Your cruise on the EUROPA 2 starts with an overnight stay on board.

The Panama Canal stands as one of the most impressive technological wonders of the modern world. This artificial waterway is a vital maritime passage that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, bypassing the need to navigate the dangerous and time-consuming waters around Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America. Stretching approximately 82 kilometers through the Isthmus of Panama, the canal serves as a crucial shortcut that has not only revolutionized shipping routes but also significantly influenced international trade. Sophisticated lock systems are at the heart of the Panama Canal, lifting and lowering ships to different levels of the waterway. This allows vessels of all sizes and classes to overcome the 26-meter height difference between the oceans. Through this innovation, the canal has significantly reduced navigation time and fuel consumption, leading to lower transportation costs and a more efficient international supply chain. A unique feature of the Panama Canal is its so-called mules - special towing locomotives that should not be confused with conventional trains. These powerful machines are specially designed to maneuver the massive ships precisely through the locks. Anchored on steel rails with impressive pulling power, these locomotives work in sync to keep the ship centered in the lock chamber, preventing collisions and damage.

After the passage of the Panama Canal, the metropolis awaits you with its old town, many restored buildings and the impressive view of the skyline of the modern part of the city. Take a trip to Gatun Lake*, where with a little luck you will spot capuchin monkeys and toucans in the lake’s side branches, and follow this with a cable car ride above the dense rainforest, surrounded by pristine nature.

One of Ecuador’s largest ports is your starting point for a flight to Quito*, the highest capital city in the world. The historic old town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, visit Pacoche Lodge* in the national park of the same name. Or enjoy being accompanied by the sounds of the many bird species on a hike through the tropical forest reserve.

Head to the Moche Valley* from Salaverry for a unique experience and unforgettable impressions. The settlement is around 2,000 years old and is home to the Pyramid of the Moon, from which you can see the remains of the Pyramid of the Sun. Equally exciting is a trip to the historic colonial city of Trujillo* with its colourful buildings.

Experience unforgettable moments in Machu Picchu*. An overland excursion with re-embarkation in Matarani will take you to the former centre of the ancient Inca Empire, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the legendary advanced civilisation on a visit to the ruins and get up-close to the mighty stone blocks. Or choose a trip to see Lima’s* highlights, where the story of the Incas comes to life.

Discover another South American mystery on a flight over the Nazca Lines* (subject to weather conditions). The mysterious markings made in the desert floor in the shape of people and animals can only be identified from the air and still baffle researchers to this day. The Inca ruins of Tambo Colorado* are also extremely fascinating.

The EUROPA 2 will be waiting amidst the desert-like landscape in Matarani to welcome guests back on board after your overland excursion* to Machu Picchu.

Enjoy a walk through the pretty “city of eternal spring” and get to know the small pedestrian zone and the El Morro fort. A trip to the Azapa Valley* will take you to the La Tropilla geoglyphs that are carved into the rocks.

Your cruise on the EUROPA 2 ends in Chile’s largest port city.