Swan Hellenic confirms that after the ship's repair, the SH Diana has set sail on its first expedition cruise to Antarctica of the season.
The technical team organized by Wärtsilä, the manufacturer of the SH Diana's propulsion system, along with other technical specialists summoned to assist in Ushuaia, have diligently completed the repair of one of the ship's electric propulsion motors and all related tests.
Accordingly, the SH Diana set sail and completed a series of final sea trials and a minor adjustment in the Beagle Channel before continuing less than 40 hours behind schedule on its first Antarctic-dedicated cultural expedition cruise of the 2024-2025 season.
Given the extensive flexibility always included in Swan Hellenic's Antarctic cruise itineraries to account for weather conditions and other potential disruptions, the company is confident that this delay will not reduce the scheduled time for exploring the Antarctic Peninsula. Therefore, guests aboard the SH Diana will be able to enjoy all planned expeditions, weather permitting.
The problem with the propulsion engine was detected while the ship was in South Georgia, on the 12th day of the SH Diana's 20-night cruise from South Africa to Antarctica, which had departed Cape Town on November 13. For obvious safety reasons, Captain Svein-Rune Stromnes immediately decided to shorten the voyage and head for the nearest safe port, Ushuaia, which was also the cruise's port of arrival. Spare parts were obtained and technicians were mobilized in record time despite the logistical challenges of the remote location, allowing repair work to begin immediately when the SH Diana docked on December 1.
Andrea Zito, CEO of Swan Hellenic, stated: “We are delighted that the swift and efficient coordination of all parties involved, both onboard and ashore, allowed the SH Diana to set sail for Antarctica with a delay of less than 40 hours. As always, we have looked after our guests during this time, organizing special excursions in Ushuaia and onboard experiences that have been very much appreciated. We now wish them exceptional explorations of the White Continent.”
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