From Colombo to Singapore · Asia · 12 nights
From Colombo to Singapore
Part of Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ award-winning fleet, MS Europa will operate bilingually in German and English beginning in January 2026, opening a whole host of exciting voyages for the English-speaking market and offering a laid-back small ship cruising experience.
MS Europa, like the rest of the Hapag-Lloyd Cruises fleet, is
awarded five stars year after year by Insight Guides Cruising &
Cruise Ships, formally the Berlitz Cruise Guide, and offers a
relaxed and stylish ambience on board. From January 2026, MS Europa
will operate bilingually, in German and English, opening up plenty
of exciting itineraries for our discerning guests.
Don't be deceived by the urban sprawl; Colombo may be a little chaotic, but there is plenty to recommend Sri Lanka's colourful capital. Faded colonial architecture and beautiful Buddhist temples hint at the city's considerable history, while the excellent restaurants, lively bars and characterful streets provide the perfect introduction to contemporary Sri Lankan culture.
The Dutch colonial architecture of the Fort, Galle’s walled old quarter, is one of the highlights of Sri Lanka’s south coast. The atmospheric streets are home to all manner of beguiling boutiques, cafés and restaurants, and the beach towns of Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna are just a short drive away.
Investment has poured into Hambantota since the city was devastated by the 2004 tsunami, and this is now one of South Asia’s biggest ports. Hambantota is a jumping off point for Yala National Park, famous for its leopards, and the less well known Bundala National Park, rich in birdlife including flamingos and storks.
The predominantly Tamil city of Trincomalee, on Sri Lanka’s less developed east coast, has begun to re-emerge as a tourist destination following the end of the island’s bitter civil war in 2009. The sleepy streets are scattered with churches, mosques and Hindu temples, and the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli are stunning.
Ko Kut (also known as Koh Kood), is one of Thailand’s prettiest islands, with powder-soft sands reminiscent of the Maldives, crystal clear waters and beautiful waterfalls. Kayaking and snorkelling are the main activities here, along with relaxing on the beach and enjoying the incredible views.
Laid-back Langkawi boasts some of Malaysia’s finest beaches, and it’s a place where the traditional kampung (village) way of life survives in spite of the island’s development as a tourist destination. It’s also a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving thanks to the clarity of the surrounding waters.
The Malaysian island of Penang is a fascinating blend of East and West, far more than just a beach destination. Lovely Georgetown, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to British colonial architecture, crumbling Chinese shophouses and incense-perfumed temples.
Malaysia’s capital is a hot and humid cultural melting pot, defined by its distinctive Malay, Chinese and Indian communities. The dazzling Petronas Towers are KL’s most recognisable landmark, while at street level you’ll find temples and mosques, elegant colonial buildings and bustling markets.
Singapore’s heritage as an important trading post means that there is a real cultural mix, with four official languages: English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil. Step away from the gleaming towers and you’ll find yourself transported into another world amongst the intoxicating streets of Chinatown and Little India.
