HANSEATIC spirit

Table of contents

HANSEATIC spirit: Gateway to Undiscovered Horizons

Imagine a place where luxury and adventure seamlessly intertwine, where cutting-edge technology transports you to the most remote corners of our planet. Welcome aboard the HANSEATIC spirit, the latest jewel in the expedition fleet of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. This ship is more than just a means of transportation – it's your ticket to a world of wonders that few have ever laid eyes upon.

Top Deals from Hapag-Lloyd Cruises & Co.

The Evolution of Expedition Cruising

As the third and newest member of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' groundbreaking expedition class, the HANSEATIC spirit ushered in a new era of discovery with its maiden voyage in August 2021. Its creation story is one of innovation and the pursuit of the extraordinary:

• May 2018: Announcement of construction plans
• September 2019: Keel laying in Romania
• June 2021: Successful sea trials
• August 24, 2021: Official christening in Hamburg
• August 26, 2021: Commencement of inaugural voyage to Norway

The HANSEATIC spirit embodies the quintessence of modern expedition cruising: it combines the highest comfort with the ability to venture into the most remote regions of the Earth.

A Technological Marvel for Extreme Challenges

The HANSEATIC spirit is a triumph of engineering, tailor-made for the most demanding environments on our planet:

• Length: 138 m (perfect for narrow fjords and small ports)
• Width: 22 m
• Draft: 5.4 m (ideal for shallow waters)
• Gross tonnage: 15,650
• Ice class: PC6 (highest classification for passenger ships)
• Maximum speed: 16 knots

Outstanding technical features:

• Advanced positioning system: Enables precise maneuvering without anchors, ideal for sensitive ecosystems
• Hybrid Zodiac fleet: Combination of electric and conventional inflatable boats for environmentally friendly explorations
• Thermal imaging cameras: Assist in navigating icy waters and enable fascinating wildlife observations
• Active stabilizers: Ensure a smooth ride even in rough seas

Cutting-Edge Technologies in Focus

1. Ice-reinforced hull:

   • Specially reinforced construction for safe passage through ice fields
   • Innovative coating to minimize friction and ice adhesion

2. Environmentally friendly propulsion concept:

   • State-of-the-art exhaust gas cleaning systems drastically reduce emissions
   • Prepared for the use of synthetic fuel

3. Cutting-edge navigation technology:

   • High-precision satellite navigation for exact positioning in polar regions
   • 3D sonar for detailed underwater mapping

4. Top-class scientific equipment:

   • Mobile research laboratory for real-time analysis of environmental samples
   • Remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) for deep-sea exploration

Luxurious Refuges for Modern Explorers

The 120 cabins and suites of the HANSEATIC spirit are much more than mere accommodations – they are your personal base camp for adventure:

• Grand Suite (71 m²): 2 exclusive suites

  • Private balcony with whirlpool and panoramic views
  • Separate living and sleeping areas
  • Personal butler service

• Penthouse Suite (42 m²): 4 luxurious retreats

  • Spacious balcony
  • Integrated wellness oasis with steam sauna

• Expedition Suite (36 m²): 6 suites for adventurers

  • Extended living area with expedition equipment
  • Direct access to the outer deck

• Panorama Cabin (21 m²): 2 barrier-free accommodations

  • Specially adapted equipment
  • Unobstructed sea views

Unique feature: Each accommodation has an innovative drying station for expedition clothing – an invaluable detail for active explorers.

Amenities in all cabins:

• State-of-the-art climate control system with individual adjustment
• Interactive entertainment center
• Minibar with daily refills
• Espresso machine for top-quality coffee enjoyment
• High-security safe
• Walk-in closet with integrated lighting
• Exclusive care products from sustainable production
• 24/7 cabin service for ultimate comfort

Culinary World Tour on Board

The restaurants of the HANSEATIC spirit are more than just dining halls – they are stages for gastronomic journeys of discovery:

• Main Restaurant "Welten":

  • Interactive cooking stations with show character
  • Daily changing menus inspired by the regions visited
  • Panoramic windows for breathtaking views during dinner

• Specialty Restaurant "Nikkei":

  • Fusion of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine
  • Intimate atmosphere with only 30 seats
  • Exclusive sake and pisco tastings

• Bistro "Lido":

  • Casual dining with outdoor terrace
  • Theme nights such as "Arctic BBQ" or "Amazon Night"
  • Live cooking events under the open sky

Highlight: "Expedition Tasting Menu" – A culinary journey that combines the flavors and techniques of the regions visited, from Arctic char to Amazonian superfoods.

