Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Cruises: Ships, Routes & Expert Advice
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Planned Seamlessly with Polar Experts – Always at the Best Price
Itineraries Abord Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Cruises
Details About Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Cruises
True Adventure on Purpose-Built Expedition Ships
Sail aboard the specially designed polar expedition ships HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC spirit, and HANSEATIC inspiration, state-of-the-art vessels built for exploration in the most remote regions on Earth. Accompanied by an experienced, German-speaking expedition team of naturalists, scientists, and expedition leaders, you’ll discover the breathtaking highlights of both the Arctic and Antarctic.
Hapag-Lloyd’s expedition routes stretch from the southern wonders of the Antarctic Peninsula and South Georgia to the wild heart of the Amazon and in the north, from Norway’s dramatic fjords all the way to Svalbard and Greenland. Each voyage blends adventure, discovery, and expert guidance for an unforgettable journey at the edge of the world.
5-Star Comfort in the Arctic and Antarctic
Aboard Hapag-Lloyd’s intimate expedition ships — carrying no more than 230 guests (and just 199 in Antarctica) — you’ll enjoy exceptional personal service, full-board dining across three restaurants, and two elegant bars. Perhaps you’ll start your morning with breakfast on your private balcony or savor a gourmet meal served by your butler as you gaze out over drifting icebergs.
As one of the few cruise lines to offer complete travel packages, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises includes international flights for Antarctic expeditions and many other destinations. From the moment you depart to your return home, every detail is arranged for the highest level of comfort and convenience.
German-Speaking Expedition Team
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises stands out as the most luxurious cruise line offering a fully German-speaking crew and expedition team in both the Arctic and Antarctic. With these experienced professionals at your side, you’ll not only see the polar regions — you’ll truly understand them.
For more than 40 years, Hapag-Lloyd’s ships have been sailing to Antarctica, making them true pioneers of polar exploration. Onboard, expert naturalists, scientists, and lecturers bring the icy wilderness to life with fascinating insights and first-hand knowledge that turn every expedition into a deeper, more meaningful experience.
Your Expedition — Seamlessly Planned from Start to Finish
The Fleet of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Ready for the adventure of your life?
Reach out to us today and receive independent, expert guidance from passionate polar specialists who will assist you every step of the way from choosing the right expedition to booking and planning every detail of your journey. Here’s How It Works:
Listen & Advise
We take the time to understand your travel dreams — then help you find the perfect ship, route, and price to match your goals and expectations.
Reserve & Relax
Your cabin will be held for at least 72 hours while we fine-tune every detail of your expedition together, ensuring everything is just right.
Prepare & Explore
Before departure, you’ll receive expert packing advice, insider tips, and practical guidance so you’re fully prepared for your polar journey.
Included Services on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Ships
Included
- Cruise in your booked cabin or suite on one of Hapag-Lloyd's HANSEATIC ships.
- Full board in the three onboard restaurants; minibar with non-alcoholic drinks in cabins and alcoholic drinks in suites.
- Daily shore excursions and Zodiac trips included.
- Often includes a regional travel package, e.g., economy class return flight from Buenos Aires to the ship in Ushuaia for Antarctic voyages.
- Airport transfers with luggage transport included, depending on the route.
- Hotel accommodation, if specified in the itinerary.
- OCEAN SPA featuring a Finnish sea-view sauna, steam sauna, relaxation area, and a fitness room with modern equipment and fitness classes.
- Scientific lectures and guided landings with a German-speaking expedition team.
- Free rubber boot rental.
- One parka for Arctic or Antarctic use, available for borrowing.
- One pair of binoculars per cabin and two pairs of Nordic walking poles.
- Information materials provided before and after the trip.
- Free Wi-Fi for one hour per guest per day (depending on satellite reception).
- Port and airport fees.
- Cancellation insurance included with the PLATINUM and GOLD rates.
Excluded
- International flights: We can arrange international flights for you upon request. An optional international travel package is available, including flights from Germany, as well as optional pre- or post-programs in Patagonia for Antarctic trips and many other destinations. We will be happy to advise you on the available options.
- Selected drinks and wines from the bar.
- Personal expenses in the onboard shop.
- Spa services, including massages and hairdressing.
- Optional: Additional activities depending on the itinerary, for example, helicopter flights in Iceland.
- Optional: Sea kayaking on selected routes. Please ask us which routes are currently available.
Polar Travel Expert
Frequently Asked Questions about Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
On the HANSEATIC nature and HANSEATIC spirit, the onboard language is German. On the HANSEATIC inspiration, both German and English are spoken, ensuring a comfortable experience for international guests.
Many Hapag-Lloyd expedition voyages include a regional flight package with domestic connections to your expedition ship.
For example, Antarctic itineraries typically include a flight from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia in southern Argentina. Depending on your destination, additional flight packages may also be available. If you’re unsure about what’s included in your route, just reach out — we’ll be happy to clarify all the details for you.
The Hapag-Lloyd fleet includes the three expedition ships — HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC spirit, and HANSEATIC inspiration — as well as the luxurious small cruise ships EUROPA and EUROPA 2. Each offers an exceptional blend of comfort, elegance, and adventure.
We generally recommend polar cruises for children aged 10 and above. Depending on the itinerary, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises may allow participation from the age of 6. Parents are responsible for their children at all times during the voyage, and please note that there is no Kids Club onboard the HANSEATIC expedition ships.
There is no upper age limit. The general rule is simple: if you can independently get in and out of a Zodiac boat with minimal assistance from the expedition team, you can fully enjoy an expedition cruise — whether it’s to Antarctica, Greenland, or another remote destination.
If you’re unsure about your suitability, feel free to give us a call or send us a message through our contact form — we’ll gladly advise you.