Minerva, Swan Hellenic’s solitary cruise ship, which was saved from extinction by a campaign supported by Telegraph Travel readers, has returned to service after a three-month overhaul.
Passengers on board the 350-berth vessel can now expect refurbished en-suite bathrooms, a newly installed promenade deck, a lounge bar with 360 degree views, and an improved internet area.
The ship will be sailing in Europe this spring, offering cruises to the Canary Islands, the Mediterranean and the Black Sea.
In 2006, Telegraph Travel launched a “Save our Swan” campaign, after Swan Hellenic’s parent company, P & O, was sold to the Carnival Corporation, putting Minerva’s future at risk. Carnival planned to do away with the brand and redeploy Minerva elsewhere. The plans prompted hundreds of readers to write in, registering their opposition.
Inspired by the campaign, Lord Sterling, a former chairman of P&O, bought the Swan Hellenic name and, with the help of All Leisure Holidays Group, secured the use of Minerva, ensuring that Swan devotees could continue enjoying its cultural cruises.
“Minerva’s renovations mark a new chapter in the long history of Swan Hellenic and underline All Leisure Group PLC’s commitment to the future of this popular ship, enabling it to remain at the forefront of cultural discovery cruising for years to come,” said Colin Stone, managing director of Swan Hellenic.
"We took onboard feedback from our passengers to ensure the major refurbishments allow the ship to continue to appeal to our loyal customers but also hopefully appeal to those who are keen to try their first discovery cruise on an intimate ship.”
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