This is a story that starts in 1940s Sorrento with a Neapolitan ferry captain, Gianluigi Aponte, who, together with the Swiss sweetheart he met when she was a passenger on one of his crossings, went on to create MSC, a global shipping operation and the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company. Now this Swiss seafaring family are fulfilling their life-long dream and launching Explora Journeys, an exquisite, modern luxury cruise experience like no other. Setting sail July 17, 2023!
Introducing Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is set to transform ocean travel through a synergy of the chicest ships and the most immersive itineraries that allow guests to discover further, travel deeper and linger a little longer at each destination. These are enriching holidays for the curious, cosmopolitan traveller who wants to create connections that last long beyond the cruise itself.
Designed in partnership with the world’s foremost superyacht specialists and harnessing cutting-edge maritime technology, the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA I, sets sail on 17 July 2023, with EXPLORA II setting sail in August 2024 and four more to follow by 2028. With the founding family as passionate about preserving the sea as they are exploring it, each ship will be RINA DOLPHIN certified for reduced underwater noise whilst sustainability initiatives include no single-use plastic on board or ashore.
Your Home At Sea
Exquisitely designed to stimulate the senses and enhance the connection with the ocean, Explora Journeys has worked meticulously in collaboration with some of the world’s foremost superyacht, cruise and luxury hospitality designers and architects. Seamlessly blending elegant Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship and vibrant design, to create luxurious, serene, and spacious ‘Homes at Sea’.
Each suite has been created with simplicity and comfort as the focus, and presents unrivalled space and privacy. The lead in category Ocean Terrace Suites at 377 sq ft and the 420 sq ft Ocean Grand Terrace Suites are some of the largest in the industry, and feature their own private terrace, between 75-118 sq ft, creating an extension to the living space complete with daybeds and an alfresco dining area, bringing guests closer to the ocean.
The Ocean Penthouses (ranging from 463-732 sq ft), offer a sumptuous retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces on which to unwind and relax. Each of the four penthouse types offers a distinctive private dining area and a large seating area that provides an inviting space for guests to entertain in their suite, as well as a calm, comfortable place to spend time.
The spacious Ocean Residences (ranging from 753 to 1,600 sqm) will offer elegant spaces with separate living, dining and sleeping areas plus a panoramic ocean-front terrace with a private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers. With four unique types of residences to choose from within the category, their names, Cocoon, Cove, Retreat and Serenity, reflect the calming effects of the ocean and the Home at Sea feeling.
The iconic Owner's Residence (3,014 sq ft) creates the largest living space on-board, with multiple harmonious spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind.
Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your private outdoor terrace – extending over the full ship's width – with a spacious infinity whirlpool, and enjoy intuitive, intelligent, dedicated private butler services by the Residence Manager.
A Culinary Journey of Discovery
The culinary experiences onboard EXPLORA I promise something for every palate and provide the perfect scene for long, languorous lunches and vibrant evenings.
A celebration of global culinary talents, cultures, and passions will showcase sophisticated and varied culinary experiences across six vibrant restaurants plus in-suite dining, as well as in five of the 12 bars and lounges onboard (eight indoor and four outdoor), and a chef's kitchen where guests can discover and enjoy diverse flavours from around the world.
Guests can enjoy inclusive dining and beverage experiences in almost all restaurants, bars, and lounges onboard. For those who are seeking to indulge in an award-winning dining experience, Anthology offers menus curated by the worlds most celebrated chefs, including world-renowned Italian chef Mauro Uliassi, known for his innovative and inventive approach to Italian cuisine. He gained three Michelin stars at his restaurant Uliassi in Senigallia near Ancona on the Adriatic coast in Italy. This one-of-a-kind guest chef experience onboard carries a set experience fee.
Entertainment & Enrichment
Explora Journeys has invested well-considered insights, creative thought and careful planning in every aspect of its onboard pursuits to ensure that they are distinctively original. From resident and guest artistes to invited enrichment experts, the programme will continuously evolve throughout the journey, an authentic reflection of the regions and destinations that make up each sailing.
At any point along a journey guests can explore an unprecedented seven onboard venues, offering simultaneous choices from a wide variety of different styles of entertainment. Instead of a single main event, they can freely enjoy any experience they wish at whatever time they choose. With no restrictive starting times, they simply dip in and out at their own pace, finding the right vibe at the right time.
And joining them on every journey are celebrated guest artistes whose intimate performances and interactions with guests both on- and off-stage unfailingly surprise and delight.
Finally, Club Soda supports and entertains guests who enjoy an alcohol-free lifestyle. Prism events are organised to celebrate the diversity of Explora Journeys’ guests. And the Solivagant Society brings together solo travellers in a variety of activities, events and experiences throughout their journey.
