Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has released its new pre- and post-cruise programs for the fall 2027 season through early 2029. With these programs, the Hamburg-based luxury and expedition cruise line enhances selected itineraries with carefully curated shore excursions, either before departure or after the cruise. The offerings range from guided city tours and organized excursions to stays in private hotels and personalized travel plans developed by the travel concierge team, which designs tailor-made experiences upon request.
“We understand luxury as the ultimate freedom of choice. Our pre- and post-cruise programs allow our guests to experience destinations more intensely both before and after their cruise. These additional experiences on land are seamlessly integrated into the overall experience offered by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises,” says Isolde Susset, CEO of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
Selected pre- and post-cruise programs are an integral part of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Many embarkation and disembarkation ports provide the ideal setting to enrich your cruise with additional experiences. In this way, the cruise journeys themselves become travel experiences: from culture and gastronomy in major cities to nature in remote regions. The company offers these programs in most departure and arrival ports, both on the luxury ships EUROPA and EUROPA 2 and on the three expedition ships HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC inspiration, and HANSEATIC spirit.
Three types of programs for different travel styles
The range of pre- and post-cruise programs is adapted to the different needs of travelers and is divided into three main types:
- Guided pre- and post-cruise programs. Designed for those who enjoy shared experiences in small groups. These programs are typically led by a tour guide. They include visits to major cities such as Lisbon, Rio de Janeiro , or Tokyo, as well as shorter tours of cultural or natural attractions. Accommodation is in select hotels and, in some cases, in exceptional lodges or resorts. Depending on the destination, activities range from classic tours and exclusive after-hours access to activities such as hiking, cycling, or kayaking.
- Private pre- and post-cruise programs offer a personalized environment for individual exploration. In select destinations, they include stays in hotels available for immediate booking, with airport transfers included. This creates an exclusive starting point for self-paced travel, whether solo, as a couple, or with family and friends.
- Fully customized programs. The highest level of personalization is offered by trips designed by the concierge team. In this case, the client's wishes are tailored precisely to their needs, from a short stopover to a multi-day private tour. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises work with a global network of local partners to create tailor-made programs based on personal interests, duration, and preferences.
With these programs, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises reinforces its vision of luxury as a combination of exclusivity and personal freedom. “Over the years, the demand for these offerings has become increasingly nuanced. Many guests still value guided programs, but there is also growing interest in private and personalized options. Especially in remote or logistically complex destinations, many clients rely on our expertise and organization. For many frequent travelers, these programs are already an essential part of their planning,” adds Isolde Susset.
In addition, the company continuously develops its portfolio, guided by travel trends, exceptional accommodations, special events, and feedback from customers and guides.
Example cruises for 2027/2028
Seychelles Break from December 4-8, 2027 – This guided pre-cruise program offers idyllic days on the island of Mahé. Three nights at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Seychelles combine privacy and comfort, with villas overlooking the garden or ocean. Relax by the private pool or on the beach before your cruise.
Cultural Hotspots: Beijing and Hong Kong, January 25-31, 2028 – This guided tour combines two of Asia's most fascinating metropolises. In Beijing, travelers visit the Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the historic hutongs. Hong Kong then offers a blend of modernity, bustling markets, and skyscrapers. Accommodation is at The Peninsula Beijing and The Peninsula Hong Kong hotels.
Culture and Nature: Darwin and Nitmiluk National Park, May 22-26, 2028 – This post-cruise program takes guests from Darwin to the stunning scenery of the Northern Territory, to Nitmiluk National Park, in off-road vehicles with guides. It includes an overnight stay at the Jawoyn-run Cicada Lodge, a sunrise helicopter flight with breakfast al fresco, and a sunset cruise on the Katherine River.
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