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Customer reviews for Minerva
4.5
Based on 4 reviews
Cabin
4.5
Service
4.5
Excursions
4.5
Dining
4.5
Activities
4.5
Value for money
4.5
Entertainment
4.5
Our cruise to France (May 2016) we had an RHS Gardening theme. We are experienced cruisers aged 67 and 63. We prefer smaller ships (Braemar, Black Watch, even tried bigger Azamara and Oceania. Also once each on QM2 and Holland America). MINERVA is a great ship, small friendly and informal. On board the 300 passengers meet easily and many meals went on for 2 hours or so just chatting with interesting well travelled well educated people. Mainly English but Americans and Canadians and Aussies also. This notably is a middle class ship with most passengers over 65 and older which reflects the style and ambience of the ship. Do not be put off by this comment. Most are wonderfully charming interesting unpretentious natural people from all backgrounds. ITS GREAT. It really does have the comfort and modern style and feel of a Country Hotel house party without the formality - and that includes the personal service in all departments of course. It's a ship not an hotel and it is not glitzy but rather well decorated and kept to a high standard. It is not crowded or rushed. The food was excellent at all times and varied. It was all about quality and service, not unknown dishes with fancy names. Charming waiters will even take your plates to the table at the buffet or breakfast. Value for money? Yes, not cheap but worth it. All tours and tips included. Many passengers were repeaters. There were a lot of singles who did not at all feel isolated. We will absolutely return.
Verified customer
1 cruise
27 Jun 2016
Our Jewels of arabia cruise was outstanding. The staff set the atmosphere with their friendly and helpful attitude. The lectures and entertainment were insightful and thoroughly enjoyable. Our fellow passengers were all very friendly and the informal seating arrangements at meals meant we all mixed up and socialised well. Minerva is a small ship which does not overwhelm its destinations and the tours are well organised
Verified customer
1 cruise
15 Apr 2015
We enjoyed greatly our first cruise with Swan Hellenic in early December to Burma etc.which was a Saver Booking in mid October. As a result of the Discount and the included Excursions the Cruise was very good value supported by the quality accommodation, service and food during the journey across the Bay of Bengal and then concluding at Singapore. The flight home with Singapore Airlines was superb though slightly longer than we expected. Though Minerva is a smaller ship with up to 300 passengers there were huge benefits in using the small swimming pool most days and walking and sun bathing on the decks at all times in a leisurely manner. The Lectures on this Cruise were superb and focussed on the Heritage and History of the Main Countries we visited as well as Asia itself. Eminent Lecturers were very approachable and involved in certain key visits and excursions.
Verified customer
1 cruise
24 Dec 2014
The Round British Isles cruise has been one of my most enjoyable holidays ever. I was working out why and think it's all down to the way Swan gets everyone fired up to enjoy the excursions. You get a pre-cruise handbook, which tells you the history/background etc. to each destination and detailed descriptions of each trip. Then there's a daily programme of lectures - none of them too heavy but all excellent. We had four speakers and they were all high calibre (two National Trust staff, a Bishop and a Wildlife expert). So by the time you leave the ship you're really looking forward to what's ahead. The costs of the trips (and all tips) are included, although there are also some paying ones e.g. steam train journey. or zodiac safari. There's something for all levels of fitness/mobility at each destination. The ship has just been re-fitted and the public areas are classy. Good library, small but good hair/beauty centre with very keen prices. Nice deck furniture but the pool is tiny. My cabin was functional but not exceptional. Open dining is nice, the food OK but a touch heavy (afternoon tea is a real sinker - but delicious). Drinks very reasonable, wine included on the (few) formal evenings. Good, low-key entertainment e.g. quizzes, harpist, opera concerts but main evening activity for us was chatting to people we met. Passengers are mostly seasoned, savvy travellers. The majority have professional backgrounds and are pretty sprightly, even the elderly ones. Overall, good value for money and a lot of fun. I now understand why so many are returned 'swanners' and I expect I shall be joining their ranks!
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
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As one of the oldest seaside cities in the British Isles, Portsmouth plays host to some of the best maritime attractions you'll ever experience. It is also home to the naval base, making it a must-visit for military history enthusiasts who will love the naval museum ships and fortresses, as well as a stroll around the dockyard. You can also witness the Mary Rose at her museum, as well as the HMS Victory, and for the best views of Portsmouth, visit the Spinnaker Tower.
Things to do in Portsmouth:
Spinnaker Tower
standing at 170 metres tall, this prominent landmark is the ideal place to take in picturesque views of Portsmouth. Situated in Portsmouth Harbour, you'll see it as you set sail on your cruising adventure.
HMS Victory
Built in 1758, HMS Victory has over 246 years of service. An iconic attraction in Portsmouth, it has an incredible 104 guns and is a prominent attraction within easy reach of Porstmouth Harbour.
Mary Rose
A historical museum situated in the Historic Dockyards, you'll be able to explore this fascinating exhibit learning all about the iconic Mary Rose ship.
St. Peter Port, Guernsey
DAY 2-3
The capital of Guernsey, St. Peter Port is the place to go if you want to experience life on the second largest Channel Island. Soak up the Mediterranean feel as you explore the cobbled streets and quaint shops, stopping in Market Square to enjoy a drink or a bite to eat. Head to Castle Cornet for a spectacular view over the town or visit the Guernsey Museum & Art Gallery to dive into the island's history.
