Hapag-Lloyd Cruises brings contemporary dance to the floating stages of the luxury ships EUROPA and EUROPA 2

Modern dance celebrated its first major success at sea with the highly acclaimed premiere of the work TAKE FIVE by renowned Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman in June last year on the EUROPA 2. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is now building on this momentum when the first work by a young artist comes to the stage of the EUROPA in December under the motto “new gen”.  

Canadian dancer and choreographer Johnny McMillan began his career with the renowned Hubbard Street Dance Chicago ensemble and quickly established himself as one of the most outstanding talents of his generation. Last year, he enjoyed great success on the EUROPA 2 in the ensemble put together exclusively for the premiere of Alexander Ekman’s TAKE FIVE. Now McMillan is set to surprise guests on the sister ship with his own work, a completely new piece created exclusively for the EUROPA. In keeping with the “new gen” theme, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is giving Johnny McMillan the opportunity to present an innovative dance performance to the 400 guests on board the small luxury ship. 

Artistic innovation: McMillan’s vision on the high seas 

Known for his powerful style, which combines dynamic movements and emotional depth to form a unique expressive language, Johnny McMillan has already presented his works on various international stages, including the Deutsche Oper in Berlin and the Peter Jay Sharp Theater in New York City. He regularly collaborates with leading companies and artists and amazes audiences with his quest to constantly redefine dance as a form of expression. Guests on the EUROPA can look forward to an Advent season amidst idyllic dream beaches, enjoying the fascination of pristine natural beauty in all its facets as well as a diverse on-board entertainment programme. “New gen” conjures up the spirit of a new generation of artists with their unconventional approach, expressing themselves in a way that is different from what audiences are used to seeing in classical ballet. McMillan’s performance promises to be a captivating experience: sparkling with emotion, beauty and tenderness, it is a celebration of artistic innovation, premiering exclusively on board the EUROPA. In addition to Johnny McMillan, who will be part of the production in his dual role as choreographer and dancer, three other internationally renowned artists will be joining the ensemble: Emilie Leriche, Donnie Duncan Jr. and Shay Kukui.  

Exclusively back on the EUROPA 2: Alexander Ekman’s TAKE FIVE

Acclaimed Swedish choreographer Alexander Ekman has been considered an exceptional talent since the beginning of his career and is now one of the most famous and innovative artists in his field. His works have already enjoyed numerous successes on the world’s greatest stages – including that of the “best cruise ship in the world”. In June last year, he presented TAKE FIVE, a contemporary dance performance of the highest calibre, on the high seas for the very first time. This year, he is set to return to the EUROPA 2 with the world’s best dancers, brought together to form a unique ensemble, and his exclusive masterpiece. His works represent a unique and original style that playfully and masterfully combines humour, surprise and provocation. Inspired by the movement of the sea, his fast-paced and athletic choreography breaks through the boundaries of traditional dance. 

Created for the EUROPA 2, TAKE FIVE is a contemporary homage to the iconic jazz work by the Dave Brubeck Quartet. It is based on Ekman’s work FIT, which dynamically stages social themes such as flexibility, uniqueness and cultural norms. The movement of the ship at sea and the movements of the people on board are seamlessly integrated into the choreography. Skilfully combining elements of humour and satire, Ekman brings athleticism, precision and theatricality to the floating stage, while the EUROPA 2 passes through the idyllic summer scenery of the Mediterranean. 

„New Gen“ on the EUROPA

An opportunity to enjoy the sunny side of the pre-Christmas season: guests on the EUROPA can do just that on the spectacular beaches of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by turquoise waters, fine sandy beaches and lush green palm trees. Natural beauty in all its facets on the one hand, first-class entertainment on the other – alongside Johnny McMillan’s choreography, the string quartet Die Nixen will provide a new sound experience with passion, musicality, enthusiasm and groove. Presenting a mix of different genres – from classical and film music to jazz, pop and rock – the four musicians Rahel Rilling (violin), Katharina Wildhagen (violin), Kristina Menzel-Labitzke (viola) and Nikola Spingler (cello) take guests on a multifaceted journey, making familiar pieces sound new and new pieces sound different. Anyone inspired by “new gen” to start dancing themselves can take to the floor under the guidance of Let’s Dance judge Joachim Llambi. As a dance coach, he will ensure a vibrant festive season on this cruise. 

From Victoria/Seychelles, the EUROPA will set course for La Digue and Praslin, explore Madagascar with several stops, and then sail via Reunion to Port Louis/Mauritius. From 7 to 20 Dec 2025 (13 days), bookable in the SILVER fare from € 8,520 per person, double occupancy, including travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit www.hl-cruises.com/EUR2583.

Alexander Ekman meets EUROPA 2

A chance to enjoy savoir-vivre, la dolce vita and fiesta in the Mediterranean while the EUROPA 2 offers first-class entertainment. In August 2025, guests on board the small luxury ship will be able to do just that. In addition to the revival of Ekman’s exclusive work TAKE FIVE, which can only be seen on the EUROPA 2, two other artists will complement the varied programme. The well-known comedian, bestselling author and Grimme Preis winner Oliver Kalkofe as well as the successful actor and chansonnier Tim Fischer will also be on board this cruise.

Departing from Monte Carlo via Cannes, Corsica and Sardinia, past the Lipari Islands with stops in Sicily, the EUROPA 2 will then sail via Ibiza to Palma de Mallorca. From 7 to 16 Aug 2025 (9 days), bookable in the PLATINUM fare from € 6,710 per person, double occupancy, including travel package to and from departure and arrival points. For more information, visit www.hl-cruises.com/EUX2516.