Hapag-Lloyd Cruises has launched its first English-language catalogue for new luxury expedition class ship, Hanseatic Inspiration, which will take to the sea in October 2019, expanding the existing fleet.

The catalogue launch in London gave guests a preview of 22 true expedition routes from October 2019 to September 2020 including the Arctic and Antarctic, the Amazon and the Great Lakes of North America. It was presented by Hapag-Lloyd Cruises CEO Karl J. Pojer.

Cruises range from short four-day cruises to the Frisian Islands to 23-day expeditions to the Antarctic. The maiden voyage will take place in Europe when Hanseatic Inspiration begins a 15-day cruise from Antwerp to Tenerife in October 2019.

The ship can accommodate up to 230 guests, or just 199 guests on Antarctic cruises. With 120 cabins and suites (ranging from the Panoramic Cabin at 21m2 to the Grand Suite at 71m2), almost all outside cabins have their own balcony or French balcony, while the interior design is inspired by nature and uses premium materials.

Raising the bar in the expedition cruise segment and featuring structural elements that enhance the expedition experience even further, the ship boasts a number of innovations. It also boasts the highest ice class rating for passenger ships (PC6).

Set to run on low polluting 70 per cent marine gas oil, other eco features include an SCR catalytic converter, bio waste water treatment and energy saving propellers.

On board, the Ocean Academy is a place where guests can use interactive technology to discover comprehensive background information on the regions they are visiting.

Retractable glass balconies on the sun deck give guests the feeling of hovering directly above the ocean. They can also stand at the bow of the ship to be closer to the action – even closer than the captain.

Serving international gourmet cuisine in three restaurants, the speciality restaurant will offer modern Japanese and Peruvian cooking. Additional dining areas include a main restaurant with 178 seats and a bistro with 184 seats (indoor and outdoor), a barbecue and a show kitchen. Flexible mealtimes and free seating allows guests to fit their meals around their expedition experiences.

The Ocean Spa spans 235 m2 (2,529 ft2) and features a Finnish sauna, steam sauna, relaxation area, hairdresser, beauty treatments and massages. There is also a 100 m2 (1,076 ft2) fitness area with sport hosts and a separate course room – both with a view – and a pool with counter-current system that can be enjoyed come snow or shine, thanks to a flexible canopy.

Hanseatic Inspiration is taking bookings from 23 January 2018; according to Pojer, there have already been 2,400 pre booking enquiries. “There is definitely potential for top quality product on a five-star level in the UK,” he said.