By Kavita Mistry 
Emirates and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises have announced a strategic partnership to offer integrated luxury cruise and air travel experiences starting from the 2026/2027 season. The collaboration will bring together two globally recognised brands to create curated cruise-air packages targeting upscale customer segments across key international markets.
The partnership aims to enhance travel convenience for luxury cruise passengers by aligning Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ global itineraries with Emirates’ extensive route network. The initiative will include jointly developed and marketed air-sea travel products, dedicated flight capacities (cruise blocks), and seasonal fare structures tailored to premium clientele.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, said, “We’re eager to start our partnership with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises and are confident that we have the right approach in place to deliver a premium, consistent and seamless sea-air journey for our cruise customers. In Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, we also have a partner that shares our commitment to curating unique and personalised travel experiences for discerning travellers.”
The collaboration will initially focus on key cruise ships including MV EUROPA 2, HANSEATIC inspiration, and HANSEATIC spirit. The EUROPA 2, known for its relaxed luxury, offers all ocean-view suites with private verandas and fine dining for a maximum of 500 guests. Hapag-Lloyd’s expedition-class ships, accommodating up to 230 guests, are designed to access some of the world’s most remote and pristine destinations, including routes across the Indian Ocean Islands, Africa, the Far East, Australia, and New Zealand.
Corinna Fritsch, Director of Flight & Ground Operation Services at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, remarked, “It is a great privilege to have a partner who shares our deep understanding of luxury and who values the exclusive, personal travel experience in the most remote corners of the world just as much as we do. We’re confident that our well-traveled and discerning guests will truly appreciate this and benefit from the offering.”
The two companies will also collaborate operationally by sharing data insights to refine customer service, aligning premium support services at key ports and airports, and enhancing guest services in co-served destinations.
