Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will expand its cultural programme in 2027 with the introduction of Curated Concerts, a new series of music-focused voyages aboard Europa and Europa 2. The programme will feature pianist Alexander Krichel, clarinettist David Orlowsky and soprano Shira Patchornik, each serving as artistic host and curator for a dedicated sailing.
Each cruise will include two performances on board and one concert ashore, with the musical programmes designed to reflect both the artists' individual styles and the destinations visited. The initiative will complement the cruise line's existing classical music offerings, including the Ocean Sun Festival.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises stated that each featured musician will develop the artistic concept in collaboration with selected performers, choosing accompanying artists and creating a programme tailored to the voyage. Shore concerts will be staged in venues selected for their architectural, historical and cultural significance, including locations beyond traditional concert halls.
Alexander Krichel will curate the programme aboard Europa during the 12-day Summertime Baltic Breeze voyage from Hamburg to Kiel, departing on July 18th, 2027. Joined by actor Sabin Tambrea, he will present performances combining piano music with spoken text in a melodramatic format, treating both elements as equal components of the production. The programme will be linked to the Baltic itinerary and the Swedish archipelagos, while the shoreside concert will be held at Stockholm's Eric Ericson Hall.
David Orlowsky will lead the musical programme aboard Europa 2 during the 12-day Norway's Natural Wonders cruise, sailing from Hamburg to Kiel between August 28th and September 12th, 2027. His performances will combine chamber music with contemporary interpretations, featuring a female vocal ensemble and guest musicians from a variety of musical backgrounds. The shoreside concert is scheduled to take place in Tromsø's Arctic Cathedral, where the programme will incorporate the venue's distinctive acoustics and its connection to the surrounding Nordic landscape.
Soprano Shira Patchornik will curate a vocal and chamber music programme aboard Europa during the 11-day Mare Balticum: Tradition Meets Modernity voyage, departing Hamburg on August 30th, 2027. Accompanied by her trio Cyrene and lutenist Elias Conrad, she will present a repertoire ranging from Baroque music to contemporary works, incorporating folk music, chamber music, opera and Romantic compositions. The shoreside performance will be staged at Ulriksdal Palace Theatre in Stockholm.
The cruise line noted that Europa accommodates up to 400 guests, while Europa 2 carries up to 500 passengers. Both vessels feature multiple dining venues and a comprehensive cultural programme, with approximately 1,800 artists performing aboard the ships each year. Performers typically remain on board for several days, allowing guests to attend performances and engage with the artists throughout the voyage.
Bookings for the Curated Concert voyages include early booking fares available until October 31st, 2026, with prices varying according to itinerary and accommodation category.