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Explora Journeys - Mediterranean Destination Experiences

Explora Journeys Mediterranean Inaugural Journeys Collection Image: Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys Announce Enriching Mediterranean Destination Experiences

New luxury lifestyle cruise brand, Explora Journeys, invite you to cruise into an 'Ocean State of Mind' - and that's very easy to do on one of their newly revealed enriching Mediterranean Destination Experiences on new ship EXPLORA I. With fabulous itineraries and a range of very special onshore discoveries there's even more reason to choose an Explora Journeys cruise.

Explora Journeys have just released their first set of Destination Experiences, as part of the Mediterranean Inaugural Journeys Collection of new ship EXPLORA I. The 922-passenger EXPLORA I is the first of four cruise ships being built by the Fincantieri shipyard for the brand. EXPLORA I launches in May 2023, with her sister ships following in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

EXPLORA I Mediterranean Inaugural Journeys Collection

Explora Journeys EXPLORA I Exterior (Rendered) Image: Explora Journeys

The new luxury lifestyle travel brand has revealed a selection of experiences around the Mediterranean, with a unique blend of well-known destinations such as Ibiza in Spain, discovered through a different lens and lesser-known ports, rarely visited by cruise ships such as Calvi in Corsica, France or Kastellorizo in Greece.

At every destination, Explora Journeys will provide inspiring opportunities for guests to discover authentic Mediterranean cultural, historical, and culinary delights from an extraordinary perspective. Experiences are tailored to small, intimate groups, from 2 to 25 guests. Always with an emphasis on exclusive, off-the-beaten-track encounters focussed on a slower pace of travel to allow guests to fully immerse themselves in each destination, whilst not leaving their mark on the places they explore.

Michael Ungerer, the Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys, commented, “The ingenuity of the bespoke destination experiences created by Explora Journeys is set to surpass expectations, leading our guests on a journey of self, social and active discovery, fulfilment, and enrichment, easing them into an Ocean State of Mind. Explora Journeys is committed to delivering inspiring and sustainable tourism as we strive to leave a positive footprint for the next generation.”

Destination experiences are categorised into five different interest types to help curate the ultimate tailored adventure.

Beyond Boundaries:

Once-in-a-lifetime, soul-stirring experiences for active travellers who enjoy pushing their boundaries and changing their perspective on the world. For example, a private tour to world renowned Premier Grand Cru Classé Château Margaux, a legendary estate north of Bordeaux, France, and its innovative cellars.

Tailored Experiences:

The travel equivalent of haute couture, these highly exclusive experiences are customised for those who value rarity in its most authentic form. Guests can embark on a helicopter adventure with fascinating aerial views of the Médoc peninsula in France, enjoy swimming and snorkelling on a private sail around the Maltese islands or explore the magic of Lisbon, Portugal, via a tuk tuk.

Enchanting Explorations:

Meticulously designed to usher in the next level of exclusivity for small, intimate groups to witness exclusive moments, that are off limits to most. Guests can choose to connect with nature through forest therapy and forest bathing near Porto, Portugal, enjoy the sense of wellbeing and calm that comes from yoga flow at dusk in Ibiza, Spain or drive a classic Citroen 2CV through the country lanes of Normandy/France, attend a very exclusive visit of the Pope`s summer residence in Castel Gandolfo or a private cocktail party at the National Palace and Gardens of Queluz, on the Portuguese Riviera.

Boundless Discoveries:

These expanded must-do experiences include hidden wonders and VIP access for unbridled finesse. There are chances to learn from the locals, with an intimate flamenco masterclass in captivating Cadiz, Spain, or a photography class on the beautiful island of Mykonos, Greece. Guests can enjoy a scenic hike into history at Notre Dame de la Serra in Calvi, Corsica, France, or handpick, brew and bottle Balearic healing herbs in Ibiza, Spain.

In-Country Immersions:

Designed as multi-day overland experiences with luxury accommodation before or after sailing, these are opportunities for guests to delve deeper into the culture of the countries they visit in intimately sized groups.

Sacha Rougier, Head of Itinerary Planning and Destination Experience, Explora Journeys said, “Blending luxury and adventure, Explora Journeys will ensure a one-of-a-kind experience. Enriching and exhilarating – Explora Journeys connect travellers with the unique destination experiences of a lifetime, and we look forward to offering these authentic, immersive, and transformative experiences to our guests.”

Explora Journeys Mediterranean Destination Experiences can now be booked as part of the Inaugural Mediterranean Journeys collection with departures starting from 31 May 2023.

A seamless and efficient booking process is available for guests through their preferred travel advisor, via the digital booking suite www.explorajourneys.com/traveladvisors or through the Explora Journeys website www.explorajourneys.com.

May – June 2023: Inaugural Mediterranean Journey:

A Maiden Journey into Mare Nostrum (11 nights) : Barcelona, St Tropez, Calvi (Corsica), Rome, Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Istanbul, Athens.

Mediterranean Grand Journey (25 nights): Barcelona, St Tropez, Calvi (Corsica), Rome, Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Istanbul, Athens, Patmos, Bodrum, Kastellorizo, Santorini, Athens, Mykonos, Gozo, Ibiza, Barcelona.

Other Mediterranean and Western Europe destinations: Barcelona, St Tropez, Calvi (Corsica), Rome, Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Istanbul, Athens, Patmos, Bodrum, Kastellorizo, Santorini, Mykonos, Gozo, Ibiza, Malaga, Cadiz, Portimão, Lisbon, Porto, St. Jean-de-Luz, Bordeaux, Saint-Malo, Honfleur.

About Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys is a new luxury travel brand with a unique proposition, connecting travellers with the ocean, themselves and their environments. Explora Journeys stems from the long-held vision of the Aponte Vago family to redefine the ocean experience and create a category of its own. The brand’s mission is to offer guests a chance to experience an “Ocean State of Mind” – the way we refer to the mindset that can be achieved when we escape to the ocean, relax, create memories, and reconnect with what matters most in our lives. A fleet of four ships, two of which are already under construction, will be created under the Explora Journeys brand with one launched each year from 2023 to 2026.

You can find out more Explora Journeys in my related post here: Introducing New Cruise Line Explora Journeys or by visiting the Explora Journeys website.