Guests have been enchanted by Swan Hellenic's unique, multi-award-winning cruise experience for more than 60 years. Boasting all the refinements of an intimate country house hotel, Minerva will take you in style and comfort as she leads the way to some of the world's most fascinating destinations.
Joining you on your voyage will be a maximum of 350 like-minded passengers who share your thirst for knowledge, along with carefully selected, renowned Guest Speakers. Engaging and approachable, informed and passionate, they will deliver lively talks that bring to life the fascinating history and remarkable stories that lie at the heart of each destination.
Setting us even further apart is our handpicked shore excursion program worth up to $1,500 and included in your fare. As you discover the world's most iconic sites along with an array of lesser-known gems, these carefully designed excursions will ensure you experience the true essence of each port of call. When you return home, you will be as fulfilled and rewarded as you are relaxed.
Minerva's accommodations are elegant and understated with spacious lounges and comfortable bars. Friendly staff cater to your every need and ensure your cruise meets or surpasses every expectation. All our cruises offer unrivaled, inclusive value which means that, aside from airfare & transfers, bar & personal expenses, selected visas and any optional excursions you choose to add, there are no other costs.
Day #
Date
Port
Arrive
Depart
1
Tuesday, 9/1/26
About Otaru
Otaru is a small city of 150,000 people situated in the western part of Japan's northern island, Hokkaido. It's a far cry from the neon lights and technology driven culture of Tokyo and Osaka. This is the place where the Japanese come for their local holidays to experience the gentle, quaint and peaceful rural culture of their country. The Japanese call Otaru the 'Venice of Japan'. It's a tenuous comparison, but there are certain similarities the locals like to play up. For a start, Otaru has a lovely canal running through its centre, testament to its heritage as a thriving sea port. When sunset falls, lamps light up along the canal creating a warmly romantic atmosphere.
The port of call for Japan´s northern island of Hokkaido boasts a Western-style castle built in 1855, and a superb view from its Mt. Hakodate. The island´s mountain and forest parklands may also be toured.
Sakata is a city located in Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. As of October 2015, the city has an estimated population of 105,022, and a population density of 174 persons per km˛. The total area is 602.97 square kilometres.
Maizuru is a city located in Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, on an inlet of the Sea of Japan. The city was founded on May 27, 1943.
As of 2008, the city has an estimated population of 89,626 and a population density of 264 persons per km˛. The total area is 342.15 km˛.
Maizuru is a city rich in nature, located on the scenic Maizuru Bay. Maizuru Harbor is located in Maizuru Bay, from which travel to Hokkaidō is possible via the Sea of Japan.
Maizuru Attractions
Maizuru is dotted with sightseeing spots. There is a commemorative hall which documents the return of servicemen and detainees, and an observatory which overlooks the Rias seashore of the Maizuru bay
Sakaiminato City, located at the tip of Yumigahama Peninsula, is the city whose area is about 28 square kilometers. Since early days, Sakaiminato has grown with its fine natural port, to which the opposite Shimane Peninsula has been a protection against rough waves of Japan Sea and the monsoons. The city is complete with infrastructures such as harbor, airport and railroad.
Hagi used to be the capital of the Mori daimyo (feudal lords), who played a central role in overthrowing the shogunate in the late 19th century. Visit the old samurai residential quarter or shop for local pottery that ranks among Japan's finest.
Korea´s "museum without walls" is akin only to China in its depth and cultural wonder. From Pusan, you can journey to this ancient Silla capital, a dynasty which reigned in Korea for almost a thousand years. Today this small provincial town is virtually a museum without walls, dotted with many splendid ruins. Nearby, the forested mountains and valleys shelter hundreds of beautiful Buddhist shrines including the renowned Sokkuram Grotto, and Tongdosa and Pulguksa Temples.
