Nordic elegance revives a British iconic brand

The Swan Hellenic name was revived in 2020, marking the return of the 70-year-old British discovery cruise brand under new ownership. Two 152-passenger Vega-class ships are now under construction at Finland’s Helsinki Shipyard and a third vessel, with capacity for 192 guests, is on order.

Tillberg Design of Sweden partner and executive director Fredrik Johansson tells Passenger Ship Interior & Refurbishment Review “In our first meeting with Swan Hellenic’s executives we defined the design direction together as ‘Nordic elegance’. In considering the destinations and the well-travelled guests on board, we knew the scenery should always be the centre of attention. In support of that we have created designs that offer comfort and sophistication in a contemporary way.”

In its previous guise, Swan Hellenic operated with one repurposed and traditional vessel, Minerva. Passengers will have a very different experience on the trio of ice-class siblings which will debut in November 2021 with SH Minerva - named in honour of its predecessor - April 2022 and year-end 2022.

Highlighting the opportunity of working for an all-new line on its first newbuild ships, Mr Johansson continues “This was a very exciting starting point for us. We assigned a young and talented team and very quickly narrowed down our vision. Swan Hellenic executives understood immediately what the look and feel was going to be and how we could create a visual guest experience around this.

“In considering the polar destinations, we wanted to create a sense of feeling rather than a specific theme, so the suites and cabins will feel sensual with materials that are soft to touch. In other areas we wanted the use of colours and materials to create a design flow where the feeling is continuous from one room to another. Large windows looking out in all areas will create the scenery, so the design supports it and in no way competes with it. However, at the end of the day, when the explorers return to the ship, there is an easy sophistication and excellent service waiting for them.”

Tillberg Design of Sweden cruise newbuild director Iina Forsblom takes up the story and explains that innovative use of light and space were other main drivers in the design. She singles out the sweeping central flight of stairs as an example.

“One of the design highlights will be the staircase in the heart of the ship. Even on a small vessel, we have been able to create a feature expanding from deck three to deck eight. The staircase feels open and closed at the same time. Sunlight filters in from a geometric wall of wood elements during the day and in the evenings, it will be lit indirectly.”

Elsewhere, SH Minerva will feature 76 welcoming and functional staterooms; the majority with large balconies.

Ms Forsblom continues “Every suite and cabin has a fireplace, maybe not with a real fire but with a clever use of hologram technology. It immediately creates a mood for the room. Guest comfort and convenience have been extremely important as these accommodations are their home when they rest between their adventures. The wardrobes and storage space in each cabin are extensive and suites offer a walk-in closet. Several types of lighting options are available and easily operated. Knowing that the guests will bring on board their own tech devices and cameras, there are several power outlets and USB ports.

“The cabin layout allows for separating the living room from the sleeping area and some suites and cabins have a sleeper sofa and interconnecting door to the adjacent cabin to serve families. Naturally, there are bathrobes, a coffee maker and a minibar for convenience, but all cabins also allow for in-room dining.”