Hapag-Lloyd’s MS EUROPA Unveils Exciting Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Itineraries for Winter 2025–2026

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has unveiled plans for its luxury vessel, ms EUROPA, to return to southern Africa and the Indian Ocean during winter 2025-2026. The ship is set to offer a lineup of extended itineraries that will take guests to remote coastal areas, culturally rich island nations, and other interesting destinations.

With a capacity of 400 guests and a crew-to-guest ratio close to 1:1, EUROPA promises a refined onboard experience complemented by immersive shore excursions. The cruise will feature five dining venues, including a restaurant helmed by award-winning chef Kevin Fehling.

Throughout the winter season, the EUROPA will sail along southern Africa’s coastline and across the Indian Ocean. The cruise line will offer pre- and post-cruise land programs, alongside tailor-made arrangements through the Travel Concierge Service, catering to travelers looking to extend their vacation. Pricing incentives will be available for those wishing to combine multiple voyages.

One of the highlight itineraries is "Fascination Africa: Wilderness, Desert and Safari," a 16-day journey from Cape Town starting November 21, 2025. This voyage will take guests to several coastal cities, such as Port Elizabeth, Durban, and Maputo, before venturing to the Bazaruto Archipelago and Madagascar. Notable stops will include Nosy Be, where visitors can explore ylang-ylang plantations and enjoy the vibrant coral reefs. The journey will be enriched with onboard entertainment featuring performances by South African artist Nomfusi.

Another itinerary, "Advent in Paradise," spans from December 7 to 20, 2025, sailing from the Seychelles to Mauritius while making stops in Madagascar and Réunion. Highlights include exploring UNESCO-listed sites and experiencing unique flora and fauna. Onboard activities will feature a performance by choreographer Johnny McMillan as well as concerts by the string quartet Die Nixen.

For the festive season, the cruise "Christmas and New Year’s Eve under Palm Trees" will run from December 20, 2025, to January 3, 2026. This voyage provides a tour through the Indian Ocean, highlighting Mauritius, Madagascar, and the Seychelles, with various recreational activities including beach landings via Zodiac and snorkeling. Guests will enjoy a performance by the GOP Varieté Theater and a New Year’s concert.

The itinerary "An Expedition to Madagascar," from January 3 to 22, 2026, focuses on expedition-style cruising. It includes landings by Zodiac, expert-led lectures, and wildlife excursions, branching out to destinations like Toamasina, Nosy Hara, and Tanzania, with a photography safari in Ngorongoro Crater.

Lastly, the "Safari Adventure, South Africa’s Highlights, and Golf Pro Stefan Quirmbach" itinerary will be from January 22 to February 7, 2026. This cruise blends golf-focused explorations with nature and cultural excursions. It will stop at Réunion, Mauritius, Maputo, and Port Elizabeth, with optional wildlife excursions to the Tala Reserve and Addo Elephant Park, culminating in Cape Town.

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