Sunshine In Pastels And Poetry
Sunshine In Pastels And Poetry
Cruise overview
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About Willemstad
Dutch settlers came here in the 1630s, about the same time they sailed through the Verazzano Narrows to Manhattan, bringing with them original red-tile roofs, first used on the trade ships as ballast and later incorporated into the architecture of Willemstad. Much of the original colonial structures remain, but this historic city is constantly reinventing itself and the government monument foundation is always busy restoring buildings in one urban neighborhood or another. The salty air causes what is called "wall cancer" which causes the ancient abodes to continually crumble over time. The city is cut in two by Santa Anna Bay. On one side is Punda (the point)—crammed with shops, restaurants, monuments, and markets and a new museum retracing its colorful history. And on the other side is Otrobanda (literally meaning the "other side"), with lots of narrow, winding streets and alleyways (called "steekjes" in Dutch), full of private homes notable for their picturesque gables and Dutch-influenced designs. In recent years the ongoing regeneration of Otrobanda has been apparent, marked by a surge in development of new hotels, restaurants, and shops; the rebirth, concentrated near the waterfront, was spearheaded by the creation of the elaborate Kura Hulanda complex.There are three ways to cross the bay: by car over the Juliana Bridge; by foot over the Queen Emma pontoon bridge (locally called "The Swinging Old Lady"); or by free ferry, which runs when the pontoon bridge is swung open for passing ships. All the major hotels outside town offer free shuttle service to town once or twice daily. Shuttles coming from the Otrobanda side leave you at Riffort. From here it's a short walk north to the foot of the pontoon bridge. Shuttles coming from the Punda side leave you near the main entrance to Ft. Amsterdam.
About Oranjestad
Aruba's capital is easily explored on foot. Its palm-lined central thoroughfare runs between old and new pastel-painted buildings of typical Dutch design (Spanish influence is also evident in some of the architecture). There are a lot of malls with boutiques and shops—the Renaissance mall carries high-end luxury items and designer fashions. A massive renovation in downtown has given Main Street (a.k.a. Caya G. F. Betico Croes) behind the Renaissance Resort a whole new lease on life: boutique malls, shops, and restaurants have opened next to well-loved family-run businesses. The pedestrian-only walkway and resting areas have unclogged the street, and the new eco-trolley is free and a great way to get around. At this writing, Linear Park was well and will showcase local merchants and artists. There will be activities along a boardwalk that will eventually run all the way to the end of Palm Beach, making it the longest of its kind in the Caribbean.
About Saint George's
Nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, cocoa those heady aromas fill the air in Grenada (pronounced gruh-nay-da). Only 21 miles (33½ km) long and 12 miles (19½ km) wide, the Isle of Spice is a tropical gem of lush rain forests, white-sand beaches, secluded coves, exotic flowers, and enough locally grown spices to fill anyone's kitchen cabinet. St. George's is one of the most picturesque capital cities in the Caribbean, St. George's Harbour is one of the most picturesque harbors, and Grenada's Grand Anse Beach is one of the region's finest beaches. The island has friendly, hospitable people and enough good shopping, restaurants, historic sites, and natural wonders to make it a popular port of call. About one-third of Grenada's visitors arrive by cruise ship, and that number continues to grow each year. Grenada's capital is a bustling West Indian city, much of which remains unchanged from colonial days. Narrow streets lined with shops wind up, down, and across steep hills. Brick warehouses cling to the waterfront, and pastel-painted homes rise from the waterfront and disappear into steep green hills. The horseshoe-shaped St. George's Harbour, a submerged volcanic crater, is arguably the prettiest harbor in the Caribbean. Schooners, ferries, and tour boats tie up along the seawall or at the small dinghy dock. The Carenage (pronounced car-a-nahzh), which surrounds the harbor, is the capital's center. Warehouses, shops, and restaurants line the waterfront. The Christ of the Deep statue that sits on the pedestrian plaza at the center of The Carenage was presented to Grenada by Costa Cruise Line in remembrance of its ship, Bianca C, which burned and sank in the harbor in 1961 and is now a favorite dive site. An engineering feat for its time, the 340-foot-long Sendall Tunnel was built in 1895 and named for Walter Sendall, an early governor. The narrow tunnel, used by both pedestrians and vehicles, separates the harbor side of St. George's from the Esplanade on the bay side of town, where you can find the markets (produce, meat, and fish), the Cruise Ship Terminal, the Esplanade Mall, and the public bus station.
