HAPAG LLOYD’S EUROPA 2

With all the one-upmanship of a private yacht combined with the sophistication of a decadent resort, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' EUROPA 2 has been named the best cruise ship in the world by the Berlitz Cruise Guide for the sixth consecutive year. This paragon represents the very best of contemporary design concepts to create an informal style of cruising. The credo of ‘relaxed luxury’ is enshrined throughout all eight passenger decks. With a jazz club, cookery school, library, art gallery, and theatre productions, the on board ambiance is as personal as it is convenient. The philosophy is simple: all passengers should feel relaxed, pampered and never pressured.

The 251 all-balcony suites come in seven categories ranging in size from 301 to 1,066 square feet. There are 141 Veranda Suites; 59 Ocean Suites; 24 Grand Suites; 16 Spa Suites; seven Family Apartments; two Grand Penthouse Suites; and two Owner’s Suites. These radiate forward and aft from the central, glass-walled atrium which soars four decks and floods the interior of the ship with natural light.

The impressive Weltmeere Restaurant has constantly changing menus which offer a selection of choices from a cuisine légèr selection as well as more classical options. Offering a more intimate fine-dining experience, the three speciality restaurants boast rotating menus that change every week, such is the company’s commitment to catering to guests who appreciate the discernible difference from other luxury ships.

With Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, no family member is left out of the magic. EUROPA 2 features two golf simulators, multiple shore tours to acclaimed golf courses and a PGA golfing professional on every cruise. It also boasts an award-winning spa with fitness studio, beauty treatments, yoga, saunas and a hairdressing salon. Kids, meanwhile, can enjoy pizza-making classes, 3-D films and play areas.

In October Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' newest vessel, HANSEATIC inspiration takes to the oceans. With the highest ice-class rating enabling explorations deep into Polar waters, a unique feature of this ship will be the bow track – a prime location for wildlife sightings. At other times of the year the natural splendours of the Amazon and South Seas will feature on its cruising roster.