Interest in Swan Hellenic’s inaugural Asia Pacific season has exceeded all expectations as global conflict continuing to redraw the world’s travel map.
The cultural expedition line, which only announced its regional expansion in December 2025, has already hosted its first wave of Australian and New Zealand trade and media professionals on sailings through West Papua, Raja Ampat and Papua New Guinea. Australia and New Zealand Sales Director Kirsty Fruin said the response had been humbling. “The support they have shown in getting behind our inaugural APAC season has been more than we could ever have imagined.”
Flight Centre takes $10m hit as conflict drives travellers back to stores
The South Pacific’s appeal is straightforward right now: it is close to home, stable, and untouched by the disruption hammering long-haul markets. Flight Centre Travel Group this week quantified that disruption – $10 million lost in April alone to Middle East conflict – while confirming South Pacific-bound customers were among the few to remain insulated.
Swan Hellenic has committed SH Minerva to the region through to 2028 and has already announced two departures of its Raja Ampat and Cenderawasih Bay itinerary in 2027, in April and May, citing strong demand.
For agents onboard, highlights included jungle treks to spot the red bird of paradise at sunrise, snorkelling with whale sharks and a full diving programme in Raja Ampat.
Beth Stolyar, regional director Australia and New Zealand, who hosted the 13-night Wild Eden of Papua New Guinea voyage, said visits to remote villages were among the most affecting moments. “Places like Papua New Guinea are a powerful reminder that a simpler way of life can often be the most fulfilling.”
Australian media writer Louise Goldsbury, currently onboard a third sailing, described the crew as exceptional and noted a broad mix of ages and nationalities among passengers.
