Africa's Wild West Coast
Africa's Wild West Coast
Cruise overview
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About Cape Town
Sometimes referred to as the Mother City, Cape Town is the most famous port in South Africa and is influenced by many different cultures, including Dutch, British and Malay. The port was founded in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, and evidence of Dutch colonial rule remains throughout the region. The port is located on one of the world's most important trade routes, and is mainly a container port and handler of fresh fruit. Fishing is another vital industry, with large Asian fishing fleets using Cape Town as a logistical repair base for much of the year. The region is famous for its natural beauty, with the imposing Table Mountain and Lions Head, as well as the many nature reserves and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch which boasts an extensive range of indigenous plant life, including proteas and ferns. Cape Town's weather is mercurial, and can change from beautiful sunshine to dramatic thunderstorms within a short period. A local adage is that in Cape Town you can experience four seasons in one day.
About Cape Town
Sometimes referred to as the Mother City, Cape Town is the most famous port in South Africa and is influenced by many different cultures, including Dutch, British and Malay. The port was founded in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, and evidence of Dutch colonial rule remains throughout the region. The port is located on one of the world's most important trade routes, and is mainly a container port and handler of fresh fruit. Fishing is another vital industry, with large Asian fishing fleets using Cape Town as a logistical repair base for much of the year. The region is famous for its natural beauty, with the imposing Table Mountain and Lions Head, as well as the many nature reserves and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch which boasts an extensive range of indigenous plant life, including proteas and ferns. Cape Town's weather is mercurial, and can change from beautiful sunshine to dramatic thunderstorms within a short period. A local adage is that in Cape Town you can experience four seasons in one day.
About Lüderitz
The reopening of the diamond mine at Elizabeth Bay 20 years ago has brought the development of tourism and fishing back to this small 19th century village on the barren, windswept Namib Desert coast. One of Namibias oddities, it has everything you'd expect from a small German town - delicatessens, coffee shops and a Lutheran church. Here, the icy but clean South Atlantic is home to seals, penguins and other marine life and the desolate beaches support flamingoes. It was founded in 1883 when Heinrich Vogelsang purchased Angra Pequena and some of the surrounding land on behalf of Adolf Lüderitz, a Hanseat from Germany, from the local Nama chief. Lüderitz began its life as a trading post, with other activities in fishing and guano-harvesting. As a sign of Luderitz's revival, 1996 staged the first traditional German Karneval since 1960.
About Walvis Bay
Once a whaling station, Walvis Bay provides a gateway to the extraordinary desert landscapes of Namibia and is itself an area of unusual natural beauty. The showpiece of the Walvis Bay area is the natural lagoon where you can see flamingos in their thousands at certain times of the year, along with a variety of other wading birds such as the white pelican. Further inland you will find the stunning Namib Desert, which provides an unlikely home for a diverse array of wildlife. Alternatively, you could venture into the desert of Sossusvlei, whose mountainous ochre sand dunes are said to be the highest in the world, or visit the colonial town of Swakopmund.
About Walvis Bay
Once a whaling station, Walvis Bay provides a gateway to the extraordinary desert landscapes of Namibia and is itself an area of unusual natural beauty. The showpiece of the Walvis Bay area is the natural lagoon where you can see flamingos in their thousands at certain times of the year, along with a variety of other wading birds such as the white pelican. Further inland you will find the stunning Namib Desert, which provides an unlikely home for a diverse array of wildlife. Alternatively, you could venture into the desert of Sossusvlei, whose mountainous ochre sand dunes are said to be the highest in the world, or visit the colonial town of Swakopmund.
About Lobito
About equidistant from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Namibia on Angola’s stunning coastline lies Lobito, a small town in the Benguala Province. Long under Portuguese colonisation, the city suffered somewhat — albeit it less than the country’s capital Luanda, during the long, drawn out civil war of 1975-2002. However, Lobito has begun the rehabilitation process (primarily through funding from both China – who are implementing a railway system throughout the country and Brazil) and the grass roots of restoration have very definitely started. The result is a city in search of a new identity, whose natural resources include unspoilt tropical Atlantic beaches, vast national parks and a chequered heritage of Portuguese rule and struggle for independence.
