking and other activities. On-board amenities include a spa, sauna, gym, library, panoramic restaurant and club lounge, as well as a pool deck with bar.

The third ship in the fleet, temporarily named Vega 3, will be delivered in early 2023.

Steelwork production for Vega 3 started last summer, and approximately 50 per cent of the blocks are now ready at the yard, the line added.