Explora Journeys' EXPLORA I will set sail on July 17, 2023, for its inaugural cruise from Southampton, UK. The new company's debut will be a 15-night inaugural cruise through Northern Europe, calling at 12 ports in four countries, under the title "An Inaugural Cruise to Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle."
Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer of Explora Journeys, said: “From day one, our vision and purpose have been to create a travel experience at sea like no other. We are delighted that the first ship in our new class of cruise ships, EXPLORA I, will take passengers on its inaugural voyage to some of the most breathtaking destinations in Northern Europe, while they enjoy the finest luxury hospitality at sea.”
After departing from Southampton, EXPLORA I will stop in Zeebrugge (Belgium) and in Geiranger, Trondheim, Molde, Leknes, Brønnøysund, Flåm, Bergen and Stavanger (Norway), before heading towards Denmark, with visits to Skagen and the country's capital, Copenhagen.
Michael Ungerer added: “Passengers aboard the inaugural EXPLORA I cruise will be able to immerse themselves in local cultures and witness some of the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Their journey will be full of surprises. Everything is designed to inspire discerning travelers to discover the world around them, meet people, and reconnect with themselves.”
EXPLORA I inaugural cruise – Port calls
Zeebrugge is the ideal destination for passengers to enjoy the medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, beautiful canals, and immaculate gardens of nearby Bruges. From here, they will travel north along Norway's spectacular west coast, where the Atlantic meets the Arctic. Its magnificent fjords are listed by UNESCO as "the best unspoiled tourist destinations in the world."
Geiranger, at the head of the Geirangerfjord, is a perfect example of a small Nordic town. The fjord is so famous that it has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is especially known for the wild and thunderous Seven Sisters, one of the ten tallest waterfalls in the world.
Trondheim was the Viking capital of Norway until 1217, and its port dates back to 997. The extraordinary medieval Nidaros Cathedral is a magnificent example of its impressive heritage.
Molde, known as the City of Roses due to the abundance of these fragrant flowers in summer, is surrounded by 222 snow-capped peaks and is full of lovely shops and cafes.
Leknes is located on Vestvågøya, one of Norway's six Lofoten Islands, within the Arctic Circle. Tempered by the Gulf Stream and enjoying 24 hours of sunshine a day, it offers tropical beaches, horseback riding, sea eagles, and stunning scenery.
Brønnøyis possibly the only town on the planet with a beautiful natural lake suitable for swimming right in its center. It also has a mountain with a huge, visibly drilled hole, along with a bustling marina and sensational hiking trails.
Flåm offers one of the world's most breathtaking railway journeys, winding alongside stunning natural wonders such as the Nærøyfjord, another Norwegian enclave listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bryggen, Bergen 's 14th-century Hanseatic wharf , offers passengers a first glimpse of this city brimming with art, crafts, and food markets. Its world-class restaurants make it a worthy member of UNESCO's Network of Cities of Gastronomy.
Stavanger, with its colorful old town, boasts rustic cobblestone streets and beautifully restored white wooden houses, all alongside a charming café culture, artisan shops, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Beyond the city lie breathtaking landscapes and picture-perfect beaches waiting to be explored. This will be the final stop in Norway on the cruise.
Skagen, Denmark's northernmost point, is where the Baltic Sea meets the North Sea. Its rich artistic heritage is a legacy of the many painters captivated by Skagen's uniquely translucent light. Furthermore, its fabulous seafood, architecture, and the immense shifting sand dune of Råbjerg Mile have made Skagen a must-see destination.
EXPLORA I will dock in Copenhagen on August 1st . With an architectural aesthetic that ranges from medieval to Renaissance and contemporary styles, as well as some of the best restaurants in the world, this city is a vibrant cultural hub. It is also arguably the coolest and most modern city in Scandinavia; the perfect way to bring down the curtain on a journey that passengers will never forget.
