Hanseatic Nature - Luxury Expedition Ship by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Table of contents

The HANSEATIC nature - Expedition Luxury at its Finest

Imagine stepping into a world where adventure and luxury seamlessly blend, where the boundaries between expedition and comfort blur. Welcome aboard the HANSEATIC nature, one of the most modern expedition ships in the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises fleet. Unlike the classic luxury liners MS Europa and MS Europa 2, the HANSEATIC nature offers a unique mix of expedition spirit and the highest comfort.

Top Deals from Hapag-Lloyd Cruises & Co.

History and Development of an Expedition Cruise Pioneer

The HANSEATIC nature, commissioned in 2019, marks the beginning of a new era in expedition cruising. As the first ship of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' new expedition class, it combines state-of-the-art technology with environmentally friendly design and luxurious comfort.

Unlike the MS Europa and MS Europa 2, which are designed for classic luxury cruises, the HANSEATIC nature targets adventurous travelers who want to explore remote destinations without sacrificing luxury.

Some milestones:

• 2017: Announcement of the new expedition class construction
• 2018: Keel laying at the VARD shipyard in Romania
• 2019: Completion and transfer to Hamburg
• 2019: Christening and maiden voyage in May
• 2020: First Arctic expedition
• 2021: First Antarctic season

The development of the HANSEATIC nature was a response to the growing demand for expedition cruises in luxury form. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises recognized the trend towards authentic travel experiences in remote regions and combined this with the comfort for which the cruise line is known.

Technical Data and Equipment

The HANSEATIC nature impresses with its innovative technology and environmentally friendly orientation:

• Length: 138 meters
• Width: 22 meters
• Draft: 5.4 meters
• Gross tonnage: 15,650
• Passenger capacity: 230 (199 for Antarctic voyages)
• Crew: approx. 175 crew members
• Speed: 16 knots
• Year of construction: 2019
• Shipyard: VARD, Norway
• Ice class: PC6 (highest ice class for passenger ships)

Compared to the MS Europa and MS Europa 2, the HANSEATIC nature is significantly smaller, allowing it to navigate shallow waters and narrow fjords. The more compact size enables the ship to explore regions that are inaccessible to larger cruise ships.

Innovative Technologies for Expedition and Environmental Protection

The HANSEATIC nature sets new standards in terms of technology and environmental friendliness:

• State-of-the-art navigation systems for safe maneuvering in ice and narrow waters
• E-Zodiacs for environmentally friendly landings (a world first in the expedition sector)
• SCR catalysts to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 95%
• Ability to use shore power in ports to reduce emissions
• Dynamic positioning system for anchor-free stationing to protect sensitive seabeds
• Heat recovery systems for efficient energy use
• On-board laboratory for scientific research during expeditions
• Infrared cameras for wildlife observation and ice detection

These technological innovations not only enable more environmentally friendly travel but also more intense expedition experiences for guests.

Cabins and Suites: Luxury Meets Expedition Spirit

The HANSEATIC nature offers 120 cabins and suites, all with ocean views and most with balconies:

1. Grand Suite (71 m²): 2 suites

   • Separate living and sleeping areas
   • Walk-in closet
   • Private veranda balcony with whirlpool
   • Butler service

2. Penthouse Suite (42 m²): 4 suites

   • Spacious living/sleeping area
   • Generous balcony
   • Bathroom with rain shower and steam sauna

3. Panorama Suite (31-33 m²): 6 suites

   • Panoramic windows with balcony
   • Comfortable seating area
   • Bathroom with rain shower

4. Deluxe Suite (28-29 m²): 14 suites

   • Balcony
   • Cozy living/sleeping area
   • Bathroom with rain shower

5. French Balcony Cabin (21 m²): 20 cabins

   • French balcony
   • Comfortable furnishings

6. Balcony Cabin (21 m²): 72 cabins

   • Private balcony
   • Modern decor

7. Panorama Cabin (21 m²): 2 cabins

   • Large panoramic windows
   • Handicap-accessible

Unlike the classic luxury suites on the MS Europa and MS Europa 2, the accommodations on the HANSEATIC nature are designed more functionally without compromising on comfort. They offer the perfect retreat after an exciting expedition day.

