Sail the Edge
of Africa
From Cape Town to Luanda, follow the Skeleton Coast through untamed deserts, ghost towns, and rich Atlantic wildlife on an unforgettable Swan Hellenic voyage.
Cape Town - Luanda
From
/per person
Dates
25 Mar 26 - 5 Apr 26
Duration
11 nights
Ship
SH Diana
Discover the untamed beauty of Africa's Atlantic coast on an unforgettable Swan Hellenic expedition. Sail from vibrant Cape Town to Angola's dynamic capital, Luanda, tracing Namibia's iconic Skeleton Coast. Encounter flamingos and seals in Walvis Bay, explore the ghostly allure of Ilha Baia dos Tigres, and uncover colonial echoes in Namibe. From sunrise hikes and 4x4 desert safaris to vineyard tastings, every moment blends adventure, culture, and elegance on this remarkable voyage.
Cape Town
Set between the Andes and the Beagle Channel, Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world — a frontier of adventure and discovery. Here, the spirit of exploration thrives, marking the end of one journey and the beginning of another.
Saldanha Bay
On South Africa's wild West Coast, Saldanha Bay welcomes you with serene waters, white beaches, and the easy rhythm of seaside life. A gateway to the tranquil Langebaan Lagoon, it's a haven for birdlife and quiet coastal charm.
Lüderitz
Where the desert meets the sea, Lüderitz reveals a blend of Namibian wilderness and German colonial heritage. Its pastel buildings and nearby ghost town of Kolmanskop whisper stories of the diamond era amidst shifting sands.
Walvis Bay
Framed by golden dunes and the Atlantic, Walvis Bay teems with life — flamingos, pelicans, and playful seals gather in its shimmering lagoons. A perfect base to explore the vast beauty of the Namib Desert, where dunes rise high above the ocean.
Ilha Baia dos Tigres
Mysterious and remote, Baía dos Tigres lies off Angola's southern coast — a haunting island once home to a thriving fishing village. Today, its abandoned houses and untouched shores tell a story of time, solitude, and nature's quiet return.
Namibe
One of Angola's oldest coastal towns, Namibe charms with its Portuguese architecture and vibrant markets framed by desert landscapes. Here, arid cliffs meet the deep Atlantic — a striking contrast of color, culture, and coast.
Luanda
Angola's dynamic capital, Luanda, brims with contrasts — colonial echoes beside a modern skyline, rhythms of kizomba flowing from oceanfront cafés. A city of renewal and resilience, it's the vibrant finale to your Atlantic voyage.
The Journey of Your Dreams
An ocean voyage along Africa's Atlantic coast from Cape Town to Luanda aboard our boutique ice class ship, SH Diana.
Cape Town
Begin with extra time in one of the world's most stunning cities, framed by Table Mountain and vibrant waterfront life.
Namib Desert Star Light Dinner
2 days to explore this gateway to the Namib Desert, from flamingo-filled lagoons to towering sand dunes. Stargazing, live music, & an unforgettable starlit dinner in the desert.
Kolmanskop Ghost Town
Step into Namibia's colonial past with German architecture, desert landscapes, and ghost town of Kolmanskop.
Baia dos Tigres Ghost
Visit Angola's largest island, a hauntingly beautiful and rarely visited spot abandoned by people but rich in marine and birdlife.
Wildlife Encounters Whilst Kayaking
From seals and dolphins to pelicans, flamingos, and desert-adapted creatures, the coast teems with surprising biodiversity.
The Journey of Your Dreams
An ocean voyage along Africa's Atlantic coast from Cape Town to Luanda aboard our boutique ice class ship, SH Diana.
Cape Town
Begin with extra time in one of the world's most stunning cities, framed by Table Mountain and vibrant waterfront life.
Namib Desert Star Light Dinner
2 days to explore this gateway to the Namib Desert, from flamingo-filled lagoons to towering sand dunes. Stargazing, live music, & an unforgettable starlit dinner in the desert.
