Expedition Route In Madagascar With The Europa
Expedition Route In Madagascar With The Europa
Cruise overview
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About Port Louis
Mauritius’ largest city, Port Louis is a vibrant and exciting place whose culture is a mix of African, Chinese and Indian influences. There are activities and sights to keep you busy and explore the different aspects of the city.
About Toamasina
About Antwerp
Explore Antwerp, Belgium's second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.
About Nosy Hara
About Mamoudzou
Sitting adrift between Mozambique and exotic Madagascar is a tiny slice of France, in the form of stunning Mayotte island. This French overseas territory bathes in glorious sunshine for much of the year, and boasts pretty white coves and quiet, isolated beaches. Even the island capital, Mamoudzou, leads an uncomplicated, un-hassled existence. Visit to enjoy evocative tastes of the ocean, in the form of seared scallops and filleted fish, plucked fresh from the waves just hours earlier.
About Dar es Salaam
About Zanzibar
This ancient isle once ruled by sultans and slave traders served as the stepping stone into the African continent for missionaries and explorers. Today it attracts visitors intent on discovering sandy beaches, pristine rain forests, or colorful coral reefs. Once known as the Spice Island for its export of cloves, Zanzibar has become one of the most exotic flavors in travel, better than Bali or Mali when it comes to beauty that’ll make your jaw drop.Separated from the mainland by a channel only 35 km (22 miles) wide, and only 6 degrees south of the equator, this tiny archipelago—the name Zanzibar also includes the islands of Unguja (the main island) and Pemba—in the Indian Ocean was the launching base for a romantic era of expeditions into Africa. Sir Richard Burton and John Hanning Speke used it as their base when searching for the source of the Nile. It was in Zanzibar where journalist Henry Morton Stanley, perched in an upstairs room overlooking the Stone Town harbor, began his search for David Livingstone.The first ships to enter the archipelago's harbors are believed to have sailed in around 600 BC. Since then, every great navy in the Eastern Hemisphere has dropped anchor here at one time or another. But it was Arab traders who left an indelible mark. Minarets punctuate the skyline of Stone Town, where more than 90% of the residents are Muslim. In the harbor you'll see dhows, the Arabian boats with triangular sails. Islamic women covered by black boubou veils scurry down alleyways so narrow their outstretched arms could touch buildings on both sides. Stone Town received its odd name because most of its buildings were made of limestone and coral, which means exposure to salty air has eroded many foundations.The first Europeans who arrived here were the Portuguese in the 15th century, and thus began a reign of exploitation. As far inland as Lake Tanganyika, slave traders captured the residents or bartered for them from their own chiefs, then forced the newly enslaved to march toward the Indian Ocean carrying loads of ivory tusks. Once at the shore they were shackled together while waiting for dhows to collect them at Bagamoyo, a place whose name means, "here I leave my heart." Although it's estimated that 50,000 slaves passed through the Zanzibar slave market each year during the 19th century, many more died en route.Tanganyika and Zanzibar merged in 1964 to create Tanzania, but the honeymoon was brief. Zanzibar's relationship with the mainland remains uncertain as calls for independence continue. "Bismillah, will you let him go," a lyric from Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody," has become a rebel chant for Zanzibar to break from Tanzania.Zanzibar Island, locally known as Unguja, has amazing beaches and resorts, decent dive spots, acres of spice plantations, the Jozani Forest Reserve, and Stone Town. Plus, it takes little more than an hour to fly there. It's a popular spot to head post-safari.Stone Town, the archipelago's major metropolis, is a maze of narrow streets lined with houses featuring magnificently carved doors studded with brass. There are 51 mosques, 6 Hindu temples, and 2 Christian churches. And though it can rightly be called a city, much of the western part of the larger island is a slumbering paradise where cloves, as well as rice and coconuts, still grow.Although the main island of Unguja feels untouched by the rest of the world, the nearby islands of Pemba and Mnemba offer retreats that are even more remote. For many years Arabs referred to Pemba as Al Khudra, or the Green Island, and indeed it still is, with forests of king palms, mangos, and banana trees. The 65-km-long (40-mile-long) island is less famous than Unguja except among scuba divers, who enjoy the coral gardens with colorful sponges and huge fans. Archaeology buffs are also discovering Pemba, where sites from the 9th to the 15th century have been unearthed. At Mtambwe Mkuu coins bearing the heads of sultans were discovered. Ruins along the coast include ancient mosques and tombs. In the 1930s Pemba was famous for its sorcerers, attracting disciples of the black arts from as far away as Haiti. Witchcraft is still practiced, and, oddly, so is bullfighting. Introduced by the Portuguese in the 17th century, the sport has been improved by locals, who rewrote the ending. After enduring the ritual teasing by the matador's cape, the bull is draped with flowers and paraded around the village.Beyond Pemba, smaller islands in the Zanzibar Archipelago range from mere sandbanks to Changu, once a prison island and now home to the giant Aldabra tortoise, Chumbe Island, and Mnemba, a private retreat for guests who pay hundreds of dollars per day to get away from it all.
