hapag lloyd cruises hanseatic inspiration

• CruiseMapper
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hanseatic Inspiration

Cruise line Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

• Ushuaia (Argentina)

Hanseatic Inspiration current position

Hanseatic Inspiration current location is at South America Inland (coordinates -2.36913 S / -54.07581 W) cruising en route to BELEM. The AIS position was reported 3 hours ago.

Current itinerary of Hanseatic Inspiration

Hanseatic Inspiration current cruise is 18 days, one-way from Iquitos to Belem . The itinerary starts on 01 Apr, 2024 and ends on 19 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Hanseatic Inspiration

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Hanseatic Inspiration Itineraries

Hanseatic inspiration review, review of hanseatic inspiration.

The 2019-built Hanseatic Inspiration cruise ship is the first of the three Hapag-Lloyd boats with which the company entered the ultra-luxury expedition travel market - together with the sisterships Hanseatic Nature (2019 April) and Hanseatic Spirit (2021 June). All these boats are of the same design.

The vessel (IMO number 9183855) is currently Malta- flagged (MMSI 215766000) and registered in Valletta .

History - construction and ownership

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises (Kreuzfahrten) is a Hamburg -based passenger shipping company and premium travel brand owned by TUI AG (shipowner) and managed by its subsidiary TUI Cruises . Between 2017-2020, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises was fully owned by Hapag-Lloyd AG (German-Chilean shipping company, one of the world's oldest), currently ranked the world's 5th largest container shipping line in terms of fleet capacity.

The shipowner TUI AG (Hanover Germany-based) is a British-German multinational currently ranked the world's largest leisure and travel company. It was founded in 1923 and until 2002 was named "Preussag AG". TUI Group's companies specialize in hospitality and tourism services worldwide, with a portfolio including passenger airlines, cruise shipping, package vacations, hotels and resorts, travel agencies, retail shops.

The 230-passenger ship Hanseatic Inspiration was built by Norwegian company VARD Holdings Ltd (a subsidiary of Fincantieri) at Tulcea shipyard (Romania). The vessel has ice-class PC6 (highest for passenger ships) and offers 5-star premium hotel service and amenities, gourmet cuisine, large staterooms, and public spaces.

Hapag-Lloyd's new cruise ship design is based on an ice-strengthened hull and implemented top-notch marine technologies developed specifically for a polar vessel. Among those is the long-range 3D sonar "FarSounder 1000". The device is forward-looking (installed in the ship's bow) and integrated into the vessel's bridge navigation system. The sonar allows it to maneuver through icy waters, showing and mapping approaching hazards, such as icebergs or shallow coral reefs.

The ship design features 2 extendible glass balconies (glass-bottomed and glass-walled) providing passengers with the unique feeling of floating over the water. The vessel has a retractable Navigation Bridge wing allowing it to pass through the narrow river and canal locks.

Hanseatic Inspiration is fitted with modern environmental-friendly technologies and equipment. Vessel's hull shape is optimized to reduce fuel consumption and the overall bunker consumption. The ship has an SCR catalytic converter, reducing NOx emissions by nearly 95%. The ship's propulsion features a PROMAS rudder with a specially-designed propeller that helps reducing fuel consumption and lowers emissions. Special polar equipment is the ice detectors - thermal imaging technology with infrared cameras. Cold ironing (shore-to-ship power capabilities) are also available.

Decks and Cabins

MS Hanseatic Inspiration staterooms (120 total, in 10 cabin categories) allow max passenger capacity 230 (max 199 on Antarctic cruises).

Cabins categories are Panorama (22 m2/235 ft2), French Balcony (21-23 m2/225-250 ft2), and Balcony (28 m2/300 ft2) with private balcony (6 m2/65 ft2). Amenities include separable beds, Nordic walking poles, binoculars, rain shower, free minibar, coffee machine, a heated wall in the bathrooms for wet parkas and towels.

Junior Suites (43 m2/465 ft2) are with step-out balcony (6 m2/65 ft2) and as amenities offer butler service, separate living and sleeping areas (with panoramic views and HDTVs), separate dining area, separable beds, Nordic walking poles, binoculars, free minibar, coffee machine, bathroom with rain shower and two sinks, steam sauna in the shower area, a heated wall in the bathrooms for wet parkas and towels.

Grand Suites (71 m2/765 ft2) are with private terrace (16 m2/170 ft2) featuring space heaters. Amenities include exclusive service privileges, butler service, separate living and sleeping areas (with panoramic views and HDTVs), separate dining area, separable beds, Nordic walking poles, binoculars, free minibar, coffee machine, daylight bathroom with balcony access, free-standing bath, rain shower and two sinks, steam sauna in the shower area, separate toilet, a heated wall in the bathrooms for wet parkas and towels.

Kids under 11 years old travel for free. Teens (ages 12-15) travel at a fixed rate EUR 60 per night.

The boat has 9 decks , of which 7 are passenger-accessible and 4 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Meals are offered within open-seating during the day. Dinner is served in the ship's main dining room restaurant (aft on deck 4). The ship has 2 bars and 3 restaurants: Main Restaurant (178 seats), Speciality Restaurant (44 seats) and Bistro Restaurant (Lido Buffet) with 84 indoor seats plus around 100 outdoor seats.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

MS Hanseatic Inspiration offers a sophisticated atmosphere and the chance to visit exotic ports. Each voyage is accompanied by lectors. There are extensive wellness and fitness areas, as well as an aft marina platform for water sports. 16 onboard Zodiacs (inflatable boats) and E-Zodiacs (with electric-powered engines) make possible landings in remote expedition areas, regardless of their vicinity to a port.

• Main Lounge (deck 4) with cutting-edge technology suitable for media presentations, precaps, and recaps, full Bar, separate Smoking Lounge.
• Observation Lounge (deck 8)
• Fitness area (100 m2 / 1076 ft2) with modern exercise equipment, separate Course Room (for classes).
• Spa area (215 m2 / 2314 ft2) with ocean view.
• Pool deck area with swimming pool, jacuzzi, Pool Bar
• Spacious top-deck Sun Deck with flexible canopy (shaded seating area).
• (Ocean Academy) Interactive Knowledge Studio - enables passengers to do their own research whenever they wish by viewing the information.

In late-February 2019, Hapag-Lloyd announced a user-friendly digital concept for onboard learning never seen before on expedition vessels. The new "study wall" is available on the fleet's three new Hanseatic ships (Inspiration, Nature, Spirit).

The innovative touchscreen technology (screen size 6x1,8 m / 20x6 ft) allows passengers to research information and various topics related to the ship's current cruise itinerary destinations. The digital Study Wall was developed over a 2,5-year period via a partnership with two German ( Hamburg -based) companies - Intermediate Engineering GmbH, and mpg ErlebnisRaumDesign GmbH.

Digital content (articles, biographies, photos, videos) is divided into 5 categories. Most of the information is provided by GEOMAR ( Kiel Germany ), also by journalists, scientists, and experts. The Study Wall is located in Knowledge Studio (Wissens Atelier / Deck 8). The research facility also has four Study Seats (with touchscreens to explore the content), Study Poster (visual scientific explanations), a dedicated area for microscope research.

Itineraries

MS Hanseatic Inspiration itinerary program is based on Polar cruise expeditions (Arctic and Antarctic destinations), as well as seasonal tropical destinations - like the South Seas and Amazon.

In addition to polar itineraries, the ship also operates on voyages visiting Amazon River, Chilean Fjords, Azores Islands, Cape Verde Islands. Itinerary durations range between 4-day Frisian Islands (aka the Wadden Islands, in North Sea, Europe) to 20-day Antarctica.

During the inaugural season, the ship will also visited the USA's Great Lakes.

Hanseatic Inspiration - user reviews and comments

Photos of hanseatic inspiration.

Hanseatic Inspiration ship related cruise news

Port Thunder Bay (Ontario Canada) to host 15 cruise ship calls in 2023

In season 2023, Thunder Bay (Ontario, Canada) is set to accommodate 15 cruise ship visits, a double increase compared to the 9 calls it handled in...

Hapag-Lloyd's Europa 2 and Hanseatic inspiration restart international cruising from January 2022

The German luxury travel brand Hapag-Lloyd Cruises announced that its 2 ships - ms Europa 2 and Hanseatic Inspiration, would restart operations with...

South Korea's Port Incheon/Seoul to welcome cruise ships in 2022

South Korea's largest port - Incheon (port to Seoul City) announced that international cruise ships were set to arrive in 2022 - or 2+ years after...

Port Kiel Germany opens cruise season with AIDA's ship AIDAsol and TUI's Mein Schiff 1

Port Kiel Germany started cruise season 2021 on the Whitsun weekend (May 22-23). AIDA Cruises' ship AIDAsol was already berthed at Ostseekai Terminal...

Container ship strikes Hapag-Lloyd's cruise ship Hanseatic Inspiration

 A container ship struck the berthed Hanseatic Inspiration cruise ship in Hamburg, Germany while leaving the port. The accident happened...

Port Gothenburg Sweden rethinks procedures to ensure successful cruise ship calls

2020 was set to be a record year for the port of Goteborg (Gothenburg, Sweden) in terms of calls and passengers with 80+ calls originally planned...

German cruise lines forced to once again pause operations

Germany’s renewed restrictions because of the current resurgence of COVID are forcing the cruise shipping companies to once again suspend...

Sweden’s Port Stockholm is open and receives cruise ship calls

Sweden's radical approach to the pandemic (keeping businesses and schools open throughout) is not only benefiting the population but also the cruise...

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises resumes operations by the end of July

Hamburg Germany-based Hapag-Lloyd Cruises announced plans to commence sailings by the end of July with the implementation of preventive and hygiene...

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises cancels Great Lakes voyage

A cruise ship call at Thunder Bay (Sault Ste Marie, Ontario Canada) and Manitoulin Island (Little Current, Ontario Canada) scheduled for early-June...

•   show more news

Other Hapag-Lloyd Cruises cruise ships

• Hanseatic Nature
• Hanseatic Spirit
• ms Europa 2

Hanseatic Inspiration Wiki

Cruise ship cabins were prefabricated by the shipbuilder's sister company VARD Accommodation. Staterooms were designed by the Finnish company NIT Design, which also supplied all the materials. Besides the ship's cabins and their balconies, NIT Design also made the Spa, the a la carte restaurant, all staircases and outdoor deck areas.

On October 9, 2017, was the vessel's steel-cutting ceremony held at the VARD shipyard in Tulcea Romania . The keel-laying ceremony was on October 18, during which a special coin was traditionally placed under the first steel block (part of the hull) for good luck. In Romania was constructed only the hull (weight 6500 tons), while the rest of the ship was assembled at the VARD shipyard in Langsten Norway (near Alesund ). The 4000 ml (6450 km) long towing of the hull from Romania to Norway takes around 5 weeks. The voyage (through Istanbul Turkey and Gibraltar ) of the 6500-ton hull started on February 16, 2019. The ship's delivery was on October 2, 2019. It was launched with Hapag-Lloyd's new livery (on the blue hull).

