Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has announced a new collection of distinctive Destination Experiences in the Mediterranean for 2024, continuously expanding its offerings ahead of the inaugural Mediterranean season of EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II.
Koray Savas, VP Hotel at Explora Journeys, said: “Embarking on our newest Mediterranean journeys, travellers have the chance to immerse themselves in a tapestry of rich history and vibrant cultures. From the sun-kissed shores of Italy to hidden gems in Greece, each experience is meticulously curated to unveil the essence of the Mediterranean spirit. Our team has carefully crafted experiences in each destination that will enrich our guests and make each journey truly memorable. Experiences are tailored to intimate groups of 2–25 guests, with time to experience off-the-beaten-path encounters at a slower pace. Our aim is to provide guests with unforgettable moments, deepening their connection with these timeless destinations.”
Explora Journeys offers five different types of Destination Experiences; Beyond Boundaries – soul-stirring achievements, Tailored Experiences – personalised requests, Enchanting Explorations – next-level exclusivity, Destination Essentials – ‘must-do’ sights and delights, and In-County Immersions – multi-day, overland experiences. With curated experiences available for EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, these journeys are designed to immerse travellers in the mosaic of diverse heritage and authentic traditions and to unveil the essence of the Mediterranean.
Priti Mehta, Head of Sales, UK & Ireland said: “We are excited to have both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II sailing the Mediterranean for the first time, with our Destination Experiences enhancing the guest experience of cosmopolitan and lesser-travelled ports. As a result, we’ve made it easy for guests to pre-book their Destination Experiences via the Explora Journeys website, under ‘My Explora Account’, so they can make the most of this brand-new collection and book in advance.”
Highlights include:
Rovinj, Croatia: Truffle Hunting in Istria
Travellers will have the chance to delve into the world of truffles amidst the pristine landscapes of Istria. Guests have the opportunity to join an old Istrian family of truffle harvesters for a truffle hunt in their private wood, accompanied by specially trained dogs. Sampling artisanal truffle-laced products and exploring the medieval town of Motovun, for panoramic views of the Mirna River valley, adds to the allure of this experience.
· Destination Essentials
· 5 hours · Example journey – An Extended Journey to the Adriatic Riviera, Piraeus (Athens) to Fusina (Venice), EXPLORA I, 27 June to 12 July 2024 (15 nights)
Casablanca, Morocco: Invigorating Hammam and Lunch at a Historic Palace
Guests will visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, Africa’s largest, and indulge in a traditional hammam experience using clay from the Atlas Mountains. Afterward, they enjoy a lavish lunch at a historic palace in the heart of the Casablanca Medina, savouring refined Moroccan cuisine amidst ornate surroundings.
· Destination Essentials
· 5 hours · Example journey – An Extended Journey to Iberian Ideals and North African Gems, Barcelona to Barcelona, EXPLORA II, 6 October to 25 October 2024 (19 nights)
Mykonos, Greece: Vineyards and Villages of Mykonos
An experience to showcase a different side of Mykonos, guests will venture to a family-owned organic vineyard. There, they’ll learn about biodynamic wine crafting and sample a selection of wines paired with local delicacies, immersing themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavours of Greece before returning to the ship in the evening.
· Destination Essentials
· 3.5 hours · Example journey – A Journey to the Cinematic Aegean Sea, Piraeus (Athens) to Istanbul, EXPLORA I, 16 August to 23 August 2024 (7 nights)
Málaga, Spain: Secrets of Granada
Travellers delve into the hidden gems of Granada, from the freethinking barrio culture of Albaicín, to the Gypsy community of Sacromonte. Wandering through winding cobbled alleys, sampling delicious local food and drink, and immersing themselves in the history and vibrancy of this distinctive Spanish city creates an unforgettable experience.
· Enchanting Explorations
· 9 hours · Example journey – A Grand Journey to Moroccan Medinas, Moorish Forts, and Modern Mercados, Arrecife (Lanzarote) to Barcelona, EXPLORA I, 12 June to 19 June 2024 (7 nights)
Livorno, Italy: Lucca by Bike and Picnic on the Ramparts
Guests are guided on a leisurely pedal through the city, enveloped by its medieval charm within the ancient city wall. Highlights include visits to landmarks like the Romanesque Cathedral of San Martino and the oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, standing on Roman amphitheatre foundations. A Tuscan-flavoured picnic atop the city walls precedes browsing local boutiques, cafes, and shops.
· Destination Essentials
· 5 hours · Example journey – A Journey of Riviera Reveries and Italian Icons, Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome), EXPLORA II, 26 August to 2 September 2024 (7 nights)
Brindisi, Italy: Trulli of Alberobello and Gleaming Ostuni
In Alberobello, travellers will visit the iconic traditional dry-stone huts with a corbelled roof, known as Trulli. After getting a taste of local gelato, guests can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site before lunch at a Trullo restaurant. A picturesque 45-minute drive takes them to Ostuni, the ancient ‘white city’ overlooking the Adriatic, followed by a guided tour before returning to Brindisi.
· Destination Essentials
· 8 hours · Example journey – A Month Meandering the Majestic Med, Piraeus (Athens) to Piraeus (Athens), EXPLORA I, 5 July to 2 August 2024 (28 nights)
The Destination Experiences are now available to book. EXPLORA I will be in the Mediterranean from June to early December 2024 and EXPLORA II will embark on her maiden journey from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome) on August 11, 2024, and will sail in the Mediterranean until November before sailing the Caribbean.
The brand has extended its “Total Luxury Offer” due to trade feedback, until 30 April 2024. Guests can benefit from additional benefits such as onboard credit, additional inclusions, and savings on their journey.
