29th Oct 2026 | 11 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.
Dream up a wish list of everything you'd want from a Greek holiday: talcum-soft beaches, spectacular subtropical forests, tasty cuisine and a beautiful, historic Old Town to explore. Add wall-to-wall sunshine, and you'll find Corfu ticks pretty much every box.
This small Ionian island (only 40 miles long and 20 wide) is a highlight of many Mediterranean cruise itineraries, and it's not hard to see why. Corfu (known to the local Corfiots as Kerkyra) is one of Greece's most verdant and picturesque islands.
Its lush interior, well-watered by winter rains and smothered in fragrant pine forests and dense olive groves, is studded with charmingly old-fashioned rural villages, where the sleepy routine is occasionally enlivened by summer religious festivals (panegyria).
At such times, tempting food and craft stalls appear, a fairground atmosphere prevails and brass bands, known locally (and rather confusingly) as philharmonic orchestras, toot out foot-tapping tunes. The main festivals take place in July and August and, of course, over Easter. And if religion's not your thing, perhaps the two Corfu beer festivals, in July and October, will grab your attention.
Most time-strapped cruise visitors confine their visits to exploring Corfu Town on the island's east coast, and this delightful medieval enclave, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, certainly deserves the attention. You'll find historic fortresses and the vast Spianada Square (esplanade), which is the largest public square in the Balkans, as well as intriguing alleyways and spectacular statues and fountains (not to mention excellent shops and lively restaurants).
If your cruise schedule allows, or you've visited Corfu Town before, you'll find it very rewarding to venture farther afield. In its long history, Corfu has "belonged" to many invaders -- Byzantines, Venetians, France, Russia and Britain -- before returning to Greek rule in 1864, and all have left their cultural stamp. You'll see it in the esplanade's cricket pitch and the island's Byzantine churches, Italianate mansions and the elegant French Liston arcade.
It all blends into the fascinating jumble, which makes Corfu one of the best-known and best-loved islands of the Ionian archipelago.
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.
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 town owes its importance to its strategic position at the narrows of the Dardanelles. Canakkale means Pottery Castle, named after the ceramics industry which formerly flourished here. Most of the buildings here have been re-built since the earthquake of 1912 and the few places of interest are within easy reach of the dock. It is about a 10 minute walk into town but you will need a taxi to reach the Archaelogical Museum. Crossing the strait by ferry to the Gallipoli Peninsula you can spend a full or half day exploring the beaches, memorials and cemetries that remind us of the horrors of the ill-fated First World War campaign that began in 1915. From Canakkale you can also visit nearby Troy, see the legendary Wooden Horse replica and imagine the great battles that took place there in 120OBC.
Nearly 20 years ago when we first sailed to Kuşadası, our gulet, a traditional Turkish sailing vessel, docked in a modest marina across from a row of open-air shops. We came to explore nearby Ephesus, one of the Mediterranean's most impressive ancient sites whose ruins detail life in the once-powerful Greek and later Roman city. Upon returning to Kuşadası, our guide herded us into what he swore was "the best carpet shop in Turkey." In between sips of thick Turkish coffee, we haggled with the owner, eventually settling on a blue Hereke, which we stowed in the yacht before dining at the simple dockside eatery.
Remarkably, our rug's much the same, but everything else has changed. Now the former seaside village's population hovers around 50,000, streets bustle with tourists, rug shops bloom in high-rise buildings, and an air-conditioned shopping mall with sleek jewellery stores and European fashion boutiques anchors the modern port.
What Kuşadası lacks in charm it makes up for in locale. At Ephesus, about nine miles from town, you'll travel back thousands of years. The Terrace Houses, now open to the public, make the centuries-old city even more enthralling.
Despite Kuşadası's crowds, you can still find an outdoor cafe to sip Turkish wine, savour just-caught fish and enjoy the sea breezes.
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:
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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Outdoor
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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.
Features
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Butler Service
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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.
