Bookable now: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises announces 28 new cruises for its entire fleet from autumn 2027 onwards

From October 2027, the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises fleet, named the best fleet in the world by the latest Insight Guides Cruising & Cruise Ships 2025, will set sail for new shores. A total of 28 exceptional routes will set new standards from autumn 2027 until early 2028. A highlight that has long been requested by guests are the warm-water routes between West Africa and the Indian Ocean with one of the expedition ships in winter. The EUROPA 2 will cruise through the Gulf of Mexico and call at Galveston, Tampa and Costa Maya for the first time. All luxury and expedition ship cruises can now be booked online at www.hl-cruises.com, in travel agencies and by phone through the customer centre, with attractive early bird discounts. 

At home on the world’s seas: on board the five luxury and expedition ships of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, a view of new horizons is always enhanced with the individual service of the attentive crew. A personal atmosphere prevails on board thanks to a limited number of guests of between 230 and 500 and a generous sense of space, ensuring that guests enjoy the highest quality and cuisine as well as service that anticipates their wishes before they are even expressed.
In order to meet the information and booking needs of many guests at an early stage, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is now making part of its 27/28 season – namely, all cruises in the fourth quarter of 2027 – bookable directly and without a prebooking period for the very first time. A total of 28 new routes are now available at www.hl-cruises.com/new-cruises. Those who book by 31 Jan 2027 will benefit from an early booking discount. The amount of the discount is clearly stated in fixed Euro amounts, depending on the length of the cruise. The option process has also been adjusted: options automatically become binding bookings after seven days.

HANSEATIC nature: Expedition between West Africa and the Indian Ocean

The six routes of the HANSEATIC nature, one of three structurally identical expedition ships, depart from Hamburg and sail via Madeira to the coast of West Africa, including Takoradi in Ghana. Ghana is the world’s second-largest cocoa exporter and offers guests the opportunity, among other things, to learn more about chocolate cultivation from local farmers. Further south, the small expedition ship will then reach the coast of Mozambique. Around the premiere destination of the Mozambican coastal town of Nacala, a region characterised by mangrove forests and unspoilt nature awaits guests. This area is considered a refuge for numerous bird species. Afterwards, the Indian Ocean opens up in all its diversity: the atolls of the Seychelles, Madagascar’s endemic wildlife with lemurs and baobab trees as well as turquoise waters that are perfect for snorkelling. Thanks to the ship’s Zodiacs, guests can also reach remote coastal areas, always accompanied by knowledgeable experts who will share their knowledge and provide insights into the local context. 

South Africa and the Indian Ocean – from epic wilderness to idyllic islands: From Cape Town via Hermanus, Mossel Bay, Gqeberha, Durban, Richards Bay, Nacala, Mamoudzou, Praslin, Cousin and Victoria to Mahe (Seychelles), 22 Nov to 8 Dec 2027 (16 days). Bookable in the PLATINUM fare from € 9,690 per person (incl. € 700 early booking discount, valid until 31 Jan 2027), double occupancy, excluding travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit: www.hl-cruises.com/NAT2724

HANSEATIC inspiration and HANSEATIC spirit: Vastness and silence at the far end of the earth

Routes that include remote areas such as South Georgia and the Falkland Islands in addition to the Antarctic Peninsula are particularly popular with guests. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises therefore offers an extensive cruise programme with two ships, allowing guests to explore the region in greater depth. After all, the Antarctic remains a destination that promises a unique experience for many visitors. Those who wish to fulfil this lifelong dream will find two expedition ships, the HANSEATIC inspiration and the HANSEATIC spirit, that set sail for the polar latitudes. The ships are in their element in the rugged expanses of the south – on four expedition cruises lasting between 20 and 22 days. Zodiacs will take guests ashore to bizarre ice landscapes and encounters with penguins, seals and passing whales. Expert lectures by specialists, including biologists, historians and glaciologists, provide further insight into the unforgettable experience.