About Marigot
French and Dutch have lived side by side on St. Maarten/St. Martin for hundreds of years—with no border patrols or customs between them. The French side has a more genteel ambience, more fashionable shopping, and a Continental flair. The Dutch tends to be less expensive, has casino hotels, and more nightlife. Water sports abound all over—diving, snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing are all top draws. And it's easy to while away the day relaxing on one of the 37 beaches, strolling the boardwalk of Dutch-side Philipsburg, and exploring the very French town of Marigot. Although luck is an important commodity at St. Maarten's 13 casinos, chance plays no part in finding a good meal at the island’s excellent eateries. The best way to explore St. Maarten/St. Martin is by car. Though often congested, especially around Philipsburg and Marigot, the roads are fairly good, though narrow and winding, with some speed bumps, potholes, roundabouts, and an occasional wandering goat herd. Few roads are marked with their names, but destination signs are common. Besides, the island is so small that it's hard to get really lost—at least that is what locals tell you. If you’re spending a few days, get to know the area with a scenic "loop" around the island. Be sure to pack a towel and some water shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunblock. Head up the east shoreline from Philipsburg, and follow the signs to Dawn Beach and Oyster Pond. The road winds past soaring hills, turquoise waters, quaint West Indian houses, and wonderful views of St. Barth. As you cross over to the French side, turn into Le Galion for a stop at the calm sheltered beach, the stables, the butterflies, or the windsurfing school, then keep following the road toward Orient Bay, the St-Tropez of the Caribbean. Continue to Anse Marcel, Grand Case, Marigot, and Sandy Ground. From Marigot, the flat island of Anguilla is visible. Completing the loop brings you past Cupecoy Beach, through Maho and Simpson Bay, where Saba looms in the horizon, and back over the mountain road into Philipsburg.
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 Porto Novo, Santo Antão Island
Porto Novo, the second largest city on Santo Antão, is located in the dry southeast of the island. A dusty wind blows constantly here. You can explore the main street with its former mansions, a little church, markets that have local fish, grogue and fresh goat cheese for sale, shops and-of course-the harbour. At the back of the town is the 2,000m-high Topo de Coroa, which is a fairly easy climb and has magnificent 360-degree views. Around the town, family-owned farms grow fruit and vegetables which are sold at regular markets in the town. There are some old churches from the Portuguese era, as well as a couple of elegant squares with pleasant bars and cafés, from which to watch the world go by.
About Santa Cruz de La Palma
Also known as ‘La Isla Bonita’ (the beautiful island), La Palma is typified by lush forests of pine, laurel and fern which contrast with the rugged splendour of the gigantic Taburiente crater. The island is dotted with attractive villages, which are a delight to discover, and the capital Santa Cruz also makes for an interesting day of exploration. Perched on the edge of the volcanic crater of La Caldereta, Santa Cruz comfortably blends modern architecture with old colonial buildings. Perhaps visit the fascinating Natural History Museum, stroll around the historic quarters and the Plaza de Espana or travel a few miles outside the city to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. If you enjoy shopping, you can find reasonably priced silver jewellery, leather goods and beautifully embroidered clothes, tablecloths and napkins, a speciality of the Canary Islands.
About Santa Cruz de Tenerife
The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is a beautiful and scenic island which enjoys year-round sunshine and is dominated by Mount Teide. The mountain range runs through the centre of the island, with fertile valleys on the northern side. In the central part of the range is the gigantic natural crater of the Cañadas del Teide, about 14 miles in diameter. Santa Cruz, the island’s pretty capital, was originally a small fishing village but has now grown into a modern city, and also contains 16th-century civic buildings and ornate private mansions. Near the pier is the Santa Cruz Palmetum, a Botanical Garden covering an area of 29 acres, specialising in palms.
The Owner's Suite is so much more than our most exclusive suite; it is an exquisite home on the oceans of the world. Enjoy all the amenities you could possibly need, spread over more than 114 m²/1,227 ft² of personal freedom.
- Living area: 99 m²/1,066 ft²; veranda: 15 m²/161 ft²
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Separate dining table
- Guest toilet
- Bathroom with two sinks
- Shower with steam sauna
- Whirlpool and daybed in the bathroom
- Butler service
- Free mini bar
- Exclusive service privileges
In the Grand Penthouse Suite, you can enjoy lavishness at sea - on a daybed with view of the endless sea, or while taking a bath in the middle of the ocean in your private whirlpool.
- Living areas: 78 m²/840 ft²; veranda: 10 m²/108 ft²
- Separate living and sleeping areas
- Separate dining table
- Guest toilet
- Bathroom with two sinks
- Shower with steam sauna
- Whirlpool and daybed in the bathroom
- Butler service
- Free mini bar
- Exclusive service privileges
In the Grand Ocean Suite, you can leave all your worries far behind you. Pamper your body and soul at the highest level - with warm colour tones and a spa bath with a panoramic view over the sea.
- Living area: 42 m²/452 ft²; veranda: 10 m²/ 108 ft²
- Bathroom with two sinks
- Separate toilet
- Natural light in the bathroom
- Shower with steam sauna
- Whirlpool tub
- Free mini bar
A wonderfully spacious suite offering the utmost comfort, uniquely located on the upper decks - is there a better place to relax? In the Penthouse Suite, you can enjoy endless views over the sea and all the amenities of a classic Penthouse Suite.
- Living area: 42 m²/452 ft²; veranda: 10 m²/108 ft²
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Bathroom with two sinks
- Whirlpool tub and separate shower
- Separate toilet
- Butler service
- Free mini bar
- Exclusive service privileges
A Penthouse Suite with fully accessible facilities can also be booked (category 13). Here the toilet is in the bathroom.
Those who like to start their day with a fantastic view will have a wonderful time in the Ocean Suite. The bathrooms in this category all provide plenty of natural light. Treat yourself to this special luxury and look out over the open ocean from your own bath.
- Living area: 28 m²/301 ft²; veranda: 7 m²/75 ft²
- Natural light in the bathroom
- Bathroom with two sinks
- Whirlpool tub and separate shower
- Separate toilet
- Free mini bar
Where everyone will feel comfortable. Plenty of room for you and your personal needs - creating a relaxing family holiday. In the Family Apartments, children and parents live in two separate areas connected by a door and a veranda. The furniture of one of the living areas has been tailored especially for our younger passengers.
Selected equipment features
- Living area: 2× 20 m²/ 2x 215 ft², veranda: 14 m²/150 ft², divisible into 2x 7 m²/ 2x 75 ft²
- Connecting door between the rooms and the verandas
- Separate toilets
- Free mini bars
The furniture of one of the living areas has been tailored especially for our younger passengers:
- Two twin beds, one of which is a Pullman (80 × 200 cm/2 × 6 ft)
- Bathtub (140 × 80 cm/4 × 2 ft)
- Age-appropriate range of toys and games including a games console
This comfortable suite has plenty of space for relaxing days on board and boasts wonderful views. The spacious veranda affords a magnificent view over the open sea and the first port lights on the horizon.
- Living area: 28 m²/301 ft²; veranda: 7 m²/75 ft²
- Walk-in wardrobe
- Exclusive living area with a chaise longue
- Bathtub and separate shower
- Free mini bar
MS EUROPA 2
With a maximum of 500 guests, you can expect the highest level of personal space and individual service. And all this with an extremely luxurious ratio of almost one to one. The EUROPA 2 combines comfort with a high level of flexibility by also heading to small ports and remote corners off the beaten track. Welcome on board the best cruise ship in the world!*
Enjoy every moment
Casual and individual, exquisite and stylish, entirely in line with your requirements – this is the aim of the EUROPA 2 philosophy. Experience a symbiosis of perfection, elegance and aesthetics, and enjoy lifestyle at the highest level in a modern, relaxed atmosphere.
Experience a unique ship
Experience the great freedom - in a relaxed and individual way, yet high quality and stylish. Enjoy a symbiosis of perfection and elegance as well as the highest level of casual luxury - culinary highlights, first-class wellness and fitness offers, exceptional on-board entertainment complemented by the highest level of privacy and individual freedom. With casual luxury for a maximum of 500 guests, the EUROPA 2 combines design and lifestyle, the highest standards and individual freedom.
Ship Facts
| Launch Year | 2013 | ||||||
| Refit Year | 2020 | ||||||
| Language | de+en | ||||||
| Gross Tonnage | 42830 | ||||||
| Length | 225 | ||||||
| Width | 27 | ||||||
| Currency | EUR | ||||||
| Speed | 21 | ||||||
| Capacity | 500 | ||||||
| Crew Count | 370 | ||||||
| Deck Count | 7 | ||||||
| Cabin Count | 251 | ||||||
| Large Cabin Count | N/A | ||||||
| Wheelchair Cabin Count | 2 | ||||||
| Electrical Plugs |
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Deck 10
- Zodiacs
- Shuffleboard
- Sun Deck
- Bridge
- Veranda Suites
- Penthouse Suites
- Grand Penthouse Suites
- Owner Suites
Deck 9
- Restaurant Yacht Club
- Sushi Restaurant Sakura
- Sun Deck
- Pool
- Conference Room
- Studio
- Gallery
- Culinary School
- Belvedere with library and coffee lounge
Deck 8
- Sansibar
- Tender
- Knopf Club / Kids Club
- Veranda Suites or Ocean Suites
- Family Apartments
- Penthouse Suites (accessible)
Deck 7
- Veranda Suites or Ocean Suites
Deck 6
- Veranda Suites or Ocean Suites
- Owner Suites
Deck 5
- Ocean Spa
- Sauna
- Jacuzzi
- Golf
- Embarkation and disembarkation
- Grand Ocean Suites
- Veranda Suites or Ocean Suites
Deck 4
- Restaurant Weltmeere
- Restaurant Serenissima
- Restaurant Elements
- Restaurant Tarragon
- Grand Reserve
- Tour Office
- Teens' Club
- Boutique / Jeweller
- Reception
- Foyer
- Piano Bar
- Embarkation / disembarkation
- Photo shop
- Club 2
- Collins
- Theatre
With an eye for detail, the EUROPA 2 chefs are constantly opening up new culinary horizons. They also offer a fine selection of artfully presented dishes at the highest level for those who prefer vegetarian cuisine. Enjoy modern creations or timeless classics with flexible mealtimes and no fixed seating plans in our seven gourmet restaurants.
