Brazil Soul Discovery
Cruise
Sail from Salvador de Bahia to Rio de Janeiro along Brazil’s most vibrant coastline, where tropical forests, golden beaches, and Afro-Brazilian culture set the rhythm. This 6-night voyage begins in Salvador, continues past the rainforest shores of Itacaré and the bohemian charm of Trancoso, then ventures offshore to the Abrolhos Archipelago, home to the South Atlantic’s largest coral reefs and rich marine life. Travel on toward Búzios and the clear-water bays of Arraial do Cabo before concluding beneath the mountains, music, and sweeping oceanfront of Rio de Janeiro — a journey shaped by sunshine, coastal spirit, and the soulful beauty of Brazil.
Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial landmarks, vibrant music and cuisine — a historic coastal capital where the journey begins.
Itacare, Brazil
Rainforest-backed beaches, surf spots, and hidden coves along one of Bahia’s most scenic stretches of coastline.
Trancoso, Brazil
Bohemian coastal village with golden sands, palm groves, and the iconic Quadrado overlooking turquoise waters.
Abrolhos Archipelago, Brazil
South Atlantic’s largest coral reefs, thriving marine life, and clear waters ideal for snorkeling and Zodiac exploration.
Buzios, Brazil
A lively peninsula with more than 20 beaches, boutique streets, and a relaxed yet elegant seaside atmosphere.
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil
Crystal-blue bays, dramatic cliffs, and exceptional water clarity — often called the “Brazilian Caribbean.”
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Mountains, music, iconic landmarks, and sweeping oceanfront — a vibrant finale to the voyage.
Salvador de Bahia to Rio de Janeiro
From
Dates
Oct 25 – Oct 31, 2026
Duration
6 nights
Ship
SH Vega
Feel the Arctic legacy as you sail from Atlantic Canada’s historic harbours to Iceland’s volcanic shores. This 11-night voyage crosses iceberg-filled waters, remote wildlife habitats, colourful coastal towns, and South Greenland’s fertile Viking valleys. Aboard SH Vega, experience Zodiac landings, Norse archaeological sites, puffin colonies, and glacier-carved fjords — a raw, wild, unforgettable North Atlantic expedition.
Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial landmarks, vibrant music and cuisine — a historic coastal capital where the journey begins.
Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial landmarks, vibrant music and cuisine — a historic coastal capital where the journey begins.
Expedition Highlights
A coastal voyage from Salvador de Bahia to Rio de Janeiro aboard the boutique expedition ship SH Vega. This journey traces Brazil’s most vibrant shores — from Salvador’s cultural heartbeat and the rainforest beaches of Itacaré to the bohemian charm of Trancoso and the coral-rich waters of the Abrolhos Archipelago. Continue through the bright bays of Búzios and Arraial do Cabo before arriving in Rio, a passage shaped by tropical landscapes, warm seas, and the unmistakable rhythm of Brazil.
Afro-Brazilian Heritage, Music Traditions & Coastal History
Experience the cultural depth of Brazil’s eastern shoreline, shaped by Afro-Brazilian identity, spiritual traditions, percussion rhythms, and centuries of maritime exchange. From Salvador’s historic center to small coastal towns, each stop reveals a different chapter of Brazil’s layered cultural history.
Shoreline Geology, Atlantic Cliffs & Coastal Formations
Discover the geological character of Brazil’s coast, where sandstone cliffs, ancient reefs, and wind-shaped dunes form distinctive landscapes. These formations reflect long-term natural processes — erosion, ocean currents, and tectonic history — that sculpt the region’s dramatic shorelines.
Local Craftsmanship, Coastal Lifestyles & Contemporary Communities
Visit communities where craftsmanship, cuisine, and day-to-day coastal life shape a modern Brazilian identity. From artisanal markets to small fishing villages and creative hubs, these encounters highlight resilience, tradition, and the evolving stories of people who live close to the sea.
Expedition Highlights
A coastal voyage from Salvador de Bahia to Rio de Janeiro aboard the boutique expedition ship SH Vega. This journey traces Brazil’s most vibrant shores — from Salvador’s cultural heartbeat and the rainforest beaches of Itacaré to the bohemian charm of Trancoso and the coral-rich waters of the Abrolhos Archipelago. Continue through the bright bays of Búzios and Arraial do Cabo before arriving in Rio, a passage shaped by tropical landscapes, warm seas, and the unmistakable rhythm of Brazil.
Afro-Brazilian Heritage, Music Traditions & Coastal History
Experience the cultural depth of Brazil’s eastern shoreline, shaped by Afro-Brazilian identity, spiritual traditions, percussion rhythms, and centuries of maritime exchange. From Salvador’s historic center to small coastal towns, each stop reveals a different chapter of Brazil’s layered cultural history.
