EXPLORA II - Shore excursions and activities

The Enchanting Explorations are the definition of distinction for bespoke groups seeking peerless experiences.

Meticulously designed to usher in next-level exclusivity for small, agile groups seeking peerless experiences, and to witness moments that are off limits to most. You may find yourself in a silent Sistine Chapel after it closes to the public. Perhaps you will sail along the coastline of enchanting Mykonos on a relaxing and captivating catamaran cruise of the south coast, home to some of the island’s best beaches. Or indulge in top-line dinner reservations to a restaurant with a 2-year wait list.

The travel equivalent of haute couture, our Tailored Experiences are tailor-made for those who seek truly customised arrangements that are both personal and without compromise.

We are pleased to curate your requests for singular, customised arrangements that can be as off-the-beaten-path or utterly indulgent as you wish. Whether yours is an intimate group of two or a larger gathering of family and friends, we can help you adapt a featured destination experience or totally tailor an arrangement that delivers exactly where and what you prefer.

Traversing beyond the bounds of the ocean, we take you deeper into the culture of the countries we visit with immersive all-inclusive excursions.

Designed as three- or more- day overland experiences, our In-Country Immersions are all-inclusive and available to intimately sized groups starting before or after your sailing. All you have to do is let go-and let us immerse you in the extraordinary that lies further afield. Our In-Country Immersions whisk you sunward via private jets or hot-air balloons, nimble ATVs or sure-footed horses to chase nearby marvels, events and wilderness treks both famously celebrated or deeply shrouded in mystery.

Soul-stirring experiences that touch the impossible, from the thrill of supersonic speed to the deepest fathoms of ocean trenches.

Whether you seek the thrill of supersonic speed, the silence of polar mountain peaks, the deepest fathoms of ocean trenches, the sense of awe from meeting world-leading intellects and artisans, these experiences are more than one-off wonderments, they are soul-stirring achievements that will forever influence your perspective of the world and your role within it.

Let our Explora Experience Ambassadors ease you into your travel experience by taking care of essential arrangements before and after your journey.

GUIDING EVERY STEP OF YOUR JOURNEY

Whether on ship or on shore, Explora Journeys guides every step of your journey so you enjoy the same level of personalised service from beginning to end.

SEAMLESS TRANSFERS

Travel with total peace-of-mind, with organised transfers. Float effortlessly through the stresses of travel with airports, hotels, vehicles, and luggage handling all looked after.

LUXURY HOTEL STAYS

Should you wish to explore a destination before or after your journey, our comprehensive hotel programme is the perfect option. 

Our Destination Essentials offer must-do experiences in unbridled finesse, hidden wonders and little surprises.

Boutique in nature and bolder in adventure, our Destination Essentials expand must-do experiences with hidden wonders that let you see the world from a debonair perspective. It’s not enough to just go to Cairo’s Great Pyramids or Rio’s Christ the Redeemer; intimately feel the power of their presence, find yourself tingling with goosebumps and experience it in a way that quenches your thirst to do more than anyone else can experience.

Designed to enrich the soul, a programme of destination-inspired talks, courses and informal conversations that inspire exploration and discovery.

Creative's Journey

Behind-the-scenes stories and iconic moments in theatre and cinema are discovered through exciting talks by our Luminaries, resident and guest artists and other prolific talents. Accomplished writers, directors, producers, actors, musicians, choreographers, costumiers, and set and lighting designers are among them.

The Book Club

Occasional journeys feature a particular book relating to the region in which the ship is journeying, culminating in a reading with the author.

Single Origin

Led by a world-class barista, get familiar with local coffee cultures through tastings relevant to the journey.

Dance the Day Away

Select journeys will offer an incredible afternoon of learning some of the region’s movement culture, accompanied by local dance music, against a LED backdrop that conjures a sense of the geographical context. Sessions are led by our local experts and resident Artistes.

Artisanal

Courses on destination-themed crafts representative of local heritage, from textiles and tapestries to baskets and chocolate making, all taught by local experts.

Solivagant Society

Solivagant Society activities are there to introduce our solo travellers to all our journeys have to offer.

Prism

Prism events are organised to celebrate the diversity of our guests onboard.

Club Soda

With Club Soda, we support and entertain those who enjoy an alcohol-free lifestyle.

Spontaneous moments of joy for guests to enhance their journey – hosted by professionals in their field, creating memorable moments for everyone.

Ombré Sunsets

Hone photographic skills in the Explora Lounge. Master the art of capturing a fiery sunset, as it soaks into the ocean below. Discover the true skill required to capture an elegant selfie; or learn to correctly light a piece of art.

Melodic Master Class

Get to know our resident artists as they share their talents in song writing, improvisation and composition.

The Spirit of Whisky

Learn the art of mixology in the Malt Whisky Bar. Guests will unearth this time-honoured spirit as they try their hand at making four signature cocktails.

Galleria d’Arte

EXPLORA II showcases an immersive selection of artworks from renowned and emerging artists, enriching every space. Key installations include:

• Marine Encounters by Prince Hussain Aga Khan: a captivating marine photography collection that highlights the beauty of underwater life and the importance of marine conservation. This visual tribute to the world’s oceans, gifted to the MSC Foundation by Hussain Aga Khan himself, is more than just a showcase of the ocean’s beauty – it’s a powerful reminder of the need to protect vital marine ecosystems.
• Romeo and Juliet by Emilio Isgró: A unique installation of 38 acrylic-on-book elements by the celebrated conceptual artist. Known for his “erasure” technique, Isgró invites viewers to reflect on themes of memory and language.