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HANSEATIC spirit
FROM SAL TO CAPE TOWN
Sal - Cape Town
Expedition unknown expanses of the Atlantic: Premiere – world history exposed
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30.10.26 to 15.11.26|16 days
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HANSEATIC spirit
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SPI2622
The highlights of this cruise
On a premiere route far away from civilisation, uncover the secrets of remote life off the coast of Africa. The history of a British overseas territory, Napoleon's exile and the desert treasures of Namibia guarantee sunny days for passionate explorers.
- Architectural legacy of Portuguese settlers: the island of Santiago, Cape Verde’s history book
- Cross the equator with all your senses and with plenty of variety for body, mind and palate
- St Helena: venture in Napoleon’s footsteps in his place of exile
- Colourful display of sea, sand and flamingoes: be captivated by the Namib desert from Walvis Bay
- German heritage and diamond fever in Luderitz
At anchor
Further information
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A sea full of contrasts awaits you on Cape Verde. This is best represented on Santiago, the largest island in the archipelago: green valleys, impressive mountains and desert-like regions are special highlights, as well as colonial architecture and African zest for life. Santiago is the cultural and historical hub of the group of islands, and its modern capital Praia offers a mix of traditional culture and colonial heritage. Music is everywhere here – especially the Batuque and Funana rhythms, which are deeply rooted in the culture of the island. Celebrations and dances reveal the locals’ zest for life and warmth. The city of Cidade Velha was the first European colonial settlement in the tropics and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This combination of natural diversity, cultural significance and districts with urban flair ensures a real wealth of contrasts.
Experience more
Selected shore excursions*
- Santiago in a nutshell: City walk and scenic tour
- Praia and Cidade Velha – from the new capital to the old
- Fertile Santiago – short island tour
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St Helena, with its fascinating mix of unspoilt nature and historical relics, is famous for being Napoleon’s place of exile – he spent his last years on the island at Longwood House. Prepare to be surprised by the beautiful scenery, with deep-green vegetation, tropical red and yellow-bellied birds and the breathtaking cliffs of Sandy Bay. When out hiking you will see how the climate and vegetation zones can change radically within just a few kilometres. The path of knowledge will take you and your experts in the footsteps of Bonaparte, who was exiled here in 1815. There was no question of escaping back then and you won’t have any thoughts of escape now either, since the island has so much to offer in terms of history and natural beauty.
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Sea, desert and culture combined: Walvis Bay deserves its nickname, the “pearl of Namibia”, and is a fascinating stop on your route along the African coast. The original settlement of the indigenous population was used as a territory by numerous colonial powers until it was handed back to Namibia in 1994. Life here today is governed mainly by the sea birds in the lagoon: countless pelicans and flamingoes flock to the calm waters and are a sight to behold. With luck, you might also see some dolphins and seals. The proximity to the Namib desert with its majestic dunes provides a unique backdrop. A true highlight for nature lovers and those with a thirst for adventure.
Experience more
Selected shore excursions*
- Crossing the Namib desert in an all-terrain vehicle
- Scenic flight over the desert landscape of Sossusvlei
- The desert city of Swakopmund
- Boat trip with wildlife observation
- All-terrain vehicle tour into the dunes of Sandwich Harbour
Tip from our travel concierge*:On an overland excursion to the Namib Naukluft National Park, discover two of Namibia’s scenic highlights in the middle of the Namib desert: the Sossusvlei, a salt and clay pan surrounded by deep red dunes – at up to 300 m (984 ft), the dunes are some of the highest in the world, as well as the most attractive thanks to their star formation. Close by, the Sesriem Canyon drops up to 30 m (98 ft) into the earth, offering an impressive insight into the geological history of Namibia.
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Get right up close to German history on a visit to the former colony of German South West Africa in what it is now Namibia. At the edge of the Namib desert, you will discover the traces left by the German imperial era in Luderitz, a colourful town with beautifully preserved art nouveau buildings. The German names on many of the streets and shops provide a hint of the past at first glance. The town was named after a businessman from Bremen, Adolf Lüderitz, who suspected that there were great mineral resources to be found in the region. And he was right: there were diamonds, which provided the riches for the nearby abandoned town of Kolmanskop, where magnificent stone houses were built in the German style. Find your own jewels on a stroll around Luderitz – perhaps in the form of the Church on the Rock, built in 1911.
Experience more
Selected shore excursions*
- Kolmanskop – ghost town in the desert
- A stroll around Luderitz
- Scenic tour along the Luderitz peninsula
* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.
The itinerary depends on official approval and the weather conditions.
Arrival and departure | optionally bookable
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Thu, 29.10.2026
Scheduled flight from Germany to Sal
Overnight stay with breakfast (mid-range hotel)
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Sun, 15.11.2026
Scheduled flight from Cape Town to Germany -
Mon, 16.11.2026
Arrival in Germany
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Extend your trip
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Our popular before and after programmes include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
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Discover your cruise destinations in a uniquely personal setting – perfect for those who prefer not to join a group. This way, you'll have ample time and space for your own activities. Transfers are usually conducted in cars with private drivers. For pricing for more than two people, please inquire.
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Our travel concierge will be happy to put together tailor-made travel arrangements for you according to your wishes. From design hotels to luxurious beach resorts to ticket reservations for theater visits or restaurant recommendations for the most exciting cities. The Travel Concierge is available to you before your trip and of course on board.
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