Hapag-Lloyd’s Europa (1999/28,437gt), voted the best cruise ship in the world in 2012 for the 12th consecutive year, has undergone a two-week-long comprehensive refit at Fincantieri’s shipyard at La Spezia. The public areas and suites were redesigned, with new carpet installed, as was a new in-cabin Siemens communication system.
Routine maintenance work was carried out on the ship’s podded propulsion system, main engines, stabilisers and bow thrusters. The ship’s rescue systems were overhauled and a new TV satellite antenna and radar plant installed.
Oceania’s Insignia (1998/30,277gt) is being chartered by Hapag-Lloyd for two years and will be refitted in Barcelona in April for her role as Columbus 2. The company says the ship is in excellent condition and no major constructional changes are needed. The work will involve interior and livery alterations, although the Insignia Casino is being replaced by a dancing area and the Card Room by a Kids’ and Teens’ Club.