Discover Your Perfect Journey
On sailings between five and 52 nights long, guests of Explora Journeys will venture both on and off the beaten path, with nine Inaugural Journeys and a series of mesmerising itineraries that feature longer days in port and overnight stays, throughout Northern Europe, United Kingdom & Ireland, Iceland & Greenland, US & Canada East Coast & New England, Caribbean & Central America, US & Canada Pacific Coast & Hawaii, Mediterranean, Africa & Indian Ocean and Arabian Peninsula & India.
Whether it’s treading the cobbled streets of Europe’s hallowed capitals and exploring the ancient Acropolis in Athens; navigating the crystalline cool of the Norwegian fjords and sailing in the shadows of Svalbard’s soaring cliffs; or savouring French chic in Saint Barths and lolling beneath Hawaiian waterfalls, Explora Journeys promises exclusive access that goes far beyond the classic luxury cruise experience.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today to start planning your next getaway onboard Explora Journeys during their Inaugural Year!
Get Assistance*Explora Early Booking Benefit: All journeys and all suite categories, including the Inaugural Journeys Collection, are eligible for this benefit. Journey must be booked more than 105 days before departure for Ocean Terrace and Penthouse, and 180 days prior for Ocean Residences, and full payment is due within 7 days. Our cancellation policy applies. Our Flexible Journeys policy applies. The benefit only applies to the journey fare and not on any additional components or add-ons of the journey experience. After the eligibility period, the benefit will be removed from the booking if the guest cancels or rebooks into a new booking on the same ship and sail date, applies a fare change, or changes the ship or sail date of the booking; certain other changes to the booking may also result in the removal of the offer. The benefit is subject to ship and sail date availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Extended & Grand Journey Savings: Savings vary according to journeys, dates of booking, and category of suites
Save an extra 10% on already reduced fares on 2023-2024 expedition cruises during Hurtigruten's Summer Sail!*
Last chance to save on Hurtigruten's biggest sale of the summer!
Get your sizzle on with a hot deal on a cool adventure! Save an extra 10%* on already reduced fares to some of the world's most spectacular places like Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands, and the Canary Islands, and more!
The leader in sustainable expedition travel for 130 years
With Hurtigruten Expeditions, the world leader in sustainable adventure travel, sail to remote destinations on small-ship expeditions that emphasize science, nature, and education.
Hurtigruten Expeditions is the world’s leading sustainable, adventure travel group, offering unique, small-ship and land-based adventures that provide authentic and immersive experiences while respecting and protecting the wildlife, destinations, and communities that they visit.
Since 1893, Hurtigruten Expeditions has taken their guests to some of the most spectacular places on the planet, with visits to both pristine wilderness and genuine local communities. Journey to over 250 destinations across more than 30 countries.
Contact us today to start planning your next adventure onboard Hurtigruten Expeditions.
Contact Us*Terms and conditions: This offer is valid for new, individual bookings only, on select 2023 and 2024 departures, is capacity controlled, and subject to change at any time. Savings apply to the cruise portion of the package only, and displayed ‘from’ prices are per person based on double occupancy, in USD, and include taxes, fees, and port expenses. This offer is combinable with the Ambassador and Child offer. All expeditions are subject to availability at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply. Offer is valid June 26 – July 31, 2023.
PONANT has been sailing the seven seas for 35 years, taking like-minded travelers around the globe on a fleet of 12 small, luxurious ships. Each ship holds fewer than 300 guests yet boasts a nearly 2:1 staff-to-guest ratio. You can expect first-class service, globally inspired cuisine, thrilling lectures from onboard experts, and an all-inclusive experience from the moment you step on board.
Sail the Seven Seas with PONANT
For a limited time only, receive an exclusive air offer of up to $1,500 per person on select PONANT voyages – from Alaska to Antarctica and the Caribbean to the Arctic – booked between July 11-31, 2023.*
Emblematic Alaska
PONANT is officially heading back to Alaska in 2024. Sail by small ship from Vancouver to witness the awe-inspiring nature and fascinating history of America's 49th state. Marvel at glaciers that are deeper than the mountains are tall; watch salmon run in rivers; search for grizzly bears lumbering in forests; spot bald eagles nesting in treetops; and learn from experienced expedition guides. At every turn, the history of intrepid explorers and native peoples echoes through America’s Last Wild Frontier. Set sail with PONANT and allow yourself to be forever transformed by the majesty of Alaska.