In November 2017, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises announced that hull design changes resulted in projected over 10% annual fuel savings for the new expedition vessels. After an initial assessment, the hull's efficiency was optimized using DNV GL developed form optimization process that included 10,000 hull design analyses to confirm the hull model optimization results. The main changes were done to the hull's stern - optimized for passenger comfort by minimizing the impact of slamming.

Hapag-Lloyd opened bookings for both new Hanseatic ships (Inspiration and Nature ) on January 23, 2018.

Initially, the cruise ship's christening ceremony was scheduled for October 13, 2019 (in Antwerp Belgium ). However, the vessel's naming was later rescheduled for October 11, and held in Port Hamburg (at Uberseebrucke Terminal) . Ship's godmother is Laura Dekker - 1995-born Dutch sailor. In 2010-2012, she successfully completed a full world circumnavigation (518-day voyage) on a 40-foot ketch (2-masted sailboat). The onboard christening ceremony will be hosted by Ranga Yogeshwar - 1959-born (in Luxembourg City ) physicist and natural science journalist.

The shipbuilder was Vard Holdings Ltd (VARD) - subsidiary of Fincantieri (Italy). The ship's Captain (Master) is Ulf Wolter.

Inaugural itineraries 2019-2020

The Inaugural Cruise (scheduled for April 2019) was a 13-day itinerary from Hamburg (Germany) to Lisbon (Portugal). Next were planned itineraries in the Mediterranean and Canary Islands.

Follows a list of the rescheduled maiden voyages with ports of call.

• 15-day "Western Europe" (October 14-29, 2019) from Antwerp Belgium to Tenerife, Canaries, visiting Honfleur, Guernsey (Channel Islands), La Coruna, Lisbon (overnight), Portimao, Casablanca (Morocco), Porto Santo Island (Madeira), Funchal (Madeira, overnight).
• 17-day "Amazon River" (March 25-April 11, 2020) from Belem Brazil to Iquitos (Peru) (via Manaus Brazil ).
• 14-day "Great Lakes" (June 3-17, 2020) cruising on Detroit River, Lake Huron (visiting Mackinac Island ), Sault Ste. Marie (Ontario, Canada), Lake Superior (visiting Thunder Bay), Lake Michigan.

15-day Inaugural Cruise

16-day inaugural Transatlantic repositioning crossing from Europe to Caribbean

14-day inaugural Caribbean and Panama Canal cruise

18-day inaugural Antarctica cruise

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

Ship review: Hanseatic Inspiration, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Posted by Jane Archer on 7 April 2021

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ new ship  Hanseatic Inspiration  will come as a surprise to customers thinking expedition cruising means roughing it

From the quality of the finish to the spectacular science centre and LED screen depicting whales swimming across the top of the HanseAtrium lounge, this ship oozes luxury. The vessel, christened in Hamburg in October by round-the-world sailor Laura Dekker, holds 230 passengers (limited to 199 in Antarctica and Spitsbergen) and is targeted at German and English speakers. Prices include all meals, drinks from the minibar, tips and an hour a day of Wi-Fi.

The Cabins These are spacious, beautifully designed and well-appointed, with expedition must-haves such as Nordic walking poles and Swarovski Optik binoculars, as well as coffee machines. Bathrooms have a heated wall where passengers can dry wet clothes. Most cabins have a balcony; suites and junior suites have butler service.

The Food and Drink Passengers can eat when they wish and sit with their partner (there are lots of tables for two) or share with others in the Hanseatic Restaurant. Nikkei is a more intimate eatery serving a menu inspired by Japanese and South American cuisine – think miso cod and duck with cabbage, corn and chilli. A self-service offers a casual alternative. All restaurants are free, but drinks other than in the cabin minibars (soft drinks and beer in cabins, plus spirits in suites and junior suites) cost extra. Choose the Observation Lounge for great views.

Nikkei is a more intimate eatery serving a menu inspired by Japanese and South American cuisine 

The Facilities The HanseAtrium is the hub of the ship, used for socialising and lectures, while the Ocean Academy, open 24 hours a day, is the ‘brain’ – the place to chat to the expedition team and read up on everything from famous explorers to geology and the climate on a touch-screen LED wall. The spa pays homage to the environment, with walls made from pressed hay and stone, and glass pots with wooden lids and linen labels. The steam room and sauna are mixed and clothes are not allowed, in keeping with the true German way (wrapping in a towel is acceptable). The pool area is open to the elements so it’s pretty chilly, especially in the polar regions (outdoor heaters are available). The ship carries 17 Zodiacs for shore landings, as well as kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

There are retractable glass balconies on each side of the hull that give the feeling you’re floating on the water

USP:  It has to be all the outdoor space, which allows passengers close-up views of the scenery and wildlife. There’s access to the ship’s bow – called the Inspiration Walk – and retractable glass balconies on each side of the hull that give the feeling you’re floating on the water.

Share article

View comments, more cruise.

Hanseatic Inspiration

• Shipyard Vard Holdings
• Length 139.00 m
• Beam 22.28 m
• Tons 16,100 gt
• Passengers 230
• Crew/Pax ratio 1 : 1.35
• Currency EUR
• Language German
• Flag Bahamas

The Hanseatic Inspiration is the second ship in a series of three expeditionary units that Hapag-Lloyd Cruises built in Norway between 2019 and 2021. The ship has the highest ice class and can therefore penetrate deep into the ice pack. The unique design of Hanseatic Inspiration is reminiscent of nature, with a modern and comfortable style. There are three dining options on board, with gourmet cuisine at the highest level. In the state-of-the-art "Ocean Academy" on board, passengers themselves become researchers. The ship has a capacity of 230 passengers. Kai Ortel

• Antarctic/Artict
• Northern Europe, Svalbards, Greenland

Eine unvergessliche Kreuzfahrt

Eine unglaubliche Reiseroute an Bord eines unglaublichen Schiffes. Wirklich exzellenter Service in allem, von der Reinigung über das Catering bis hin zu großartigen Ausflügen zu wunderschönen Orten. Eine wundervolle Erfahrung, die uns schöne Momente erleben ließ, sowohl an Bord als auch während der Landungen in der Antarktis. Voll und ganz zufrieden mit dieser außergewöhnlichen Reise.

• Embarkation
• Comfort and design
• Cleaning/Maintenance
• Gym and Spa
• Theater shows
• Internet service / Wi-fi
• Baby club / Teen club
• Guest service
• Entertainment
• Bar service
• Main restaurants quality
• Buffet restaurants quality
• Speciality restaurants quality
• Would you cruise this ship again?
• Do you recommend this ship?
• Value for money
• Language assistance

Top cruise!

A great experience on board this wonderful expedition cruise ship. Great service, nice interiors and confortable suites. Dining options are also interesting and the itinerary was faboulus.

Find Your Cruise

Cruise Type Expedition Cruise Ocean Cruise River Cruise

Destination Africa Alaska America Antarctica Arctic Circle Asia & Far East Atlantic Islands Australasia Baltic British Isles Canada Canary Islands Caribbean Central America Europe Greek Isles Hawaii Iberia Indian Ocean Mediterranean Middle East Nile Cruise Norwegian Fjords Pacific Panama Canal River Scandinavia South America South Pacific West US/Mexico

When April 2024 May 2024 June 2024 July 2024 August 2024 September 2024 October 2024 November 2024 December 2024 January 2025 February 2025 March 2025 April 2025 May 2025 June 2025 July 2025 August 2025 September 2025 October 2025 November 2025 December 2025 January 2026 February 2026 March 2026 April 2026 May 2026 June 2026 July 2026 August 2026 September 2026 October 2026 November 2026 December 2026 January 2027 February 2027 March 2027 April 2027 May 2027 June 2027 July 2027 August 2027 September 2027 October 2027 November 2027 December 2027 January 2028 February 2028 March 2028 April 2028 May 2028 June 2028 July 2028 August 2028 September 2028 October 2028 November 2028 December 2028 January 2029 February 2029 March 2029

Cruise Line Abercrombie & Kent Expedition Cruises AmaWaterways Atlas Ocean Voyages Azamara Cruises Celebrity Cruises Celestyal Cruises Crystal Cruises Cunard Elixir Cruises Emerald Waterways Emerald Yacht Cruises Explora Journeys Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Holland America Line Hurtigruten Cruises Hurtigruten Expeditions Oceania Cruises P&O Cruises Paul Gauguin Cruises Ponant Cruises Princess Cruises Regent Seven Seas Cruises Riverside Luxury River Cruises Saga Cruises Scenic Ocean Cruises Scenic River Cruises Seabourn Cruises SeaDream Yacht Club Silversea Cruises Star Clippers Cruises Swan Hellenic Cruises Uniworld River Cruises Viking Cruises Windstar Cruises