Pusan (Busan) Attractions
Take in the view from Pusan Tower in Yongdusan Park and visit the Yi Sun-shin statue, the fish market (best seen 6-7 am)Pulguk-sa Temple - This temple located in Kyong-ju is considered the high point of ancient Korean art and architecture. Gyeong-ju - The old capital of the Silla Dynasty was designated one of the world's 10 most significant historic sites by UNESCO.Ja-Gal-Ch'i Fish Market - This popular fish market known as "Aunt's Market" was established by women peddlers during the Korean War.
Moji used to be an important international trading port with a number of well-preserved Western buildings. Several of these historic buildings can be seen along the attractive waterfront. Southwest of Moji , and part of the same city, is Kokura, the financial and business capital of the area. Kokura’s landmark is its castle, which has been beautifully restored. The remarkable garden located next to the main castle is not too far from the Manga Museum. South of Moji is the Hiraodai Limestone Plateau, Japan’s most representative karst plateau. The pure white limestone scattered throughout the landscape is often mistaken for sheep grazing in the grass. A “Natural Treasure” the plateau has underground caves as well.
The Kanmon Straits or the Straits of Shimonoseki is the stretch of water separating two of Japan's four main islands. On the Honshu side of the water is Shimonoseki,which contributed "Kan"to the name of the strait and on the Kyushu side is Kitakyushu, whose former city and present ward, Moji , gave the strait its "mon"
Beppu is one of Japan's most famous and most touristy hot spring resorts. It is a good place to try out different types of hot springs including sand baths. In addition, there are a few spectacular hot springs, called the "Hells of Beppu", which are for viewing rather than bathing.
Set on a bay in the Inland Sea, Hiroshima was the infamous site of the first atomic bomb explosion of August, 1945. Its tragic results are reflected in the sobering photographs of Peace Park. However, perhaps the best reason to visit Hiroshima is the enchanting island of Miyajima with its famous Itsukushima Shinto shrine, considered one of Japan´s three most beautiful sights. Its famous ´torii´ stands just offshore, a tall, vermilion- colored symbol of Japan, which appears to float during high tide.
Hiroshima Attractions
Visit the skeletal A-Bomb Dome, the Memorial Peace Park and Museum and the statue to the children who died. Stroll through beautifully landscaped Hiroshima Gardens, visit the rebuilt Hiroshima Castle or journey to the exquisite sacred island of Miyajima, just a few miles offshore for a serene and uplifting walk through its dense forests and see the extraordinary Itsukushima Shrine.
Guests have been enchanted by Swan Hellenic's unique, multi-award-winning cruise experience for more than 60 years. Boasting all the refinements of an intimate country house hotel, Minerva will take you in style and comfort as she leads the way to some of the world's most fascinating destinations.
Joining you on your voyage will be a maximum of 350 like-minded passengers who share your thirst for knowledge, along with carefully selected, renowned Guest Speakers. Engaging and approachable, informed and passionate, they will deliver lively talks that bring to life the fascinating history and remarkable stories that lie at the heart of each destination.
Setting us even further apart is our handpicked shore excursion program worth up to $1,500 and included in your fare. As you discover the world's most iconic sites along with an array of lesser-known gems, these carefully designed excursions will ensure you experience the true essence of each port of call. When you return home, you will be as fulfilled and rewarded as you are relaxed.
Minerva's accommodations are elegant and understated with spacious lounges and comfortable bars. Friendly staff cater to your every need and ensure your cruise meets or surpasses every expectation. All our cruises offer unrivaled, inclusive value which means that, aside from airfare & transfers, bar & personal expenses, selected visas and any optional excursions you choose to add, there are no other costs.
