Travelbiz E-Zine
4
February
2025

EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II Exclusive Spring Journeys

#Traveltradetogether

Explora Journeys unveils exclusive spring journeys in the Mediterranean aboard Explora I And Explora II

Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, invites guests to embrace the joy of spring with a collection of exclusive Mediterranean journeys. Sailing aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, guests will experience unparalleled elegance, curated cultural encounters, and family-friendly festivities set against the backdrop of Europe’s most captivating coastal destinations.

This season, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Mediterranean, from vibrant towns brimming with architectural marvels to sun-kissed shores and crystal-clear waters. Designed to evoke the intimacy of a private yacht, each voyage seamlessly blends adventure with relaxation, offering an authentic and immersive exploration of this enchanting region.

A Mediterranean Easter Celebration Onboard

Explora Journeys enhances the seasonal experience with a thoughtfully curated programme of entertainment, cultural events, and culinary delights. Families can reconnect through ship-wide Easter egg hunts, themed festivities, and exquisite dining experiences designed to celebrate spring’s sense of renewal and togetherness.

For those seeking deeper cultural immersion, Explora Journeys presents the Rituals & Traditions series, featuring an enriching Seder Passover feast. With insights from a historian, guests will embark on a culinary journey that unveils the historical significance of each dish, elevating both the mind and the palate.

The Easter itineraries on board EXPLORA I offer guests an extraordinary blend of history, culture, and natural beauty with highlights including:

  • Barcelona to Barcelona: An Extended Journey to Hidden Histories and Flavourful Andalusia
    14 April – 4 May 2025 | 20 nights | EXPLORA I
    From Barcelona to Alicante’s sun-drenched Costa Blanca, this itinerary offers beachside yoga, lively sundowners in Ibiza and Sardinia, and explorations of Tunisia, Sicily, Naples, Casablanca, Gibraltar, and Motril.
  • Barcelona to Piraeus (Athens): A Journey of Myths, Mountains & Magnificent Ruins
    18 – 28 April 2025 | 10 nights | EXPLORA I
    Guests will discover Malta’s renowned wines, Crete and Rhodes’ ancient grandeur, and the pristine beaches of Palma, Palermo, and Paros. A highlight includes walking the marble roads of Ephesus in Kusadasi, once graced by Cleopatra.
  • Barcelona to La Valletta: A Journey of Sapphire Seas
    18 – 22 April 2025 | 4 nights | EXPLORA I
    This shorter itinerary offers breathtaking beach escapes in Palma and Palermo, followed by an indulgent exploration of Malta’s acclaimed vineyards and historic landscapes.

Spring Mediterranean Itineraries

The Spring itineraries on board EXPLORA I and II offer guests a selection of journeys that engage the senses and enrich the mind. With stops in iconic destinations, these journeys immerse guests in the diverse heritage of the Eastern and Westen Mediterranean:

  • Barcelona to Santa Cruz de Tenerife: A Journey of Spanish Charms & Moroccan Wonders
    3 – 9 April 2025 | 6 nights | EXPLORA II
    The mystical power of the sea carries guests to Spain’s sun-drenched Costa Tropical and the enchanting port of Motril. Navigating the Strait of Gibraltar, the journey unveils the legendary resting place of Hercules in Tangier before continuing to Casablanca, home to the historic Old Medina and Africa’s largest mosque. The voyage concludes amid the volcanic splendour of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
  • Barcelona to Lisbon: A Journey of Moorish Citadels & Flamenco rhythms
    4 – 8 May 2025 | 4 nights | EXPLORA II
    The journey begins in Barcelona, before heading on to Málaga, where Flamenco rhythms take centre stage. In Lisbon, travellers have the chance to explore the legacy of Henry the Navigator and his school of exploration.
  • Istanbul to Fusina (Venice): A Journey of Robola Wine, Red-Tile Roofs & Gondoliers
    5 – 15 May 2025 | 10  nights | EXPLORA I
    From Turkish baths to Venetian canals, the journey explores the Eastern Mediterranean’s many wonders. An overnight in Istanbul is followed by a visit to Thessaloniki, beneath the shadow of Mount Olympus. In Volos, guests discover monasteries perched on rocky peaks, then experience Croatia’s vivid red tiles and blue lagoons. The journey includes a top in Ravenna, rich in culture and culinary delights.

Unmatched Sophistication at Sea

Explora Journeys elevates every journey with a wide selection of included experiences and amenities. From world-class dining and wellness offerings to immersive cultural encounters, each element is meticulously curated to ensure an unparalleled level of comfort and indulgence. Every journey includes:

  • Nine inclusive culinary experiences, including in-suite dining
  • Unlimited beverages, including fine wines, premium spirits, speciality coffees, teas, and soft drinks
  • Access to the thermal area of Ocean Wellness – The Spa
  • Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the ship
  • Wellbeing and fitness programmes
  • All onboard gratuities included
  • Shuttle services from port to city centre where applicable
  • A welcome bottle of champagne in-suite on arrival
  • A personalised selection of a bottle of wine and spirit in-suite on arrival
  • Intuitive service from a team of dedicated hospitality experts

This spring, Explora Journeys invites discerning travellers to celebrate the season with sophistication, unforgettable memories, and the joy of discovery at sea. Guests can reserve their journey via the Explora Experience Centre, on www.explorajourneys.com or Travel Agent.

Subscribe to our E-Zine

    More

    from latest edition

    Spring Hotels Showcases Tenerife at Holiday World Show, Dublin
    13th February 2026

    Spring Hotels Showcases Tenerife at Holiday World Show, Dublin

    Spring Hotels has reported strong Irish demand following its attendance at the Holiday World Show at the RDS in Dublin, with bookings secured for 2026 and 2027.

    Read more
    Spain – Some Benidorm Highlights for 2026
    12th February 2026

    Spain – Some Benidorm Highlights for 2026

    Benidorm emerges triumphant from Brussels: Awarded as the ‘European Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism 2025’ The Spanish tourist resort Benidorm has been awarded with the prestigious title of 'Europ...

    Read more
    Travelmarvel’s Book to Board Incentive
    12th February 2026

    Travelmarvel’s Book to Board Incentive

    Thanks to their latest incentive Book to Board, agents up and down the country have been winning prizes weekly throughout January and February.

    Read more
    Aer Lingus launches new direct flights from Ireland to Barbados for spring 2026
    12th February 2026

    Aer Lingus launches new direct flights from Ireland to Barbados for spring 2026

    The airline will operate a temporary seasonal route connecting Dublin and Bridgetown from 31 March 2026 to 31 May 2026, with fares available from €229 each way, including taxes, fees and carrier...

    Read more
    Celebrity Cruises Earns First Ever Five-Star Restaurant at Sea
    12th February 2026

    Celebrity Cruises Earns First Ever Five-Star Restaurant at Sea

    Celebrity Cruises continues to set new standards for culinary innovation, with the premium travel brand today awarded Forbes Travel Guide’s first-ever Five-Star rating for a restaurant at sea. L...

    Read more
    Breaking news: Forbes names Ashford Castle only UK & Ireland hotel to receive double five-star ranking…..
    12th February 2026

    Breaking news: Forbes names Ashford Castle only UK & Ireland hotel to receive double five-star ranking…..

    “We’re in seventh heaven but will never take a top Forbes ranking for granted,” said Ashford Castle’s Managing Director, Niall Rochford, on hearing the news that Ashford Castle has retained its ...

    Read more