Kolmanskop Ghost Town
Step into Namibia's colonial past with German architecture, desert landscapes, and ghost town of Kolmanskop.
Baia dos Tigres Ghost
Visit Angola's largest island, a hauntingly beautiful and rarely visited spot abandoned by people but rich in marine and birdlife.
Wildlife Encounters Whilst Kayaking
From seals and dolphins to pelicans, flamingos, and desert-adapted creatures, the coast teems with surprising biodiversity.
Expedition Itinerary
11 nights of an unforgettable journey across three countries, combining scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters, cultural insights.
Day 1-2
Cape Town, South Africa
Your journey begins with an airport meet-and-greet before being transferred to SH Diana the day prior to setting sail. Settle into your stateroom before heading out. Our shuttle bus service allows you time to explore the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront to shop and dine at your leisure or visit the Diamond museum & Zeitz MOCAA contemporary art museum. The following day, take in the landscapes & soar above Cape town with a Table Mountain cable car ride.
Optional excursions:
- •Sunrise hike to Lion's Head
- •Boulders Beach penguins & Kalk Bay visit
- •Stellenbosch wine experience
Day 3
Saldanha Bay
Langebaan Lagoon, a watersports and fishing paradise, is renowned for its wetlands and tidal mud flats, home to flamingos, the world's largest breeding colony of black harriers, and thousands of migratory birds. The West Coast National Park protects the lagoon and is home to the Slow Five—tortoises, whales, sand sharks, porcupines and dune moles. Savour the delights of the seafood festival on the beach.
Day 4
At Sea
The next day at sea gives you the perfect time to get to know SH Diana, her crew and your fellow explorers. Make use of the wellness area, sauna, steam room swimming pool and hot tub, or head to the library or Club Lounge with your favourite book. Our expedition team and esteemed guest lecturers will provide and insight on, geology, history of the region, and indigenous cultures. As we sail towards Namibia, keep an eye out for wildlife from open decks or whilst relaxing in lounges or your stateroom.
- •Lectures on the history of the region
- •Photography workshops
- •Wildlife spotting
- •Discussions with experts
Day 5
Lüderitz, Namibia
Lüderitz, with a unique West African-German culture, graces Namibia's coast on a windswept, rocky hillside beside the bay. The desolate Namib Desert extends along the coast, home to Kolmanskop ghost town, wild horses and tales of remarkable survival. Wander through the town's desolate streets on our expert led walking tour.
Optional excursion:
- •Kolmanskop Ghost Town, explore the abandoned mining town engulfed by the Namib desert
- •Witness the African penguins and cape fur seals on the Halifax boat cruise
Days 6-7
Walvis Bay, Namibia
Walvis Bay, known for its natural harbour, offers shelter to thousands of flamingos in its natural tidal lagoon and protected wetlands along with the vast dunes of the Namib Desert that meet the Atlantic Ocean. The unmissable highlight of this port of call is the unique evening experience with a three-course meal and live entertainment under the starry night sky. Depart from the quayside with your driver in a 4x4 vehicle, passing the famous Dune 7, one of Namibia's tallest dunes. Head to the Moon Canyon (the local name for the Swakopmund River Canyon) for your dinner event. Enjoy the stunning surroundings, entertainment and fine dining. Your driver will then return you to the ship.
Optional excursions:
- •Marine wildlife cruise with dolphins and seals
- •Hot-air balloon flight or scenic plane over Sossusvlei dunes
- •4x4 dune safaris to Sandwich Harbour
- •Pelican point kayaking & 4x4 beach drive
- •Namibian culture tour in Swakopmund
Day 8
At Sea
Back at sea, rest and enjoy the ocean. Relax with a spa treatment, head to the gym, or relax in the observation lounge over a boardgame or game of cards, or listen to one of our expert lecturers over a glass of wine. Over these days, there'll be the opportunity to visit the bridge and enjoy the panoramic view from the top deck, whilst keeping a look our for passing wildlife as we head towards Namibe.