Ship A&K L'Austral A&K Le Commandant Charcot Allura AmaBella AmaCello AmaCerto AmaDahlia AmaDara AmaDolce AmaDouro AmaKristina AmaLea AmaLilia AmaLucia AmaLyra AmaMagdalena AmaMagna AmaMelodia AmaMora AmaPrima AmaReina AmaSerena AmaSiena AmaSintra AmaSonata AmaStella AmaVerde AmaVida AmaViola Arcadia Aria Amazon Arvia Aurora Azamara Journey Azamara Onward Azamara Pursuit Azamara Quest Azura Balmoral Bolette Borealis Britannia Caribbean Princess Celebrity Apex Celebrity Ascent Celebrity Beyond Celebrity Constellation Celebrity Eclipse Celebrity Edge Celebrity Equinox Celebrity Flora Celebrity Infinity Celebrity Millennium Celebrity Reflection Celebrity Silhouette Celebrity Solstice Celebrity Summit Celebrity Xcel Celebrity Xpedition Celebrity Xploration Celestyal Discovery Celestyal Journey Coral Princess Crown Princess Crystal Serenity Crystal Symphony Diamond Princess Discovery Princess Emerald Azzurra Emerald Dawn Emerald Destiny Emerald Harmony Emerald Kaia Emerald Liberte Emerald Luna Emerald Princess Emerald Radiance Emerald Sakara Emerald Sky Emerald Star Emerald Sun Enchanted Princess Eurodam Europa Europa 2 Explora I Explora II Ganges Voyager II Grand Princess HANSEATIC inspiration Insignia Iona Koningsdam Le Bellot Le Boreal Le Bougainville Le Champlain Le Commandant Charcot Le Dumont D'urville Le Jacques Cartier Le Laperouse Le Lyrial Le Paul Gauguin Le Ponant Le Soleal M/S Paul Gauguin Majestic Princess Marina Mekong Jewel MS Fram MS Fridtjof Nansen MS Kong Harald MS Maud MS Nordkapp MS Nordlys MS Nordnorge MS Polarlys MS Richard With MS Roald Amundsen MS Santa Cruz II MS Spitsbergen MS Trollfjord MS Vesteralen Nautica Nieuw Amsterdam Nieuw Statendam Noordam Oosterdam Queen Anne Queen Elizabeth Queen Mary 2 Queen Victoria Regal Princess Regatta River Duchess River Empress River Princess River Queen River Tosca Riverside Mozart Riviera Royal Clipper Royal Princess Ruby Princess Ryndam S.S Beatrice S.S. Antoinette S.S. Bon Voyage S.S. Catherine S.S. Elisabeth S.S. Joie de Vivre S.S. La Venezia S.S. Maria Theresa S.S. Sao Gabriel S.S. Sphinx S.S. Victoria Sapphire Princess Scenic Amber Scenic Azure Scenic Crystal Scenic Diamond Scenic Eclipse Scenic Eclipse II Scenic Gem Scenic Jade Scenic Jasper Scenic Jewel Scenic Opal Scenic Pearl Scenic Ruby Scenic Sapphire Scenic Spirit Seabourn Encore Seabourn Odyssey Seabourn Ovation Seabourn Pursuit Seabourn Quest Seabourn Sojourn Seabourn Venture SeaDream I SeaDream II Seven Seas Explorer Seven Seas Grandeur Seven Seas Mariner Seven Seas Navigator Seven Seas Splendor Seven Seas Voyager SH Diana SH Vega Silver Cloud Silver Dawn Silver Endeavour Silver Moon Silver Muse Silver Nova Silver Origin Silver Ray Silver Shadow Silver Spirit Silver Whisper Silver Wind Sirena Sky Princess Spirit of Adventure Spirit of Discovery Star Breeze Star Clipper Star Flyer Star Legend Star Pride Star Princess The Elysium Ventura Viking Hathor Viking Helgrim Viking Hemming Viking Jupiter Viking Mars Viking Octantis Viking Osfrid Viking Saturn Viking Sea Viking Sky Viking Star Viking Tir Viking Torgil Viking Vela Viking Venus Viking Vesta Vista Volendam Westerdam Wind Spirit Wind Star Wind Surf World Navigator World Traveller World Voyager Zaandam Zambezi Queen Zuiderdam

Duration 10 to 14 nights 15 nights or more 4 nights or less 4 to 7 nights 7 to 10 nights

Home Hapag-Lloyd Cruises HANSEATIC inspiration

HANSEATIC inspiration

MS Hanseatic Inspiration is a luxury expedition cruise ship built in 2017 for Hapag-Lloyd Cruises . She offers in-depth exploration in several of the world’s most remote regions, including Antarctica, the Arctic and more tropical destinations such as the Caribbean and Amazon.

Catering to no more than 230 guests (dropping to 199 for sailings in Antarctic), MS Hanseatic Inspiration is the perfect choice if you are looking for a cruise on a modern vessel that combines five-star onboard luxury with facilities more commonly found on sea-hardened expedition ships.

MS Hanseatic Inspiration Cabins & Suites

The accommodation on Hanseatic Inspiration is divided between two main categories; cabins and suites. There are four different grades of cabin, two with private balconies and two with large picture windows.

All of the cabins on MS Hanseatic Inspiration are equipped with everything you will need to enjoy a comfortable journey no matter where you are in the world, including an en suite bathroom (complete with a rain forest-style shower), a mini-bar, an entertainment system and a heated wall for drying wet weather gear.

There are two grades of suite on MS Hanseatic Inspiration. As you might expect, these are larger than the cabins and boast private verandas, private living quarters, a dining area and even steam sauna – perfect for warming up after a day exploring ashore in the polar regions.

MS Hanseatic Inspiration Restaurants & Dining Venues

There are three dining venues on MS Hanseatic Inspiration. The ship’s main restaurant is the dining hub and here you can enjoy a mouth-watering variety of freshly prepared dishes, served at your table. The main restaurant can serve up to 178 guests and is available on an open-seating basis.

Those looking for something a little different are advised to book a table in the ship’s speciality restaurant. With creative menus designed to bring to together exciting flavours from Japan and Peru, and set amongst a pleasing backdrop of wood paneling and large windows, this unique dining option is a must if you wish to give your taste buds a real treat.

Finally, a third venue – The Bistro – offers a more informal option, as well as the choice to dine outside under an open sky should you wish.

MS Hanseatic Inspiration Entertainment & Facilities

Onboard Entertainment:

As MS Hanseatic Inspiration primarily functions as an expedition ship, the entertainment onboard cannot be compared to similar sized vessels offering more ‘classic’ cruise experiences. Instead, the entertainment is designed to be educational and enriching. Examples of this are the HanseAtrium, which is used to host the ship’s briefings and lecture programme; and the Ocean Academy, an interactive space designed for those with an interest in science.

For drinks and relaxation, the HanseAtrium is open during the evening, while the ship’s Observation Lounge provides the perfect environment for catching up with new friends.

Facilities:

For exploration ashore, MS Hanseatic Inspiration has a fleet of Zodiacs which can be deployed up to twice daily, depending on the conditions. These are used to carry guests to landing zones or to observe wildlife at close quarters.

MS Hanseatic Inspiration also has a water-sports marina located to the rear of the ship. In warmer climates, such as the Amazon, guests are offered the opportunity to borrow equipment such as paddle boards and kayaks in order to indulge in a little independent exploration.

Every voyage on MS Hanseatic Inspiration is accompanied by a multilingual Expedition Team who will lead excursions ashore and all lecture programmes.

Other facilities include:

• Spa & Fitness Suite
• H6,781 square foot pool area
• Sun-deck (with two glass balconies that extend over the ship’s edge)

For more information regarding cruising on Hanseatic Inspiration, please call our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677 . Alternatively, please make an online enquiry for your preferred sailing.

Ship Gallery

Additional Information

Guaranteed Outside Cabin

Grand Suite with Veranda

Approx. 71 m²/764 ft² Suites on Deck 6 and 7 Private veranda (approx. 16 m²/172 ft²) with space heaters Separate living and sleeping areas Separate dining area Sleeping area with panoramic view Separable beds TV in living and sleeping areas Daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bath, rain shower and veranda access Steam sauna in shower area Heated wall in bathroom Separate toilet Free mini bar with a selection of spirits Coffee machine 24-hour cabin service Butler service Fixed table reservation in the main restaurant, if desired Free choice of Zodiac group

Junior Suite with Balcony

Approx. 42 m²/452 ft² Suites on Deck 6 and 7 Private balcony (approx. 6 m²/65 ft²) Separate living and sleeping areas Separate dining area Sleeping area with panoramic view Separable beds TV in living and sleeping areas Bathroom with two sinks and rain shower Steam sauna in shower area Heated wall in bathroom Free mini bar with a selection of spirits Coffee machine 24-hour cabin service Butler service Fixed table reservation in the main restaurant, if desired

Balcony Cabin

Approx. 27 m²/291 ft² Cabins incl. balcony (approx. 5 m²/54 ft²) on Deck 5, 6 and 7 Heated wall in the bathroom Rain shower Free mini bar (soft drinks) Coffee machine Separable beds 24-hour cabin service

French Balcony Cabin

Approx. 21/23 m² (226 ft²/248 ft²) Cabins on Deck 6 and 7 Heated wall in the bathroom Rain shower Free mini bar (soft drinks) Coffee machine Separable beds 24-hour cabin service

Panoramic Cabin

Approx. 21 m²/226 ft² Cabins on Deck 5 Heated wall in bathroom Rain shower Free mini bar (soft drinks) Coffee machine Separable beds 24-hour cabin service There is one cabin with fully accessible layout and equipment (cabin 404)

Outside Cabin

Approx. 22 m²/237 ft² cabins on Deck 4, 5 and 6 Heated wall in the bathroom Rain shower Free mini bar (soft drinks) Coffee machine Separable beds 24-hour cabin service

Request a Brochure

Enter your details below or call us on 0800 008 6677

Enquire Now

Privacy overview.

What to Expect from the HANSEATIC Inspiration Expedition Cruise Ship

Expedition cruising is on the rise, especially for the more adventurous bucket list souls out there (like me!), but — luxury expedition cruises —is there such a thing? The answer is yes, and Hapag-Lloyd’s new HANSEATIC inspiration has them in spades. The HANSEATIC Inspiration is an international ship that allows you to explore your audacious side, while still leaving room for onboard relaxation so you can enjoy a 5-star experience on the water. Small boats combined with active itineraries will have you on a Zodiac through the glaciers of Antartica by day, and sipping champagne on your balcony by night.

What to Expect from the Hapag-Lloyd HANSEATIC Inspiration Expedition Cruise Ship

About hapag-lloyd cruises.

Hapag-Llyod Cruises has a very long history of being an innovator in its field. In fact, they essentially were the leaders in cruising. It all began in 1891 when the Auguste Victoria, Germany’s largest passenger ship, embarked on the world’s first-ever pleasure cruise. From there Hapag-Llyod Cruises only continued to grow.

Over a century later, they are now known for providing small, luxury cruises to places near and far. They travel from the Middle East to Africa to Antarctica, and everywhere in between. In fact, their larger luxury ship, the MS Europa 2 , took me to through idyllic port towns of Spain and the HANSEATIC Inspiration cruised me through Portugal and on to Morocco. Each cruise ship offers a unique experience of its own with hundreds of destinations, along with shore and on-board programs for everyone.

Whichever you choose, the company prides themselves on 5-star service with the attitude of leaving ‘no wish unfulfilled’. And I loved it. But, what’s not to love about service that exceeds expectations where they pay attention to the smallest details of day-to-day life onboard? It makes the sea days just as desirable as the days at port.

What is an Expedition Cruise?

Expedition cruising involves smaller ships, that combine adventurous itineraries with educational exploration. The destinations on expedition cruises are usually off-the-beaten-path places, while onboard entertainment includes enrichment programs and lectures. These trips are conducted by an expedition team who enrich the guests with presentations on various aspects of the destination like its history, culture, ecology, and anthropology amongst other things.

The passenger ships of expedition cruises are relatively smaller with a shallow draught, this allows them to reach the far off and less visited places that hold extraordinary beauty. Hapag-Lloyd cruises give you a chance to experience the true essence of expeditionary voyaging, with the perks of some high-class luxury touches to spruce it up.

