Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ HANSEATIC, the only five star ranked expedition ship in the world, according to the 2010 Berlitz Cruise Guide, returned to service after a two-week shipyard stay. The main objective of the shipyard stay was the replacement of the cabin windows as well as the refurbishment of the suites, which included gutting and rebuilding the bathrooms in the suites with separate bath tubs and showers, and adding new marble walls and granite floors. Additionally, two suites received a new cabin design. Another modification is the transformation of the hair salon into a modern styling and cosmetics studio. Lastly, a new lighting and sound system was added to the deck.
The HANSEATIC will also be offering a new “art on board“ concept, which will include premium-quality black and white photographs, portraying extraordinary nature and animal scenes throughout the ship, emphasising the spirit of expedition.
At home throughout the world with an efficient network at all times – the new ITV system offers direct access to the Internet from all cabins. The additional installation of Wireless LAN (local area network) makes it possible to use the Internet in many public spaces on board as well.
The HANSEATIC combines the adventure of global expedition and study cruises, with first-class comfort for a maximum of 184 guests. The ship’s highest ice class ranking gives it the opportunity to travel to remote destinations in polar waters or in the South Seas. Its shallow draft means it can also sail on rivers like the Amazon. Guests explore the world’s best-kept secrets in Zodiacs (small motorized boats) with only 10-12 guests. Its versatile Zodiacs allow passengers to navigate closely to natural habitats and make shore landings in complete safety. Onboard lecturers include a team of experienced scientists, expedition leaders and specialists who guide landings and offer guests the rare opportunity to observe plant and animal life up close.
The HANSEATIC’S 2010 cruise program offers the following enticing itineraries, all of which are operated fully bilingual in English and German.
Destination Antarctica:
Trip logistics: from Ushuaia/Argentina to Puerto Montt/Chile, February 13-March 5, 2010, 21 days, with stops in the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, South Orkney Islands, South Shetland Islands, Antarctic Peninsula; cruise only rates starting at $13,750 per person, based on double occupancy, including chartered flights Buenos Aires – Ushuaia and Puerto Montt – Santiago. Upgrade Special: passengers booking a category 1 cabin will get an automatic upgrade to a category 3 cabin. Additionally, passengers will receive a 300 Euro (approx. $400) onboard credit that can be used for beverages and laundry.
Destination: The Legendary Northwest Passage
Trip logistics: from Kangerlussuaq/Greenland to Nome/Alaska, August 16- September 10, 2010, 25 days, with stops in Greenland, Cruising in Disko Bay, Baffin Island, Devon Island, Barrow Strait, Northwest Passage and Alaska; cruise only rates starting at $21,000 per person, based on double occupancy, including the charter flights Hanover – Kangerlussuaq and Nome – Vancouver.
Destination Kamchatka:
Trip logistics: from Nome to Yokohama, September 9-30, 2010, 20 days, with stops in Alaska, Chukchi Peninsula, Chukotka, Kamtchatka, Kuril Islands, Sakhalin, Japan; cruise only rates starting at $12,240 per person, based on double occupancy, including the charter flights Vancouver – Nome.
All of the bilingual cruises, ensure English-speaking passengers feel comfortable from the moment they step onboard. Documentation in English onboard includes: daily programs, menus, announcements, lectures/video presentations and safety drill instructions. Shore excursions are offered in English on a group or individual basis whenever possible in the port of call. Lastly, the entire crew is fluent in English.
