IN2BALANCE with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises: When Traveling Becomes an Inner Journey

With its established IN2BALANCE format, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises continues to focus on curated 2026 itineraries that emphasize conscious experiences, inner balance, and holistic well-being. An integral part of the EUROPA 2 entertainment program, this format is designed for guests who view travel as a sustainable investment in body, mind, and soul.

On Valentine’s Day 2026, the EUROPA 2 sets sail on an IN2BALANCE cruise that goes far beyond a classic holiday. Traversing the South Pacific – from Papeete/Tahiti through the idyllic scenery of Bora Bora and Moorea to Easter Island and Valparaiso – the route provides the perfect backdrop for reflection and slowing down. With a guest-to-crew ratio of almost 1:1, this small luxury ship offers unparalleled individual attention. In fact, EUROPA 2 has been consistently named the “best ship in the world” by the renowned Insight Guides Cruising & Cruise Ships.

ŌHIA x Hapag-Lloyd Cruises IN2BALANCE retreat: The inner voyage – a journey to the self

Together with the renowned Berlin meditation studio ŌHIA, three experienced experts invite a maximum of 500 guests to embark on a transformative retreat. With up to three daily sessions of meditation, yoga, hypnosis, breathwork, and sound healing, they open up new paths to deep relaxation. Individual sessions can also be booked separately.

The team includes Sarah Jegelka, an intuitive healer and certified hypnotherapist; Maria Priczkat, a yoga and meditation teacher with over 600 hours of training; and Pia Victoria Thiemann, a fitness and mental health coach and author. Together, they create transformative impulses for personal development and sustainable regeneration.

“We have reappraised the entire concept together with ŌHIA and specifically developed it further with up to three classes a day and individual sessions that can be booked as well. What is learned in the sessions will continue to have an effect, often quietly, and fits naturally into the rhythm of the cruise. For our guests, it is not just another item on the programme, but an experience that palpably deepens the travel experience and has a lingering effect. In addition, ŌHIA will be accompanying an expedition cruise for the first time. Aleks Kop from ŌHIA will be on board for this cruise,” explains Foad Naddafi, Artistic Director of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.

The IN2BALANCE program is complemented throughout the cruise by a carefully curated range of cultural and entertainment options, including classical music by Xavier de Maistre, Magali Mosnier, and Éric Le Sage; jazz by Lily Dahab; cabaret by Florian Schroeder; readings by Stephan Grossmann and Thomas Arnold; and contemporary circus performances by Circa.

Sample Cruises and Upcoming Highlights

South Pacific: Destination Paradise (EUROPA 2) – From February 14 to March 6, 2026, this 20-day journey invites you to sail to the most breathtaking islands of the South Pacific. Starting in Papeete, Tahiti, you can explore the lush Papenoo Valley and its tropical waterfalls before discovering the underwater diversity of Huahine and the pearl farms of Raiatea. The route continues through the glowing lagoons of Bora Bora and the white sands of Motu Mahaea, leading to the mysterious Moai statues of Easter Island. This voyage concludes with five serene days at sea before reaching Valparaiso. Bookable in the SILVER fare from €14,380 per person, double occupancy, this cruise includes a comprehensive travel package to and from your departure and arrival points.

Atlantic Crossing: Harmony of the Ocean (HANSEATIC spirit) – Embark on a unique 11-day crossing from Belem, Brazil, to Porto, Portugal, from April 16 to April 27, 2026. For the first time, yoga instructor and confidence coach Aleks Kop joins the HANSEATIC spirit to enrich the program with twice-daily sessions. Her holistic approach combines meditation, breathwork, and somatic methods to support sleep and deep regeneration as you traverse the vast Atlantic. This journey is bookable in the SILVER fare from €5,310 per person, double occupancy, including the full travel package.

Rio de Janeiro to Tenerife: The South American Way (EUROPA 2) – Experience the vibrant energy of Brazil on a 15-day journey starting March 27, 2026. This cruise takes you from the iconic landscape of Rio de Janeiro to the historic streets of Salvador and the scenic canals of Recife. After crossing the Atlantic in total relaxation, you will explore the volcanic peaks of Cape Verde and the protected Maspalomas Dunes of Gran Canaria. On board, experts Philipp Boy, Dr. Matthias Riedl, and Victoria Henze provide guidance on smart fitness and conscious nutrition. This itinerary offers a perfect balance of South American lifestyle and mindful regeneration.

Tenerife to Cape Town: African Wonders (EUROPA 2) – From October 29 to November 18, 2026, this 20-day expedition along the west coast of Africa combines world-famous landmarks with hidden gems. The journey visits the artistic hub of Dakar, the unspoiled beauty of Angola, and the green landscapes of Sao Tome. Highlights include witnessing the seal colonies of Walvis Bay and the towering dunes of the Namib Desert, with the opportunity for an overland safari to Etosha National Park. Experts Shida Pourhosseini, Dr. Klaus Pöttgen, and Marco Völler will be on board to focus on mental strength and medical expertise as you head toward the fun-loving metropolis of Cape Town.

A World of Included Luxury

To ensure your focus remains entirely on your well-being, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises offers an extensive range of included services that define the luxury experience. Your stay in a suite is characterized by effortless comfort, featuring a daily refilled mini-bar, a Nespresso machine, and 24-hour suite service, with personal butler service available for those in Penthouse categories and above.

The culinary experience is equally refined, offering exclusive gourmet dining with no extra cost, flexible mealtimes, and high-quality vegetarian options. Throughout the cruise, you can enjoy a complimentary selection of soft drinks and specialty teas and coffees. For physical and mental revitalization, guests have full access to the 1,000 m² OCEAN SPA and fitness area, complete with four saunas, modern training equipment, and various indoor and outdoor sport classes.

Exploration is supported by the free hire of bicycles and snorkeling equipment, while families can rely on a comprehensive activities program for children and teens, including a specialized baby welcome package. All essential harbor and airport fees are included in the fare, ensuring a worry-free journey from start to finish.

Photo credit: Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

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