27th Oct 2027 | 10 nights | Explora Journeys | Explora II
Of all the cities in the world, only Paris comes remotely close to matching Venice in terms of sheer beauty and romance. You've seen it in photos and films, but there's no substitute for the reality -- the shimmering Grand Canal, the gondolas slipping down watery alleyways, the elegant palazzos emerging straight from the sea.
Venice once ruled the Mediterranean as a shipping power, amassing vast wealth and producing some of Europe's greatest artistic and cultural treasures. But, over the centuries, Venice has declined a bit and now has less than half the population it had at its peak. What remains of its former grandeur -- the crumbling palaces, the sumptuous art in its museums and churches, the fantastic rituals of Carnevale -- makes Venice a living tribute to the past.
Aside from a number of charming squares, such as the famous Piazza San Marco, Venice is mostly composed of a warren of narrow canals and streets spread over more than 100 islands. These tangled passageways are an attraction among themselves. There are few better cities to simply get lost in, particularly if you want to escape the tourist hordes that clog the main arteries around San Marco and the Rialto Bridge.
So once you've seen the major sights, fold up your map, and set off on foot. You'll discover pretty, residential neighborhoods with colorful flowerboxes in the windows and clean laundry billowing in the breeze. You'll discover tiny trattorias where the locals enjoy the catch of the day. And, away from the vaporetti (water taxis) and motorboat traffic on the Grand Canal, you'll discover one more pleasure of this place, aptly dubbed La Serenissima -- the unexpected quiet of a city without cars.
The craggy Dalmatian Coast, across the Adriatic Sea from Italy, is a treasure trove of sea resorts and dramatic scenery where mountains meet water. Cruise ship ports offer access to beaches, parks, offshore islands, tours for soft adventure and insights into the cultures of the western Balkan Peninsula. Most travellers have heard of Croatia's famous Dalmatian port of Dubrovnik, which appears on many cruise-ship itineraries between Venice and Athens. Not nearly as many cruisers have spent a day in Zadar. Zadar is a treasure trove of ruins and old churches that sit in the middle of a pleasant, comfortable, working city. It's an easy city to explore, only a short walk from the cruise ship dock to the city centre. Streets in the Old Town are clean, and its historic sites are intriguing reminders of Zadar's tumultuous past. Yes, this city has suffered. It started when the Romans decided they wanted Zadar, which resulted in 200 years of warfare to subdue the locals, back in the 1st century B.C. The Venetians later conquered Zadar several times, but the town kept throwing them out, only to fall to the Austrians. The Italians again ruled Zadar, followed by the French and then the Nazis during World War II, which meant bombs from the West until the Germans and much of Zadar were destroyed. The city then became part of Yugoslavia until that government fell apart. The city was shelled by Serbian forces from 1991 to 1993, cutting Zadar off from help from the mainland. The city remained in precarious shape until 1995. Today, the area has an energetic atmosphere, especially thanks to the young people of the local college. For visitors, Zadar offers two special places: a sea organ that plays music from the mastery of the wind and the waves, and the outdoor Forum Bar, where you may sip, sup and 'tsup -- that's checking in with your friends by cell phone to find out what's up -- as you sit in the ruins of a real Roman Forum in the shadows of a 9th-century church.
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.
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.
The capital city in the land of Leonardo, Michelangelo and the popes is
today a living museum with gorgeous artwork, amazing architecture and
inspiring ancient sites. At the same time, it's alive and vibrant in a
21st-century way. It's an unforgettable city to visit, and we'll warn
you right now that once you've experienced it, you'll want to go back
for more.
One of our favorite things to do there is walk and ogle. On a recent
visit, we took one day to do the route from Vatican City and St. Peter's
Basilica -- with its jaw-dropping art, statuary, and religious
significance -- to Via del Corso, where our quest for the latest Italian
fashions was more than fulfilled amidst the well-dressed crowd of Roman
shoppers. The next day, we went on an ancient history quest past ruins
and columns, traversing the same streets Julius Caesar strode (and rode)
to the Colosseum, where gladiators once battled. Walking on, we were
awed by the Pantheon, the well-preserved ancient symbol of Rome and now a
great hangout spot.