Things to do in St. Peter Port, Guernsey:
Castle Cornet
Castle Cornet, also known as Cornet Rock or Castle Rock, is a large island castle in Guernsey and a historic tidal island. It was crucial for both the island's defences and the defence of the roadstead, and was integrated into one of the breakwaters of St. Peter Port's port, the principal harbour of Guernsey, in 1859.
Guernsey Tapestry Gallery
The Bailiwick of Guernsey Millennium Tapestry, a community-wide undertaking, is displayed in the Guernsey Tapestry Gallery. Ten embroidered canvas panels, each representing a century, depict 1000 years of local history. The project's original goals were to serve as a permanent remembrance of the Millennium festivities, include the whole community, and inspire people to learn more about the history of the island.
Victor Hugo House
Victor Hugo resided in 38 Hauteville House in St. Peter Port, Guernsey, while he was living in exile from France. Hugo's descendants Jeanne, Jean, Marguerite, and François presented the home to the City of Paris in March 1927, the hundredth year of Romanticism.
St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly
DAY 4
Famous for stunning views, birdwatching and the world’s smallest football league (2 teams!), the Scilly Isles offer plenty for a day of exploring. In the main hub of St. Mary's you’ll find the Garrison Walls, Star Castle and Old Town, while there’s also chance to head further afield island hopping and taking in the unique sights and wildlife either on scenic walks, snorkelling, boat rides or Tresco Abbey Garden, known for its subtropical plants and flowers from around the world. When you get peckish meanwhile, the local fresh seafood is a must!
Stornoway, Isle of Lewis
DAY 7
The main town in the Lewis and Harris island just off of Scotland, Stornoway has a small population of just under 7,000 people; however, despite this, it’s still the largest town in the Outer Hebrides. A beautiful town that’s full of charm and quaint attractions, such as the Lews Castle, Stornoway Harbour and Stornoway Waterwheel, it makes for a wonderful day of exploring.
Things to do in Stornoway, Isle of Lewis:
Lews Castle
Built in the 19th century, this Victorian era castle is an iconic landmark in Stornoway. Originally home to Sir James Mathson, this beautiful building overlooks the harbour and now offers accommodation for those visiting the town, alongside a museum and a cafe.
Stornoway Harbour
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, you can wander around Stornoway Harbour - a natural harbour that’s home to a small fishing fleet, coast guard and lifeboat station and a port that caters for ferries and other ships. At the heart of the town, it’s open all day, year-round.
Stornoway Waterwheel
A historic feature of the town, the Stornoway Waterwheel has been in the area for over 100 years. Previously attached to Latta’s Mill which was burnt down in the late 19th century, it’s situated near Lews Castle.
Oban
DAY 8
Known as the seafood capital of Scotland, Oban is a popular starting point for outdoor adventures. In close proximity to stunning seascapes, it's an idyllic location for water-based activities such as kayaking, diving and even whale watching. In the town itself you'll find boutiques selling local arts, crafts and knitwear, as well as the Oban Distillery and numerous pubs and restaurants. Finally, don't forget to stop by Dunollie Castle for a glimpse into the past of Scotland.
Waterford
DAY 11
Situated in the east of Ireland, Waterford is a beautiful coastal city that was discovered by the Vikings in 914 AD. The oldest city in Ireland, it’s a treasure trove of scenic architecture, decadent food and ancient artefacts, making for an extraordinary stop over. From the breathtaking Mount Congreve Gardens to Reginald’s Tower, there’s so much to see and do in this wonderful city.
Things to do in Waterford:
Reginald's Tower
Dive into the Viking history of Waterford by visiting the iconic Reginald’s Tower. Originally a wooden Viking fort, there’s a stone tower, a museum and more within this attraction to discover. Situated near the city quay's easternmost point, the tower, a significant landmark in Waterford was a crucial part of its mediaeval urban fortification system, and has been in use for a variety of functions for many centuries.
Congreve Gardens
Discover the beauty of Waterford at the popular Mount Congreve Gardens. Situated just outside of the city, it’s frequently voted the most beautiful gardens in the world. Created in the late 18th century, by architect John Roberts, there’s an array of plant life here.
Waterford Crystal
For anyone that loves their antiques or glassware, a trip to the House of Waterford Crystal is a must. Enjoy a tour around this fascinating factory and discover how these beautiful creations are made from start to finish. Then, at the end of the tour, you can visit the gift shop and purchase your own Waterford crystal to take home with you!
Portsmouth
DAY 12-13
As one of the oldest seaside cities in the British Isles, Portsmouth plays host to some of the best maritime attractions you'll ever experience. It is also home to the naval base, making it a must-visit for military history enthusiasts who will love the naval museum ships and fortresses, as well as a stroll around the dockyard. You can also witness the Mary Rose at her museum, as well as the HMS Victory, and for the best views of Portsmouth, visit the Spinnaker Tower.
Things to do in Portsmouth:
Spinnaker Tower
standing at 170 metres tall, this prominent landmark is the ideal place to take in picturesque views of Portsmouth. Situated in Portsmouth Harbour, you'll see it as you set sail on your cruising adventure.
HMS Victory
Built in 1758, HMS Victory has over 246 years of service. An iconic attraction in Portsmouth, it has an incredible 104 guns and is a prominent attraction within easy reach of Porstmouth Harbour.
Mary Rose
A historical museum situated in the Historic Dockyards, you'll be able to explore this fascinating exhibit learning all about the iconic Mary Rose ship.