The HANSEATIC Inspiration Expedition Cruise Ship

There are actually three HANSEATIC expedition ships in the Hapag-Lloyd fleet. The HANSEATIC nature and HANSEATIC spirit are German-speaking ships, whereas the Hanseatic inspiration is an international ship that is conducted in both German and English. They are designed for all year round trips in all climates, so whether you wish to explore the thick and lush mangrove forests of the Amazon, or admire the glaciers and ice peaks of Antarctica, these ships will give you a whole new perspective of all the far-flung breathtaking landscapes and sceneries the world has to offer. They take you through the unspoiled native villages with rich culture and ancient traditions that leave you with a truly worthwhile experience.

Routes of HANSEATIC Ships: Hanseatic ships touch the lesser known parts of thrilling destinations filled with natural beauty, exotic animal sightings and much more. The ships sail through the deep fjords and ice-covered waterways of Antarctic, as well as through Greenland, Canada, and Alaska, where mighty glaciers and eccentric rock formations awaits you. But that’s not all, you could also be cruising through the dense jungles of the Amazon or stick closer to home on a cruise of the hard-to-access Great Lakes. You can see all the current routes on the Hapag-Lloyd website .

With a handful of Zodiac boats and a retractable glass-floor balcony, the HANSEATIC inspiration can squeeze into narrow passages and reach the idyllic shores of exotic locales for unique excursions. Onboard, the luxury expedition cruise ships have a capacity of 230 passengers, but with all the open deck space it will feel like only a handful are cruising with you. Plus, the learning opportunities onboard allow you to delve deeper into the destination, pushing you to discover more about new cultures.

I was lucky enough to be onboard the inaugural cruise of the HANSEATIC inspiration, and the ship is nothing short of spectacular. You would typically think that expedition cruises don’t offer the luxury amenities that some larger ships can, but think again. From artisanal cheeses to high-end cigars to Nespresso machines in the room, you will want the inspiration to take you to Antartica and beyond.

Food and Drinks Onboard

Definitely bring your appetites with you on the HANSEATIC inspiration cruise, because with three delicious restaurant options, along with lounges and bars, you will not go hungry. You may even come home a few pounds heavier—I certainly did!

• Lido Restaurant: the Lido restaurant offers a casual dining buffet, but this is not just your typical buffet. To start with, there is real glassware (not those red plastic cups you get on the giant cruise ships), placemats adorn every table and your silverware is tucked into little felt pouches. As far as the food goes, you may find everything from marinated shrimp to smoked salmon to freshly hung honeycomb to slather on your toast. You have the option to enjoy your meal either inside or outside in the open air. One night instead of having a more formal dinner my husband and I loaded our plates with the Lido’s artisanal cheese, charcuterie and breads, then headed to the Observation Lounge and grabbed a glass of wine. It felt like we were having fancy appetizers in our own private wine bar!

• HANSEATIC Restaurant:  The HANSEATIC restaurant is the biggest one on cruise, serving meals that give you a taste of different cultures and traditions. One evening you may find a Viennese goulash and the next a spicy beef salad . You can’t go wrong with any of their sous vide meat dishes (they know how to do meat deliciously!), but if they happen to have the lobster on the evening you are there—order it! My husband and I agreed that it was the best lobster of our lives.

• Veal tenderloin with ginger, soy, creme fraiche, caviar of trout
• Prawns yakitori with chimichurri, lemon and cress
• Shrimp ramen with spinach, chili, scallions and fried chicken
• Spicy lamb with sweet potato, nori and chilli
• Matcha cheesecake with blood orange sorbet and crispy wild rice

Because it is such a special place, you must plan on eating there at least once during your cruise. We had such a memorable time that we went there again on our last night with the Expedition Director. It was just as good.

• Artisan Food Market: One afternoon we arrived back from a morning excursion and the pool deck had been turned into and artisan food market, complete with local wine, cheeses and caviar. Long communal tables with white tablecloths replaced the lounge chairs and about a half dozen stalls surrounded them. There was even an olive oil booth where you chose your favorite blend and pair it with one of their different salts (always black salt for me!).

• Invisible Lounge: You may walk by this small hidden lounge a few times before you realize it’s even there. It’s a humidor, where you could partake in a fine cigar as you watch the waves go by. But, I usually stopped by in the morning with my glass of orange juice to read the daily news.

• Observation Lounge : Found on the 8th floor, the Observation Lounge was where my husband Peter and I spent a lot of our free time, either sipping loose leaf jasmine tea, flipping through one of their 100s of travel books (a little piece of heaven for me!) or getting a glass of Shiraz before heading to dinner. The centerpiece is a large globe with monitors that show the current location of all the Hapag-Lloyd cruise ships, including the HANSEATIC inspiration. But, the real crème de la crème of the room is the large full-glass windows that gives you a 180-degree view of the sea.

• Pool Bar – What’s a cruise ship pool without a pool bar? Of course the HANSEATIC inspiration has one, but you’ll hardly ever visit it. Why? Because the service is so good that you won’t need to leave your lounge chair. The only reason I went to the pool bar was to load up on the soft-serve ice cream that was located right next to it!
• Atrium Bar: The Atrium Bar is attached to the HANSEATICatrium, the main gathering room for lectures and such. You can hit it up before a meal, but it’s mostly popular after dinner when either the jukebox is playing some oldies or the pianist is expertly working the keys.

Onboard Entertainment & Activities

Of course there are plenty of adventurous (and more mellow) excursions to choose from at each and every port, but being onboard can be just as entertaining. Here’s a taste of what they have to offer:

• Pool & Hot Tub: The heated pool may not be big enough for laps, but it’s definitely big enough to be refreshed, nevertheless. There’s also a whirlpool tub to sooth your aching muscles after an adventurous expedition and lounge chairs to bask in the sun.
• Piano Music: Nightly, both the Observation Lounge and the HANSEATICatrium had lovely pianists come in playing popular oldies. My husband and I turned this low-key entertainment into a game of “Name that Tune” amongst ourselves.

• Informational Lectures: Evenings are surely a more lively time, but during the afternoons, onboard entertainment is mainly focused around informative lectures and learning. There are experts, historians and scientists who give lectures in the atrium that give you insights about the cultural heritage and traditions related to a port destination. We attended an interesting one about gardens and how they came to be in the Middle East and Portugal.
• Cocktail Hours – Who doesn’t love a good cocktail hour? It’s always my favorite time of the day! Every night onboard there was a cocktail hour just before dinner in the Observation Lounge, and we never missed it. Staff would pass around pretty appetizers to whet your appetite before dinner, as cruisers sipped on the specialty cocktail made for that particular evening. But, for me it was always a glass of Shiraz.
• Ocean Academy – The Ocean Academy is an interactive room designed for expedition education. You can sit at the large touch screens to digitally explore the earth, sky and ocean or use the microscopes to take in a close up view of natural wonders. My husband disappeared for a couple hours only to find he was in there learning about icebergs and glaciers!

• Zodiac Rides: Though some expedition routes require the use of zodiacs to squeeze into narrow passages or just for an up-close experience, sometimes they will put the motorized rafts out just for a spin around the boat. It’s a unique opportunity to get a perspective of the cruise ship from the water, so don’t miss it.
• Sports Club: If adventurous excursions aren’t enough exercise for you, then hit up the fully-equipped sports club. You can work-out on your own or join one of their fitness classes. Not gonna lie, I didn’t even step foot in there with the intention of exercising, but kudos to everyone that does.
• Spa: Manicures, pedicures, massages…oh my. Allow yourself to get spoiled a little with a treatment, or visit their salon to get a cut and style.

• Internet: I know, I know —vacations are meant to be a time to be disconnected, BUT, The boat offers one free hour of internet per day for those of us that need a little connection to the outside world! For most people on holiday this is plenty, but even if it wasn’t they charge by the minute after the one hour is up instead of just charging you a large fee to have WiFi the entire cruise. I definitely prefer this, because you only pay for what you use. Oh, and on my leg of the cruise the internet was pretty dang strong. Even on my sea day I was able to upload photos to instagram!
• Inspiration Walk: The HANSEATIC inspiration offers you a short, but intense walk at the bow of the boat where you may be the first to see a penguin on an iceberg or whales jumping out of the water. When I took the walk, it was just a breathtaking endless sea of blue.

HANSEATIC Inspiration Cabins

Each cabin on the ship is simplistic, yet well designed for comfort and practicality. There are cubbies, cabinets and drawers in every nook and cranny. Even after unpacking the two of us, we still had lots of unused space. It is also pretty hi-tech (it put my Siri at home to shame!), there was a touch-screen panel to operate everything from the lights to the air conditioning.

Our room had a French balcony which allowed us to open the window to get some fresh sea air and to peek out with the binoculars that they supplied. But, the absolute best part was the Nespresso machine stocked with supplies (I remember that from the ms Europa 2 too!)—there’s something to be said for quality coffee that I don’t have to get out of my pajamas for!

With the room’s satellite range and TV, you can also connect to the Internet and access daily programs, menus and much more. They had a handful of free English movies available, and we watched them all.

Ports on My HANSEATIC Inspiration Trip

The HANSEATIC fleet can take you all over the world, though Antartica may be what these expedition cruises are best known for. My portion of the inauguration cruise brought me to Portugal and Morocco (not too shabby!). There was a lot to do during our stops, with lovely weather to enjoy outdoor adventures and explore the natural and cultural beauty. Here’s a taste of a few ports that were truly memorable for me.

Portimao, Portugal

Portimao is known as the crown jewel of Algarve, known for its picturesque beaches, medieval forts and old quarter. We spent our time there roaming through the cobbles streets taking countless photos of the weathered building.

Casablanca, Morocco

This port was a check off the bucket list , it was my first time ever in Morocco (thank you Hapag-Lloyd Cruises for taking me there!). We popped onto the ship’s organized city tour to get a good overview of the city. The excursion took us to the third largest mosque in the world, a local market and to the pretty royal palace. Though the visit was way too short, it left me wanting more.

Porto Santo Island, Portugal

I love a good beach town, and Portugal’s Porto Santo was definitely one of them. Have you ever heard of it? The pretty Portugese island may be small, but it has a lot of beauty and outdoor activities to enjoy. The beach is also adorned by a lineup of tasteful bars and cafes to keep you happy during long walks (we can’t recommend Pe Na Agua enough, their grilled shrimp was to die for!). The Pico de Ana Ferreira mountain peak offers some of the most breathtaking views of the island and Ponta da Calheta is a great spot to relax and unwind while enjoying the sunset.

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Funchal was my favorite stop on the cruise—you can’t really go wrong with narrow cobbled streets, gorgeous gardens, great restaurants and lots of shopping. The rustic and quaint city faces the Atlantic Ocean and has a beautiful backdrop of hills. It is famous for its harbor and is filled with gardens and wine cellars. I loved the old town vibes of the city with several restored historic places of significance, like the Forte de Sao Tiago. Don’t miss the Monte Cable Car that gives you the best view of the city or a visit to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, it is a showstopper! It’s been voted one of the best tropical gardens in the world and it ain’t hard to see why.

All in all, I’d say the HANSEATIC inspiration ship has several unique elements that really sets it apart. The ship is very stylish and cutting-edge in terms of entertainment, services, décor, and programs. The touch of luxury can be felt as soon as you start your trip, with LED video walls displaying the most exciting images of the journey you’ll take. The combination of both onboard experiences and unique exploration was a winner on every level.  

You Might Also Enjoy

What to Expect on a Holland America Alaskan Cruise What to Expect Aboard the Costa Smeralda Cruise Ship Porto Bucket List: 25 Best Things to Do in Portugal’s Second Largest City Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: What to Expect on the Luxury MS Europa 2 Ship 20 Best Reasons to Take a Viking River Cruise through Europe Avalon Waterways Moselle Cruise: Active & Discovery

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Hey Bucket Listers! I'm Annette .

I’m a goal obsessed mid-lifer, traveler, experience collector, fear crusher, digital marketer and author with big bucket list dreams. Let's Connect!

Want Inspo To Your Inbox?

I’m giving you practical tips, exclusive tools and the inspiration to stop dreaming about your bucket list and start living it.

Whatcha Looking for?

Home About Blog The Shop Partnerships Contact

Bucket list ideas travel facing fear & anxiety.

Hanseatic Inspiration

Ship overview.

Operated by: Hapag Lloyd Cruises

Launched in 2019, the new Hanseatic Inspiration is built to the most stringent Polar Class 6 codes. Small, manoeuvrable and with a shallow draught, this new class of expedition ship will find its way to the most remote corners of the planet. Where other ships would have long since given up, your expedition begins – and with it your journey of self-discovery.

Hanseatic Inspiration's 230 travellers (capped to 199 in Antarctica) will enjoy more open deck space than on any other expedition ship, while the deck tour at the bow and the glass balconies offer new perspectives on all sides. Fascinating talks in the HanseAtrium and the interactive Ocean Academy will take you on your own personal research trip. And wherever possible, the Zodiacs will take you up close to exotic nature and foreign cultures. Expect the unexpected and the extraordinary every day.

Hanseatic Inspiration offers English-speaking expedition voyages.

View expeditions

• Room Grades

Grand Suite with Veranda

SIZE: 71m2 / 764sqft SLEEPS: 2

The four exclusive Grand Suites with Veranda are located on decks 6 and 7 and feature separate living and sleeping areas. Whether you're relaxing on the sofa, dining in your suite or relaxing in bed, you will savour spectacular views from full length panoramic windows. The en suite features heated walls, two basins, freestanding bath, rain shower and steam sauna. Enjoy the complimentary minibar and coffee machine, along with butler service. You'll also receive your choice of table reservation in the main restaurant, free choice of Zodiac excursion group and use of Swarovski Optik binoculars.

Junior Suite

SIZE: 42m2 / 452sqft SLEEPS: 2

Located on decks 6 and 7, Junior Suites feature separate living and sleeping areas. The en suite features heated walls, two basins, rain shower and steam sauna. Enjoy the complimentary minibar and coffee machine, along with butler service. You'll also receive your choice of table reservation in the main restaurant and use of Swarovski Optik binoculars.

Balcony Cabin

SIZE: 27m2 / 291sqft SLEEPS: 2

Spread across decks 6 & 7, Balcony Cabins feature your choice of double or twin beds, an en suite with a rain shower and heated walls and of course an outside balcony. There's complimentary soft drinks in the mini bar, a coffee machine, use of Swarovski Optik binoculars and 24-hour cabin service.

French Balcony Cabin

SIZE: 21m2 / 226sqft SLEEPS: 2

French Balcony cabins are located on decks 6 and 7 and feature your choice of double or twin beds, an en suite with a rain shower and heated walls and a French Balcony (sliding door opens to protective railing). There's complimentary soft drinks in the mini bar, a coffee machine, use of Swarovski Optik binoculars and 24-hour cabin service.

Panoramic Cabin

Panoramic cabins are located on decks 4 and 5 and feature your choice of double or twin beds, an en suite with a rain shower and heated walls and full length 'floor to ceiling' panoramic windows. There's complimentary soft drinks in the mini bar, a coffee machine, use of Swarovski Optik binoculars and 24-hour cabin service.

Outside Cabin

SIZE: 22m2 / 237sqft SLEEPS: 2

Outside Cabins are located on decks 4 and 5 and feature your choice of double or twin beds, an en suite with a rain shower and heated walls and a large viewing window. There's complimentary soft drinks in the mini bar, a coffee machine, use of Swarovski Optik binoculars and 24-hour cabin service.

Come with us on a culinary voyage of discovery around the globe: on board, three spacious first-class restaurants create a unique and indulgent combination of expedition spirit with international gourmet cuisine. Spend your days and evenings however you wish thanks to flexible mealtimes, a free choice of seating and attentive 24-hour cabin service.

A glass of wine in your hand and the magnificent jungle, the captivating wilderness of Nordic fjords or the icy panoramas of the Antarctic directly before you – the perfect end to a day of expeditions. From classic whiskys to fancy aperitif creations, the superbly equipped bars in the Observation Lounge and HanseAtrium serve your favourite drinks as you watch the sun go down. Welcome to the small club of great explorers.

Exclusive delights, wherever and whenever you please: the spacious HANSEATIC Restaurant of the new expedition class redefines on-board cuisine.

From breakfast to dinner, experience an endless variety of creative cuisine at any time of day. Where your ship drops anchor, top chefs will look to local specialities and conjure up for your plate the aromas of South Africa, the far north, or Europe. Daily changing menus will send your taste buds on a global tour of discovery – accompanied by a selection of wines to suit every palate.

The speciality restaurant Nikkei  will take you on a culinary voyage of discovery: explore exquisite Japanese creations and Peru’s modern and fashionable cooking. Exploring the world has never tasted so good!

The sun on your skin, the wind in your hair, salt on your lips – expeditions bring you particularly close to the elements. The same applies to the  Lido Restaurant . Have breakfast under an open sky, or enjoy a juicy steak cooked to perfection on the large outdoor barbecue – garnished with breathtaking panoramic views. Watch gourmet chefs at work in the open show kitchen or head straight to the ice cream station for dessert. And why not? After all, the daily grind is far away.

Hanseatic Inspiration offers luxurious surrounds and amenities akin to those you'd expect to find on a much larger ship. Here's just a selection of the key features:

MARINA The marina is the convenient starting point for a range of activities: board our 17 Zodiacs for thrilling excursions or use the marina as your comfortable base for a variety of warm-water sports: kayaks (at a surcharge), stand-up paddle boards and snorkelling equipment are available for you to use.

OCEAN ACADEMY The Ocean Academy allows you to experience science however you desire. The large study wall and interactive science poster provide fascinating information on a wide range of disciplines at all times. Binocular microscopes allow you to delve deep into the wonders of our planet.

OBSERVATION DECK AND LOUNGE The terraced Observation Deck offers the best views as well as permanently mounted binoculars. Located one deck lower, the Observation Lounge brings the excitement indoors with its 180-degree panoramic view.

HANSE ATRIUM The central HanseAtrium can be used for many different activities; its cutting-edge technology makes it suitable for presentations and expert lectures as well as intensive precaps and recaps. The bar is the perfect place for a relaxing evening chat.

POOL & BAR A wonderful place to relax: thanks to its flexible canopy, the 630 sqm pool area with bar can be enjoyed whatever the weather. Water loungers and a counter-current system offer pure relaxation.

GLASS BALCONIES Two extendible glass-floored balconies on the Sun Deck provide a unique feeling of floating over the ocean.

SPORTS CLUB The spacious fitness area, which spans around 100 sqm, features the latest equipment, a separate course room and an incomparable ocean view.

OCEAN SPA A 215 sqm light-filled wellness complex with an outdoor area and views of the open seas – the new spa area leaves no wish unfulfilled.

Where narrow waterways must be traversed, hidden bays await discovery, reefs must be negotiated and remote islands beckon, the 17 onboard Zodiacs come into their own. These robust rubber excursion boats allow you to delve deep into the wonders of nature; watch fur seals and whales from a respectful distance and land on untouched coasts. Polar bears are best watched from the safety of the ship‘s deck or from a Zodiac. Listen closely when parrots cry, howler monkeys loudly mark their territory and the jungle opens up its heart. Glide over the water in the Zodiacs, some fitted with electric motors, and become a silent observer with a view of nature’s authentic beauty. Encounter marine creatures such as dolphins and seals, watch rare flocks of birds and drift on the waves with sea otters – see the world in a new light from a Zodiac.

If you prefer to power your craft yourself, the marina at the stern of the expedition ship will provide a personal excursion into the unknown. It is also possible to experience nature from an unusual perspective during warm-water activities such as kayaking (for a surcharge) or stand-up paddling.

Cruise Ship Odyssey

Hanseatic nature, inspiration, spirit  –  hapag-lloyd.

• June 23, 2023

One of the first cruises in history is said to have departed from Hamburg in 1891. It was the  Auguste Viktoria   which was on of HAPAG’s largest ships and mostly out of work during winter time as not many passengers wanted to experience the angry North Atlantic in winter time with its ferocious weather. So Albert Ballin, CEO of HAPAG organized a 58-day cruise to the Mediterranean and Orient which became a great success. Now, on  May 4 2019, another passenger shipping milestone took place in Hamburg, as the first of HAPAG-Lloyd’s new trio of expedition ships was christened ,  Hanseatic Nature .

HAPAG’s  Europa  and  Europa 2  have received the highest ratings possible for many years in a row now, and it is expected that the same will apply to their new expedition cruise ships. Karl Pojer, todays managing director of HAPAG-Lloyd Cruises stated in his speech during the naming ceremony of  Hanseatic Nature,  the first vessel of the series, that the company’s motto is “to let guests experience our great planet and enrich their mind”. This trio of expedition cruisers are cleared to sail to almost every remote region imaginable, as they are PC6-classified, meaning the highest ice-class for passenger ships.

HAPAG will have several very experienced captains in command: Thilo Natke, Axel Engeldrum and Ulf Wolter who have all been in command of other ships of the company like the previous  Hanseatic  (until recently sailing as  RCGS Resolute  for now defunct One Ocean Expeditions) or the  Europa  2. HAPAG has ordered all three ships from the Vard Group, A Fincantieri-subsidiary. Vard builds the 6500-ton hulls in their facility in Tulcea, Rumania and then they are towed through the Black Sea, The Mediterranean and along the coast of Western-Europe to Norway, a three and a half-week voyage to Norway, to the Vard Langsten-yard near Alesund, where the construction of the ships will be completed and they will be fitted out. Apart from  Hanseatic Nature  in May 2019 and  Hanseatic Inspiration  in October 2019, a third ship in this series,  Hanseatic Spirit  will follow summer 2020.

