Travel
EUROPA 2 whirlpool
above invite relaxation. Also on the
deck above: lounges facing the ocean
and bed-size chaises.
In the evening, the shows in the
ship’s high-tech theater (which has
a two-story LED wall) feature dance,
music, acrobatics and daring moves
that made me think of Cirque du
Soleil. There’s also a small movie
and lecture theater, where artsrelated and destination-related
talks are given, as well concerts
by talented musicians.
The ship has no casino, which may
disappoint some, but not me. Unless
I’m visiting Vegas or Atlantic City,
I don’t want to hear clanging slots
and the typical din of a casino.
Alternative venues are the bars and
lounges, for listening to jazz or
piano music, dancing the night away,
hanging out with fellow passengers,
indulging in cigars and spirits.
When the ship docks, and depending
on the destination, passengers can
choose diving expeditions,
snorkelling trips, jeep safaris,
zodiac expeditions, mountain bike
excursions, horseback rides – or just
about anything the Travel Concierge
can arrange. Families can choose
special excursions or have their
children accompanied by specialists
who take care of such details as sun
protection and provisions.
This year, the ship will call at ports
in North and South America, the
Caribbean and Panama Canal, Europe,
the Baltic, the Mediterranean,
Turkey/Greece, Scandinavia, Africa,
Asia, the South Pacific and the
Middle East. Cruises vary in length,
starting at seven days (to appeal
to younger travellers); some can
be combined to make for longer
itineraries.
All luxury cruises come at a price;
the two-bedroom suite on a luxury
ship that launches next year costs
$5,000 a night. Sailing on EUROPA 2
will run about $600-$700 a day.
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