Phoenix Reisen marked the end of the sailing career of the Deutschland with a tribute on its social media profiles.

After sailing for the company on a seasonal basis for the past 11 years, the 1998-built vessel bid farewell to the fleet earlier this month.

In its special post, Phoenix Reisen highlighted the ship’s “unique atmosphere, classic elegance and countless special trips.”

“Some ships are more than just a travel destination; they become a piece of home. That’s exactly what Deutschland has been for many guests and crew members in recent years,” the company continued.

“Together, we have experienced unforgettable moments at sea, discovered new favorite destinations and collected memories that will last,” Phoenix Reisen added.

“Now it’s time to say goodbye. With great joy, we look back on all the shared sea miles and say: thank you, Deutschland.”

For its final cruise for the company, the 520-passenger ship offered an eight-night cruise to the English Channel and the North Sea.

Sailing roundtrip from Bremerhaven, the cruise included visits to destinations in France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Belgium, including Portsmouth, Fowey, Saint-Malo and Ijmuiden.

After being chartered to the company, the Deutschland had been offering summer seasons for Phoenix Reisen since 2015.

During its final season, the vessel offered a series of eight cruises from three homeports in Germany: Bremerhaven, Cuxhaven and Kiel.

Highlights of the deployment included a 22-night voyage to the Atlantic Islands and a 16-night cruise to the British Islands.

With Phoenix Reisen deciding not to renew the ship’s charter agreement beyond 2026, the Deutschland is expected to remain in layup during the summer of 2027.

In addition to the German brand, the ship also sails for Semester at Sea, operating fall, winter and spring cruises as the World Odyssey.

The sailings are part of the company’s educational cruising concept and sail between Europe, Southeast Asia and the Far East.