Emirates and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, two of the world’s leading travel brands, have announced a strategic partnership to offer travellers exclusive luxury cruise and air travel packages. The collaboration aims to deliver seamless connectivity and premium experiences, combining Emirates’ renowned air services with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises’ world-class sea journeys.
Launching from the 2026/2027 season, the two brands will jointly develop and market bespoke air-sea travel packages, targeting premium customer segments and upscale trade partners across key global markets. As part of the agreement, Emirates and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises will work together to create dedicated fare structures and secure ‘cruise blocks’ aligned with seasonal cruise demand and luxury travel profiles. They will also synchronize global cruise itineraries with Emirates’ extensive network and flight schedules, offering cruise passengers greater convenience to embark and disembark at ports across the Indian Ocean Islands, Africa, the Far East, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
Operational cooperation will see both companies share data and customer insights to elevate service excellence further. The partnership will explore integrating luxury guest services at jointly served destinations and providing premium support services at key ports and airports, enhancing the overall journey for discerning travellers.
Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer, commented, “We are excited to begin our partnership with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. With our shared vision of offering personalized and high-quality travel experiences, we are confident that this collaboration will deliver a seamless and luxurious sea-air journey for our cruise customers.”
Corinna Fritsch, Director Flight & Ground Operation Services at Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, added, “We are thrilled about our closer collaboration with Emirates. Our fleet, recognised as the finest in the world by Insight Guides 2025, offers unparalleled luxury and exploration. Partnering with Emirates, who share our dedication to exclusive travel experiences, will be a tremendous advantage for our well-travelled guests.”
The partnership will initially focus on special packages for ships like MV EUROPA 2, HANSEATIC inspiration, and HANSEATIC spirit. While MV EUROPA 2 is celebrated for its relaxed elegance and ocean-view suites with private verandas, the HANSEATIC expedition vessels offer intimate exploration experiences, reaching remote and fascinating destinations with award-winning routes.
