A distinguished ship. Europa 2 is simply different, nothing like what I was expecting.
Europa 2, The Hapag Llyod flagship attracts travellers with a discerning lifestyle that seek comfort and beauty without being pretentious. With a maximum of 500 guests, service is personal and tailored to the needs of the individual. A total of 370 crew offer discreet service, never intrusive but always present.
The vessel's size is small enough (226 metres in length) to call on small harbours that are normally reserved for yachts. When you step onboard you don’t even notice you are on a ship as it is still and silent and you are not overwhelmed by sounds and music. Glass panels let in the light along the staircase, which spills into the hallways. The calmness and light-filled surroundings allow you to truly relax.
What I was most impressed with is how Europa 2 cruises in harmony with sea and nature. Environmental awareness and sustainability is very much a way of life, provisions of practical support in select destinations and free medical treatment onboard was not expected. An example of which, guests that require dialysis, can now book in treatment and have discussed the details of their care with the medical team prior to travel. This level of care and confidence especially onboard a ship is not common.
For the golf enthusiasts, do you want to perfect your swing at sea? There are two cutting-edge golf simulators and PGA golf professionals at your disposal. The golf facilities are not included in the cruise price and are an additional price. Why not consider visiting the breathtaking courses in the Atlantic or Mediterranean putting in Europe? With a selection of golf packages available, we can assist you with booking in these arrangements prior to travel.
In close proximity to the golf simulators is the Ocean Spa equipped with everything to cater from Thalasso treatments to herbal, bio and a Finnish sauna. Beauty treatments, hairdresser and a range of massage styles that include a wide range of treatments such as shiatsu, Ayurvedic, hot stone and lymph drainage. Lap up all the benefits of this world-class spa while you travel from port to port on those lazy sea days.
The food was glorious and the best lobster I have ever eaten. We enjoyed a chef’s table experience at the Grande Reserve complete with white glove service. Every dish was more impressive than the last and it was the epitome of sophistication. Seven gourmet restaurants at no extra cost, with flexible dining times and no fixed seating plans. Fancy a taste of the largest gin collection on the seven seas? Collins offers the perfect setting. Both traditional and stylish the menu extends to some sort after Cuban specialities from the humidor.
The itineraries and destinations are endless, my favourites have to be the “Carnaval and Canary Islands” or “Late Summer on the Baltic Sea”. As a German cruise line, Hapag Llyod has a huge German following but rest assured that every crew member can speak English. There is also a dedicated English speaking hostess onboard, who is actually Australian. Every need and expectation of guests are taken care off…
Multi-generational families are common and there are beautiful suites available to cater to their needs. There are even baby welcome packs and children up to 11 years travel free*. I was surprised with how well equipped Europa 2 is for families, normally an area of a ship not readily available for inspection, the child and teenage areas have such a variety of games, sports, toys, arts and craft.
With everything onboard being so spectacular, the shore excursions promise to be next level. From complimentary shuttles to free use of the bicycles and snorkelling gear are available for use. When we boarded the ship there was a little rain falling and there were umbrellas, ponchos and towels in abundance for the guests use. Every thought and need always easily taken care off.
With so many cruise lines, there is always amazing options available. Europa 2 is on another level, the highest rated cruise ship in the world for six years in a row. The small resort feel provides you with endless space to truly be yourself with all the freedom to enjoy luxury the way it should be…personal.