Shoreline Geology, Atlantic Cliffs & Coastal Formations
Discover the geological character of Brazil’s coast, where sandstone cliffs, ancient reefs, and wind-shaped dunes form distinctive landscapes. These formations reflect long-term natural processes — erosion, ocean currents, and tectonic history — that sculpt the region’s dramatic shorelines.
Local Craftsmanship, Coastal Lifestyles & Contemporary Communities
Visit communities where craftsmanship, cuisine, and day-to-day coastal life shape a modern Brazilian identity. From artisanal markets to small fishing villages and creative hubs, these encounters highlight resilience, tradition, and the evolving stories of people who live close to the sea.
Brazil Soul Discovery Cruise
Sail from Bahia’s tropical shores to the iconic coastline of Rio de Janeiro, following sunlit routes shaped by rainforest-backed beaches, coral-rich waters, coastal villages, and the vibrant pulse of Brazilian culture. A journey through warm seas, bright Atlantic landscapes, and lively seaside communities that concludes beneath the mountains and sweeping bays of Rio.
Salvador de Bahia, Brazil
Your journey begins in Salvador, a coastal capital shaped by Afro-Brazilian heritage, colonial architecture, and vibrant street life. Before embarking SH Vega, explore the historic Pelourinho district, visit local markets and viewpoints, or enjoy the city’s rhythmic energy and warm tropical atmosphere. In the evening, the ship sets course along Bahia’s rainforest-backed coastline.
- •City walks and cultural landmarks
- •Pelourinho historic district
- •Local markets and viewpoints
- •Embarkation and welcome briefings
- •Evening sail-away
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
What our guests say
What our guests say
SH Vega
SH Vega
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Vega features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Vega has you covered.
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Vega features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Vega has you covered.
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC5 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Launched in 2022
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna
Fine Dining
Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, Pool Bar & Grill
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC5 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Launched in 2022
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna
Fine Dining
Swan Restaurant, Club Lounge, Pool Bar & Grill
Staterooms
Bright and spacious staterooms — your cozy home away from home.
Oceanview
20 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Balcony
25 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 5 m² private balcony
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Junior Suite
32-36 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 6 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room area
- Luxurious en-suite bathroom
Suite
41 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 5-10 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Premium Suite
41 m²
FROM
Price on request
FEATURES
- 8-12 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
- Walk-in wardrobe
Expedition Team
Mariam Pousa
Expedition leader
Mariam, an Argentine Conservator of Cultural Heritage and expert in Nautical Archaeology, holds a Master's in Preservation of Artifacts. A history enthusiast, she teaches for the UNESCO Foundation, focusing on archaeological site preservation. Raised in the stunning landscapes of Ushuaia, Mariam is a skilled mountaineer with a passion for exploration. She has sailed in Patagonian fjords, summited the Alps and Central America Andes, and worked on adventure film crews in the UK and Spain. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, she is also an enthusiastic skier and climber.
Dr. Simon J. George
Experimental research scientist
Dr. George is an experimental research scientist at the SETI Institute, exploring the role of metals such as iron, nickel, zinc, and molybdenum in the chemistry of life. His work focuses on developing innovative instruments to study these metals and understand their involvement in the origins of life. His career spans national laboratories, universities, and industry before joining SETI in 2023. As an astrobiologist, he researches extremophiles, early metabolic pathways, and metal-rich proteins believed to be key in Earth's earliest life forms.
Mariam Pousa
Expedition leader
Mariam, an Argentine Conservator of Cultural Heritage and expert in Nautical Archaeology, holds a Master's in Preservation of Artifacts. A history enthusiast, she teaches for the UNESCO Foundation, focusing on archaeological site preservation. Raised in the stunning landscapes of Ushuaia, Mariam is a skilled mountaineer with a passion for exploration. She has sailed in Patagonian fjords, summited the Alps and Central America Andes, and worked on adventure film crews in the UK and Spain. Fluent in Spanish, English, and French, she is also an enthusiastic skier and climber.
Dr. Simon J. George
Experimental research scientist
Dr. George is an experimental research scientist at the SETI Institute, exploring the role of metals such as iron, nickel, zinc, and molybdenum in the chemistry of life. His work focuses on developing innovative instruments to study these metals and understand their involvement in the origins of life. His career spans national laboratories, universities, and industry before joining SETI in 2023. As an astrobiologist, he researches extremophiles, early metabolic pathways, and metal-rich proteins believed to be key in Earth's earliest life forms.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey.