MS Europa has left the shipyard: During its two-week regular stay in Dock 11 of Blohm + Voss, the luxury ship of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises underwent various renovations on board. For example, the former Clipper Lounge has been completely redesigned and now impresses guests as Gatsby’s with a new entertainment concept in the style of the 1920s. In addition, the main restaurant has received a new look, 146 bathrooms have been renovated or modernized, and large parts of the teak deck have been renewed. One special feature is the conversion of the stabilizers to an environmentally friendly technology. Overall, the complete shipyard list included 625 points.
- Comprehensive innovations in various areas
- New entertainment lounge Gatsby’s with a new entertainment concept
- Modernization and renovation of 146 bathrooms
- Conversion of stabilizers to an environmentally friendly technology
879 specialists worked on the extensive technical and optical modernizations on board the EUROPA for two weeks: 4,200 square meters of new carpet were laid, 650 square meters of teak deck were renewed, and 3.2 tons of paint were applied to the ship, among other things. The conversion of the stabilizers to an environmentally friendly technology as part of the shipyard is a special measure in terms of sustainability. The two stabilizers will now be operated with environmentally friendly bio-oil.
In 136 veranda suites on decks 5, 6, and 7, the bathrooms were modernized, and the bathrooms of the ten penthouse suites on deck 10 were completely renewed. The living areas of the penthouse suites have also been redesigned and now offer more space to relax with cozy COR armchairs. All 36 outside suites without a veranda now present themselves with a new color concept in sand and natural colors combined with berry tones. The former maritime Clipper Lounge now reflects classic bar culture of an earlier America as Gatsby’s in the style of the 1920s and delights guests with a brand new offering. Before dinner, guests can enjoy live entertainment such as instrumental programs of individual brass players, performances by the onboard band in small ensembles, piano music, or selected guest artists. The themes are inspired by artists such as Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, and Duke Ellington. The bar menu at “Gatsby’s” includes not only the most important cocktails of an exciting era but also some “Forgotten Drinks” and “Signature Cocktails” that are exclusively served at “Gatsby’s.” The centerpiece of the bar is the original Wurlitzer Jukeboy “One more Time,” which allows guests to create their own dance music with songs from well-known singers, bands, interpreters, and orchestras from the 1930s to 2000s.
The Europa Restaurant has also received a new, modern look: with light carpets, wall designs with radiant elements, newly upholstered chairs, and – the highlight – two handmade chandeliers, the main restaurant of the ship shines in a fresh new light. The buffet restaurant on deck 8, the Lido Café, now presents itself with a new entrance and buffet area in a maritime style. In addition, various small and a large number of technical works have been carried out on board.
The Europa starts its journey today from Hamburg along the west coast of Europe via Antwerp, St.-Malo, Gijon, Lisbon, Cadiz, Malaga, Cartagena, and Barcelona to Monte-Carlo, where it arrives on October 30, 2015.