Restaurant Weltmeere
The flagship restaurant at the heart of the EUROPA 2: enjoy an international gourmet menu that changes every day, and embark on a culinary voyage of discovery. Weltmeere bears the very personal hallmark of our chef and stands for creative culinary sensations – always interpreted in new and extraordinary ways, with vegetarians also catered for.
Tarragon
Tarragon stands for great French cuisine and bistro classics, served in an art-deco-style setting. You can look forward to specialities that are at once simple and sophisticated, such as beef tartare prepared at the table.
Elements
Whether Indian, Vietnamese or traditional Chinese dishes – Elements offers a feast for the senses of everyone with a penchant for the flavours of the East. Enjoy varied Asian cuisine, the aroma of lemongrass, seafood and lime – and Elements’ exotic, modern ambience.
Serenissima
Exquisite classics and new interpretations of the flavours of the Italian Mediterranean: the Serenissima combines the best of Italy's flavours and lifestyle. The house speciality is the malfatti tartufo.
Yacht Club
At the Yacht Club you can experience the finest cuisine and an unforgettable panoramic ocean view, from breakfast to dinner time. Fresh salads, antipasti from the buffet and freshly grilled specialities, fish, pasta and dishes cooked a la minute direct from the open chef’s stations await you.
Sakura
Our master chef for Asian cuisine has perfected the art of conjuring up small masterpieces from the finest ingredients. The result is traditional and modern interpretations of Japanese cuisine, as well as exquisite sushi dishes ranging from classic to creative. Sample the culinary delights from an exclusive menu while enjoying the ocean view in the Sakura’s relaxed setting.
Restaurant Grande Réserve
Connected to the Tarragon, the Grande Reserve focuses on fine wines, which you can taste in small groups under the direction of a sommelier (at extra cost).
When the curtain rises, an unforgettable evening begins. With marvellous acrobatics, dance, comedy, interesting talks, lectures or moving music from classical to pop. On board the EUROPA 2, you will be enthralled by artists, performers and entertainers of the highest calibre. Varied shows and a diverse entertainment programme await you on every voyage.
Sansibar
The younger sister of the Sansibar on Sylt sees much more of the world: the view from the open-air bar over the sea and the parties on the dance floor to DJ sounds are unforgettable. And for a late breakfast and small dishes in the afternoon and evening, it is also the top location.
Belvedere
Providing breathtaking panoramic views when the ship is entering or leaving the harbour, the Belvedere is the ideal place to enjoy a little time out. But it’s also an atmospheric lounge with a library, where select coffee and tea specialities are served. Readings and concerts are also held here.
Piano Bar
The Piano Bar is modelled on the bars found in classic grand hotels: a place to sit back with a first-class drink while you reflect on the highlights of your day and enjoy relaxing music from the Steinway grand piano. All this plus an ocean view that no hotel in the world can match.
Club 2
Whether for musical entertainment, readings, cabaret or comedy, Club 2 – with its bar and lounge area and small stage – will also adapt its ambience to the cruise route, constantly changing its colour and lighting concept. Bring your day to a close enjoying our fine selection of drinks and snacks that match the destination, and be inspired by our varied entertainment programme.
Collins
The perfect backdrop for the perfect drink – nothing more, nothing less. The atmosphere is traditional and stylish, with armchairs and high-grade woods. The menu features Cuban specialities from the humidor, as well as a large gin selection.
Theatre
Alexander Ekman meets EUROPA 2
Experience contemporary dance at the highest level with a piece created exclusively for the EUROPA 2. The celebrated choreographer Alexander Ekman brings together the best dancers from the world's most renowned companies to form a unique ensemble.