Compared to their  Europa and Europa 2 , these ships will not mainly be targeted to the German market, but they will have a more international clientele on board, hence the second language will be English. There are 120 staterooms and suites to be occupied by 230 passengers on “regular cruises” and only 199 guests during expedition voyages. Staterooms vary in size from 21 to 71 square metres, and their interiors have been done in bright colors as well as gray and white. Lights are activated by a motion sensor when guests enter the room.

The first of the 3 ships,  Hanseatic Nature  had originally been planned to be named in Hamburg on April 12 2019, but the Langsten yard experienced problems when finishing her, so the festivities were cancelled. Now delivery by the yard had been postponed to April 30 and Captain Notke sailed without passengers from Norway to Hamburg. The christening of  Hanseatic Nature  was changed to a more low-key one, as only crew and HAPAG staff was were present.   Hanseatic Nature   was named by Isolde Susset who was project-leader of the team building her and who has been involved in the HAPAG-Lloyd expedition cruise branch for 15 years as one of their key-employees.

The interior-design of the ships has been done by Oceanarchitects (Germany) following the main principle “Inspired by Nature”, meaning that the interior should connect with the outside world. So colors, material, fabrics as well as the use of flowing, curved lines in her interior (like the walls in staterooms and suites) and of course the artwork on board all relate to aspects of  nature. There are 3 restaurants, The Lido (buffet) seating 184 in- and outdoors featuring a grill and show-kitchen, the 178 guest main restaurant “Hanseatic” and the specialty redtaurant Hamptons (capacity 44) offering  North American style food. On board  Hanseatic Inspriation  the specialty restaurant is Nikkei, serving  Peruvian-Japanese-style food. They all offer international cuisine, following the standards known on the line’s  Europa  ships. And no fixed meal times or seating of course to provide guests with ultimate flexibility.

The fitness-area, measuring over 300 square metres consists of  the Spa where guests can choose from the steam bath, Finnish sauna and the outside pool where they can swim against the current this pool features. It can be closed in inclement weather as it has a tent-roof acting as a retractable magrodome. Hanseatic- expeditions are all about enrichment and the experience of travelling to remote places, so no entertainment like rock-climbing, zip-lines and the like are to be found on board.

Instead there are lectures given by 16 experts and scientists who of course also accompany guests during excursions. Lectures take place in the Hanseatic Atrium on deck 4 which is a multi-functional lounge equipped with large LED-screens and panoramic windows which is used as a bar at night (there are even juke-boxes to enliven the mood).

The Ocean Academy, another lecturing-hall features a 6 x 1.8 metre touch screen wall, the Study Wall, enabling passengers to access info about the ship’s destinations and there are microscopes, exhibits and relex-chairs with built in screens. Speaking of screens: screens showing footage of remote places the ship will head to are also present in the central lobby, behind the guest services desk.

Each vessel costs 160 million US dollar to build and the end result will be a trio of luxury and environmentally friendly expedition ships of the high standard we are used to from HPAG-Lloyd. The luxury aspect can be traced to the guest staterooms and suites. These all have a heated bathroom wall so wet clothes can be dried easily after returning from excursions. Nordic-walking sticks and even Swarovski-manufactured binoculars are standard too. On the outside decks , which are 50% larger than those of the previous  Hanseatic , on deck 8 there are two retractable glass bottom balconies making it possible for guests to look down along the ships sides.

At the bows, a spot normally out of bounds for passengers a promenade  the “Nature Walk” (“Inspiration Walk” on the Hanseatic Inspiration) offers great views.  Enjoying the scenery from the Observatory Lounge high on the ship on deck is another option.The fold-out marina at the stern is where the 17 zodiacs and available kajaks are launched, being the starting point of many excursions. The  Hanseatic series   vessels have a radius of 8,ooo miles or 36 days, which is about twice a “regular” expedition cruise ship can do and they can sail in regions with temperatures between +40  and –25 degrees Celsius. Pure low Sulphur marine diesel is used for fuel. Alas, LNG was not possible as it just is not available in the remote regions these ships cruise. Of course all waste fluids are kept on board and are disposed of in port. The use of SRC-catalysts cleaning exhaust gasses reduces CO-emissions over 90% as well as the specifically designed hulls and their Rolls-Royce PROMAS-propulsion which is a propulsion system where the propeller and the rudder are integrated to optimise hydrodynamic efficiency. Finally, environmentally friendly biological lubricants are used for the stabilizers and bow thrusters.

The second ship of this series,  Hanseatic Inspiration  was named on October 11 2019 in Hamburg during a spectacular ceremony. Guests and HAPAG-staff while being on board 27 zodiacs and 3 barges watched high-output beamers use the ships side as a movie screen as footage of the destinations planned for the  Hanseatic Inspiration  to visit was projected. Then a pontoon approached with HAPAG-Lloyd Cruises CEO Karl Pojer, Captain Ulf Wolster and godmother Laura Dekker (known for her single handed circumnavigation of the globe on board her sailing ship at the age of 14) who named  Hanseatic Inspiration  and following tradition let the botlle of champagne smash against her bow.

Guests are always welcome on the bridge to meet the officers on duty and watch them navigate the ship as there is an open-bridge policy, except when the ship is manoeuvering in port or sailing in congested waters of course. 138 camers spread all over the ship enable officers to keep a close watch over the entire ship.

It is obvious Hapag-Lloyd is raising the bar again for competing expedition cruise vessels with this new trio of expedition cruise ships. Not only because of the impeccable service, gourmet food and luxury interiors of their vessels, but also considering the environmental measures that were taken and the extreme distances they can cover guaranteeing spectacular itineraries as well!

Deck-plan Hanseatic-series expedition vessels

Recent Posts

Johann Georg Poppe (1837 – 1915)

He brought international flair to

John McNeece (1939 – 2015)

Designer who specialised in creating

Charles Frederic Mewès (1858 – 1914)

He introduced hotel-style interiors to

Joe Farcus is one of

• Cruise ship interiors
• Out of service
• Static ships
• Annual news review
• Ships on order

© 2003-2023 Cruise ship Odyssey, Paul Timmerman. All text and photographs (unless stated otherwise). All Rights Reserved.

Copyright disclaimer.

• Main page Main page
• AIDA Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Costa Cruises
• Cunard Cruises
• Holland America Line
• MSC Cruises
• NCL Cruises
• Phoenix Reisen
• Princess Cruises
• P&O Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• TUI Cruises
• All Cruise Lines
• Caribbean Princess
• Carnival Magic
• Celebrity Solstice
• Harmony of the Seas
• Independence of the Seas
• MSC Meraviglia
• Norwegian Epic
• Ovation of the Seas
• Queen Mary 2
• Alaska Cruises
• Australia Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises
• Baltic Sea Cruises
• Caribbean Cruises
• Cuba Cruises
• European Cruises
• Hawaii Cruises
• Mediterranean Cruises
• Miami Cruises
• New York Cruises
• Norway Cruises
• World Cruises
• View All Cruises
• All Inclusive Cruises
• Cheap Cruises
• Cruise Holidays
• Expedition Cruises
• Family Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Luxury Cruises
• Fly Cruises
• Mini Cruises
• Singles Cruises
• Christmas Cruises
• New Year Cruises
• TOP Cruise Deals
• Ship finder
• Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hanseatic inspiration

230 Passengers

• Ship information/Review
• Current position

About Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises represents luxury on small ships. On board all ships you can expect individual experiences, first-class service and sophisticated programs on board and ashore. The cruise line offers many special features, especially the expedition cruises which you should book early, but also theme cruises such as golf trips or musical events. The ships Bremen and Hanseatic with less than 200 passengers offer an particularly personal atmosphere. In contrast the ships Europa and Europa 2 offer more luxurious areas for a maximum of 400 respectively 516 passengers. With the new expedition class, the two ships Hanseatic nature and Hanseatic inspiration joined the fleet in 2019.

Since July 2020 all ships of the fleet have been only fueled by the low-sulfured marine gas oil (MGO) instead of heavy oil. This causes 80 % less emissions and 30 % less fine dust and particualte emissions.

The ship Hanseatic inspiration

Both new expedition vessels have the ice class PC6, the highest ice class for passenger ships. Glass balconies on almost all cabins will literally float you over the ocean and as well as the generous open deck areas and the gallery at the bow, allow first-line nature observation. On the small, exclusive ships with a maximum of 230 guests (for arctic expeditions up to 199 guests) a very personal and excellent service awaits you. From the marina, you can set out on a total of 17 Zodiacs for thrilling discoveries or water sports in warmer regions. For both ships the cruise line put a lot of emphasis on environmental friendliness. With new technologies consumption and emissions will be reduced. Modern E-Zodiacs will bring the guests almost noiseless into untouched nature. Please note that the ship will soon be a non-smoker ship. This then applies to all public areas, for the inside areas as well as outside areas on deck (including private balconies and verandas). At the moment (date 11.11.2020) the following rules apply onboard: Smoking is only allowing in the Invisible Lounge inside the ship. Outside there is a designated smoking area portside near the pool. It is also allowed to smoke on the private balconies/verandas of the suites. Pipes, cigarillo and cigars are exclusively allowed in the Invisible Lounge.

Hanseatic inspiration facts

• Start of the construction:  2017
• Inaugural cruise: 2019
• Passengers: 230, Antarctica max. 199
• Ice class: PC6
• Length: 138 m
• Width: 22 m
• Draft: 5.6 m  

Hanseatic inspiration staterooms

On board the Hanseatic inspiration you will find only outside cabins and suites of which almost all will have a balcony or French balcony. The size of the comfortably and stylishly furnished cabins and suites vary from 21 to 71 square meters. All cabins and suites have a special design concept, called “Inspired by nature” that is characterized by curved lines, natural colours and high-valued materials. In the bathroom, a heated wall ensures that even wet towels or parkas dry quickly after the expeditions. A free minibar (cabins with free soft drinks, suites all drinks included) and a coffee machine can be found on each cabin. There are Nordic walking poles for active guests and binoculars for observations of the unique nature and wildlife. The grand suites have a bathtub as well as a rain shower and a steam sauna which can also be found in the junior suites.

Hanseatic inspiration Atmosphere on Board

The new Hanseatic inspiration offers excellent expedition feeling with 5-star comfort. The atmosphere on board is nevertheless relaxed and due to the small number of guests very private. All guests can enjoy a maximum of personal freedom on board which means free choice between the restaurants and the seats. The clothing during the day is sporty-elegant and adapted to the weather. Two extendable glass balconies on the sundeck provide the incomparable feeling of floating above the ocean. The age of the guests is mixed, but mostly middle and upper age. Board languages on the Hanseatic inspiration are German and English, so that also international guests can easily follow the explanations given by the experts on board.

