Plantours Cruises: MS Hamburg Purchased - Start of a New Era

The news was announced on August 29, 2025, and confirmed by various sources. This step shows how much the Ligabue Group is committed to Plantours and the German cruise market in the long term. The takeover not only makes comprehensive modernization possible but also secures the future of the small ship.

The MS Hamburg was previously the only high seas cruise ship in use for Plantours but was owned by the Conti Group. A charter contract always brings uncertainties, especially when it comes to long-term planning and major investments. With the purchase, the Ligabue Group now has full control. This allows for long-term planning and makes the planned modernization meaningful and economically viable. Such a large investment would have been a high risk for a chartered ship. The purchase is also part of a larger strategy. The Ligabue Group, which has been the parent company of Plantours since 2006, has continuously expanded its commitment to the cruise sector in recent years. For example, the river ships Lady Diletta and Sans Souci also belong to the fleet.

The MS Hamburg was built in Wismar in 1997. With a length of 144 meters and space for a maximum of 400 passengers, it is considered Germany's smallest high seas cruise ship. Its compact size is its greatest advantage: it can call at ports and waterways that are inaccessible to the ever-growing ships. This includes, for example, the Great Lakes in North America. This "soft expedition ship" enables routes away from mass tourism and attracts a loyal clientele who value a familiar atmosphere. The high repeat guest rate of 65 percent speaks for itself. The ship is equipped with a special feature: the so-called "infinity" windows on decks 4 and 5, which can be lowered electrically to give the cabin guests the feeling of a balcony. In addition, the MS Hamburg has its own Zodiacs on board for special expedition excursions.

The takeover is only the first step. The Ligabue Group has announced a "comprehensive modernization" of the MS Hamburg. "Innovative concepts" are to be implemented. Experts assume that both public areas and cabins will be renovated and technical systems will be overhauled. The ship already underwent a major refit in 2020, during which the reception, the wine bar, and a pool bar were redesigned, among other things. At the time, 20 million euros were invested. The renewed refurbishment shows that the Ligabue Group has great confidence in the ship and is investing in its future for the long term. With the purchase of the MS Hamburg, Ligabue consolidates Plantours' position as a specialist for cruises with an expedition character. While other companies are building ever-larger ships, Plantours is focusing on a niche segment with a loyal audience. The acquisition secures the brand and sends a strong signal to the industry. The MS Hamburg is ready for its new, exciting chapter under the direct command of its owner.