Unexplored Antarctica: Between Two Continents
Charcot, Bellingshausen, Dean, Fisher, Ross, Amundsen. PONANT invites you to set off in the footsteps of these great Antarctic figures during an all-new and unrivaled half-circumnavigation that will sail from the far south of the American continent to New Zealand. This journey to the boundaries of the known world will take you on a long adventure, where time stands still, and where the horizon stretches into infinity to reveal dreamlike landscapes and abundant wildlife. Le Commandant Charcot, the world’s only luxury icebreaker, is the only ship suited for an epic polar expedition such as this one.
Emblematic Antarctica
If there is one place on the globe that fires the imagination of travelers and arouses in them an instant thirst for adventure, it is the immaculate and faraway lands of the White Continent. Enjoy outings and shore visits in Zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced naturalist guides, explore the magic of the Antarctic with a sea kayak, and visit research stations and former whaling stations. Keep your eyes peeled for humpback whales, Gentoo, Adelie, chinstrap penguins, leopard seals, and numerous seabirds, while you watch a multitude of drifting icebergs, imposing glaciers, and snow-covered mountains.
Fjords and Glaciers of Spitsbergen
Somewhere in the High Arctic, between 76- and 80-degrees latitude North, sits Spitsbergen, meaning “pointed mountains.” Enjoy outings and shore visits in Zodiac inflatables with a team of experienced natural guides, discover the incredible geology of Spitsbergen, and take a deep dive into the history here, acknowledging the deep connections to hunting and fishing, the mining industry, and polar exploration. Sail past glaciers or cliffs, inside huge fjords, between dazzling blue sky or mysterious polar mist, and be on the lookout for Svalbard reindeer, walruses, Arctic foxes, and – if you’re lucky – the elusive polar bear, king of the Arctic.
Belize & Honduras: Unexpected Encounters & Nature
Spend 8 days soaking in the soul of the Caribbean. Enjoy unforgettable interactions with the local populations, including the Garifuna, who descend from a mix of freed slaves. Visit Guanaja, a PONANT exclusive port, to explore the splendid nature and an authentic village with the Caracoles people and their rich local pottery crafts. See incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Belize Barrier Reef with Half Moon Caye and the infamous Great Blue Hole. Fall under the spell of the verdant tropical rainforest and mangrove scenery and the shades of blue found in the region’s sea and lagoons.
Don’t miss this opportunity to save big on once-in-a-lifetime, immersive, and luxury expeditions with PONANT, the world leader in small ship expeditions. As your local travel experts, we can help you plan the perfect vacation - contact us today!
Contact Us*Applicable on 34 select 2023 and 2024 Expedition cruises. New bookings only, booked and deposited 07/11-07/31/2023. Must be booked by an Expedia Cruises™ Vacation Consultant. Offer and Discount Code must be mentioned at time of booking. Air Offer applied at time of booking. Combinable only with PONANT welcome and Ponant Yacht Club benefits.
Discount Codes:
Looking for the best way to experience the magic of the Northern Lights? Enjoy the show as they dance across the sky in remote Eastern Greenland on the Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland itinerary brought to you by Quark Expeditions.
Explore two of the last unspoiled wilderness areas on the planet
Cruising along Iceland’s mountainous Vestfjords and Greenland’s remote northeast coast, home to the largest fjord system in the world, you’ll discover diverse and dramatically rugged landscapes rich in iconic arctic wildlife. Immersed in the untamed beauty of the Arctic, you’ll experience Inuit culture firsthand at Ittoqqortoormiit, visit ancient Thule sites steeped in history, and marvel at the majesty of massive icebergs and towering bird cliffs. If you’re lucky, you may also catch sight of the spectacular northern lights dancing across the sky.
6 Reasons to choose Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland
Why Choose Quark Expeditions?
Since 1991 and their first-ever tourism transit of the Northeast Passage, Quark Expeditions has been blazing trails in polar adventure travel. Their trailblazing is just one reason they are a uniquely qualified company to ensure you have a trip of a lifetime. A polar trip is something that many people experience only once in a lifetime, so it has to be perfect. This is Quark Expeditions profoundly appreciates details, and why these polar specialists sweat the small stuff.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today to start planning your adventure of a lifetime with Quark Expeditions, and take advantage of these spectacular offers!
Contact Us*SAVE UP TO 50% on Select 2023 Departures: Offer valid for new bookings from July 10th to July 31st, 2023. 50% applies to 2023 departures of "Under the Northern Lights: Exploring Iceland & East Greenland". Discount applied to voyage full fare only. Applicable on all cabin types. Cabin is based on availability at time of booking. Must provide full name to hold cabin space, 48 hour holds only. Bookings made after the promotion period do not qualify for the savings. Only combinable with past passenger discounts and shipboard credit offers, if applicable. Regular payment terms apply. Not applicable to transfer packages, adventure options, additional hotel accommodations, pre/post tours, insurance, flights, or group bookings. Quark Expeditions has the right to limit, change, or discontinue promotion at any time without notice. No cash value. Name changes are not allowed. 15-day change of mind cancellation not applicable, otherwise cancellation and refund terms are as per our current terms and conditions.
