20th Mar 2027 | 5 nights | Explora Journeys | Explora II
Sailing into Valletta, Malta, is akin to stepping into the pages of a J.R.R. Tolkien fantasy; once you are in the protected harbour, it feels as though modern civilization has disappeared. Oh, you can see a car or two driving on the winding streets amid the limestone battlements, crenelated castles and hillside structures, but they seem terribly out of place and unexpected. Never mind that Malta, which owns 7,000 years of intriguing history, is fully modernized and contemporary. What you see when entering Valletta Harbour are the formidable defensive stone battlements of forts pockmarked by war guarding the strategic waterway. Cream-colored buildings and ancient church steeples grow out of the twisting streets and hillsides. In the bay and channels, Malta's colourful luzzo boats, fishing craft resembling an elf's shoe, ply the waters in the wake of modern giant cruise ships and tankers. Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John as a place to take care of wounded soldiers and pilgrims during the Crusades in the 16th century. Its unique landscape and ancient buildings have appeared in films such as "Troy," "Gladiator," "Captain Phillips" and "World War Z." This tiny Mediterranean country is part of an archipelago of five islands, only three of which are inhabited. Cruise ships visit the island of Malta and the port of Valletta (designed by a colleague of Michelangelo). Malta has been inhabited since 5000 B.C. and was colonized by the Phoenicians in 1000 B.C. Then, the islands went in turn to the Greeks, Carthaginians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans and the Spanish, who handed them over to the Knights of the Order of St. John in a "perpetual lease" in 1533; this lasted until Napoleon seized control in 1798. The Maltese did not like the French, however, and rebelled by seeking aid from Great Britain; Malta became a British protectorate in 1800 and a part of the British Empire in 1814. Later, it shook off the British, as well, and was granted independence in 1964. Since 1974, Malta is a republic under the British Commonwealth. The influence of all of these cultures is evident in Malta, with the Roman period seemingly taking precedence.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
One of the smallest of the Dodecanese Islands, Patmos is an island steeped in political and religious history. Visit the Grotto of St Anna or the fortress-monastery of St. John with its maze of Byzantine courtyards and arcades and its fascinating Treasury housing priceless icons and manuscripts.
Named after Athena, the goddess of wisdom, Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world -- built around its namesake deity's temple, the Parthenon, which still stands today. But Athens feels far from an ancient city. While it has done an excellent job at preserving sites like the Acropolis (where the Parthenon is located) and Greek Orthodox churches, it has evolved into a hip and modern metropolis and homeport for ships sailing the Greek Islands. The city's recently overhauled Metro system also provides a cheap, safe and easy way to get around for sightseeing if you have extra time before or after your cruise. Aside from major landmarks, even once-dingy neighbourhoods like Plaka and Thissio have been restored, boasting fresh pastel-coloured painted facades and chic restaurants, bars and shops. Syntagma Square -- Athens' central square -- also has been reborn as a tree-filled haven from which to take in the city's gorgeous neoclassical Parliament building and catch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. (Yes, that means you get to watch those men in frilly skirts, elaborate waistcoats and bobbled shoes do their high-kicking thing.) Athens, once (in some parts, still) one of the most frenetic and traffic-polluted cities in the world, now owns a real buzz and is well worth spending a few days in if your cruise starts or ends there.
Explora II, part of MSC Group's luxury brand, launches in 2024 with 922 passengers and a 1.25 to 1 crew ratio. Valued at Euros 3.5 billion, it promises premium service and global voyages, beginning with the Mediterranean Anticipation maiden journey from Barcelona to Athens in August 2024.
Explora II offers bespoke experiences from fighter jet rides to cookery classes, tailored for adventure seekers and cultural enthusiasts. Collaborations with experts bring exclusive shore tours, including exploration opportunities and local immersion, ensuring diverse and thrilling activities for passengers.
Six international restaurants, reflecting destinations visited, offer diverse cuisine, from Japanese Sakura to French Fil Rouge. All-inclusive menus feature signature dishes, complemented by extensive wine lists including boutique labels. Additional venues include gelateria, creperie, and bars such as Sky Bar and Malt, catering to varied tastes.
Featuring 461 ocean-facing suites, including spacious options like Ocean Grand Terrace Suites and the luxurious Owner's Residence. Interconnecting suites and amenities like welcome Champagne, in-room minibar, and designer interiors ensure comfort and luxury. The ship's design, led by British designer Martin Francis, resembles a superyacht for a premium experience.
