Luxe Beat Magazine MAY 2015 | Page 31

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. 31