Expeditions with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises have always extended beyond polar regions. For winter 2027/28, the company is introducing a clear strategic focus: alongside its classic Antarctic expeditions, the HANSEATIC nature will sail discovery routes in warmer climates across the western Indian Ocean, featuring Madagascar and the Seychelles.
While two expedition ships continue operating in the Antarctic, HANSEATIC nature will offer ten cruises between October 2027 and March 2028, exploring remote islands, atolls, and coastlines from West Africa to South Africa, the Seychelles, and Madagascar.
“For us, expeditions are not defined by temperature, but by mindset,” says Isolde Susset, Managing Director Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. “Madagascar and the Seychelles offer extraordinary biodiversity, remote regions, and sensitive ecosystems, ideal conditions for authentic expedition-style travel.”
Polar and Tropical: Redefining Winter Expeditions
With the new routing, guests can now choose between Antarctic expeditions and tropical discovery cruises, both delivered with identical expedition standards. The expansion also creates new opportunities for travel partners by broadening the winter portfolio and appealing to additional target groups.
Madagascar and the Seychelles: Biodiversity in Focus
The routes open access to two of the world’s most species-rich regions. Madagascar offers endemic wildlife and rarely visited landscapes, while the Seychelles feature remote atolls and strictly protected conservation areas, including Aldabra. Zodiac landings in small groups enable close-up nature experiences conducted with maximum environmental sensitivity.
Cruises Now Open for Booking
Highlights of the winter 2027/28 program include:
NAT2725 (Dec 8-20, 2027)
Expedition Seychelles: Premiere – A Warm Winter on Tropical Islands
From Mahe to Mauritius
PLATINUM fare from €9,480 per person
NAT2802 (Jan 15-30, 2028)
Expedition Madagascar: One of Evolution’s Most Beautiful Gifts
From Mahe to Mauritius via Madagascar
PLATINUM fare from €11,890 per person
Further combined routes will operate between Cape Town, Madagascar, the Seychelles, and Mauritius through March 2028.
Guests seeking an earlier introduction to tropical expedition cruising can join two Madagascar expeditions aboard HANSEATIC spirit in November and December 2026.
Small Ships, Exceptional Access
The HANSEATIC expedition class accommodates a maximum of 230 guests and combines state-of-the-art technology with extensive open deck space, retractable glass balconies, and a fleet of on-board Zodiacs. Expert-led briefings, lectures, and excursions ensure immersive, knowledge-rich expedition experiences in both polar and tropical regions.
Contact your Travel Professional for details or visit here.