Hanseatic inspiration Food and Beverages

As expected with a 5-star expedition ship, there is plenty to offer in terms of culinary delights. Three restaurants are planned on board the Hanseatic inspiration. In addition to the main and the bistro restaurant, with flexible dining times and free choice of seats, there will be a specialty restaurant with 44 seats. The specialty restaurant offers delicacies of Japanese cuisine and spoils you with tastefully served dishes. The bistro restaurant offers approx. 84 seats inside the ship as well as around 100 seats on the outside. Two bars complete the culinary offer and invite to one or other drinks and stimulating conversations with fellow travelers.

Hanseatic inspiration Entertainment, Sports and Relaxation

The focus of an expedition cruise is on the discovery of the world and the intense experience of nature. Therefore, the focus of the entertainment on the Hanseatic inspiration is on the imparting of knowledge which is deepened by expert lectures in the HanseAtrium and can once again be extended by self-study in the OceanAcademy. The deck circulation on the bow allows nature observations from close proximity. The HanseAtrium, a divisible multifunctional lounge, transforms into one of the two bars in the evening. In the 235 square meter spa area, guests can spoil themselves after exciting excursions. A Finnish sauna, a steam sauna, a relaxation area, a hairdresser, beauty treatments and massages will be offered in the spa ares. For sports enthusiasts, there is an approx. 100 square meter training area with a view of the impressive natural panorama of the respective destination and a pool area with countercurrent system which is weather independent thanks to a flexible tent roof.

Our Summary

If you want to undertake interesting and impressive expeditions in a small group and with the emphasis on qualified expertsthen you are in the right place on board the new Hanseatic inspiration. Fantastic expeditions in combination with a high-class cruise experience await you!

• Destinations: Alaska , Antarctica , Asia , British Isles , Canada/New England , German Bight , Greenland , New Zealand , North America West Coast , Panama Canal , South America , South Sea , Spitsbergen , Transatlantic , USA East Coast

Our rating of the Hanseatic inspiration:

• Terms & Conditions
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Privacy Policy
• Whistleblower

Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History

• Works of Art

Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1400–1600 A.D.

DENMARK AND NORWAY

Sweden and finland, eastern europe.

In the orbit of the Hanseatic League, a commercial alliance of cities along the Baltic coast, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe prosper in the early part of the period. But by 1500, with the waning of Hanseatic strength, the growth of nationalism among several groups in the region and hostile conflict between the Kalmar Union, Holstein, and the Hanseatic League cause shifts in the balance of power. Clergymen and rulers, eager to advance their own cultural claims, engage artists to assist them. When the Protestant Reformation arrives in the 1520s, it reinforces the nationalist aspirations of the Swedes, Danes, and Germans along the Baltic and creates new possibilities for art patronage. In 1570, Sweden puts an end to seven years of war with Denmark and stands poised to become a world power.

In the early fifteenth century, the many princes scattered throughout modern Ukraine and Russia rule by patents granted by the nomadic khan of the Golden Horde. But the steady weakening of the Horde fosters the ambitions of more daring princes, most notably the Daniilovichi of Moscow. They come to name and crown their heirs without consulting the khan, but suffer violent dynastic disputes until the reign of Ivan III, which marks the end of internecine war and the beginning of a dramatic territorial expansion. Over the next century, Muscovy annexes principalities to the north, south, and west, and challenges Lithuania and Sweden for control of Baltic ports and lands. By 1547, Russia has grown larger than any contemporary European nation, and Grand Prince Ivan IV is crowned Russia’s first emperor orczar.

The tradition of the Icelandic scriptoria, which produced manuscripts prized throughout Scandinavia in the Middle Ages, has died out. Subject to Danish control, volcanic eruptions, a worsening climate, famine, and disease, Iceland enters an age of artistic decline from which it will not emerge until the nineteenth century.

Three painters of Ukrainian or Belorussian extraction complete a fresco cycle in the Chapel of the Holy Trinity in Lublin Castle, residence of Wladislaw II Jagiello of Poland-Lithuania (r. 1386–1434). The chapel has ribbed vaulting in the Gothic manner , but the artists decorate it, evidently at Wladislaw’s request, with symbols of the Evangelists and an image of Christ Pantocrator,  Byzantine iconography devised to adorn domed ceilings. Such hybrids of Eastern and Western artistic traditions are common in Wladislaw’s vast dominion, which stretches from Prussia to Muscovy.

Andrey Rublev (Rublyov; 1360/70–ca. 1430), a painter of many icons and fresco cycles, portrays the Old Testament Trinity in an icon (Tretiakov Gallery, Moscow). Rublev is a monk at the Andronikov Monastery, an early fifteenth-century foundation that remains the oldest stone building in Moscow. Few of Rublev’s works are preserved today, but the Tretiakov example demonstrates the grace of his figural style and the subtlety of his religious insight. The panel depicts three haloed angels, the same who visited Abraham in Genesis, seated around a table with a chalice in the center. Like the Trinity itself, they are three variations on a single theme, each distinguished by placement, gesture, and the color of his garment but alike in body type, size, and facial features.

The expansionist ambitions of Lithuania and Muscovy create constant friction between the two powers. Aiming for advantage against the Muscovites at the eastern fortress of Porkhov, the Lithuanian prince Vitovt engages German military engineers to build an invincible cannon and set it in position. Forty horses are required to pull the tremendous gun, and when it is fired, it destroys its target but also self-destructs and obliterates the corps that constructed it.

The Church of Saint Bridget, a Swedish saint canonized in 1391, is dedicated at Vadstena. The brick building was constructed at Bridget’s monastery to her specifications, of simple design without sculptural ornament or stained glass. Increasing nationalism in Sweden causes the embrace of local saints, including Bridget and Erik, and artists devise new ways to represent them, in both narrative cycles and devotional imagery.

Aristotele Fioravanti comes from Italy to Moscow at the invitation of Ivan III (the Great, r. 1462–1505), who wishes to see the Kremlin, or city fortress, adorned in a manner worthy of a burgeoning capital. Fioravanti has expertise in designing weapons as well as buildings, and under his direction the Kremlin receives a new system of brick fortifications and a new church, the Cathedral of the Dormition, whose blocky proportions, simple facade, and five gilded domes conform to Russian traditions. Other Italian architects in Ivan’s service are Marco Ruffo and Pietro Solario, who design a grand princely residence now known as the Palace of Facets, and Alevisio Novi, whose Cathedral of Saint Michael the Archangel combines the square-in-cross plan and multiple domes typical of Russian churches with the arches, pilasters, and classical massing of Italian Renaissance work. The monumental buildings of the Kremlin form the setting for Ivan’s court, where he gathers the many other princes whose lands he has appropriated by diplomacy and force. These aristocrats compete for Ivan’s favor while they strive to outdo each other by building fashionable city residences and furnishing them in resplendent style.

Erik Axelsson Tott builds a castle at Olofsborg (Olavinlinna) near the border between Finland, then in Swedish hands, and Russian territory. The castle has three fortified towers incorporated into its massive walls and a discrete block inside with separate apartments for soldiers and the family. Olofsborg Castle is representative of the many fortresses constructed throughout the Baltic in the late fifteenth century, when military tensions escalate and war-ready noblemen are eager to strengthen their defenses against firearms, the new weaponry of the age.

The Pecherskaya Monastery in Kiev, devastated by the Mongols in 1240, begins its resurgence. One of the most important centers of pilgrimage in the Ukraine, the monastery is the site of over 100 saints’ tombs and also home to a school of icon painting in the Byzantine tradition. Because icons are supposed to depict Christ, the Virgin , and the saints as truthfully as possible, icon-painters take pains to choose authoritative models, especially works that might be associated with the Byzantine capital of Constantinople . After Constantinople falls to Ottoman armies in 1453 and ceases to be a center for icon production, Ukrainian artists continue to refer to icons painted before then, but they also seek and find inspiration in Central European devotional prints .

Sten Sture, regent of Sweden, and his wife dedicate a magnificent wooden sculptural group in the Storkyrkan (Church of Saint Nicholas) in Stockholm. The image depicts Saint George as a knight in full armor mounted on a richly caparisoned horse and raising a sword above his head in readiness to kill the dragon that writhes beneath his horse’s hooves, while a princess kneels nearby, already thanking God for George’s certain triumph. The work is dedicated in thanks to God and to Saint George for his victory over a Danish army in 1471. The sculptor may have been Bernt Notke, a native of Lübeck, Germany, who executed many Scandinavian commissions, including a wooden altarpiece for the Cathedral of Århus, Denmark, dedicated in 1479.

Sarmatism, a fashionable attitude among the gentry of the Polish kingdom, is first articulated. The nobility of Poland and Lithuania, spread throughout a vast territory, are a heterogeneous class possessing different roots, languages, fortunes, and degrees of education. According to Sarmatism, they all descend from the Sarmatians, an ancient nomadic people known for their talents as warriors and horsemen. Although without basis in fact, the idea forges national feeling and unity among the nobility, who commission spectacles and works of art to celebrate their alleged Sarmatian pedigree.

Under the patronage of Ivan III, grand prince of Muscovy, the first story of a massive stone bell tower is constructed in the center of the Kremlin. Augmented throughout the sixteenth century, the Bell Tower of Ivan the Great long remains the tallest building in Moscow and a symbol of Russian strength.

Claus Berg establishes a workshop at Odense, Denmark. Born in the thriving northern German city of Lübeck, he travels to southern Germany to learn the arts of painting and sculpture. From his studio in Odense, he produces sculpture in stone and wood, as well as paintings that show the influence of prints by such German artists as Martin Schongauer, Albrecht Dürer , and Lucas Cranach the Elder. Among Berg’s most important commissions is the altarpiece for Odense Cathedral completed in 1521, which includes painted panels and an elaborately sculpted frame adorned with portraits of the Danish royal family.

A pupil of Hans Memling in Bruges and court painter to Queen Isabella the Catholic of Spain, the Estonian painter Michel Sittow paints a portrait of the Danish king Christian II, one of the first royal portraits executed in Scandinavia. Like many other artists engaged in Scandinavia, Sittow seems not to have maintained a permanent shop but rather moves from one center of patronage to the next. The king does not employ a court artist and does not seem to think it beneath his dignity to sit for an itinerant foreign painter.

Gustav I Vasa (r. 1523–60), who led Sweden to independence from the Kalmar Union, is crowned king. Gustav preserves the kingdom from periodic revolts within and the constant threat of Danish attack. Political differences with the pope cause him to embrace Lutheran Protestantism  in 1527. Pressed to find trustworthy ambassadors and ministers within Sweden, he does much administrative work for himself. In 1542, he sits for the German painter Jacob Binck, whose portrait depicts the monarch in dark courtly dress with plumed hat, holding his gloves and wearing a serene, wise expression. The turbulence of Gustav’s reign prevents him from becoming a major patron of the arts, but by the late sixteenth century, his sons will style themselves Renaissance princes and commission elegant residences decorated by masters from Italy and Flanders.