Explora Journeys is best for luxury travellers seeking bespoke experiences, pampering, and exploration aboard intimate ships.
Explora Journeys may not suit budget-conscious travellers seeking economical options. It's tailored for luxury voyagers desiring premium experiences. Those preferring off-the-beaten-path exploration or minimalistic travel may find its offerings excessive.
Explora Journeys cruise ships attract discerning travellers seeking luxury experiences intertwined with cultural immersion. Their clientele typically comprises affluent individuals with a penchant for exploration, aged between 30 to 60, who appreciate fine dining, curated excursions, and personalised service. These voyagers value authenticity, preferring intimate settings over mass tourism, and are often well-travelled, seeking unique destinations and meaningful connections with local communities. Explora Journeys caters to those who crave adventure, comfort, and the opportunity to create lasting memories in elegant surroundings, making it a choice for those who seek refinement and discovery on the high seas.
On an Explora Journeys cruise, there's no formal dress code. While smart casual attire is recommended for dining and public areas, there's no strict requirement for formal wear. Feel comfortable in elegant yet relaxed clothing, suitable for both onboard activities and exploring destinations. Enjoy the freedom to express your style while maintaining a respectful atmosphere onboard.
Explora Journeys cruises offer a nearly all-inclusive experience, covering accommodation, dining, beverages, gratuities, and select shore excursions. However, some premium experiences, such as certain shore excursions, spa treatments, and exclusive dining options, may incur additional charges.
Explora Journeys, renowned for bespoke travel experiences, offers a plethora of captivating activities. Their most sought-after include immersive cultural excursions, where guests engage with local customs and traditions. Nature enthusiasts relish in guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes, discovering hidden gems and wildlife encounters. Culinary delights await with exclusive cooking classes, showcasing regional cuisines. Relaxation is paramount with luxurious spa treatments and wellness retreats, rejuvenating both body and mind. For the adventurous, thrilling water sports and adrenaline-fueled activities provide exhilarating experiences. With meticulous attention to detail, Explora Journeys ensures unforgettable adventures tailored to every traveller's desires.
Our Ocean Terrace Suites elegantly combine space and light.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Some suites feature bathtubs and accessible facilities:
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*Features may vary by suite.
Please inform your Travel Advisor or the Explora Experience Centre Ambassador of your requirements when reserving your journey.
Our Ocean Grand Terrace Suites offer a more spacious private sun terrace, allowing guests to savour the ocean from the comfort of their daybed.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Each of our Penthouses offers a spacious living area, a neat work space and a separate dining area for four, allowing guests to entertain others or retreat in style as they see fit.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Flooded with light from the floor-to-ceiling oversized windows, the Deluxe Penthouses offer elegant accommodation and a stylish living area, a neat work space and a separate dining area for four.
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* Some suites feature bathtubs
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
These light-filled, luxurious Premier Penthouses are designed for withdrawing in style or entertaining other guests – at a dining table laid for four, in the stylish living area and on the private sun terrace with a second seating area and daybeds or sunbeds overlooking the ocean.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
The most spacious of our penthouses, the Grand Penthouses offer elegant spaces with a separate stylish living area, a neat work space and a separate dining area for four, whilst the private sun terraces allow guests to unwind and savour the ocean, in the company of friends or one another.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Some suites feature bathtubs and accessible facilities:
Grand Penthouse Accessibility Features
Accessible Grand Penthouse Stats
*Features may vary by suite.
Please inform your Travel Advisor or the Explora Experience Centre Ambassador of your requirements when reserving your journey.
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of the Cove Residences.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Our luxurious Retreat Residences offer oversized floor-to-ceiling windows leading onto a spacious sun terrace with a private whirlpool, whilst a Residence Host providing butler services is on hand for our guests’ every whim, as well as a dining area for up to four guests, a separate living area and calm workspace.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Abundant in space and light, the elegant Serenity Residences offer a large living area, a dining area for six, an adept desk area, a luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub and separate shower, and a Residence Host providing butler services.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Our Cocoon Residences are amongst the most spacious of our residences, with an expansive sun terrace on the ship’s coveted aft deck.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
The iconic Owner’s Residence creates the largest living space on-board, with multiple harmonious spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind.
Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your private outdoor terrace – extending over the full ship's width – with a spacious infinity whirlpool, and enjoy intuitive, intelligent, dedicated private butler services by the Residence Manager.
Every aspect of the design of our Owner’s Residence reflects the meticulous curation of all details, conscious at all times of our commitment to sustainability.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
