Berlitz Cruise Guide 2020: MS EUROPA and MS EUROPA 2 receive the highest distinction of 5-stars-plus

The EUROPA and EUROPA 2, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ two luxury ships are the only cruise ships to receive the coveted distinction of 5-stars-plus in the latest edition of the renowned Berlitz Cruising & Cruise Ships 2020. As such, they have defended their top rankings as the best ships in the world in the “Top 20 Small Ships” category. The HANSEATIC nature was named best boutique ship for the first time and awarded a 5-star rating.

The EUROPA 2 achieved 1,864 of a possible 2,000 points, topping the rankings for small ships with 251 to 750 passengers. Its sister ship, the EUROPA, was also awarded the coveted 5-stars-plus with a total of 1,852 points. The new expedition ship HANSEATIC nature, the latest addition to the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ fleet, also earned recognition and attained first place instantly in the “Top 20 Boutique Ships” (50 to 250 Passengers)” category with 1,791 of a possible 2,000 points. The BREMEN expedition ship was awarded 4 stars with 1,416 points.

Says Author of the Guide Douglas Ward: “In the latest edition, only two ships were once again able to achieve the standard and the points required by the exclusive 5-stars-plus category: the EUROPA 2 and EUROPA from Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. It is wonderful to cruise on both ships, which are slightly different from one another. The hallmarks of the ships are the generous amount of space per passenger, public areas with high ceilings, an exclusive selection of restaurants with a wide range of culinary specialities and their attentive, friendly and yet discreet service.”

“We are proud to claim the top three spots overall in the luxury and expedition segments of the esteemed cruise rankings. In our eyes, 5-star quality entails not only top service, exceptional quality and an unrivalled amount of space per passenger but also effective environmental management. From July 2020 onwards, the entire Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ fleet worldwide will use the low-pollutant fuel marine gas oil exclusively. We see this step as an important and decisive investment in our future”, says Karl J. Pojer, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. 

Hamburg, October 2019