When the luxury ship EUROPA leaves the port of Hamburg on August 21, 2026, it will signal the start of one of the most prestigious culinary gatherings at sea. For the twentieth time, the ship will serve as the backdrop for EUROPAs Beste, a festival that brings the essence of haute cuisine together on a single vessel. During this four-day voyage to Kiel, everything revolves around precision, craftsmanship, and the unique opportunity to meet the absolute pinnacle of European gastronomy in an informal setting. With an impressive total of twenty Michelin stars on board, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is setting a new standard for gastronomic cruising.
A Culinary Promenade with 20 Michelin Stars
The heart of the journey beats on the pool deck, which is transformed into an exclusive culinary promenade. Here, the walls of traditional star-rated restaurants disappear, making way for an open, inviting atmosphere. Here you stroll from one station to another, where top chefs prepare their signature dishes on the spot. It is a rare chance to observe the masters’ techniques up close and engage directly with the faces behind the famous menus.
The line-up for this jubilee edition is impressive. Ben Schütz, the Executive Chef of EUROPA, acts as host to a select group of colleagues. Among them is Kevin Fehling, whose three-star restaurant THE GLOBE is a permanent part of the ship’s culinary identity. He is flanked by names like Jurgen van der Zalm from Amsterdam’s Restaurant Vinkeles, representing modern Dutch refinement.
From Austria, Thomas Dorfer of Landhaus Bacher joins the fleet, while Dieter Koschina from the Algarve brings light, Portuguese influences. Together with chefs such as Dirk Luther, Tanja Grandits, and Thorsten Bender, a mosaic of flavors is created that celebrates the diversity of European cuisine.
Craftsmanship and Terroir in the Glass
A culinary festival of this caliber is not complete without the support of equally dedicated producers and winemakers. The experience on Deck 8 is a symphony between the plate and the glass. As you walk past the various stations, you discover wines from renowned houses, each telling its own story of terroir and tradition. Think of the elegant Rieslings from Weingut von Othegraven and the mineral-rich wines of Karthäuserhof. Modern German viticulture is represented by Markus Schneider, while the Italian flair of the Antinori family and the biodynamic approach of Alois Lageder enhance the international allure.
Beyond the wines, craftsmanship outside the kitchen is also given center stage. The finest selections from the Altonaer Kaviar Import Haus, aged cheeses from Fromagerie Antony in Alsace, and truffle specialties from BOS FOOD provide an extra layer of depth. Whether it is freshly roasted coffee from Becking or award-winning cocktails from the Ory Bar in Munich, every detail has been chosen to stimulate the senses. This gathering of culinary experts turns the gastronomic evening in the port of Hamburg into a total experience that flows seamlessly into an atmospheric celebration under the stars.
The Serene Peace of Scandinavia
Once the ship leaves the port of Hamburg behind, the rhythm of the journey changes. The focus shifts from the intensity of the star-studded festival to the soothing powers of the Scandinavian coast. The first stop is the Danish island of Ærø, a destination known for its pristine character and serenity. In the town of Ærøskøbing, the clocks seem to tick slower. The narrow alleys with their characteristic houses invite a quiet stroll, far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
For guests who prefer to explore the surroundings actively, bicycles are available to discover the island’s coastal paths. The landscape of Ærø offers sweeping views over the Baltic Sea and hidden bays where nature still holds sway. This day ashore forms the perfect contrast to the culinary abundance of the first evening; it is a moment of reflection and rejuvenation in one of Denmark’s most beautiful archipelagos.
Copenhagen: Design, Culture, and Innovation
The voyage continues toward Copenhagen, the city that has elevated design and modern lifestyle into an art form. The Danish capital is the ideal place to immerse yourself in a world of architectural highlights and cultural richness. From the historical charm of Nyhavn to the modern sleekness of the new districts, Copenhagen continues to inspire. The city is also the cradle of New Nordic Cuisine, offering an interesting addition for culinary enthusiasts to the experiences on board.
You have the opportunity to discover Copenhagen at your own pace, supported by the ship’s extensive information and shuttle services. Whether you choose to visit the royal palaces or prefer to explore local boutiques and galleries, the city offers a sophisticated mix of tradition and innovation that seamlessly aligns with the philosophy of the MS EUROPA.
A Luxurious Stay at Sea
Throughout the cruise, your suite serves as a personal sanctuary. With a maximum capacity of 400 guests, EUROPA offers a level of privacy and space that is rare at sea. Upon arrival, you are welcomed with champagne and fresh delicacies, a small gesture that sets the tone for the stay. Every suite is equipped with modern conveniences, including a daily replenished minibar and an extensive entertainment system, but it is primarily the attention to detail that makes the difference.
For those staying in the Penthouse or SPA suites, there are additional privileges, such as a personal butler service, making the experience even more exclusive. The goal is simple: to give you the time and space to completely unwind. The informal, relaxed atmosphere on board ensures you feel immediately at home, while the excellent service guarantees that you lack for nothing.
Relaxation and Activity at the Highest Level
Between destinations, the ship offers numerous facilities to keep both body and mind in balance. The fifteen-meter seawater pool invites for a refreshing dip, while the fitness area with ocean views and the golf simulator provide active relaxation. For those who prefer to dive deeper into culture and entertainment, there are carefully selected guest artists, expert lectures, and workshops that broaden the horizon.
The SPA area on board EUROPA is a destination in itself. With a steam bath, infrared chairs, and a soothing Tea Lounge, this is the place where time stands still. The combination of high-end wellness and the tranquility of the ocean ensures a deep state of relaxation, essential for processing all the impressions of the journey.
A Lasting Memory
The journey ends on August 25 in Kiel, but the experience of EUROPAs Beste travels home with you. It is the sum of moments: the conversation with a three-star chef on a balmy summer evening, the silence on a Danish beach, and the unprecedented service on board a small luxury ship. This cruise proves that true luxury lies not just in materials, but primarily in the quality of the experiences and encounters.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises continues to push the boundaries of what is possible at the intersection of gastronomy and travel with this event. It is a celebration of the good life, executed with a precision and passion that you will only find on board EUROPA. For those who value quality in its highest form, this journey is an absolute must on the 2026 culinary calendar.
Photo credit Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Contact us for additional information on Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
Sign up for our newsletter and receive more travel tips and inspiration!