Swan Hellenic announces two grand voyages along West Africa for 2026

WEST AFRICA – Swan Hellenic has unveiled two Grand Voyages for 2026, offering an immersive exploration of the culturally rich and diverse West Coast of Africa aboard the sophisticated expedition ship SH Diana.

Swan Hellenic has unveiled its African Grand Voyages for 2026, a bold expansion of its experiential cruise offerings designed for travellers seeking deeper cultural connections and off-the-beaten-path exploration.

These extended sailings promise rare access to secluded destinations, scenic coastal cruising, and immersive encounters across West and Southwest Africa.

The first Grand Voyage departs from Cape Town on March 25, 2026, for a 51-night northbound expedition that concludes in Lisbon.

Combining five back-to-back cruise segments, the itinerary follows Africa’s Atlantic coast through Namibia, Angola, Ghana, Senegal, Morocco, and Portugal. Guests will journey through shifting landscapes, vibrant cultures, and historic coastal settlements.

A second Grand Voyage sails south from Lisbon on September 7, 2026, covering 35 nights and culminating in Luanda, Angola.

This southbound journey links three distinct cruise segments, charting a course through the cultural heart of West Africa.

Each voyage features in-depth shore excursions led by expert expedition teams, offering travellers the chance to explore ancient medinas, interact with remote communities, and witness extraordinary biodiversity.

Highlights include the wild shores of the Skeleton Coast, the unique biosphere of the Bijagos Archipelago, slave trade-era forts, and traditional lakeside villages in Benin.

Culinary experiences, especially in Lisbon, recently named Europe’s top food destination, further enrich the journey.

For travellers who prefer shorter experiences, the Grand Voyages are also available as standalone cruises.

The northbound itinerary includes five segments ranging from 7 to 13 nights, starting with Cape Town to Luanda and ending with Casablanca to Lisbon.

The southbound route features three segments from Lisbon to Dakar, Senegal to Ghana, and Ghana to Angola.

The SH Diana, Swan Hellenic’s purpose-built expedition ship, offers the perfect platform for discovery. Combining luxury with advanced exploration capabilities, the vessel provides an intimate setting, onboard lectures, and curated programming designed to deepen the travel experience.

With bookings now open, Swan Hellenic’s African Grand Voyages for 2026 invite travellers to step away from the ordinary and embrace an unforgettable journey defined by curiosity, culture, and connection.

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