The HANSEATIC nature again shows its true pioneering spirit as it combines remote Pacific islands and the secrets of Asia for the first time with this route. Palau is your gateway to paradise with hundreds of tiny islands that emerge from the water like mushrooms covered in dense jungle flora. What discoveries await you there? The Rock Islands* will enchant you with their beauty on a boat trip through the "Floating Garden" islands.

What's it like to live in isolation on an atoll in the Yap Islands? Meet the only family to live on Ngulu Island or enjoy this idyllic setting as you swim and snorkel. The main island of Yap is also extremely remote and the people lead very traditional and simple lives. On a scenic tour*, marvel at the round stone money banks in front of the houses or take a kayak tour through the mangroves* to explore an undisturbed ecosystem. 

The Philippines are made up of far more islands - around 7,000. Your small expedition ship and the experienced crew will be in their element here. From the provincial capital of Legaspi, be fascinated by the natural wonders in the south of Luzon*, including the majestic Mayon Volcano with its perfectly conical shape and the green hills of Quitinday, which look like a series of molehills. The Calaguas Islands and Camiguin Island are true insider tips. After a Zodiac landing, their endless sandy beaches invite you to swim and unwind. Batan Island is not at all typical of the Philippines: its green pastures, thatched-roof stone houses and rugged cliffs will feel like a little piece of Ireland on an island tour*.

Asia's cultural heritage provides particular highlights in the shadow of futuristic skylines. Taiwan's second-largest city, Kaohsiung, is one example. Its sights include ancient temples by the Lotus Lake and the dragon and tiger pagodas. Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city*, will take you even further into the past with the Confucius Temple from 1665 and the Chihkan Tower. Alternatively, a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Monastery* reveals very special aspects: one of the largest Buddhist centres in the island country, it is home to around 1,400 monks and nuns.

The Okinawa Islands will prove a new land of smiles, showing Japan in a whole new light. An idyllic world welcomes you to Miyako Shima. Your island impressions* will be shaped by the deep-blue sea contrasting with brilliant-white beaches and “white gold” as you get an insight into salt harvesting on the island.

This idyllic place gives way to the vibrant lifestyle of Naha. Explore the capital of the Okinawa Islands from a culinary perspective at the Makishi market, which has over 400 stalls. Is the bitter gourd the reason why the islanders often live to over 100? Regional food and national secrets are also the focus of a "Taste of Okinawa" cookery course*. The Nakagusuku Castle ruins* are one of the many monuments on the islands. The Ryukyu Kingdom from around 600 years ago is brought to life here.

A lush landscape awaits at the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Yakushima, accompanied by the sounds of the many bird species and macaques. The rainforest shrouds itself in particular mystery as the mist glides over the rhododendrons, mosses and lichens.

Nagasaki remains veiled in the past to this day. Learn about its moving history* relating to 1945 and visit Japan's oldest stone bridge and oldest Christian church. As your cruise slowly sails towards its end in South Korea, your many experiences will have shaped a new understanding of three island kingdoms full of contrasts.