[ 03-23-2010: Message edited by: Kevin Griffin, London ]

[ 03-23-2010: Message edited by: Kevin Griffin, London ]

for what it's worth, Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten (HLKF) has not only cancelled the liner voyage mentioned by Kevin, but also three additional cruises. HLKF reports that the vessel's new main engine was damaged in a shipyard incident while being installed. It will have to be removed again for repairs.

"Europa" is now scheduled to resume service in Hamburg June 15th, 2010.

Best,

[ 05-05-2010: Message edited by: Kevin Griffin, London ]

I'm curious as to what you consider "more adequate"? Mind you, I don't like the current "Europa", either - I'm just curious.

I know many former "Europa" (V) passengers who returned from the current ship vastly disappointed. Not to mention that prices have literally exploded since the introduction of the "Europa" (VI). HLKF has lost lots of passengers to Deilmann, Phoenix Reisen's "Amadea" and others (even the then "Delphin Renaissance" and her "replacement" "Delphin Voyager").

What would your ideal "Europa" (VII) look like?

Best,

quote:

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Originally posted by r.fiebig:
Ernst,

I'm curious as to what you consider "more adequate"? Mind you, I don't like the current "Europa", either - I'm just curious.

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'An Europa' should be a ship of highest quality that convinces with a simple but elegant design.
Certainly not a ship with an interior that looks like any other cruise ship that has been inspired by a shopping mall for newly rich people. The present Europa lacks the toned down, low key elegance of her predecessor. It's actually right the opposite - This thing even has an atrium! An Europa does not have an atrium! And even worse, they actually use it for functions!

quote:

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Originally posted by r.fiebig:

I know many former "Europa" (V) passengers who returned from the current ship vastly disappointed.

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Yes, me too.

I also loved the fifth Europa for many reasons but I also understand that it was time to replace her. However, the present Europa is not even close to being a match for what the fifth Europa was at her time. Beside that, there are some features which are simply missing aboard the present Europa: A proper promenade deck (it was not wrap around aboard Europa (V) but it was wide), a proper indoor pool filled with portable water or a proper cinema/theater.

quote:

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Originally posted by r.fiebig:
[...]

What would your ideal "Europa" (VII) look like?

[...]

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The short answer: Hanseatic is close (maybe with a bit more contemporary interior - I am really curious about the new Seabourn ships or L'Austral or Le Boreal).

Long answer:

Foremost, the design of the vessel should refer to modern, contemporary design of highest standards and not to other cruise ships. Simplicity and quality should dictate and not the fashion of the cruise industry.

To name some features:
I think a multi-purpose show lounge like found on the present Europa (and also my beloved fifth Europa) is not a good fit for the entertainment offered (or: the entertainment that should be offered ) : There should be a proper ball room for dancing, receptions etc. with a small stage for a band only - a bit like Queens Room aboard QE2 or the Palm Court aboard Crystal vessels - AND a proper venue for concerts or similar events. This venue could be a theater or a concert hall with a view like Niemeyers concert hall in Ravallo.

An important feature is of course a proper observation lounge. I am mentioning this because aboard the present Europa the only forward facing open deck space is unfortunately right outside the only forward facing public room.

Concering the open deck space I would like to see a bit more variety and the opportunity to go for a walk (this can be achieved by a proper, wide promenade deck - ideally 'wrap around' - however, I am open for new ideas). Only one forward facing open deck "space' is not adequate either.

Assuming that we talk about a ship for 400 (or maybe a bit more) passengers I would seriously consider to get rid of the 'large' main restaurant in favor of several smaller restaurants (not all restaurants have to be different) - of course with MORE than enough space so that everyone can eat where an when they want.

Ideally, all (!) cabins would offer a 'connection to the sea' - personally, I would prefer windows that can be opened to balconies but that's only me.

Best,