About Luanda
To visit Luanda is to witness the inhabitants of Angola rebuild a great city with their newly-acquired wealth. The sense of pride and confidence is overwhelming, and is demonstrated by the city’s new highways and skyscrapers, and by the wildlife and habitat rehabilitation programmes being carried out by the conservation authorities. The modern city of Luanda was founded in 1575 by Portuguese explorer Paulo Dias de Novais, and soon became a centre for trade between Portugal’s African colonies and Brazil. Apart from a short period of Dutch occupation, Luanda was under Portuguese rule until 1974. In the four decades since independence, Angola has become a peaceful and increasingly prosperous country, rich in diamonds and Africa’s second largest oil producer: many international companies now have head offices in Luanda. Please note: Owing to the destruction caused to the country’s infrastructure during the civil war that ended in 2002, Angola lost much of its ability to produce and distribute food: the resulting heavy import duties and high taxes have driven up the cost of goods and services, making Luanda one of the world’s most expensive cities. The price of excursions in this port reflects the prevailing local conditions.
About Banjul
The tiny city of Banjul is the capital of The Gambia, a country that itself is little more than the banks of the mighty river that shares its name. Situated on St Mary’s Island, where the River Gambia joins the Atlantic, Bathurst, as Banjul was previously called, was established by the British in the early nineteenth century as a naval outpost dedicated to putting a halt to the trade in human beings. In 1943, Franklin Roosevelt visited Banjul on his way to the Casablanca conference with Churchill, becoming the first serving American president to visit Africa. Today, Banjul plays host to a thriving tourist trade, thanks to its pleasant climate, and is the political centre for the oldest democracy in Africa.
About Banjul
The tiny city of Banjul is the capital of The Gambia, a country that itself is little more than the banks of the mighty river that shares its name. Situated on St Mary’s Island, where the River Gambia joins the Atlantic, Bathurst, as Banjul was previously called, was established by the British in the early nineteenth century as a naval outpost dedicated to putting a halt to the trade in human beings. In 1943, Franklin Roosevelt visited Banjul on his way to the Casablanca conference with Churchill, becoming the first serving American president to visit Africa. Today, Banjul plays host to a thriving tourist trade, thanks to its pleasant climate, and is the political centre for the oldest democracy in Africa.
About Kunta Kinteh Island
About Dakar
Dakar, set at the tip of the Cape Vert peninsula, is West Africa’s westernmost point and the capital of French-speaking Senegal. Although it was not founded until 1857, it is West Africa’s oldest European city and one of the most westernised. The opening of the Dakar-St Louis railway in 1885 put the town on the map; it subsequently became a French naval base and in 1904, the capital of Afrique Occidentale Française. It bears the legacy of Africa’s French colonial past, especially so in the downtown Plateau area, where the architecture is redolent of southern France. Every inch a modern city, Dakar is a frenetic buzz of activity, which can be startling. Perhaps sample the popular mint tea and try your hand at bartering in the colourful craft markets for traditional embroidery, woodcarvings, metalwork and costume jewellery.
About Mindelo, São Vicente Island
Your next stop will be Cape Verde’s cultural capital, Mindelo. Get along with the locals listening to the real morna in the bars of the old town and sipping the local drink, a sugarcane spirit. This island is also known by its British and Portuguese colonial architecture and pastel-coloured houses, the municipal market and the facades of the old Governor’s Palace.
About Mindelo, São Vicente Island
Your next stop will be Cape Verde’s cultural capital, Mindelo. Get along with the locals listening to the real morna in the bars of the old town and sipping the local drink, a sugarcane spirit. This island is also known by its British and Portuguese colonial architecture and pastel-coloured houses, the municipal market and the facades of the old Governor’s Palace.
About Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
Perhaps the prettiest of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is an almost circular isle with the peak of Pozo de Las Nieves, its highest point, at the centre. With a wealth of natural beauty and all the exciting attractions of city life in the capital, the island offers the best of both worlds. You will no doubt wish to see the sights of the capital’s old quarter, which dates back to the 15th century and encompassses the Vegueta and Triana districts, and wherever you go you can enjoy the glorious subtropical climate, perfect for growing exotic palms and fruits.
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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