In his dynamic and powerful production, he seamlessly integrates the movements of the ship at sea and the movements of the people on board into the choreography, skilfully combining elements of humour and satire to bring athleticism, precision and theatricality to the stage with a playful wink.
Sydney Dance Company with Rafael Bonachela
Led by Rafael Bonachela – one of the most innovative choreographers of our time – the Sydney Dance Company will present two outstanding works on board EUROPA 2, including a world premiere created exclusively for the ship. Spanish-born and based in Australia, Bonachela is known for emotionally charged and physically demanding contemporary dance. His international breakthrough came in 2002 with choreography for Kylie Minogue at the Brit Awards, followed by her “Fever Tour”. Collaborations with artists like Björk highlight his creative range. On the Canary Islands cruise in spring 2026, the company will perform a current piece and a newly created premiere, inspired by South American and Spanish music. A highly aesthetic and powerful evening awaits – a world-class debut at sea.
Diego Tortelli & Compagnia Aterballetto
In 2026, Diego Tortelli will make his debut on EUROPA 2 with the renowned Italian ensemble Compagnia Aterballetto. For Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, he is creating a new piece exploring human connection in times of digital transformation – atmospheric, sensual, and fragile. Known for blending classical technique with contemporary storytelling, Tortelli is a leading voice in modern dance. On two cruises, he will present an existing work and a specially adapted premiere developed exclusively with Aterballetto for this unique setting. A poetic experience – resonant and unforgettable.
Circus & acrobatics
Experience fascinating circus and acrobatic shows that take you into a world full of amazement and impressive body control. Unique performances by award-winning artists and innovative choreographers reflect the pulse of the times.
Highlights include collaborations with leading circus companies such as Circa Contemporary Circus, whose modern and captivating productions inspire audiences worldwide. The Feuerwerk der Turnkunst with its energetic performances and the renowned GOP-Varieté with its impressive artistry are just as inspiring. Another highlight is the acrobatic group Gravity & Other Myths, which sets new standards with creative choreography and spectacular acts and creates unforgettable moments on every journey - a true celebration of physical art in a new dimension.
ART 2 SEA
With ART 2 SEA, the EUROPA 2 offers a unique cultural experience that combines contemporary art with an exclusive cruise experience. On board, you’ll find one of the largest collections of modern art at sea, rotating exhibitions in the ship’s gallery, as well as inspiring artist talks and lectures. The program is complemented by curated art excursions ashore. ART 2 SEA invites you to rediscover art in a relaxed atmosphere—whether as an art lover or a curious explorer.
890 original paintings and exhibits, as well as photographs and sculptures by artists including Damien Hirst and Gerhard Richter, accompany the ship and its guests around the world. The collection is complemented by changing exhibitions and lectures by artists on various aspects of art history. Enjoy fine art on the open sea.
Pool bar
In the pool or at the poolside bar – which is the best place for maximum refreshment? This relaxed meeting place on the Pool Deck serves snacks at breakfast and lunch-time, and our famous waffles in the afternoon, plus fresh juices and coffee specialities. It then takes on a laid-back bar atmosphere until late into the evening.
MS EUROPA Unplugged
Whether on the pool deck or in our modern theatre - here you can meet stars of the current music scene, well-known from radio and television, such as Alvaro Soler or Giovanni Zarrella. Instead of large concert arenas, you will experience intimate private concerts at the highest level - you can't get any closer. Artists such as Kelvin Jones, Tim Bendzko and KAMRAD provide unforgettable moments in a dreamlike setting. Enjoy your favourite act with a suitable drink in your hand while the EUROPA 2 sets course for the next breathtaking destination - in a setting that no concert hall in the world can offer.
Reception & Atrium
Post
The Reception staff will post your postcards and letters from all ports where this facility is available. Your onboard account will be debited with the appropriate charges.
Announcements
To create the full expedition experience, commentaries are provided for interesting passages during the cruise and special animal sightings are reported. The ship’s position is reported in the morning on days at sea. We will also announce via the loudspeakers when the local authorities have cleared the ship and we can go ashore. The volume can be controlled individually in each cabin/suite.
Means of payment
The on-board currency is the euro. An account will be set up for you so that you can make cashless payments during the cruise. You can find out your current account balance at any time using the infotainment system in your cabin/suite. You can then settle the entire account at Reception at the end of your cruise. We accept German EC/Maestro cards and the following credit cards: Mastercard, American Express and Visa. You can also pay in cash. Please note that, in general, foreign currencies cannot be changed on board.
reception@hanseatic-nature.com