Unique culinary experiences:

1. Gourmet workshops: Learn the secrets of regional cuisines from master chefs
2. Wine and spirits academy: Tastings and seminars focusing on local producers
3. "Captain's Table": Exclusive dinner with the captain and expedition leaders
4. Polar Bar: Serves innovative cocktails inspired by the most extreme regions of the Earth
5. Culinary shore excursions: Visit local markets and producers with the head chef

Knowledge Center and Wellness Oasis

The HANSEATIC spirit uniquely combines the thirst for knowledge with relaxation:

• Discovery Center:

  • Multifunctional auditorium for captivating expert lectures
  • State-of-the-art 3D projection systems for immersive presentations
  • Interactive map tables for route planning and discussion

• Science Lab:

  • Fully equipped research laboratory with guest access
  • High-performance microscopes and analysis devices
  • Opportunity to participate in real research projects

• Ocean Spa:

  • Panoramic sauna with views of icebergs or tropical islands
  • Treatments using regional techniques and products
  • Fitness center with virtual reality-supported training sessions
  • Infinity pool with counter-current system and hydromassage

Educational and wellness offerings:

1. Expedition Academy: Intensive courses in glaciology, marine biology, or ethnology
2. Citizen science projects: Active participation in global research initiatives
3. Astrophotography workshops: Learn to capture the night sky of polar regions
4. Polar Plunge Spa Ritual: Traditional ice bath jump followed by a warming spa treatment

Expedition Innovations

The HANSEATIC spirit sets itself apart from other expedition ships through unique features:

• Deployable Glass Balconies: Extendable glass platforms for unobstructed nature observations

  • Enable 180-degree panoramic views
  • Ideal for photography and wildlife viewing

• Flexible Expedition Platform:

  • Multifunctional platform for various landing scenarios
  • Adaptable to different coastal formations and weather conditions

• Underwater ROV:

  • Remotely operated underwater vehicle for deep-sea exploration
  • Live transmission of footage to the Discovery Center

• Next-generation expedition equipment:

  • State-of-the-art rental equipment including heated clothing for polar regions
  • Advanced safety systems for extreme conditions

Extraordinary expedition activities:

1. Ice Diving: Guided dives under Arctic ice (for certified divers)
2. Heli-Hiking: Helicopter flights to remote hiking routes (on selected expeditions)
3. Bioluminescence Kayaking: Nocturnal paddling tours in phosphorescent waters
4. Desert Trekking: Guided hikes through the world's oldest deserts
5. Underwater Photography: Workshops and dives with professional underwater photographers

Routes Beyond Imagination

The HANSEATIC spirit ventures into regions that are uncharted territory even for experienced travelers:

• Trans-Arctic Passage:

  • 30-day expedition from Greenland to Alaska
  • Traversing the legendary Northwest Passage
  • Encounters with Arctic megafauna and indigenous cultures

• Expedition to the Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific:

  • Visit remote atolls like Palmerston or Suwarrow
  • Diving in some of the most pristine reefs in the world
  • Cultural exchange with isolated Polynesian communities

• Amazon Headwaters Expedition:

  • Exploration of the most remote tributaries of the Amazon
  • Contact with previously barely contacted indigenous peoples
  • Nocturnal expeditions to discover rare nocturnal species

Special feature: "Expedition Unknown" – A journey into the unknown, where the route is spontaneously determined based on current scientific findings and natural phenomena.

Sample Expedition: "Antarctic Deep Research"

• Day 1-2: Embarkation in Ushuaia, Argentina, expedition preparation
• Day 3-4: Drake Passage with lectures and scientific workshops
• Day 5-10: Antarctic Peninsula with daily Zodiac excursions and ROV dives
• Day 11: Visit to a research station
• Day 12-13: Weddell Sea exploration focusing on deep-sea ecosystems
• Day 14-15: Return journey through the Drake Passage with data evaluation
• Day 16: Disembarkation in Ushuaia

Sustainability as Top Priority

The HANSEATIC spirit sets new standards in terms of ecological responsibility:

• Advanced emission control: Reduces pollutant emissions by up to 95%
• Oceanographic laboratory: Enables continuous environmental monitoring
• Zero-impact policy: Strict guidelines to minimize ecological footprint

Detailed environmental protection measures:

1. Circular economy on board:

   • State-of-the-art recycling system
   • Complete avoidance of single-use plastics

2. Water management of the future:

   • Seawater desalination plant with minimal energy consumption
   • Greywater treatment for technical systems

3. Biodiversity protection 2.0:

   • AI-supported systems to avoid collisions with marine mammals
   • Support for renaturation projects in visited regions

4. Scientific partnerships:

   • Collaborations with leading research institutes worldwide
   • Provision of the ship as a mobile research platform

5. Guest participation in environmental protection:

   • Interactive environmental education program
   • Opportunity for active participation in nature conservation projects during the journey

Investment in Unique Experiences

An expedition on the HANSEATIC spirit is more than a journey – it's an investment in life-changing experiences:

• Arctic Odyssey (14 days): from €11,990
• Antarctic Deep Research (16 days): from €15,990
• Amazon Headwaters Expedition (18 days): from €13,990
• Forgotten Islands of the Pacific (21 days): from €16,990

Insider tip: The "Early Explorer" rates offer not only financial benefits but also exclusive expedition privileges for early bookers.

Included in the cruise price:

• All-inclusive gourmet dining
• Premium beverage selection
• All regular expedition activities and Zodiac rides
• High-quality expedition equipment for use
• Expert lectures and guidance
• All gratuities

Optional additional services:

• Tailor-made expedition activities (e.g., heli-hiking, ice diving)
• Exclusive wine tastings and gourmet workshops
• Personalized spa packages
• High-speed satellite internet

Bookings can be made through the exclusive expedition portal of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, by phone via the expedition hotline, or at selected specialist travel agencies. Last-minute cabins and remaining spaces are often still available.

HANSEATIC spirit vs. Conventional Expedition Cruises

The HANSEATIC spirit clearly stands out from conventional expedition ships. It offers a scientific focus with active research participation by guests, in contrast to the touristic emphasis and passive nature observation on traditional ships. With flexible, research-based routes and state-of-the-art equipment, it enables unique experiences, while conventional ships often offer fixed itineraries and standard equipment. The HANSEATIC spirit limits the number of guests to 230 and relies on an interdisciplinary team of experts, whereas traditional ships have larger passenger capacities and general nature guides. Thanks to its ice-capable construction and innovative landing technologies, the HANSEATIC spirit can explore regions that often remain inaccessible to conventional ships with limited ice capabilities and traditional landing methods. These differences make the HANSEATIC spirit an exclusive option for discerning explorers seeking more than an ordinary expedition cruise.

"The HANSEATIC spirit has completely revolutionized my idea of expedition travel. It's like being part of a cutting-edge research team uncovering the last secrets of our planet – all in an environment that can't be beaten for luxury and comfort. The opportunity to contribute to real scientific projects while seeing places usually reserved only for researchers makes these journeys truly unique." - Christian Z., HANSEATIC fan

The HANSEATIC spirit is your ideal choice if you:

• Want to push the boundaries of conventional travel
• Wish to harmonize luxury and scientific discovery
• Want to actively contribute to understanding and protecting our planet
• Seek experiences that will profoundly change your worldview
• Are enthusiastic about cutting-edge technology and research
• Want to explore the last uncharted corners of the Earth

Discover the entire expedition fleet of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

The HANSEATIC spirit is more than a ship – it's your personal portal to a world of wonders and discoveries. With her, you experience not an ordinary cruise, but a groundbreaking expedition to the frontiers of the known. Each journey is an opportunity to be part of something truly grand – be it exploring unknown ecosystems, documenting rare animal species, or experiencing natural phenomena that few humans have ever witnessed.

Aboard the HANSEATIC spirit, each day becomes a chapter in the history of discovery. You delve into the secrets of polar regions, unravel the mysteries of the Amazon, or explore the hidden wonders of the deep sea. Experts are at your side, not only deepening your understanding of the regions visited but actively involving you in ongoing research projects.

The unique combination of cutting-edge technology, scientific expertise, and unparalleled comfort makes the HANSEATIC spirit a milestone in the history of expedition cruising. Here, the boundaries between vacation and research trip, between learning and experiencing, blur. You return not only with memories but with a profound understanding of the complex interconnections of our planet and the certainty of having contributed to its exploration and preservation.

Whether you're following the call of the wild, want to fathom the secrets of the oceans, or simply seek a journey that fundamentally changes your life and perspective – the HANSEATIC spirit is your key to a world full of wonders and insights.

Related pages