Features of all cabins and suites:

• Individually adjustable air conditioning
• Heated wall in the bathroom for drying expedition clothing
• Coffee/tea maker
• Minibar (restocked daily)
• Entertainment system with flat-screen TV
• Free Wi-Fi

Culinary Experiences: Gourmet Cuisine in the Wilderness

Despite its more compact size, the HANSEATIC nature offers an impressive culinary variety:

• Main Restaurant:

  • International and regional specialties
  • Flexible dining times
  • Panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Show cooking stations

• Lido Restaurant:

  • Casual dining with outdoor area
  • Buffet and live cooking
  • Barbecue evenings in good weather

• Specialty Restaurant:

  • Exclusive menus in an intimate setting (for an additional fee)
  • Changing theme evenings
  • Option for private dinners

Culinary highlights:

• Use of regional and seasonal products
• Consideration of special diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free)
• Daily afternoon tea
• 24-hour room service

Compared to the MS Europa and MS Europa 2, the gastronomic offering is somewhat reduced but maintains the high quality standard. The cuisine on the HANSEATIC nature places special emphasis on using local ingredients and drawing inspiration from the regions visited.

Bars and Lounges: Relaxation After Adventure

• HanseAtrium:

  • Central lounge for lectures and evening entertainment
  • State-of-the-art presentation technology for expedition lectures
  • Evening live music and shows

• Observation Lounge:

  • Panoramic views and library
  • Telescopes for wildlife observation
  • Quiet atmosphere for reading and relaxing

• Explorer Lounge:

  • Bar with outdoor area
  • Cocktails and snacks
  • Cozy seating for conversations among fellow travelers

The bars and lounges on the HANSEATIC nature are designed more functionally than on the luxury liners but still offer a cozy atmosphere for relaxing and exchanging expedition experiences. The focus here is on the opportunity to process the impressions of the day and interact with other guests and the expedition team.

Wellness and Fitness: Relaxation in Extreme Environments

• Ocean Spa:

  • Sauna with ocean view
  • Steam bath
  • Relaxation area
  • Outdoor area with whirlpools
  • Diverse range of massages and treatments

• Fitness area:

  • State-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment
  • Panoramic views while working out
  • Personal training upon request

• Pool area:

  • Heated pool with counter-current system
  • Pool bar for refreshments

The wellness area is more compact compared to the MS Europa and MS Europa 2 but offers all essential amenities for relaxation after exciting expeditions. Particularly impressive is the opportunity to observe icebergs or Arctic landscapes from the whirlpool or sauna.

Expedition Highlights and Activities

The HANSEATIC nature fundamentally differs from classic luxury cruise ships through its expedition program:

• Zodiac rides:

  • Up to 17 Zodiacs for flexible landings and explorations
  • Experienced Zodiac drivers for safe excursions
  • E-Zodiacs for particularly environmentally friendly explorations

• Expert lectures:

  • Renowned scientists and experts on board
  • Topics on nature, culture, and history of the travel regions
  • Interactive presentations in the HanseAtrium

• Guided hikes and nature observations:

  • Various difficulty levels for different fitness levels
  • Specialized guides for animal and plant observations
  • Opportunity to participate in scientific projects

• Kayak tours:

  • Guided tours in remote waters
  • Experienced kayak guides for safe paddling
  • Opportunity to observe wildlife up close

• Photography workshops:

  • Professional photographers on board
  • Tips and tricks for landscape and wildlife photography
  • Possibility to borrow high-quality camera equipment

• Scientific Center:

  • Microscopes and laboratory equipment for investigations
  • Opportunity to participate in research projects
  • Interactive learning stations

These diverse activities allow guests to intensively experience and understand the regions visited. Unlike classic luxury cruises, the focus here is on active experience and learning.

Routes and Destinations: The Most Remote Corners of the Earth

The HANSEATIC nature travels to regions that are inaccessible to classic cruise ships:

• Arctic:

  • Spitsbergen
  • Greenland
  • Russian Arctic

• Antarctic:

  • Antarctic Peninsula
  • South Georgia
  • Falkland Islands

• Amazon:

  • Expeditions deep into the rainforest
  • Visits to indigenous communities

• Great Lakes of North America:

  • Exploration of all five Great Lakes
  • Passage through historic locks

• Chilean Fjords:

  • Strait of Magellan
  • Cape Horn

• Northwest Passage:

  • Legendary transit through the Canadian Arctic

Unlike the worldwide routes of the MS Europa and MS Europa 2, the HANSEATIC nature focuses on remote and often untouched natural areas. The routes are designed to offer maximum flexibility to respond to weather conditions and wildlife sightings.

