Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ 5 star-plus cruise ship MS EUROPA 2 has reemerged from drydock with a new look, technology and concept.
During EUROPA 2‘s recent docking period – the second since being launched in 2013 – around 550 external specialists and 370 crew members have worked on conceptual changes, cosmetic repairs, maintenance tasks and structural elements. In total, the craftsmen laid 4,000 square metres (43,055 square feet) of new carpet and used 5,000 litres (1,099 gallons) of paint.
This extensive work focused on tasks such as modernising Deck 9 where the Belvedere has been given a completely different “look” with new furniture, colours and materials. This lounge at the ship’s bow has been transformed into a comfortable spot with a coffee bar and integrated library.
The former Library is now home to the new Cruise Sales Lounge. The waiting area of the new Cruise Sales Lounge features a small EUROPA 2 museum where numerous display cases show special pieces from the short history of the ship, including a model of the EUROPA 2, a replica of the keel-laying coin and much more.
The auditorium on deck 9 has also been redesigned. The new studio will be used for workshops, talks and cinema viewings. It will also be the ideal spot for Yoga classes with endless views of the ocean.
The most extensive construction work took place in the Spa area on Deck 5 where all four saunas have been renovated and given a new concept.
There is now a Finnish sauna heated to up to 90 C, a revitalising Deep Ocean sauna heated to 55 C and a mineral steam bath heated to 45 C and with up to 100 % humidity. In the low temperature herbal sauna – heated to 65°C – the Black Forest-inspired décor creates a relaxing atmosphere. The Spa area now features a lounge corner with an electric fireplace and new lounge furniture in the outdoor area.
On deck 4 the popular Herrenzimmer gin bar has been given a “new look” and renamed Collins. In addition to the largest gin collection at sea – now extended to 45 varieties – visitors will be able to select records and use the new record player themselves. A piece of art by Hamburg duo Sutosuto forms the centrepiece of the room. After a long period of planning and preparation, the portrait of Albert Ballin was created in the dockyard. Opposite the Collins bar is the former Jazz Club, which has been renamed Club 2. New seating has also been added to the Italian restaurant Serenissima.
The Teens’ Club has moved from Deck 7 to Deck 4 to make the teens’ space even more private. The former private dining room Speisezimmer has been transformed into a large, relaxing lounge area with cosy alcoves, games consoles and much more. The route to the new Teens’ Club is indicated by the impressive graffiti work of Hamburg-based artist Lady Wave.
Pictures courtesy of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises