Atlantic Islands And The Aura Of Spain
Atlantic Islands And The Aura Of Spain
Cruise overview
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About Lisbon
Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marques de Pombal who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praça do Comércio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city's terraced hillsides. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.
About Lisbon
Set on seven hills on the banks of the River Tagus, Lisbon has been the capital of Portugal since the 13th century. It is a city famous for its majestic architecture, old wooden trams, Moorish features and more than twenty centuries of history. Following disastrous earthquakes in the 18th century, Lisbon was rebuilt by the Marques de Pombal who created an elegant city with wide boulevards and a great riverfront and square, Praça do Comércio. Today there are distinct modern and ancient sections, combining great shopping with culture and sightseeing in the Old Town, built on the city's terraced hillsides. The distance between the ship and your tour vehicle may vary. This distance is not included in the excursion grades.
About Cádiz
Believed to be the oldest town on the Iberian Peninsula, the Andalusian port of Cádiz enjoys a stunning location at the edge of a six-mile promontory. The town itself, with 3,000 years of history, is characterised by pretty white houses with balconies often adorned with colourful flowers. As you wander around be sure to take a stroll through the sizeable Plaza de Espãna, with its large monument dedicated to the first Spanish constitution, which was signed here in 1812. Cádiz has two pleasant seafront promenades which boast fine views of the Atlantic Ocean, and has a lovely park, the Parque Genoves, located close to the sea with an open-air theatre and attractive palm garden. Also notable is the neo-Classical cathedral, capped by a golden dome.
About Funchal, Madeira
Formed by a volcanic eruption, Madeira lies in the Gulf Stream, about 500 miles due west of Casablanca. Discovered by Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco in 1419, this beautiful island became part of Portugal’s vast empire and was named for the dense forest which cloaked it - 'Madeira' means 'wood' in Portuguese. Sugar plantations first brought wealth here, and when King Charles II of England granted an exclusive franchise to sell wine to England and its colonies, many British emigrants were drawn to the capital, Funchal. Today’s travellers come to Madeira for the varied and luxuriant scenery, from mountain slopes covered with vines to picturesque villages and a profusion of wild flowers. The natural beauty of the island has earned it many pseudonyms such as ‘The Floating Garden of the Atlantic’, 'The Island of Eternal Springtime' and ‘God’s Botanical Gardens’ and our selection of excursions aim to show you why.
About Ponta Delgada, Azores
Offering solace on the long journey across the Atlantic, Ponta Delgada is the Azores Islands' largest city, and a welcome relief for any weary sailor. Located on an archipelago of Portuguese islands, some 1,100 miles from the mainland, you can explore humbling volcanic scenery, as well as Sao Miguel's verdant landscape - which glows with colour when the hydrangeas that the Azores are known for bloom into life during the summer months. The striking black and white facade of the Church of Sao Jose welcomes you to the city itself, while you can head to the markets to pick up the pineapples, tea leaves and coffee beans that add a little flavour to the island. As the largest city of the Azores, Ponta Delgada is well stocked with places to eat delicious local seafood, or pick up a little shopping, as you enjoy setting your feet on dry land, following a long journey at sea. Volcanic firepower has carved these stunning islands, and a journey up to Caldeira das Sete Cidades is a must do, where you can hike beside the water-filled crater, and admire views of steep green walls, and the uninterrupted Atlantic Ocean stretching beyond them. Lagoa de Fogo offers yet more humbling views, with the crater lake dropping off sharply to rippled ocean far below.
About Praia da Vitória
About Leixões
Ever since the Romans constructed a fort here and began using it as a trading post, Oporto has been a prosperous commercial centre. In the 15th and 16th centuries the city benefited from the wealth generated by Portugal’s maritime discoveries, and later, the establishment of a lucrative wine trade with Britain compensated for the loss of the spice trade. Today, Portugal’s second-largest city is a thriving, cosmopolitan place and is famous for its production of the fortified, sweet 'port' wine. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city was also awarded the status of European Capital of Culture in 2001. A large sandbar prevents ships from sailing into Oporto itself, so for over a century they have used nearby Leixões instead, a man-made seaport constructed nine miles from the city. Leixões is one of Portugal's major sea ports and is also home to one of the country's oldest football clubs, winners of the Taça de Portugal cup in 1961.
