World Cruise 2027: MS Hamburg sails from Germany to Antarctica and Hawaii

Even though the news is being released now in October 2025, cruise enthusiasts will have to wait a little longer: The voyage only begins on December 6, 2027. The two-year lead time is by no means unusual. World cruises are among the most exclusive and high-priced products in the industry. Such an early announcement secures the best bookings for the popular suites and outside cabins for the operator, Plantours, and aids in the complex logistical planning.

With this route, the MS Hamburg positions itself in the premium segment of expedition world cruises. Focusing on a maximum of only 400 guests, the emphasis is on the individual experience away from mass tourism.

The route is divided into four main sections and was designed to optimally utilize the ship's technical advantages.

The journey begins in Hamburg, initially sailing towards Starboard (right) across the Atlantic, with New Year's Eve celebrated off the Copacabana in Rio de Janeiro. The most strategically important part follows: The MS Hamburg sets course for the South Atlantic. Here, the ship transforms into a true expedition vessel. Thanks to its Ice Class 1B, it can navigate through areas with ice up to 0.6 meters thick.

Landings are planned for locations including the Falkland Islands and the Chilean Fjords. For these stops, the ship's own Zodiacs are deployed – robust inflatable boats essential for landings where no port infrastructure is available.

After rounding South America, the long-awaited Pacific crossing begins. Via the mysterious Easter Islands, the ship heads for dream destinations in French Polynesia. Guests can look forward to Bora Bora, Moorea, and Papeete. The shallow draft of only about 5.10 meters is a major advantage here, as it allows the ship access to smaller ports or shallower lagoons that are inaccessible to large ocean liners.

In early March 2028, the MS Hamburg will reach the emotional peak of the voyage: Honolulu in Hawaii.

After the tropical islands, the route leads through Central America. A special highlight is the daylight passage of the Panama Canal. The manageable size of the MS Hamburg is ideal for this transit.

This is followed by island-hopping in the Caribbean, before the ship heads back to Europe via the Azores and Bermuda, concluding the circumnavigation in Hamburg.

The 147-day voyage proves that the MS Hamburg is capable of more than just a classic ocean cruise. It combines the amenities of an ocean vessel with the technical capabilities of an expedition ship. Its Ice Class 1B and membership in the IAATO (International Association of Antartica Tour Operators) are what make the Antarctica passage possible in the first place. Furthermore, the limited number of passengers facilitates compliance with strict environmental regulations in sensitive areas.

Plantours perfectly utilizes the technical specifications of the 144-meter-long ship: It fills the gap between large, traditional world cruises and pure, often very high-priced expedition cruisers. The MS Hamburg thus offers a unique, education-oriented experience for a discerning clientele.