- •Visit the spa and gym
- •Meet the officers during a bridge visit
- •Relax in the Observation Lounge
- •Enjoy afternoon tea in the Club Lounge
Day 9
Ilha Baia Dos Tigres
One of the most remote destinations is the abandoned Ilha Baía dos Tigres, or Tiger Island, in Angola off Namibe Province's coast. It offers a pristine oasis surrounded by secluded beaches, and vast dunes, renowned for desolate landscapes and eerie ghost towns.
Day 10
Namibe, Angola
Explore the Namib Desert, searching for rare Welwitschia mirabilis plants, each over 2,000 years old and at risk from climate change. Stroll around the prehistoric Arch Lagoon, a hidden oasis with magnificent rock formations and vivid green aquatic plants. Marvel at this natural wonder, then take a short drive around the charming old town of Namibe, with its Baroque architecture, historic stadium and churches, before returning to your ship.
Optional excursion:
- •Guests can opt for an extended tour of the Namib desert & old town including the prehistoric Arch Lagoon followed by lunch at a Namibe beach restaurant and time to relax on the sands
Day 11
At Sea
It's the perfect time to socialize with the Swan Hellenic team and your new friends as you reflect on the expedition voyage. Take in the views, listen to new lectures and make the most of your time with the expedition team. Dine a la carte in the Swan Hellenic restaurants with new friends or relax in your stateroom with a movie and room service.
- •Discussions with experts
- •Visit the bridge for the final time
- •Presentation of guest photos & voyage video
- •Certificate ceremony
- •Sharing stories with fellow guests
- •Farewell gala dinner
Day 12
Luanda, Angola
As we arrive in Luanda where colonial charm meets modern revival, the time has come for you to disembark the ship and take one of our transfers to the airport. For those of you with a little more time to spare, you'll be able to join one of our optional city tours.
Optional excursions:
- •Luanda city tour
- •Luanda city tour & Mussulo island
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition life as we take you to the furthest more remote regions of the world. The day by day plan and experiences are given as a guide with the actual itinerary depending on weather, ice conditions and guidance of the captain and expedition leader.
What's Included
Transport & Accommodation
- Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and return
- One night pre-cruise accommodation onboard SH Diana
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self service laundry
- Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle, yours to keep
Additional Services
- Memory package of your voyage
What's Included
Transport & Accommodation
- Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and return
- One night pre-cruise accommodation onboard SH Diana
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self service laundry
- Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle, yours to keep
Additional Services
- Memory package of your voyage
African Wildlife
Meet African penguins, playful fur seals, and graceful dolphins, then watch flamingos, pelicans, and desert jackals thrive along Africa's untamed Atlantic coast.
African penguins at Boulders Beach & Halifax Island
Cape fur seals at Pelican Point
Dolphins and whales offshore
Flamingos and pelicans at Walvis Bay Lagoon
Black-backed jackals in Namib Desert
African Wildlife
Meet African penguins, playful fur seals, and graceful dolphins, then watch flamingos, pelicans, and desert jackals thrive along Africa's untamed Atlantic coast.
African penguins at Boulders Beach & Halifax Island
Cape fur seals at Pelican Point
Dolphins and whales offshore
Flamingos and pelicans at Walvis Bay Lagoon
Black-backed jackals in Namib Desert
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
SH Diana
SH Diana blends cutting-edge technology with stylish sophistication. Every detail is designed for immersive exploration in ultimate comfort with unobstructed views throughout the ship. Whether you're soaking in breathtaking scenery from the panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or relaxing in your luxurious stateroom, SH Diana offers an exceptional experience — perfectly crafted for modern adventurers who seek both discovery and indulgence.
SH Diana blends cutting-edge technology with stylish sophistication. Every detail is designed for immersive exploration in ultimate comfort with unobstructed views throughout the ship. Whether you're soaking in breathtaking scenery from the panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or relaxing in your luxurious stateroom, SH Diana offers an exceptional experience — perfectly crafted for modern adventurers who seek both discovery and indulgence.