Albert, grand master of the Teutonic Knights, becomes a Protestant and converts his Catholic realm into a secular state. As Duke Albert of Prussia, he continues to control the lucrative trade in amber through his capital at Königsberg (Kaliningrad) on the Baltic coast, encourages the manufacture and export of amber game-pieces and tableware, and engages artists to adorn the city as a Protestant capital.

Ivan IV (the Terrible, r. 1533–84), who ascended to the throne at the age of three, is crowned at seventeen in a magnificent ceremony. Unlike his predecessors the grand princes, Ivan is named czar, or emperor, a title that expresses Muscovite ambitions to equal the great fallen empires of Rome and Byzantium . In the same year, a devastating fire ravages Moscow, and a suspicious mob threatens violence against the royal family. Ivan emerges from the turmoil shaken but determined and, once he consolidates his power, embarks on a series of military campaigns against the Mongol khanates along the Volga River and the disparate polities of Livonia in modern-day Latvia.

Gustav I Vasa, eager to see Sweden profit from the rich commerce between Russia and the Hanseatic League, founds Helsinki on the eastern shores of his kingdom, and Russian products increasingly flow to western markets through the new port. The settlement has the modest wooden architecture of a trading post and gains the grander structures proper to a city only after it comes under Russian control in 1721.

An assembly of Russian clergymen convene in the council known as the Stoglav (Council of One Hundred Chapters). They discuss ways to purify the Russian church of lingering pagan customs, and devise new instructions for icon painters, urging them to imbue their works with allegory and symbolism and to emulate the style of Andrey Rublev.

To express thanks for his victories over the khanate of Kazan on the Volga River, Ivan IV, czar of the Russian empire, erects a church in Moscow. The initial concept is to build a cluster of chapels, one dedicated to each of the saints on whose feast days the czar had won a battle, but the construction of a single central tower unifies these modular spaces into a single church, the Cathedral of Saint Basil the Blessed.

King Frederick II of Denmark and Norway initiates work on Frederiksborg Castle in Hillerød. Its pointed spires show Gothic inspiration, and the classical ornament of its gables reflect the influence of the architectural pattern books that are in circulation. Among the favorites are those that showcase the designs of the Italian architects Andrea Palladio and Sebastiano Serlio.

In Lutheran Scandinavia, sculpted altarpieces are no longer in demand, and sculptors retool their shops to execute architectural ornament and funerary monuments. Wilhelm Boy, a Flemish architect and sculptor, fashions an alabaster effigy of Princess Isabella of Sweden, who died in childhood eighteen years before. The work, which is still housed in Strängnäs Cathedral, depicts the little girl lying down with her hands clasped over her chest and her eyes closed as though she were asleep.

Christian IV, who ascended to the throne of Denmark in 1588 at the age of eleven, is formally crowned king. Throughout his reign, which lasts until his death in 1648, he shores up fortresses, establishes new towns, and adorns existing ones, most notably Copenhagen. An enthusiastic patron of the arts, he favors dignified classical themes and styles of ornament.

“Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1400–1600 A.D.” In  Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History . New York: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2000–. http://www.metmuseum.org/toah/ht/?period=08&region=eue (October 2002) 

Primary Chronology

• Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1000–1400 A.D.
• Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1600–1800 A.D.

Secondary Chronology

• Central Europe (including Germany), 1400–1600 A.D.

Lists of Rulers

• List of Rulers of Byzantium
• List of Rulers of Europe
• List of Rulers of the Islamic World
• All essays related to Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1400–1600 A.D.
• All works of art from Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, 1400–1600 A.D.
• Eastern Europe
• European Decorative Arts
• Scandinavia
• 15th Century A.D.
• 16th Century A.D.

Baptism of Christ

Hungarian-style shield, bona sforza (1493–1557), queen of poland, a woman from altmark.

Cookies on our website.

Do you want analytical cookies, do you want social media cookies.

The medieval Hanseatic League

The term Hansa is derived from the Old High German word for crowd and has been used for communities of travelling merchants since the 12th century. The long-distance merchants joined forces to better protect themselves against pirates and to jointly pursue their economic interests - the foundation stone for the Hanseatic League was laid.

Trade across borders

In the heyday of the network, more than 200 towns were part of the Hanseatic League, mainly around the Baltic Sea and inland up to the line Cologne - Erfurt - Krakow. However, the influence of the Hanseatic League extended far beyond this area: with trading posts from Portugal to Russia and from Finland to the Mediterranean. In Novgorod, Bruges, London and Bergen, the long-distance traders founded four large kontors; smaller branches were established in many other trading centres. For more than 400 years, the Hanseatic League shaped the economy, trade and politics in northern Europe before losing its importance in the middle of the 17th century.

The origins

The beginning of the Hanseatic League cannot be traced to a specific year or place. Over the course of the centuries, one of the most powerful trade and city networks in medieval Europe developed from loose associations of long-distance traders into shipping communities, the so-called "hansa".

Merchant guilds

The typical Hanseatic merchant was a long-distance trader who traded abroad on a large scale and enjoyed a high reputation in his own city. Until the middle of the 13th century, merchants usually accompanied their goods to foreign markets themselves to sell them or exchange them for other goods.

Alliance of cities

Since many merchants sat on the town councils, the Hanseatic League developed from the travelling communities of merchants into a powerful confederation of cities. The Hanseatic cities assured each other of protection and legal security. The Hanseatic League thus became an influential network of cities that dominated trade in large parts of Europe.

Trading posts

"Kontor" (literally: office) was the name given to the Hanseatic League's large trading posts abroad. The four major kontors formed the cornerstones of Hanseatic trade: Novgorod, London, Bruges and Bergen. The long-distance traders set up smaller branches in many other locations, for example in Lynn and Boston in England, La Rochelle in France or Kaunas in Lithuania.

The Hanseatic Day

Since the second half of the 14th century, the Hanseatic cities gathered at the Hanseatic Day (convention) to pass joint resolutions. The events were held at irregular intervals as needed, 172 times in 311 years.

For trade across the North and Baltic Seas, merchants and skippers often gathered into so-called Hansa (crowds). In the beginning, they only dared to go out to sea with their valuable cargo in convoys. One reason for the success of the Hanseatic League was the use of a new type of ship: the cog.

History of Germany

Hanseatic League

The Hanseatic League was a medieval commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Central and Northern Europe. Growing from a few North German towns in the late 12th century, the League ultimately encompassed nearly 200 settlements across seven modern-day countries; at its height between the 13th and 15th centuries, it stretched from the Netherlands in the west to Russia in the east, and from Estonia in the north to Kraków, Poland in the south.

The League originated from various loose associations of German traders and towns formed to advance mutual commercial interests, such as protection against piracy and banditry. These arrangements gradually coalesced into the Hanseatic League, whose traders enjoyed duty-free treatment, protection, and diplomatic privileges in affiliated communities and their trade routes. Hanseatic Cities gradually developed a common legal system governing their merchants and goods, even operating their own armies for mutual defense and aid. Reduced barriers to trade resulted in mutual prosperity, which fostered economic interdependence, kinship ties between merchant families, and deeper political integration; these factors solidified the League into a cohesive political organization by the end of the 13th century.

During the peak of its power, the Hanseatic League had a virtual monopoly over maritime trade in the North and Baltic seas. Its commercial reach extended as far as the Kingdom of Portugal to the west, the Kingdom of England to the north, the Republic of Novgorod to the east, and the Republic of Venice to the south, with trading posts, factories, and mercantile "branches" established in numerous towns and cities across Europe. Hanseatic merchants were widely renowned for their access to a variety of commodities and manufactured goods, subsequently gaining privileges and protections abroad, including extraterritorial districts in foreign realms that operated almost exclusively under Hanseatic law. This collective economic influence made the League a powerful force, capable of imposing blockades and even waging war against kingdoms and principalities.

We value your feedback. If you find any missing, misleading, or false information, please let us know. Please cite the specific story and event, briefly explain the issue, and (if possible) include your source(s). Also, if you encounter any content on our site you suspect might infringe copyright protections, do let us know. We are committed to respecting intellectual property rights and will promptly address any issues raised. Thank you.

You are using a deprecated browser.

Please download the latest version of one of the following free browsers:

HANSEATIC inspiration

Cabins & suites.

KABINEN & SUITEN

Home with a view

Cabins and suites of the hanseatic inspiration.

Balcony Cabin, approx. 27 m²/291 ft², including private balcony (5 m²/54 ft²)

Balcony Cabin

French Balcony Cabin, approx. 21/23 m² (226/248 ft²)

French Balcony Cabin

Panoramic Cabin, approx. 21 m² (226 ft²)

Panoramic Cabin

Outside Cabin, approx. 22 m²/237 ft²

Outside Cabin

Cabins (Outside Cabin, Panoramic Cabin, French Balcony Cabin and Balcony Cabin)

• Heated wall in the bathroom (e. g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Rain shower
• Free mini bar (soft drinks)
• Coffee machine
• Separable beds
• Extensive infotainment with live broadcast and recordings of expert presentations, forward-view camera, navigation chart, films and much more
• Binoculars in the cabin
• Nordic Walking poles
• 24-hour cabin service
• There is one cabin with fully accessible layout and equipment (cabin 404)

The French Balcony Cabins in Category 3 on Deck 6 are approximately 23 m² (248 ft²) in size, and those in Category 5 on Deck 7 approximately 21 m² (226 ft²). The Balcony Cabins at the stern have a slightly different floor plan.

Junior Suite, approx. 42 m²/452 ft², including private balcony (6 m²/65 ft²)

• Separate living/sleeping area
• Separate dining area
• Sleeping area with panoramic view
• TV in living and sleeping areas
• Bathroom with two sinks and rain shower
• Separate toilet
• Steam sauna in shower area
• Heated wall in bathroom (e.g. for towels and wet parkas)
• Free mini bar
• Nordic walking poles
• Table reservation in main restaurant (applies to the PLATINUM and GOLD fares)
• Butler service

Grand Suite, approx. 71 m²/ 764 ft², including private veranda (16 m²/ 172 ft²)

• Veranda with space heaters
• Daylight bathroom with two sinks, free-standing bath, rain shower and veranda access
• Table reservation in main restaurant
• Free choice of Zodiac group (until cruises NAT2423, INS2424, SPI2419)
• Free use of Wi-FiCruises (from cruises NAT2424, INS2425, SPI2420)

Note:  All floor plans are only examples and sizes given are approximate.