Details Emerge on Hapag-Lloyd's Europa 2 and Columbus 2

 

Europa will soon have a companion ship in Europa 2.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is making a real play in the cruise sector with the addition of Europa 2 in 2013 and the charter of Columbus 2, on loan from Oceania Cruises, in April 2012. Europa 2 will have 258 suites and accommodate 516 passengers, while Columbus 2's 349 rooms will accommodate 698 passengers.

"We are pleased to be increasing our product diversity with both ships  with the aim of reaching new target groups," said Hapag-Lloyd Cruises' Managing Director Sebastian Ahrens. He added, "The Columbus 2 achieves the demand for a relaxed, small premium ship with a modern concept and the Europa 2 is the logical further development of a contemporary interpretation of a luxury ship sailing alongside the Europa, and will be positioned as a lifestyle-oriented, informal sister ship on a 5-star level."

Europa 2 will have veranda suites at just over 300 square feet, spa suites, penthouse and family suites. The ship will have a total of seven restaurants, including a sushi bar, two lounges and four bars. The ship will also put a focus on sport and health-oriented facilities, including a large wellness and spa zone.

Equipped also with a fleet of Zodiacs, the ship will also offer small harbor and bay landings for those looking for exploration.

Columbus 2 has 28 inside cabins, 89 outside cabins, 170 balcony cabins, 52 penthouse suites, four Vista and six owner suites.
Cabins have a standard size of just over 215 square feet. Passengers will have the choice of four restaurants and three bars. The pool deck with its stage offers the prospect of summer events. Like Europa 2, the ship will be equipped with a large spa and wellness zone. There will also be a pool and Jacuzzi, a jogging course and a golf driving range.

The ship will offer seven-day combinable routes in the Mediterranean in the spring and fall while also having
the option in the summer to book 12-day cruises visiting Nordic countries and sailing on the Baltic Sea. The Columbus 2 will also
offer two to three-day introductory cruises, for cruisers to get to know the ship. Winter months are also set aside for a world cruise.

Visit www.hl-cruises.com.