Year Built
1996
Capacity
350
Meeting Rooms
No
Year Refurbished
N/A
Elevators
1
Casino
No
Registry
N/A
Restaurants
2
Disco
No
Tonnage
12,500
Bars
2
Fitness Center
Yes
Cabins
175
Pools
1
Children's Program
No
Handicap Cabins
1
Theaters
Y
Internet Cafe
Yes
Shops
Yes
Library
Yes
Spa
Yes
Cabin Categories | Decks
Balcony
Balcony Suite
Deluxe Balcony Suite
Inside Aft
Inside Forward
Oceanview
Outside Aft Porthole
Outside Forward Porthole
Outside Forward Window
Owners Suite
Premier Suite
Premium Suite
Suite
Superior Balcony Suite
Cabin Details
Features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room, a luxurious ensuite bathroom and your own private 6 sq.m. balcony.
Features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room, a luxurious ensuite bathroom and your own private 6 sq.m. balcony.
Features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room, a luxurious ensuite bathroom and your own private 6 sq.m. balcony.
Features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room, a luxurious ensuite bathroom and your own private 6 sq.m. balcony.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed. All Deluxe cabins have bath and toilet. Deluxe cabins have large picture windows, mirrored for privacy and have a separate sitting area with sofa, chair, table and refrigerator.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All Suites have a bath and a toilet.All Suites have a balcony with floor-to-ceiling patio doors and separate sitting area with sofa, chair, table and refrigerator.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
Oceanview cabins features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All Suites have a bath and a toilet.All Suites have a balcony with floor-to-ceiling patio doors and separate sitting area with sofa, chair, table and refrigerator.
Our grandest suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom, spacious walk in wardrobe and a 12 sq.m private balcony.
Located on Deck 6 at the aft, our Premium Suites with a 12 sq.m. private balconies are the most luxurious accommodation on board. A favorite for those who want nothing but the best.
Our Suites features a superking bed and separate living room with and a soothing flame-effect fireplace a luxurious ensuite bathroom and a 12 sq.m. private balcony.
All cabins have private facilities, air-conditioning (centrally controlled), TV and radio, vanity table/writing desk and chair, direct-dial telephone, hair dryer, binoculars and safe. All twin cabins have twin beds, which when booked can, if requested, be made up into a Queen bed. All Superior cabins have bath and toilet. Superior cabins have large picture windows, mirrored for privacy.
Promenade Deck
Sun Deck
Bridge Deck
Main Deck
Aegean Deck
Baltic Deck
Deck 3
Deck 4
Deck 5
Deck 6
Deck 7
Deck 8
Deck 9
Request Additional Information
Departure Port:
Otaru
Sailing Date:
Tuesday, 09/01/26
Return Date:
Friday, 09/11/26
Nights:
10
Ship:
SH Minerva
Cruise Line:
Swan Hellenic Cruises
Checking For Available Shore Excursions From ShoreTrips®
Prices are per person, double occupancy, cruise only and on select sailings. Prices shown are for stateroom categories as noted and are shown in US Dollars. Government taxes and fees are additional. Airfare is not included. Prices and itineraries are based on availability and are subject to change without notice.
The port of call for Japan´s northern island of Hokkaido boasts a Western-style castle built in 1855, and a superb view from its Mt. Hakodate. The island´s mountain and forest parklands may also be toured. 
Hagi used to be the capital of the Mori daimyo (feudal lords), who played a central role in overthrowing the shogunate in the late 19th century. Visit the old samurai residential quarter or shop for local pottery that ranks among Japan's finest. 
Beppu is one of Japan's most famous and most touristy hot spring resorts. It is a good place to try out different types of hot springs including sand baths. In addition, there are a few spectacular hot springs, called the "Hells of Beppu", which are for viewing rather than bathing. 
Set on a bay in the Inland Sea, Hiroshima was the infamous site of the first atomic bomb explosion of August, 1945. Its tragic results are reflected in the sobering photographs of Peace Park. However, perhaps the best reason to visit Hiroshima is the enchanting island of Miyajima with its famous Itsukushima Shinto shrine, considered one of Japan´s three most beautiful sights. Its famous ´torii´ stands just offshore, a tall, vermilion- colored symbol of Japan, which appears to float during high tide. 
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