Expedition Antarctica: Weddell Sea (intensive): From Ushuaia via the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Orkney Islands, South Shetland Islands, Weddell Sea and the Antarctic Peninsula to Ushuaia, 18 Dec to 7 Jan 2028 (20 days). Bookable in the PLATINUM fare from € 17,990 per person (incl. € 1,800 early booking discount, valid until 31 Jan 2027), double occupancy, excluding travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit: www.hl-cruises.com/INS2800

MS EUROPA: Between wellness, wilderness and white beaches

The EUROPA will start the fourth quarter of 2027 with six varied routes, connecting West and South Africa with tropical island worlds in the Indian Ocean, among other destinations. In October, the small luxury ship will leave Hamburg and set course for Mallorca followed by Tenerife. From there, the itinerary will continue to the Cape region of South Africa. The cruise is ideal for anyone looking for relaxation on board and enjoying days at sea or wanting to benefit from the EUROPA Refresh fitness and well-being concept. This reflects the holistic demands of today’s luxury guests: fitness, health and relaxation go hand in hand. In South Africa, classic safari experiences and culinary excursions to the wine region are on the agenda. The route from Cape Town to Mauritius is one of the most popular classics. Via Mossel Bay, the EUROPA will then sail to Gqeberha, gateway to the Garden Route. It will stay here overnight so that guests can explore the diverse nature reserves and rich cultural diversity of the region. The cruise will continue along the eastern coast of South Africa via Durban, Richards Bay and Port d’Ehoala to the French island of Reunion, known for its impressive volcanic landscape and lively Creole way of life. The cruise concludes in Mauritius with its breathtaking beaches and lush tropical nature. The Christmas cruise sails from Mauritius via the Seychelles and Maldives to Sri Lanka. Guests looking to enjoy some sunshine during the festive season will find a combination of tropical nature, fascinating culture, exclusive island experiences and relaxing days at sea on this cruise.

Festive celebrations amidst idyllic surroundings: From Port Louis (Mauritius) via Le Port (La Reunion), Victoria (Seychelles), La Digue, Curieuse, Praslin, Hudhuranfushi (Maldives), Finolhu (Maldives) and Hambantota to Colombo (Sri Lanka), 18 Dec 2027 to 4 Jan 2028 (17 days). Bookable in the PLATINUM fare from € 11,890 per person (incl. € 800 early booking discount, valid until 31 Jan 2027), double occupancy, excluding travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit: www.hl-cruises.com/EUR2800

MS EUROPA 2: From rugged northern Europe to the Caribbean sun

In October, the EUROPA 2 will initially remain in home waters, exploring the Baltic Sea, the fjords of Norway and the northern coast of Scotland. However, then it’s time to set sail west from the Elbe across the Atlantic to New York. Following the route of historical settlers, the crossing recalls the longings and hopes of past generations. The Atlantic crossing itself is a slow-paced experience, with extended days at sea and plenty of time for reflection, encounters and enjoying life on board. In North America, autumn welcomes guests with its characteristic play of colours along the East Coast. A new combination awaits on the route from Nassau (Bahamas) to Miami. First, the Mexican cities of Cozumel, Puerto Costa Maya and Progreso in the Caribbean Sea invite guests to discover vibrant culture, relaxed beach days and impressive Mayan ruins. The small luxury ship will then head to other premiere ports, including Galveston in Texas and Tampa in Florida. The highlight is an overnight stay in the port of Miami, allowing guests to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife to the fullest. At the end of the year, the scenery will change to spirited Caribbean surroundings. The Christmas cruise with Christmas at sea combines idyllic beaches on Norman Island, Antigua and Aruba, natural wonders on St. Lucia and Bonaire, colonial flair in Cartagena, authentic culture on San Blas and, as a highlight, the passage through the Panama Canal.

Between Caribbean zest for life and southern charm: From Nassau (Bahamas) via San Miguel de Cozumel, Progreso, Galveston, New Orleans and Tampa to Miami, 21 Nov 2027 to 7 Dec 2027 (16 days). Bookable in the PLATINUM fare from € 8,990 per person (incl. € 900 early booking discount, valid until 31 Jan 2027), double occupancy, excluding travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit: www.hl-cruises.com/EUX2723