Swan Hellenic has added four “cultural expedition” cruises to its 2024 Mediterranean programme.

The sailings range from eight to 11 nights in length and will all be operated on 192-passenger SH Diana (pictured).

Departing Palermo on August 20, the eight-night Secrets of Sicily cruise is a circumnavigation of the island, calling at Trapani, Mazara del Vallo, Porto Empedocle, Siracusa, Naxos, Lipari and Valetta in Malta.

SH Diana will then depart Palermo on the eight-night From Magna Graecia to Greece itinerary, calling at Lipari, Crotone and Ontranto, Italy; Sarande, Albania; and Naxos, Preveza, Itea and Piraeus; Greece.

The sailing, which will depart on August 20, is in partnership with the Seti Institute and passengers can attend up to three talks by planetary astronomer Mark Showalter.

On September 5, the ship will operate an 11-night Colours of the Eastern Mediterranean itinerary, which will depart Piraeus and call at Monemvasia, Milos, Rethymnon, Mandraki, Symi, Rhodes, Patmos, Kusadasi, Chios and Lesbos, all Greece; and Canakkale and Istanbul in Turkey.

Lastly, SH Diana will depart on the eight-night Cultures of the East Mediterranean cruise on September 16, sailing from Istanbul to Limassol in Cyprus via Greek destinations Kavala, Thessaloniki, Volos, Chios, Kusadasi, Crete and Rhodes.

Chief commercial officer Patrizia Iantorno said: “We are delighted to unveil our 2024 Mediterranean cruises aboard the luxurious SH Diana.

“With its rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures, the Mediterranean continues to captivate travellers from around the globe.

“We look forward to welcoming guests aboard for unforgettable explorations of this timeless region.”