Among Explora Journeys' extensive collection of trips for 2027, two proposals stand out for offering very different ways to discover some of Europe's most captivating destinations: from a four-night getaway on the Aegean Sea to an eight-night voyage through the Norwegian fjords aboard the new EXPLORA IV. Both Explora Journeys combine cultural stops, coastal landscapes, and days at sea with an onboard experience focused on gastronomy, wellness, and personalized service.
The company, part of the MSC Group, develops a travel concept that combines contemporary European design with spacious accommodations, suites with ocean views, and a range of services designed for leisurely enjoyment of sailing. Its Ocean State of Mind aims to bring the comfort of a luxury hotel to the ship, with attentive and discreet service and a schedule that allows guests to alternate shore excursions with time spent enjoying the ship's amenities.
An Easter getaway between Greece and Istanbul
The itinerary "A Journey from the Myths of the Aegean to the Charm of Istanbul" lasts four nights and begins in Piraeus, the port of Athens, before ending in Istanbul, where the ship stays overnight. It's a great way to make the most of Easter week, combining history, Mediterranean landscapes, and different destinations without changing accommodations.
After a brief visit to Athens, the journey continues to Volos, in the Thessaly region, a port city surrounded by mountainous landscapes and traditional villages. The next stop is Mykonos, with its narrow streets, whitewashed houses, windmills, and small coves, as well as a diverse array of restaurants and shops.
A day's sailing precedes arrival in Istanbul, where an overnight stay allows ample time to explore its mosques, Ottoman palaces, historic markets, and neighborhoods on both sides of the Bosphorus. This journey combines classical Greek heritage, the island character of the Cyclades, and the rich cultural tapestry of one of the most unique cities straddling Europe and Asia.
On board, the experience is complemented by a varied gastronomic offering, rest areas and services focused on well-being.
The new EXPLORA IV discovers the Norwegian fjords
From May 2nd to 10th, 2027, Explora Journeys offers the itinerary "A journey through stunning coastlines and magnificent fjords," an eight-night voyage between Southampton and Copenhagen aboard the new EXPLORA IV. The route combines an initial stop in Belgium with several Norwegian locations, allowing you to discover diverse coastal landscapes and fjords.
The journey begins in Southampton and continues to Bruges, Belgium, whose historic center preserves canals, squares, and medieval buildings. After a day at sea, the ship arrives in Stavanger, on the southwest coast of Norway, a city of wooden houses and port tradition surrounded by mountains and fjords.
The next stop is Bergen, known for its harbor, the wooden houses of the historic Bryggen district, and its mountainous surroundings. The journey continues to Nordfjordeid, a small town nestled among valleys, verdant hillsides, and peaks that, at this time of year, may still retain snow in their highest reaches.
Flåm is another highlight. Located at the end of an arm of the Aurland Fjord, it is surrounded by rugged mountains and forests that slope down to the water. Its surroundings offer opportunities for excursions and scenic drives to experience the landscapes of the Norwegian fjords up close.
The journey concludes in Copenhagen, the Danish capital, where canals, squares, historic buildings, and contemporary neighborhoods offer a contrast to the natural landscapes of the previous stops. Its cultural, gastronomic, and urban offerings complete the experience.
During the eight nights, the EXPLORA IV allows you to alternate shore excursions with time to enjoy its facilities, spaces with ocean views, and culinary offerings. Sailing thus takes center stage on a route marked by changing landscapes and diverse destinations.
Gastronomy, well-being and onboard service
In both itineraries, Explora Journeys offers a range of services included in the trip. Gastronomy plays a prominent role, with nine culinary experiences that allow guests to alternate between different atmospheres and offerings during their time on board. Premium beverages are unlimited, and guests have access to high-speed Wi-Fi, the thermal spa, and wellness and fitness programs.
The experience also includes all onboard gratuities and transportation between the port and the city center. Upon arrival, guests receive a bottle of wine and a spirit of their choice, as well as a welcome bottle of champagne and in-suite snacks.
The service is provided by hostswho offer personalized attention and help organize the stay according to each guest's needs. The experience is complemented by spacious suites, contemporary design, and common areas designed for enjoying the sea view, relaxing, or spending time together while sailing.
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