First-time visitors, many envisioning Rome as big and congested, will be
surprised by the scenic layout, with its famous seven hills and the
Tiber River running through the city. (Cleopatra famously made her grand
entrance from the river.) And the senses may be shocked by the general
energy, hustle and bustle. With cars, taxis and scooters roaring here
and there, crossing the street can be a challenge. (Don't worry; there
are quiet piazzas aplenty with lovely cafes where you can get away from
it all and unwind.)
The food is, of course, wonderful -- we can't eat enough pasta -- and
the spirit of la dolce vita (the good life) abounds. Whenever we do such
a quest in Rome, we do regular gelato stops (try the yummy pine nut
flavor) or coffee breaks. And the shopping scene serves up Prada, Gucci,
Armani and more. (High style can be found in more affordable brands
like Furla, as well.) What could be better than that?
No question, Rome has one of the world's most important collections of
once-in-a-lifetime sights to see, including St. Peter's Basilica and the
Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Forum and on and on
and on. And for those historic monuments alone, the city is worth a
visit.
But if you're on an itinerary where Rome is just a port of call for the
day, you won't see everything. Either resign yourself to that fact, or
book a tour that will at least drive you by the main sights. Be aware
the port for Rome, Civitavecchia, is about 1.5 to 2 hours from the city.
(There is decent train service.) If you're beginning or ending your
cruise there, plan to stay at least a couple of nights to explore the
Eternal City; it's likely to steal a piece of your heart. Make sure to
drop a coin in Trevi Fountain, which is said to assure you'll come back
again.
On any Western Mediterranean itinerary, Florence is an absolute highlight -- the gem of the early Italian Renaissance. In the 15th century, when great artists like Giotto, Ghiberti, Brunelleschi and Michelangelo worked there, they created magnificent examples of painting and sculpture that today still fill Florentine churches, civic buildings, grand palazzi and world-class museums like the Uffizi Gallery and the Accademia. Architecture prospered in Florence, too. The city's signature work of art is the masterful Brunelleschi-designed dome of its cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, known as the Duomo. No question, Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. However, for cruise travelers with just one precious day on a six-hour port of call, it's impossible to see it all. We should note that, as lovely as Florence's famous River Arno is, it's nowhere near big enough (and its bridges are far too low) to allow any kind of ship inside the heart of the city -- and here we include low-slung river vessels along with more traditional cruise ships. As such, it can be confusing to see a cruise itinerary that calls on Florence when ships actually dock at the huge commercial port of Livorno, a good hour-plus drive from the Renaissance City. However, the charmless city of Livorno (it was badly bombed during World War II) serves as a jumping-off point for daytrips elsewhere. And while Florence is no doubt the richest destination of all, Livorno's north Tuscan locale means that other cities -- Pisa, with its famous leaning tower; the walled city of Lucca; and San Gimignano, with 14 of its medieval towers still intact -- are also options.
Arriving by ship into the Monte Carlo harbor is an amazing experience.
If your docking time is before dawn, you'll see the lights of the
principality twinkling throughout the mountains that surround the harbor
and the beautifully lit Grand Casino at center stage. If you arrive
during daylight hours, you are faced with the sight of one magnificent
yacht after another vying for space in the little harbor.
Monaco is a self-governed sovereign nation under the protection of
France. It has been ruled by the Grimaldi family for the past 700 years
(with a slight diversion during the French Revolution), and its 1918
treaty with France decreed that if the prince -- any Grimaldi prince --
failed to produce a son, the territory would be ceded back to France
upon his death. This was changed in 2002. If Albert II, the current
prince, fails to produce a male heir, the throne will be passed to his
sister Caroline.