2024 Arctic Departure Terms: Offer valid for new bookings made between July 5, 2023 to September 27, 2023 for Arctic departures between April 2024 and September 2024 on select voyages. Bookings made after the promotion period will not qualify for the savings. Must quote promo code(s) and provide passengers' full names at time of booking. Rates/savings per person. Only combinable with Shackleton Club past passenger offers. Applies to voyage full fare only; cabins limited. Not applicable to Transfer Package, Adventure Options, additional hotel accommodation, pre/post tours, insurance, flights, or group bookings. Quark Expeditions® has the right to limit, change or discontinue promotion at any time without notice. No cash value. Brochure Terms & Conditions apply.
Experience the extraordinary in every way on board Scenic Eclipse, the World’s First Discovery Yachts™. Inspired by the sleek contours of a sailing yacht, Scenic Eclipse has set the benchmark in ultra-luxury ocean cruising.
Designed to deliver the ultimate 6-star ultra-luxury cruise experience of a lifetime for up to 228 guests, with only 200 guests in the Polar regions. Scenic Eclipse’s state-of-the-art technology allows for smooth navigation through all waters due to its Polar Class 6 rating, electronic Azipod propulsion system and oversized stabilizers. Its GPS Dynamic Positioning also allows the Discovery Yacht to maintain location without dropping anchors onto sensitive sea beds. This dedication to your safety, environmental protection and world-class innovation has allowed us to design the most inspiring and exciting itineraries possible.
Explore above, below and beyond the horizon by helicopter, submarine, Zodiac or kayak. From nature to cultural encounters, and historic cities to ancient monuments, a Scenic Eclipse voyage is sure to leave with you with memories that will last a lifetime.
The perfect blend of expedition and cruise voyages with:
What are you waiting for? Contact us today to start planning your next voyage onboard Scenic Eclipse and take advantage of these spectacular offers!
Get Assistance*Terms & Conditions: Offers are valid for new bookings only, non-transferable, non-refundable and not redeemable for cash. Strictly limited suites and select departures, subject to availability and until sold out. Offers cannot be combined with any other offer except information session vouchers, Expedia Perk, or Scenic Club Member vouchers. Offers can be changed, withdrawn or cancelled at any time without notice. Prices listed above are correct at the time of print, listed in CAD, based on double occupancy and subject to change. Super Earlybird Offer 2024-25: Included Economy airfare on verandah suites or Deluxe Verandah Suites, or Business Class airfare for Spa, Panorama, or Penthouse Suites (or air credit in lieu up to $7,500 per person). Plus Savings starting at $1,000, per person. Savings and airfare are based on type of suite booked and destination and only applies to cruise and cabin upgrade, does not include land, air, or port taxes. Maximum Economy flight up to $3,000 per person and varied by destination booked, or up to $9,000 per person for Business Class. Super Earlybird Offer of Flight and savings require pay in full 10 months prior to departure, if booking is made within 10 months of departure full payment required within 72 hours of booking. If not pay in full, Earlybird savings applied and starting at $820 per person. Standard deposit required and if booking is made within 10 months of departure, full payment required within 72 hours of booking. 2023-24 Super earlybird offers: Included Economy airfare on Verandah Suites or 2 for 1 Business Class on upper level suites plus savings up to $2,500 per couple and must pay in full. Offers end December 31, 2023, or until sold out. Scenic reserves the right to ticket the airfare upon receipt of deposit. Flights promotion is valid from 11 gateways across Canada towards the international economy airfare to Europe. This flight promotion is valid on specific classes of service with scheduled airlines of Scenic’s choice. Not available for bookings using a Future Travel Credit. BC Consumer Protection #40178
*Expedia Extras offers are per stateroom (unless otherwise stated) on select sailings, based on double occupancy, apply to new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without notice. Certain restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions, click the specific Expedia Extra offer or contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant.
Prices are per person (based on 2 passengers in the same stateroom), cruise only in CAD dollars. Airfare, transfers, taxes, fees and port expenses are additional (unless otherwise stated). Prices vary by ship, stateroom type and sailing date. Prices and offers are subject to availability and change without notice, and are capacity controlled. Fuel supplement may apply. Expedia Cruises is not responsible for errors that may occur due to the transfer of information from selected third parties, technical error, or human error.