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

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is preparing to bring its luxurious vessel, the EUROPA, back to southern Africa and the Indian Ocean for the winter season of 2025-2026. This journey, starting in autumn 2025, will feature a selection of extended itineraries aimed at exploring remote coastlines, vibrant island nations, and culturally rich regions. With a capacity for 400 guests, EUROPA promises a premium onboard environment alongside immersive shore excursions, boasting a near 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio and five dining venues, one of which is managed by renowned chef Kevin Fehling.

The ship will embark on various sailings that delve deep into the southern coast of Africa and the Indian Ocean, continuing its legacy of expertise in these locales. Guests can also engage in pre- and post-cruise land programs with knowledgeable guides or tailor their experiences through the Travel Concierge Service. Incentives for combining voyages are also available.

One notable itinerary is the "Fascination Africa: Wilderness, Desert, and Safari," which spans 16 days from November 21 to December 7, 2025. Departing from Cape Town, it will visit key coastal cities such as Port Elizabeth, Durban, and Maputo, before exploring the Bazaruto Archipelago and Madagascar. Guests will enjoy natural and cultural experiences, including a visit to Nosy Be for its ylang-ylang plantations and vibrant coral reefs, culminating in a stop in the Seychelles. Onboard entertainment highlights include music from South African vocalist Nomfusi.

Another exciting offering is the 13-day "Advent in Paradise" sailing from December 7 to 20, 2025, which travels from the Seychelles to Mauritius and includes stops in Madagascar and Réunion. This cruise allows guests to discover UNESCO World Heritage sites and engage with distinctive wildlife. The onboard program features performances by Canadian choreographer Johnny McMillan and concerts from the string quartet Die Nixen.

For the holiday season, the "Christmas and New Year’s Eve under Palm Trees" itinerary runs for 14 days from December 20, 2025, to January 3, 2026, circling Mauritius, Madagascar, and the Seychelles. Excursions include beach landings and snorkeling while the onboard entertainment features a show from the GOP Varieté Theater and a New Year’s concert.

Finally, the "An Expedition to Madagascar" journey from January 3 to 22, 2026, introduces an expeditionary element to the EUROPA, including Zodiac excursions and expert-led wildlife tours. Stops will cover Toamasina, Nosy Hara, and Tanzania, featuring a photographic safari at the Ngorongoro Crater.

The concluding trip, "Safari Adventure, South Africa’s Highlights, and Golf Pro Stefan Quirmbach," from January 22 to February 7, 2026, blends golf with cultural and natural excursions across several locations, including Réunion and Maputo, culminating in Cape Town.

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