Explora Journeys, the luxury cruise brand of the MSC Group, unveils a 2027–2028 season rich in discoveries and world premieres. Nearly 100 itineraries, 59 countries, and some 200 ports of call are on the program, in a spirit that combines cultural immersion, a relaxed pace, and extended port calls. Two milestones mark this collection: the arrival of EXPLORA V, the fifth ship in the fleet, and the grand debut of Explora Journeys in Asia.
Explora Journeys for the first time in Asia
For the first time, Explora is offering a series of voyages to the heart of Asia, with EXPLORA III. No fewer than 28 itineraries will take passengers to 47 new ports of call: Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Singapore. These itineraries align with the continent’s most iconic seasons, from the explosion of color of the red maples in autumn to the cherry blossoms in spring. Several overnight stops—in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Bali, and Ha Long Bay—will allow for a more intimate immersion into local life. The experience will be enriched by major cultural events, such as the Chinese New Year in January 2028, celebrated on board with themed entertainment and traditional festivities.
Launch of the EXPLORA V in the Mediterranean
December 2027 will mark the entry into service of the EXPLORA V, which will make its debut in the Mediterranean during the winter season. Far from the hustle and bustle of summer, its itineraries explore a more peaceful side of the Mediterranean, between the golden streets of Valletta, the panoramas of Cagliari, the jewels of the Amalfi Coast, and the charms of Istanbul. A highlight of the inaugural cruise: New Year’s Eve in Naples, with a fireworks display that can be admired from the sea.
Then, the ship will set sail for the Red Sea and the Arabian Peninsula. Alongside the EXPLORA I, it will offer itineraries rich in contrasts, combining ancient sites and futuristic metropolises: the pyramids of Giza, the Nabataean city of Petra, the treasures of AlUla in Saudi Arabia, as well as Dubai, Muscat, and Doha. Several overnight stops will offer the luxury of time to soak up the local atmosphere.
Caribbean and Amazon
Meanwhile, the EXPLORA II and EXPLORA IV will sail the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, Central America, and the Amazon River. A mosaic of 51 destinations in 30 countries: from classics like Saint Thomas and Guadeloupe to more off-the-beaten-path ports of call such as Port Antonio in Jamaica or Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands. Passengers will be able to enjoy idyllic beaches, cultural immersion, and nature adventures with activities such as canopy kayaking, exploring Mayan ruins, observing volcanoes, or discovering remote Amazonian villages.
The Explora Journeys Experience: Luxury Reinvented at Sea
Explora Journeys is distinguished by its Ocean State of Mind philosophy, an invitation to slow down and travel differently, in a setting where refinement rhymes with authenticity. Each ship accommodates only approximately 900 passengers, for an atmosphere that is both exclusive and relaxed.
On board, guests enjoy all-outdoor suites with private terraces, numerous restaurants with no set schedule, and cuisine inspired by the local traditions of each port of call. The common areas combine contemporary design with the discreet comfort of a superyacht: swimming pools, open terraces, elegant lounges, a complete wellness area, and relaxation areas bathed in natural light.
The inclusions reflect the company’s premium positioning:
- Unlimited premium drinks, including fine wines and spirits
- Fine dining at no extra charge in all restaurants
- Gratuities and Wi-Fi included
- Personalized service with a high crew-to-passenger ratio
- Wellness and fitness with group classes and accessible spa areas
- Shuttle services from port to city centres
- Extended port calls and overnight stays for a deeper cultural immersion
Every detail is designed to create an atmosphere that is luxurious, intimate, and focused on discovery.
Explora Journeys Ship Deployment 2027–2028
| Ship | Region(s) Served | 2027–2028 Season Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| EXPLORA I | Red Sea & Arabian Peninsula | New Year’s Eve Celebration in Dubai |
| EXPLORA II | Caribbean, Central America, Amazon | 51 destinations in 30 countries. Exclusive ports of call (Port Antonio, Jost Van Dyke, Terre-de-Haut). River exploration with an overnight stay in Manaus. |
| EXPLORA III | Asia (Japan, Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore) | 28 itineraries, 47 new ports of call, numerous overnight stays at the pier. Aligned with iconic seasons (maple blossoms in autumn, cherry blossoms in spring). |
| EXPLORA IV | Caribbean, Canada, and New England | Voyage between Reykjavik and Quebec City, via Greenland |
| EXPLORA V | Mediterranean (winter), Red Sea & Arabia | Launching in December 2027. Off-season Mediterranean voyages, New Year’s Eve in Naples. Then cultural itineraries in the Red Sea and Arabia. |