About La Coruña
La Coruña, the largest city in Spain's Galicia region, is among the country's busiest ports. The remote Galicia area is tucked into the northwest corner of the Iberian Peninsula, surprising visitors with its green and misty countryside that is so much unlike other parts of Spain. The name "Galicia" is Celtic in origin, for it was the Celts who occupied the region around the 6th-century BC and erected fortifications. La Coruña was already considered an important port under the Romans. They were followed by an invasion of Suevians, Visigoths and, much later in 730, the Moors. It was after Galicia was incorporated into the Kingdom of Asturias that the epic saga of the Pilgrimage to Santiago (St. James) began. From the 15th century, overseas trade developed rapidly; in 1720, La Coruña was granted the privilege of trading with America - a right previously only held by Cadiz and Seville. This was the great era when adventurous men voyaged to the colonies and returned with vast riches. Today, the city's significant expansion is evident in three distinct quarters: the town centre located along the isthmus; the business and commercial centre with wide avenues and shopping streets; and the "Ensanche" to the south, occupied by warehouses and factories. Many of the buildings in the old section feature the characteristic glazed façades that have earned La Coruña the name "City of Crystal." Plaza Maria Pita, the beautiful main square, is named after the local heroine who saved the town in 1589 when she seized the English standard from the beacon and gave the alarm, warning her fellow townsmen of the English attack.
About Gijón
The Campo Valdés baths, dating back to the 1st century AD, and other reminders of Gijón's time as an ancient Roman port remain visible downtown. Gijón was almost destroyed in a 14th-century struggle over the Castilian throne, but by the 19th century it was a thriving port and industrial city. The modern-day city is part fishing port, part summer resort, and part university town, packed with cafés, restaurants, and sidrerías.
About Bilbao
Time in Bilbao (Bilbo, in Euskera) may be recorded as BG or AG (Before Guggenheim or After Guggenheim). Never has a single monument of art and architecture so radically changed a city. Frank Gehry's stunning museum, Norman Foster's sleek subway system, the Santiago Calatrava glass footbridge and airport, the leafy César Pelli Abandoibarra park and commercial complex next to the Guggenheim, and the Philippe Starck AlhóndigaBilbao cultural center have contributed to an unprecedented cultural revolution in what was once the industry capital of the Basque Country.Greater Bilbao contains almost 1 million inhabitants, nearly half the total population of the Basque Country. Founded in 1300 by Vizcayan noble Diego López de Haro, Bilbao became an industrial center in the mid-19th century, largely because of the abundance of minerals in the surrounding hills. An affluent industrial class grew up here, as did the working class in suburbs that line the Margen Izquierda (Left Bank) of the Nervión estuary.Bilbao's new attractions get more press, but the city's old treasures still quietly line the banks of the rust-color Nervión River. The Casco Viejo (Old Quarter)—also known as Siete Calles (Seven Streets)—is a charming jumble of shops, bars, and restaurants on the river's Right Bank, near the Puente del Arenal bridge. This elegant proto-Bilbao nucleus was carefully restored after devastating floods in 1983. Throughout the Casco Viejo are ancient mansions emblazoned with family coats of arms, wooden doors, and fine ironwork balconies. The most interesting square is the 64-arch Plaza Nueva, where an outdoor market is pitched every Sunday morning.Walking the banks of the Nervión is a satisfying jaunt. After all, this was how—while out on a morning jog—Guggenheim director Thomas Krens first discovered the perfect spot for his project, nearly opposite the right bank's Deusto University. From the Palacio de Euskalduna upstream to the colossal Mercado de la Ribera, parks and green zones line the river. César Pelli's Abandoibarra project fills in the half mile between the Guggenheim and the Euskalduna bridge with a series of parks, the Deusto University library, the Meliá Bilbao Hotel, and a major shopping center.On the left bank, the wide, late-19th-century boulevards of the Ensanche neighborhood, such as Gran Vía (the main shopping artery) and Alameda de Mazarredo, are the city's more formal face. Bilbao's cultural institutions include, along with the Guggenheim, a major museum of fine arts (the Museo de Bellas Artes) and an opera society (Asociación Bilbaína de Amigos de la Ópera, or ABAO) with 7,000 members from Spain and southern France. In addition, epicureans have long ranked Bilbao's culinary offerings among the best in Spain. Don't miss a chance to ride the trolley line, the Euskotram, for a trip along the river from Atxuri Station to Basurto's San Mamés soccer stadium, reverently dubbed "la Catedral del Fútbol" (the Cathedral of Football).
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