Monaco, which comprises a miniscule 485 acres in total, and is Europe's
smallest state after the Vatican, is barely west of the Italian border
and surrounded by France on all sides except for the 2.5 miles of
coastline. If you are looking at Monaco from your ship in the harbor,
you can't tell where the principality ends and France begins. (Hint:
Somewhere around the Middle Corniche.) As tiny as it is, it contains
five sectors, of which Monte Carlo is the best-known. The principality,
which is home to the most millionaires per capita than anywhere else in
the world, has no natural resources; its national economy is based on
tourism and banking.
The two go hand in hand in this idyllic slice of the Cote d'Azur. The
wealthy Europeans who do their banking here expect -- no, demand -- the
best, and cost be damned. This makes it harder for workaday folks to
enjoy a stay (rooms go for an average of $700 a night in a nice hotel),
but coming in on a cruise ship for the day gives one a sense of James
Bond cool.
If you're lucky enough to be in Monaco during the third week in May, you
can actually see part of the Grand Prix Formula One race from the
comfort of your cruise ship. We were surprised to see that the track is
actually in the middle of the city and goes under an overpass within
direct view of the cruise ship dock.
However, whenever you are fortunate enough to visit Monaco and the
dazzling district of Monte Carlo, you'll find plenty to do. In fact,
these 485 acres offer so much, you'll need to come back to explore
again.
Marseille, gateway to Provence, is France's largest port and second largest city, with a vast history stretching back more than 2,000 years to its foundation by the Greeks in the 6th century BC. While much of the city is urban sprawl, it has a spectacular setting between dramatic limestone hills and the Mediterranean, and the once-industrial streets now feature stylish shops and cutting-edge art galleries, thanks to investment from its role as European Capital of Culture 2013. Most cruisers make a beeline for Le Vieux Port, a buzzing, picturesque harbour lined with boutiques, restaurants and cafes. This district attracts an eclectic crowd, from local fishermen to millionaires venturing ashore from James Bond-style mega-yachts. All gather to soak up Le Vieux Port's charming atmosphere, browse its bustling markets and tuck into a bowl of Marseille's classic signature dish, bouillabaisse (a rich fish stew).
The capital of Spain's Catalonia region is one of the country's -- maybe even Europe's -- most beautiful and vibrant places. A city of contrasts, it is like no other in Spain; this is most evident in its architecture, a marriage of Gothic spikes and modern curves. (One name to keep an eye out for is Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona's most famous architect.) Barcelona is also a city of distinct neighbourhoods. The old city -- Ciutat Vella -- is the heart of everything, with museums, shopping and cafes. Then there's the port area, Port Vell, which features bars, restaurants, shops, an IMAX theatre and the largest aquarium in Europe. (Port Vell is different from the working port area where cruise ships dock, but it's not too far away.) Enchanting and ancient, the Barri Gotic (Gothic Quarter) is the centre of the old city and brings together the best of Barcelona in a series of narrow streets, shops, cafes and magical corridors. One of Barcelona's best attributes is that while it seems large and spread out, its neighbourhoods are surprisingly walkable and easily accessible by bus, metro or even on foot (in comfortable shoes). Don't miss a stroll along Las Ramblas, replete with produce and flower stands, a historic opera house and maybe even a glimpse of Marilyn Monroe calling to you from the balcony of the Erotica Museum. Just be sure to rest your feet now and then over a few plates of tapas (which are meant to be shared, but we won't tell if you don't) and an ice-cold pitcher of sangria or a bottle of cava, the region's sparkling wine.
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.
Why do we love these cruise holiday? Start planning your dream getaway for 2027 today with this collection of cruise itineraries. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach escape, a cultural city adventure, or an unforgettable cruise experience, now is the perfect time to lock in your dream vacation. By booking well in advance, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of spreading the cost over time, making it easier to save for the holiday of a lifetime. Not only will you secure great prices, but you’ll also have first choice of your cruise accommodation. Plus, booking ahead means you’ll have more time to plan every detail to perfection, ensuring a stress-free and truly memorable trip.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get a head start on your 2027 holiday. Book today and start looking forward to the adventure of a lifetime!
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:
Ocean Terrace Suite Accessibility Features
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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.
