Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is further strengthening the artistic identity of EUROPA 2 with three exclusive ART 2 SEA cruises in 2027. Developed in collaboration with renowned gallery owners, curators, art historians and collectors, these carefully curated voyages offer guests privileged access to the international art world through private exhibition openings, artist talks, exclusive studio visits and specially designed excursions to museums, galleries and private collections.
Each ART 2 SEA voyage has its own distinct curatorial concept, reflecting the artistic heritage and contemporary creative scene of the regions visited. The 2027 programme features Hamburg gallery owner Carola Persiehl, Kristian Jarmuschek, gallery owner and Chief Curator of ART KARLSRUHE, art historian and dealer Thole Rotermund, and collectors Lea and Christian Schwarm, all contributing their individual expertise and networks.
Art has long been an integral part of life aboard EUROPA 2. Nearly 900 original works by internationally acclaimed artists are displayed throughout the ship, transforming the onboard gallery into one of the most remarkable contemporary art collections at sea. Combined with spacious ocean-view suites featuring private verandas, seven gourmet restaurants, sophisticated design and an atmosphere of relaxed luxury, EUROPA 2 provides the perfect setting for meaningful cultural experiences and personal encounters.
“Our ART 2 SEA concept continues to evolve EUROPA 2 as a platform for exceptional cultural experiences,” says Lisa Wilken, Head of Luxury Cruises at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. “Each voyage is curated by leading figures from the international art world who share their expertise, networks and passion through exclusive exhibitions, artist talks and bespoke shore excursions that offer insights far beyond a traditional museum visit.”
ART 2 SEA in the Indo-Pacific: Art Across Cultural Worlds
The 2027 ART 2 SEA programme begins with an extraordinary voyage through the Indo-Pacific, exploring how contemporary art reflects cultural identity, history and social change across Southeast Asia and Australia.
The cruise will be hosted by Dr Lisa Zeitz, Editor-in-Chief of WELTKUNST, Kristian Jarmuschek and Thole Rotermund. Throughout the voyage, the gallery on Deck 9 will showcase a specially curated exhibition by Berlin gallery Jarmuschek + Partner, featuring works by internationally recognised contemporary artists.
Guests will gain privileged access to some of the region’s most fascinating artistic destinations, including Semarang Contemporary Art Gallery on Java, ARMA Museum & Resort in Bali and an exclusive studio visit with Indonesian artist Faisal Habibi. The programme also explores Australia’s Indigenous art traditions, complemented by expert lectures and in-depth cultural discussions on board.
According to Thole Rotermund, the true value of this voyage lies in experiencing art within its original cultural setting. Exclusive access to artists’ studios, private collections and emerging creative communities provides a level of insight rarely available to international travellers.
ART 2 SEA Between Japan and China: A Dialogue Between Cultures
The second ART 2 SEA cruise sails from Tokyo to Hong Kong, highlighting the fascinating artistic dialogue between Japan and China. Hosts Lea and Christian Schwarm, internationally recognised art collectors and future strategists, explore how contemporary art connects cultures while reflecting the major social developments shaping East Asia.
Joining them are entrepreneur and China expert Ailin Huang and Bangkok-based collector and exhibition organiser Désiré Feuerle, who contribute additional perspectives on the region’s evolving cultural landscape.
During the voyage, the gallery aboard EUROPA 2 will present an exclusive exhibition by award-winning photographer Nina Papiorek. Her striking black-and-white images from Japan, China, Hong Kong and Vietnam capture the balance between tradition and modernity through powerful architectural and urban compositions.
Guests will also enjoy specially curated shore excursions that are expected to include the Kirishima Open Air Museum in Japan, Beijing’s renowned 798 Art Zone and an exclusive visit to the Shanghai studio of internationally acclaimed artist Guan Xiao. Artist talks and expert discussions throughout the cruise provide valuable insights into one of the world’s most dynamic contemporary art scenes.
Lea and Christian Schwarm believe contemporary art offers one of the clearest windows into today’s rapidly changing societies, creating meaningful dialogue that extends far beyond national borders.
EUROPA 2 ART 2 SEA – Japanese Culture and Chinese Cities (EUX2708). From Tokyo to Hong Kong, 15 May to 2 June 2027 (18 days). Bookable in the PLATINUM fare from €13,820 per person, based on double occupancy (cruise only, including the early booking discount valid until 31 October 2026).
ART 2 SEA in the Mediterranean: New Perspectives on Contemporary Art
Following the success of this year’s programme, Hamburg gallery owner Carola Persiehl returns in 2027 to host another exclusive ART 2 SEA voyage aboard EUROPA 2. As owner of the historic Galerie Commeter, she combines international contemporary art with the timeless appeal of the western Mediterranean.
Drawing on decades of experience and an extensive international network, Persiehl opens doors to leading museums, private collections and prestigious art institutions. During the cruise, the onboard gallery will feature a specially curated exhibition by Galerie Commeter, accompanied by exhibition openings, guided tours and engaging conversations with artists and experts.
A carefully designed shore programme is currently being finalised and is expected to include visits to Fondation Maeght on the French Riviera, the renowned sculpture park at Commanderie de Peyrassol and the acclaimed Hauser & Wirth art centre on Menorca. One of the anticipated highlights is an exclusive visit to the Provençal studio of internationally celebrated Korean artist Minjung Kim, offering guests a rare opportunity to experience her creative process firsthand.
For Carola Persiehl, personal encounters remain at the heart of the ART 2 SEA concept. Meeting artists in their own environment and discovering exceptional collections behind closed doors transforms each voyage into a cultural experience unlike any other.
EUROPA 2 ART 2 SEA – The Elegance of the Mediterranean (EUX2714). From Civitavecchia (Rome) to Palma de Mallorca, 3 to 15 August 2027 (12 days). Bookable in the PLATINUM fare from €9,240 per person, based on double occupancy (cruise only, including the early booking discount valid until 31 October 2026).
Photo credit Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
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