About Mombasa
You may well find yourself in Mombasa for a few hours or an overnight stop. The city (which is actually an island linked to the mainland by a ferry) is the second oldest trade center with Arabia and the Far East. Today it still plays an important role as the main port for Kenya. Although it lacks the beautiful beaches of the north and south, it has a rich, fascinating history. Visit the Old Town with its narrow streets lined with tiny shops and souks (markets). The Old Harbour, frequented by numerous dhows, is an ideal place to arrange a short cruise on one of these local boats that have plied the oceans for centuries. Fort Jesus, designed by an Italian and built by the Portuguese in the late 16th century, is a major visitor draw and well worth a visit. In summer there's an impressive sound-and-light show.
About Nosy Bé
Nosy Bé, meaning Big Island in the Malagasy language, lies just a stone's throw off Madagascar's northwest coast. It is a remote and exotic destination. With its deserted beaches, rustic hotels and unhurried pace, it attracts travellers looking for a laid-back vacation. The fertile island is the centre for the production of perfume essence from the ylang-ylang trees. The heady scent of their flowers gave Nosy Bé the name "Perfumed Isle." Other local products include sugar cane, coffee, vanilla and pepper; they are grown for export in large plantations. Hellville, the island’s main town and port, is situated in a sheltered bay. It is named after a former French governor, Admiral de Hell. The town features a few old colonial buildings, a busy market, some small boutiques and tourist shops along the busy main street. At the quayside, vendors display embroidered linens, wood carvings and straw articles. Trips into the lush countryside may include a ride up to Mt. Passot. At 950 feet (285 metres), this is the highest point on the island. The view from the top offers an extensive panorama of crater lakes nestled between verdant hills. Most visitors make the boat trip to Nosy Komba. The tiny island is known for its lemur reserve. These arboreal primates, with their large eyes, soft fur and long curling tails, have lived unharmed for centuries in the forest behind Ampangorina village. The lemurs are a popular tourist attraction and a profitable source of income to the small local community.
About Ile Aux nattes
About Port de Pointe des Galets
About Port Louis
Mauritius’ largest city, Port Louis is a vibrant and exciting place whose culture is a mix of African, Chinese and Indian influences. There are activities and sights to keep you busy and explore the different aspects of the city.
About Port Louis
Mauritius’ largest city, Port Louis is a vibrant and exciting place whose culture is a mix of African, Chinese and Indian influences. There are activities and sights to keep you busy and explore the different aspects of the city.
On warm days, sun worshippers will appreciate the spacious DEDON sofa island, which is a great place for some private relaxation. And the separate living and sleeping areas with their subtle, earthy colours and high-quality furnishings will make you feel relaxed and comfortable. Do you have any other requests? If so, please ask your personal butler, who will be available to help at any time.
Selected equipment features
- 85 m² (915 ft²) Penthouse Grand Suite with a spacious veranda above the bridge
- Butler service
- 24-hour suite service
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Spacious walk-in wardrobe
- Generously sized dining area
- DEDON sun island on the veranda
- Bathroom with underfloor heating, two washbasins, a whirlpool bath, seperate shower, a private sauna
- Separate guest toilet
- Tablet
- Nespresso machine
- Free mini bar (water, juices, soft drinks, beer and a selection of high-quality spirits)
- Fresh canapes
- Ironing service
- On-board table reservation for the restaurant The Globe by Kevin Fehling
- Free daily full edition of a newspaper of your choice on request
- Exclusive service privileges
In the relaxed atmosphere of your suite, it is our pleasure to pamper you with gourmet snacks or a glass of champagne, for example. Whether you prefer to dream away the day in the cosy lounge or on your private veranda, the choice is yours – either way, you will be able to enjoy an ocean view.
Selected equipment features
- 45 m² (484 ft²) Penthouse Deluxe Suite with a veranda
- Butler service
- 24-hour suite service
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Bathroom with underfloor heating, two washbasins, whirlpool bath and seperate shower
- Tablet
- Nespresso machine
- Free mini bar (water, juices, soft drinks, beer and a selection of high-quality spirits)
- Fresh canapes every day
- Ironing service
- On-board table reservation for the restaurant The Globe by Kevin Fehling
- Exclusive service privileges
The modern living and sleeping areas feature a contemporary design. Light-coloured wood furniture further accentuates the spaciousness of the light-filled room. The whirlpool bath with optional lighting provides a special opportunity for relaxation – and the large window with a Venetian blind means you can enjoy the fantastic views from the bath as well.
