This voyage traces Japan’s northern and western shores before crossing to South Korea, combining maritime passages with deep cultural encounters. Departing from Otaru, the route explores Hokkaido’s coastal cities and seafood heritage, then sails south to historic trading ports such as Sakata and the gold-mining landscapes of Sado Island. Along Honshu’s Sea of Japan coast, traditional crafts in Wajima and wartime history in Maizuru provide cultural depth, while the passage through the Kanmon Strait marks a dramatic maritime highlight. The journey concludes with time in Busan and reflective visits to Hiroshima, balancing vibrant contemporary life with sites dedicated to remembrance and peace.
- Sail Kanmon Strait, visit Sado Island’s gold mines, and explore Hokkaido’s wild landscapes.
- Encounter welcoming locals in Busan’s art-filled alleys and traditional communities in Maizuru and Sakata.
- Enjoy expert-led excursions to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, serene temples, and artisan workshops in Aomori.
Availability is always subject to confirmation. Please check with us before booking flights
Prices quoted here are often dependent on currency fluctuations. Please check with (01432 507450 or info@small-cruise-ships.com) for the very latest price, which may well be cheaper than the one advertised here.
Minerva
| Launch | 2021 |
|---|---|
| Max passengers | 152 |
The 5 star elegant Scandi-design boutique ship offers you an intimate setting from which you will be fully immersed in all the sights and scenery of your voyage.
Introducing SH Minerva
Minerva has been designed to journey to off the beaten path destinations and remote polar regions in style and comfort. The ship incorporates a PC5 ice-strengthened hull combined with extra-large stabilisers to make your journey as smooth as possible.
Sophisticated Elegance
We know how important outdoor space is, so our spacious, relaxing public spaces provide wide open, unobstructed views throughout the ship. The destination will always be in view.
Your Wellbeing
The safety & happiness of the guests is paramount to the 120-strong crew on board as well as the passionate expedition team who'll be serving up thrilling shore excursions and lasting memories.
Cabin Types
The 76 cabins including 6 suites have all the amenities you will need to feel comfortable including dressing gowns, hairdryers, personal safes and minibars. The stylish cabins all have desks, a dressing area and comfy seating. En suite bathrooms all feature glass-enclosed rain showers.
Wheelchair access
Guests who use wheelchairs must bring their own, as we have only a small number of wheelchairs stored onboard for emergencies. To ensure ease of movement on the ship, wheelchairs and mobility aids must be no wider than 65cm. All mobility or medical equipment brought on board must be capable of being carried safely and must be declared before sailing. To ensure that all guests can safely evacuate during an emergency, guests requiring a wheelchair can only be accommodated in our ADA-accessible cabins.
There is an Oceanview stateroom on Vega which is specifically designed to be completely ADA compliant and have a fully operable wheelchair-access wet unit.
Vega has two lifts, serving every passenger deck apart from the Stargazing top deck, which is, therefore, more difficult to access, as are the Aft Marina and Swan’s Nest forward observation platform. Also, we don’t have special equipment to access the swimming pool, jacuzzi, or sauna. Otherwise, the ship is entirely at your disposal.
Many of the expeditions ashore in remote places are by Zodiac. Boarding these boats and returning aboard can present challenges for wheelchair users, as can navigating uneven terrain. These challenges are by no means always insurmountable, though, and our highly experienced crew is trained to provide reliable advice and assistance. They will make every effort to ensure wheelchair-using guests enjoy a memorable experience at each destination. Our general guidance, however, is to recommend wheelchair users travel with a companion for their ease and enjoyment.
If you prefer to remain aboard, our panoramic interiors and ample open decks ensure an immersive, intimate experience of your inspiring surroundings.
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Deck plans are for illustrative purposes only – The actual ship and cabin layout may differ.
