Explora Journeys Reveals New Experiences for EXPLORA II in the Mediterranean

• Shore-to-Table Gastronomy: Chef-guided market excursions, hands-on masterclasses in key ports, and complimentary seasonal truffle dining celebrations.

• Transformative Ocean Wellness: A complimentary 12-day inner discovery retreat featuring yoga, sound baths, and workshops led by global experts.

• Inspiring Luminaries: High-profile guest speakers and performers, including Nelson Mandela's former personal aide Zelda La Grange and pianist Maxim Lando.

Imagine wandering through Palermo's historic food markets alongside a master chef, or sipping Tuscan wine on Sting's private estate without a summer crowd in sight!

Explora Journeys is bringing a brand-new wave of luxury to Europe with an incredible lineup of food, wellbeing, and cultural experiences aboard EXPLORA II for her Winter 2026-2027 season.

Titled 'A Serene Mediterranean', this newly revealed collection turns the quieter months into an unforgettable ocean retreat. Cruisers can look forward to softer winter light, gentle temperatures, and an unhurried pace across Europe's most storied ports.

Speaking on the vision for the season, Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, explained:

"Our Serene Mediterranean Journeys reflect the way today's discerning guests increasingly want to travel. They are seeking experiences that feel more connected, more immersive and more personal. Every element of the journey has been designed to reflect the character of the destinations we visit, from seasonal gastronomy and Ocean Wellness to enriching cultural encounters."

Shore-to-Table Gastronomy and Fine Wine Discoveries

At the heart of the new culinary lineup are interactive Shore-to-Table discoveries that connect local producers, regional markets, and onboard dining. Each excursion begins ashore with an Explora Journeys chef leading a market visit, followed by a hands-on masterclass inside the ship's Chef's Kitchen venue.

Market Visits and Onboard Masterclasses

• Palermo, Sicily: Guests explore the historic Mercato del Capo alongside the chef before returning to prepare refined Sicilian coastal dishes using the freshest local seafood and seasonal produce.

• Marseille, France: Cruisers journey by private boat to the historic Vieux-Port fish market to meet local fishermen before recreating a classic Provençal bouillabaisse back on board.

• Barcelona, Spain: A guided tour of the famous La Boqueria market includes traditional tapas paired with cava or cerveza, followed by an onboard workshop mastering authentic Paella Valenciana.

• Puglia, Italy: In ports such as Bari and Brindisi, guests tour local vineyards, ancient olive groves, and regional estates before enjoying farm-fresh cuisine in the Italian countryside.

Exclusive Vineyard Visits and Truffle Celebrations

Wine lovers can take part in 'Meet the Winemaker' experiences across celebrated Mediterranean estates. A standout excursion from Livorno brings guests to Il Palagio, the private Tuscan estate of Sting and Trudie Styler, for vineyard tours, cellar tastings, and a traditional Tuscan lunch.

On board, Explora Journeys is also launching 'The Truffle Season', a complimentary culinary celebration available across the fleet during the autumn truffle harvest from October to November. Each day features a new dish incorporating fresh Piedmont truffles shaved tableside, expertly paired with regional Piedmontese wines.

Restorative Ocean Wellness and Inner Discovery

Explora Journeys continues to elevate its wellbeing focus with complimentary Ocean Wellness programming inspired by the calming influence of the sea. A centerpiece of the season is A Path to Inner Discovery, a complimentary 12-day wellness programme hosted on the Barcelona to Lisbon sailing from 11 to 23 February 2027.

The retreat blends yoga, journaling, mantra, and pranayama breathwork with sunrise, sunset, and moonlit outdoor sessions. Guests can also participate in gong baths and electronic music meditation sessions designed to foster deep relaxation.

Expert-Led Wellness Workshops

The programme features an impressive lineup of visiting specialists across neuroscience, holistic health, and movement:

• Dr Helena Boschi: Psychologist and neuroscientist exploring the relationship between the human brain, behaviour, and resilience.

• Carlie Barlow: Holistic wellbeing expert offering guidance on lifestyle balance.

• Belinda Matwali: Astrology and emotional awareness practitioner.

• Kate Cook: Nutrition specialist focusing on vitality and gut health.

• Shane Benzie: Movement coach sharing the science of natural posture, movement, and physical flow.

Inspiring Luminaries and Cultural Enrichment

Beyond wellness and dining, EXPLORA II will host an enrichment programme featuring world-renowned speakers and performers who bring diverse global perspectives to the ship's intimate lounges.

A featured guest speaker for the season is Zelda La Grange, who spent nearly two decades as Nelson Mandela's closest personal aide. She will share deeply personal reflections on courage, humility, reconciliation, and leadership from her years beside one of history's most respected figures.

Music lovers will also enjoy intimate classical performances by internationally acclaimed pianist Maxim Lando, while returning experts like Dr Helena Boschi and Shane Benzie host engaging Q&A sessions exploring human connection and physical vitality.

About Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys is the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, created to redefine the high-end cruise experience for a new generation of travellers.

Combining European design heritage with an effortless, modern aesthetic, the brand centres its philosophy on the "Ocean State of Mind", a mindset designed to help guests slow down, recharge, and form deeper connections with the sea and destination cultures.

Every vessel in the fleet is built with all-suite, ocean-front accommodations featuring private sun terraces, sweeping sea views, and residential-style interiors.

Coupled with generous inclusive pricing, superyacht-inspired outdoor pools, refined dining across multiple venues, and intuitive hospitality, Explora Journeys offers a boutique hotel experience at sea for discerning luxury cruisers.