The trend towards cruises continues unabated. No wonder, as it enables comfortable travel to the most beautiful destinations in the world. And you can do all that without having to pack your bags every now and then. Smaller, more intimate ships not only allow for a more relaxed atmosphere, but also offer even more breathtaking destinations. Explora Journeys wants its brand new fleet to stand for nothing less than a new era of luxury travel at sea.

© Explora Journeys

New brand, 300 years of history

When the Explora I set sail on its maiden voyage on August 1, 2023, the ship was brand new, however, the company behind it was not. It's the long-established shipping company MSC. The Explora II will follow this year, with a further four ships due to enter service by 2028. They all offer refined but effortless luxury far removed from mass tourism. This starts with choosing unconventional arrival and departure times. For example, the ships also stay overnight in port. This makes it possible to spend more time at the respective destinations.

© Explora Journeys

Around 460 penthouses, suites and residences are a temporary home for passengers. They are wonderful retreats as they are tastefully furnished, spacious in layout and designed exclusively as outdoor cabins with private terraces. On board, you can choose from eleven culinary experiences in six different gourmet restaurants. Guests will find in-suite dining, 12 bars and lounges, four pools, spacious outdoor decks and wellness facilities among other amenities.

© Explora Journeys

So much for the hard facts. But there's also a 1:1.25 host-to-guest ratio and a land program that promises inspiring experiences on site. Guests are spoiled with numerous free inclusive services on every trip. These include a welcome bottle of champagne in the suite, unlimited choice of drinks, wellness and fitness programs and free high-speed WiFi via Starlink. But the routes in themselves are breathtaking too. Here are the highlights:

Hawai'i and Pacific Coast

Date: April 18 to 27, 2024
from/to: Vancouver (Canada)/Honolulu (USA)

© Explora Journeys

Guests on the so called Hawai'ian Journey experience the magic of Hawai'i and the Pacific at first hand. They embark on a nine-night journey with five relaxing days at sea. On land, it's off to the Volcanoes National Park or to helicopter tours over active volcanoes.

Western Mediterranean

Date: August 11 to 19, 2024
from/to: Barcelona (Spain)/Rome (Italy)

In summer 2024, Explora Journeys invites you to explore the eastern and western Mediterranean. The combinable itineraries last 7, 14 or 21 days and lead to the most beautiful Mediterranean destinations. One special feature is the tour from Barcelona to Rome. This is also the maiden voyage of the Explora II. During the journey, stopovers are planned in Ibiza (Spain), Marseille (France), Genoa (Italy), Portofino (Italy), Monte-Carlo (Monaco) and Porto Santo Stefano Argentario (Italy).

Eastern Mediterranean: Boho beaches

Date: August 30 to September 6, 2024
From/to: Piraeus (Greece)/Marghera (Italy)

The cruise in the land of legends comprises seven nights, as Explora Journeys covers Greece, Italy and Croatia. Guests can look forward to landings in Patmos and Corfu (Greece) as well as excursions to Otranto (Italy) or Zadar (Croatia).