Selected equipment features
27 m² (291 ft²) SPA Suite with a veranda
- 24-hour suite service
- Includes SPA pamper package
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Bathroom with natural light, ocean view, whirlpool bath ans separate shower
- Tablet
- Nespresso machine
- Free mini bar (water, juices, soft drinks, beer and a selection of high-quality spirits)
- Choice of SPA drinks, including smoothies, fresh fruit juices and herbal teas, fresh canapes and fresh fruits
- Ironing service
- On-board table reservations for the restaurant The Globe by Kevin Fehling
- Exclusive service privileges
A modern suite with an elegant design, stylishly furnished to the last detail. Enjoy total privacy while taking in the view from your very own veranda.
Selected equipment features
27 m² (291 ft²) suite with a veranda (cat. 6-7)
- 24-hour suite service
- Visually divided living and sleeping area
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Bathroom with bathtub and seperate shower
- Nespresso machine
- Free mini bar (water, juices, soft drinks and beer)
- Some suites can be booked with connecting doors
With their subtle colours, harmonious design and visually divided living and sleeping areas, the Veranda Suites fulfil your requirements for a cosy, private retreat. Additional connecting doors in some suites provide the option of making your family cruise even more comfortable.
Selected equipment features
- 27 m² (291 ft²) suite with a veranda (cat. 4-5)
- 24-hour suite service
- Visually divided living and sleeping area
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Bathroom with bathtub and separate shower
- Nespresso machine
- Free mini (water, juices, soft drinks and beer)
- Some suites can be booked with connecting doors or are equipped for use by disabled guests
Your suite is a place where you can feel completely at home. An inspiring colour palette, cosy lighting and carefully selected interior decor combine to create a pleasant atmosphere of well-being. Featuring a panorama window with a view that changes every day.
Selected equipment features
- 27 m² (291 ft²) suite with a panorama window
- 24-hour suite service
- Visually divided living and sleeping area
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Bathroom with bathtub and seperate shower
- Nespresso machine
- Free mini bar (water, juices, soft drinks and beer)
MS EUROPA
Welcome to a ship that sets the global benchmarks for luxury cruises. It may be smaller than other cruise ships, but the EUROPA is miles ahead of the crowd. Enjoy the unrivalled freedom for personal relaxation on a cruise with no more than 400 guests – with plenty of scope for fresh ideas, indulgence and inspiring perspectives.
However you define it, enjoy your own personal luxury throughout your time on the EUROPA. Come aboard and experience an exceptional cruise as you travel to the world’s most beautiful destinations.
Ship Facts
| Launch Year | 1999 | ||||
| Refit Year | 2013 | ||||
| Language | de+en | ||||
| Gross Tonnage | 28890 | ||||
| Length | 198 | ||||
| Width | 24 | ||||
| Currency | EUR | ||||
| Speed | 21 | ||||
| Capacity | 400 | ||||
| Crew Count | 285 | ||||
| Deck Count | 7 | ||||
| Cabin Count | 204 | ||||
| Large Cabin Count | N/A | ||||
| Wheelchair Cabin Count | 2 | ||||
| Electrical Plugs |
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Penthouse Deck
- Fitness
- Penthouse Deluxe Suite Cat. 8
- Penthouse Grand Suite Cat.9
Bellevue Deck
- Bridge
- Magrodome
- Fitness Area
- Golf
- Sansibar
- Veranda Suite Cat. 6
- Veranda Suite Cat. 7
Lido Deck
- Lido Café
- Shuffleboard
- Whirlpool
- Lido Pool
- Pool Bar
- Library
- Atelier
- Club Belvedere
Sport Deck
- Pearls
- Play-room
- Creative room
- OCEAN SPA
- Hair-dresser
- SPA Suite Cat. 10
- Veranda Suite Cat. 5
- Veranda Suite Cat. 6
- Suite without veranda Cat. 3
Atlantik Deck
- Veranda Suite Cat. 5
- Suite without veranda Cat. 2
- Veranda Suite Cat. 6
Pazifik Deck
- Photo Shop
- Tendering Area
- Veranda Suite Cat. 4
- Veranda Suite Cat. 5
- Suite without veranda Cat. 1
Europa Deck
- Europa Restaurant
- Venezia
- The Globe
- Boutique and jeweller
- Studio
- Havana Bar
- Cruise sales
- Reception
- Atrium
- Tour office
- Gatsby's
- Europa Lounge
- Stage
Sophisticated indulgence up to the stars
Exclusive flavour experiences await you as a guest of the EUROPA. Our chefs, along with one of the top three-star chefs Kevin Fehling, will spoil you with refined, modern creations and timeless classics. Enjoy the special atmosphere in our five restaurants with a free choice of seats and a dress code ranging from casual to elegant according to how you feel.
