Explora Journeys has announced Destination Experiences, a new service that will be offered on EXPLORA I North American itineraries. The trips will take place from September to November 2023 and will allow guests to delve deeper into everything the East Coast of the United States and Canada, including New England, has to offer.
As part of its inaugural North American Voyage Collection, the MSC Group's luxury cruise brand has designed activities and experiences to suit all tastes. Explora Journeys aims to offer discerning travelers the opportunity to discover breathtaking natural beauty, cultural traditions, and culinary delights. The experiences are tailored for small, intimate groups of two to 25 people.
Sacha Rougier, Head of Itinerary Planning and Destination Experiences at Explora Journeys, highlighted the effort made to offer sustainable experiences within the framework of Travelife, a renowned international program for training, management and certification of tourism sustainability: "We have sought exclusive partnerships around the world to offer our cruise passengers a wide assortment of activities to suit all preferences.".
USA
New York: Enjoy a private tour of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) before it opens, led by a renowned art historian. On Broadway, you'll go behind the scenes at the epicenter of the performing arts and attend a dazzling performance of one of your favorite musicals. Alternatively, you can experience forest bathing in the heart of the Big Apple, where you'll learn the Japanese technique for connecting with the energy of nature.
Boston: Visit Fenway Park, followed by a guided tour of the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Afterward, guests can enjoy traditional afternoon tea at the Boston Public Library, an 1895 Beaux-Arts building located in central Copley Square.
Cape Canaveral: Visit to the Kennedy Space Center to learn about space travel in the 21st century, followed by a private meeting with a NASA astronaut; then a two-hour surf lesson at Cocoa Beach.
Portland: Guests can take a lobster boat trip before enjoying fresh seafood at traditional restaurants and browsing the renowned cafes and bakeries of the Old Harbor. Wine enthusiasts will have the opportunity to sample wines and liqueurs made with local fruits and grains.
Canada
Baie Comeau: excursion in double kayaks through the calm waters of the St. Lawrence River; afterwards an expert guide will accompany you during a whale and seabird watching session.
Charlottetown: Guests can discover the ancient sport of falconry; afterwards, the “Fair Isle Food Tour” invites them to taste the best of modern Canadian cuisine, straight from the farm to the table.
Gaspé: a walking tour of Forillon National Park, as well as a sea crossing across the Gulf of St. Lawrence to Percé Rock, one of the most beautiful natural parks in Canada.
Havre-Saint-Pierre: a 90-minute guided tour to soak up the views of the Mignan archipelago. Made up of more than 1,000 islands and islets, it is known for its colossal limestone monoliths, risen from the ocean and sculpted by the force of the elements.
La Baie (Saguenay): Cruise passengers will have the opportunity to explore the stunning Saguenay Fjord and enjoy outdoor adventures. During a seaplane excursion, they can admire Cap Éternité, an imposing mountain that has inspired numerous artists. Another option is a select cooking class with Chef Jonathan Grenon of the AAA Three Diamond Award-winning Auberge des Battures.
Quebec: Kayak excursion with an exclusive afternoon visit to a sugar shack to see how maple syrup is made. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the maple syrup museum and sample the latest harvest.
Halifax: Explore the Lighthouse Trail along the South Shore, with a must-see stop at the iconic Peggy's Point Lighthouse, built in 1915 and one of Canada's most famous and photographed lighthouses. Lunch will then be served at The Shore Club at Hubbards, featuring lobster and a selection of delicious desserts and beverages. Guests who wish can test their swing at one of Canada's most beloved golf courses, The Links at Brunello.
