Expect the unexpected: The new expedition class

It may seem as though the entire world has been explored, however genuine voyages of discovery are still possible. With its two ships, the five-star

HANSEATIC and four-star BREMEN, Hamburg-based Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has been operating successfully in the luxury cruise expedition segment for over 25 years.

In 2016, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises announced news of two new-builds, the five-star expedition vessels

HANSEATIC nature and HANSEATIC inspiration, the latter to be operating for the international, English-speaking marketplace. Following 20 months of construction, these are scheduled to launch respectively in April and October 2019.

The two 230-guest, state-of-the-art ships (199 on Antarctic expeditions) will be structurally identical. Route concepts will be operated not only in the Arctic and Antarctica, but also in warmer water destinations such as the Great Lakes, South America and the Amazon.

Along with having the highest ice-class for passenger ships, PC6, 17 onboard Zodiacs and E-Zodiacs allow for landings in remote areas.

HANSEATIC inspiration will boast three restaurants – with no surcharges – and an extensive wellness and fitness area, plus a marina for water sports. “Inspired by nature” is the concept, which sets the highest standards in interior design with organic materials, colours and shapes, as well as in the spacious, experience-oriented design of the external deck.

Onboard design highlights include the two extendable glass balconies, where passengers can experience the feeling of floating over the ocean. The all-round deck in the upper deck forward (bow) ensures a genuine expeditionary feeling.

HANSEATIC inspiration’s preview for upcoming expeditions is available now. The new catalogue will be published in January 2018.