Europa Restaurant
In the stylish atmosphere of our main restaurant, every experience is a pleasure. Our chefs de cuisine will delight you with gourmet dishes, which are often inspired by the region you are cruising in. There are now even more tables for two, allowing you a flexible choice of seating and some wonderful private moments.
Lido Café
Venezia
The small, fine Venezia is dedicated to Italian-Mediterranean cuisine. Allora: Pasta or freshly caught fish? Exquisite cheese selection or tempting dolci? Delicacies and Italian classics, brought together for you on one menu.
The Globe by Kevin Fehling
The Globe is the home of the three-star chef from Hamburg, Kevin Fehling. He has already delighted guests on board the EUROPA with his cuisine right at the start of his career. In his own gourmet restaurant on board the EUROPA he will be on board in person for selected cruises. His unconventional, modern creations are a real feast for the senses, with nuances of influence from many different latitudes. Take a seat and allow yourself to be pampered.
Top chef Kevin Fehling is head chef at ‘The Table’ in Hamburg and has been awarded 3 stars by the Michelin Guide. He is one of the stars of German Michelin-starred cuisine and brings his award-winning cuisine to the world's oceans with The Globe by Kevin Fehling.
Pearls
The gourmet restaurant on deck 7 is inspired by French seafood bars and makes caviar the star of the evening. Discover innovative dishes in the finest form, accompanied by modern flavours from all over the world. Another treat: the view from the outdoor terrace high above the sea.
Known for great moments
On every cruise, we welcome stars and all kinds of renowned artists on board. Enjoy some thrilling moments in the private setting of the EUROPA, with the finest classical music, groovy jazz and soul, danceable swing, as well as readings and theatrical pieces, first-rate comedy, and much more. As well as a varied entertainment programme, which changes every day, there are also exclusive events and shows, in which top chefs or circus acts delight the senses. Simply unforgettable.
Gatsby's
Gatsby's loves the bar culture of the Golden Twenties and first-class mixed drinks. Dancing is allowed and encouraged.
Sansibar
Sylt's famous bar is also very popular on the EUROPA. As the sun slowly sinks into the sea, a lively atmosphere spreads here until late into the night. Let our sommeliers inspire you and discover the largest selection of champagne at sea. Live music also awaits you on selected evenings.
Havana Bar
A refined and cosy club atmosphere awaits you in the Havana Bar. Take a seat, choose a first-class cigar from the well-stocked humidor and order a drink to go with it. A place to indulge.
Club Belvedere
The cosy Club Belvedere attracts guests with its panoramic view and an excellent selection of tea and coffee specialities, small macarons and delicious cakes. On selected evenings, you can enjoy exciting readings and other entertainment here.
Piano Bar
Start your evening with an aperitif, accompanied by some gentle melodies. The Piano Bar is also open in the daytime and is a great place for an afternoon coffee, reading the paper or enjoying some musical relaxation.
Pool Bar
We will treat you to light snacks and cold drinks at the pool bar. Enjoy fresh waffles in the afternoon as a delicious snack to see you through - served to your sunlounger on request.
Ocean Sun Festival
As part of the Ocean Sun Festival, the EUROPA is transformed into an exclusive concert hall at sea. Enjoy daily classical concerts on board - performed by excellent musicians with a repertoire spanning several centuries. Whether virtuoso soloists or renowned chamber ensembles - experience extraordinary concert experiences in the stylish, personalised setting of our small luxury ship.
A musical highlight also awaits you on land: an unforgettable concert evening in a special place - often far off the beaten track.
Classical Ballett
Lucia Lacarra & Matthew Golding
On board the EUROPA, you will experience classical ballet at the highest level - an exclusive offer that emphasises the ship's artistic standards and cultural diversity. Highlights include performances by ballet stars such as Lucía Lacarra and Matthew Golding.
Lucía Lacarra, one of the most important ballerinas of her generation, and Matthew Golding, an outstanding dancer, have not only made a name for themselves on international stages, but also bring their passion and expertise to the EUROPA. Their impressive skills and captivating presence offer guests on board an unforgettable experience.
Exclusive Concerts
Chamber music at the highest level is not only part of your cruise with the EUROPA during the Ocean Sun Festival - classical music in its finest form also awaits you on many other routes.
Experience excellent musicians in a personalised setting that allows you to get very close to the music and the artists. Whether duo, trio or ensemble - every performance is a cultural highlight at sea.
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