Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has announced an expanded ART 2 SEA programme for 2027, introducing three curated art-themed voyages aboard the luxury ship EUROPA 2. The cruises will combine exclusive exhibitions, meetings with internationally renowned artists, and behind-the-scenes access to museums, galleries, private collections and artists’ studios across Asia, Australia and the Mediterranean.
The programme is being developed in collaboration with leading figures from the art world, including Hamburg gallerist Carola Persiehl, ART KARLSRUHE chief curator Kristian Jarmuschek, art historian Thole Rotermund, and collectors Lea and Christian Schwarm.
Art at the Heart of EUROPA 2
Art has long been an integral part of the EUROPA 2 experience. The luxury ship displays around 890 original artworks by internationally recognised artists, creating a floating gallery that complements its contemporary design, spacious veranda suites, gourmet dining and relaxed luxury atmosphere.
“With ART 2 SEA, we are consistently developing the EUROPA 2 as a platform for unique cultural encounters,” said Lisa Wilken, Head of Luxury Cruises at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. “Each voyage features its own curatorial signature, combining exclusive exhibitions, artist talks and specially designed shore experiences.”
Indo-Pacific Voyage
The first ART 2 SEA cruise explores Southeast Asia and Australia, focusing on the region’s diverse artistic traditions. Guests will be accompanied by WELTKUNST editor-in-chief Dr Lisa Zeitz, Kristian Jarmuschek and Thole Rotermund.
Highlights include visits to the Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery in Indonesia, the ARMA Museum & Resort in Bali, and a private studio visit with Indonesian artist Faisal Habibi. Guests will also explore Indigenous Australian art through curated shore excursions.
During the voyage, Berlin’s Galerie Jarmuschek + Partner will curate a contemporary art exhibition onboard.
Japan and China Art Journey
The second themed cruise will sail from Tokyo to Hong Kong, examining the cultural dialogue between Japan and China through contemporary art.
Hosts Lea and Christian Schwarm will be joined by entrepreneur and China expert Ailin Huang and Bangkok-based collector Désiré Feuerle.
The onboard exhibition will feature award-winning photographer Nina Papiorek, whose black-and-white urban photography captures cities across Japan, China, Hong Kong and Vietnam.
Planned excursions include the Kirishima Open Air Museum in Japan, Beijing’s famous 798 Art Zone, and a private studio visit with internationally acclaimed Chinese artist Guan Xiao in Shanghai.
Mediterranean Contemporary Art Cruise
The third ART 2 SEA voyage will explore the western Mediterranean under the guidance of Hamburg gallerist Carola Persiehl.
Guests will enjoy curated exhibitions from Galerie Commeter alongside exclusive visits to the Fondation Maeght on the French Riviera, the sculpture park at Commanderie de Peyrassol, Hauser & Wirth Menorca, and the Provençal studio of celebrated Korean artist Minjung Kim.
Onboard events will include exhibition openings, artist talks and guided tours designed to deepen guests’ appreciation of contemporary art.
Luxury Travel Meets Cultural Discovery
With a maximum capacity of just 500 guests, EUROPA 2 offers an intimate setting for personal encounters with artists and curators while exploring some of the world’s most vibrant cultural destinations.
The ART 2 SEA series continues Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ strategy of combining luxury travel with immersive cultural experiences, giving guests access to artistic venues and creative communities rarely available through conventional tourism.