Special features of the expedition routes:

• Focus on nature experiences and wildlife observations
• Adaptable route planning depending on conditions
• Possibility for spontaneous landings for interesting discoveries
• Intensive exploration of a region instead of frequent port changes

Sustainability and Environmental Protection

As an expedition ship, the HANSEATIC nature places special emphasis on environmental protection:

• State-of-the-art exhaust gas cleaning systems:

  • SCR catalysts reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 95%
  • Particulate filters minimize soot emissions

• Reduced fuel consumption:

  • Optimized hull shape for efficient propulsion
  • Energy recovery systems

• Use of low-sulfur marine diesel oil:

  • Significantly lower emissions compared to heavy fuel oil

• Strict adherence to all environmental guidelines in sensitive ecosystems:

  • Special training for crew and expedition team
  • Strict protocols for landings and wildlife observations

• Environmental education for guests:

  • Lectures on environmental topics
  • Practical tips for environmentally conscious behavior on expeditions

• Support of research projects:

  • Collaboration with scientists
  • Data collection in remote regions

• Reduction of plastic on board:

  • Use of reusable water bottles
  • Avoidance of single-use plastic

These measures underscore Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' commitment to sustainable tourism in sensitive ecosystems.

Prices and Booking

Prices for an expedition on the HANSEATIC nature vary depending on destination and season:

• Short trips (5-7 days) from approx. $3,390 per person
• Arctic expeditions (10-14 days) from approx. $8,990 per person
• Antarctic expeditions (14-20 days) from approx. $12,990 per person

All prices include:

• Full board with gourmet cuisine
• Selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Minibar and 24-hour room service
• Use of all on-board facilities
• Participation in the expedition program including Zodiac rides
• Loan equipment for expeditions (rubber boots, parka)
• Lectures and expert guidance
• Gratuities

Additional costs may apply for:

• Special expedition activities (e.g., helicopter flights, if available)
• Spa treatments
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• High-speed internet packages

Bookings can be made directly through the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises website, by phone, or through travel agencies. It is recommended to book early, especially for popular expedition routes like Antarctica. Although rare for such exclusive trips, there is a possibility to look for discounted last-minute cabins or remaining spaces.

Expedition Cruises at the Highest Level

The HANSEATIC nature offers a completely different cruise experience than classic luxury liners:

• Focus on expeditions and nature experiences instead of classic luxury
• Smaller ship for access to remote areas
• More robust equipment for extreme conditions
• More intensive educational program with expert lectures
• More active travel experience with Zodiac rides and guided hikes

"The HANSEATIC nature is the perfect mix of adventure and comfort. Here you experience the most remote corners of the earth without having to sacrifice luxury." - Michael, 55, expedition traveler

The HANSEATIC nature is the ideal choice for travelers who:

• Love adventure and nature
• Want to explore remote destinations
• Want to be active and learn
• Seek luxury in an expedition-oriented environment
• Are interested in sustainability and environmental protection

Learn more about Hapag Lloyd Cruises and the other ships in the fleet

With the HANSEATIC nature, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises opens up a new dimension of travel that uniquely combines luxury and expedition. It is the perfect ship for anyone who wants to experience the wonders of our planet up close without sacrificing comfort and style. From the icy expanses of the polar regions to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, the HANSEATIC nature offers experiences that go far beyond what classic luxury cruises can offer.

The combination of state-of-the-art technology, environmentally friendly design, and luxurious comfort makes the HANSEATIC nature a pioneer in the world of expedition cruising. It allows travelers to explore the most remote corners of the earth while actively contributing to the protection and research of these fragile ecosystems.

Whether you want to observe penguins in Antarctica, sail through the Northwest Passage, or discover the diversity of the Amazon - the HANSEATIC nature is your gateway to unforgettable adventures and unique nature experiences. It combines the best of both worlds: the excitement of a real expedition with the comfort and service of a luxury ship.

Related pages