192 guests 127 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC6 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Fine Dining
Across 3 venues
Launched in 2023
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym sauna & steam room
192 guests 127 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC6 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Fine Dining
Across 3 venues
Launched in 2023
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym sauna & steam room
Staterooms
Bright and spacious staterooms — your cozy home away from home.
Oceanview 20 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Balcony 25 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
- 5 m² private balcony
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Junior Suite 32-36 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
- 6 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room area
- Luxurious en-suite bathroom
Suite 41 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
- 5-10 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Premium Suite 41 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
- 8-12 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
- Walk-in wardrobe
Expedition Leaders
Dain Adamson
Expedition leader
Dain grew up on South Africa's northeast coast, where the Indian Ocean shaped his lifelong connection to the sea. Trained as a physical oceanographer, he developed expertise in tides, currents, and the dynamic forces that drive the ocean. His passion for marine life has taken him from rehabilitating African penguins in Cape Town to assisting with turtle conservation in Mexico and working with stingrays in the Cayman Islands and Bahamas. Now an Assistant Expedition Leader, Dain shares his knowledge and enthusiasm to inspire guests to respect, understand, and protect the world's oceans.
Carine Zimmerman
Marine Biologist
Carine began her career in 2008 as a Whale Watching Guide in Spain. Beginning her career in the Strait of Gibraltar, she later guided whale watching trips off the coasts of La Gomera and La Palma in the Canary Islands. She then followed the call of the whales across the Atlantic Ocean to the Dominican Republic where she worked as a Naturalist. Following the season, she headed north to guide in Iceland's waters before returning to warmer climes in Pico and Sao Miguel. Carine found out early that she has a passion for exploration, and she continues to share her incredible knowledge across the world.
Javier Cotin
Ornithologist
Javier's love for birds and nature has taken him to some of the world's most remote corners. From studying Eleonora's Falcons in the Mediterranean to exploring seabird habitats in Tasmania, he's dedicated his career to understanding and protecting wildlife. With a PhD from the University of Barcelona, Javier's research focuses on how human activity affects bird populations. Now, based in the Pyrenees, his passion for birding and adventure never fades. Javier's tales from his ornithology research in faraway lands are as thrilling as they are interesting, and he can't wait to share them with curious Swan Hellenic guests!
Dain Adamson
Expedition leader
Dain grew up on South Africa's northeast coast, where the Indian Ocean shaped his lifelong connection to the sea. Trained as a physical oceanographer, he developed expertise in tides, currents, and the dynamic forces that drive the ocean. His passion for marine life has taken him from rehabilitating African penguins in Cape Town to assisting with turtle conservation in Mexico and working with stingrays in the Cayman Islands and Bahamas. Now an Assistant Expedition Leader, Dain shares his knowledge and enthusiasm to inspire guests to respect, understand, and protect the world's oceans.
Carine Zimmerman
Marine Biologist
Carine began her career in 2008 as a Whale Watching Guide in Spain. Beginning her career in the Strait of Gibraltar, she later guided whale watching trips off the coasts of La Gomera and La Palma in the Canary Islands. She then followed the call of the whales across the Atlantic Ocean to the Dominican Republic where she worked as a Naturalist. Following the season, she headed north to guide in Iceland's waters before returning to warmer climes in Pico and Sao Miguel. Carine found out early that she has a passion for exploration, and she continues to share her incredible knowledge across the world.
Javier Cotin
Ornithologist
Javier's love for birds and nature has taken him to some of the world's most remote corners. From studying Eleonora's Falcons in the Mediterranean to exploring seabird habitats in Tasmania, he's dedicated his career to understanding and protecting wildlife. With a PhD from the University of Barcelona, Javier's research focuses on how human activity affects bird populations. Now, based in the Pyrenees, his passion for birding and adventure never fades. Javier's tales from his ornithology research in faraway lands are as thrilling as they are interesting, and he can't wait to share them with curious Swan Hellenic guests!
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.