Latest news with #ExploraJourneys
TTG
18-07-2025
- TTG
Explora
Explora Journeys is redefining ocean travel for a new generation of discerning travellers. With the first of four luxury ships scheduled to set sail in 2023, remarkable itineraries will blend renowned destinations with lesser-travelled ports for a journey that celebrates discovery. Its ships equipped with the latest in environmental-supporting and marine technologies, Explora Journeys will introduce a unique all-inclusive luxury travel experience for those who want to explore differently. Whether on board or ashore, guests will reconnect with what matters most—themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. With 461 oceanfront suites, every guest will enjoy sweeping sea views and a private terrace, while being spoilt for choice with nine distinct culinary experiences, four pools, private cabanas, spa, and redefined entertainment.
Hamilton Spectator
18-07-2025
- Hamilton Spectator
Cruising is more popular than ever. Here's your expert guide, from scoring a good deal to booking better shore excursions
Cruising has its avid fans, people who praise the simplicity of going from port to port without unpacking, or the ease of multi-generational travel when there's entertainment for all. And the cruise-curious are also getting on-board: According to the State of the Cruise Industry Report 2025 from the Cruise Lines International Association, the number of first-time cruisers is growing. Over the past two years, 31 per cent of cruisers have been new-to-cruise — up from 24 per cent in 2019. Read on for your practical guide to navigating these waters if you've never sailed before. Consider the ports. 'Choosing the right destination is crucial. When we cruised with another family, we chose a sailing out of San Juan, Puerto Rico, because of the fantastic itinerary: British and U.S. Virgin Islands, St. Lucia, Barbados and Antigua. The stops offered a diversity of landscapes and activities, with the right amount of beach time and adventure for four teenagers between two families. For us, the ship's amenities were less important than the stops, but they could be a deciding factor for families with young children looking to engage littles on-board with kid's camps, a water park and nightly entertainment.' — Lisa Kadane , travel writer Choose a cruise line that suits your style. 'If you're a fan of luxury hotels, look at lines such as Explora Journeys , and ships launched by Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons . Accor, the group that operates Fairmont properties, is also putting a new ship, the Orient Express Corinthian , in the water next year. If you're a fan of theme parks or need a variety of things to do (multi-gen and family travel comes to mind), look at the ship-within-a-ship concepts of MSC's Yacht Club and the Haven by Norwegian Cruise Line. Both are like floating boutique hotels, with private areas, concierge and butler services, and dedicated dining. You still have the full-on vibe of a ship with thousands of people on vacation, but you can retreat to the peace of your exclusive getaway.' — Vivian Vassos, travel writer and editor-in-chief of Bold Traveller magazine Continue checking prices. 'Once you've booked your cruise, keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially before your final payment is due. Many cruise lines, such as Celebrity , Royal Caribbean and Princess , have best-price guarantees that could result in cash back, cabin upgrades or on-board credits if the advertised cost of your cruise drops at a later date. Even if you see a deal after you've made your final payment, call the cruise line and see if they're willing to make an adjustment. It doesn't cost anything to ask.' — Lori Rackl , travel writer Go when the deals are good. 'If you're investment shy but still want to give cruising a try: 'Wave season,' the industry term for off-peak travel, offers the best deals. And with temperatures staying mild well into November in Europe, there are deals to be had, and fewer crowds to deal with. April, May and June offer great deals for the Caribbean.' — Vivian Vassos Do the math on add-ons. 'One thing I think first-time cruisers need to take into account are extras like drinks and excursions, which are not included on most larger-capacity ocean cruises and can really break the budget for a family. Though river cruises are generally pricier per person, they typically include excursions, plus wine and beer at lunch and dinner.' — Lisa Kadane Plan to arrive early. 'If you're a first-time cruiser, you may also be a first-time visitor to the embarkation and disembarkation cities. Many cruise lines (especially river cruises) offer a day or two early in port, and extended port visits at the end of a cruise. Take advantage of those offers, and regardless, always try to arrive in your embarkation city a day early. It's worth the time and the investment, and with all the flight delays these days, you'll be happy to get on-board without having to rush from the airport.' — Vivian Vassos Book your flights wisely. 'If you're thinking of an expedition cruise, where departures could be dependent on the weather, book your flights with the cruise line. If you're stuck, for example, in Antarctica with very limited flight choices, the cruise line will be responsible for getting you in or out and making sure you have a place to stay while you wait. Many cruise lines are offering to book flights as part of the package, and some even offer deep discounts or free flights.' — Vivian Vassos Don't be afraid of DIY shore excursions. 'Cruise lines make a lot of money from shore excursions, which often involve a big flock of passengers following a guide with a flag. It's often more intimate and less expensive to book your own tours and experiences. Cruise lines will try to scare you away from making independent arrangements, warning that the ship will leave without you if you're not back on time. That's why some companies, such as ToursByLocals , guarantee you won't miss the boat. Their 'No One Left Behind' promise says in the unlikely event that you're not back by sail away, they'll provide overnight accommodation and transportation to the next port of call. (The website notes they've sold more than 150,000 shore excursions and only had to activate this policy twice.) Booking sites, such as Viator and Shore Excursions Group , make it easy to search for your own tours. Cruise schedules are subject to change, so it's a good idea to book an excursion with a flexible refund policy.' — Lori Rackl Read the room and the official trip advice. 'Cruises, depending on the line, can be dressy. Before my first, I paid careful attention to the cruise line's packing advice, including details on theme nights. I was glad I did. People really do go all out, and I was relieved I had appropriate evening wear. I went on a Club Med ship filled with cruisers from France, who looked smart (ironed shorts!) every time they stepped out of their cabins. Though we were cruising in North American waters, the vibe was decidedly European.' — Jody Robbins , travel writer Ask an insider. 'Definitely speak to either a travel agent, or an agent with the cruise lines you're considering. Looking for romance? There's a cruise for that. Wine and food? There are itineraries that can bring you up-close-and-personal to some of the best vineyards in Europe. Looking to do South Asia or Egypt but nervous about not speaking the language? Experience them from the rivers with vetted local guides. No question is a stupid question; speaking with a cruise expert and booking the right cruise could make or break your trip.' — Vivian Vassos
The Independent
15-07-2025
- Business
- The Independent
First look at Explora Journeys' €3.5bn cruise ship expansion
The third cruise ship in Explora Journeys' growing fleet is getting closer to launch after it had its float-out ceremony this week. It forms part of a €3.5bn (£3.04bn) investment by the MSC-owned luxury cruise line to expand Explora Journeys' upmarket ships, boosting choice for passengers. Explora III is set to launch in 2026, joining sister ships Explora I and Explora II. The vessel touched water for the first time during a float out at the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa on Monday. Its maiden seven-night voyage is scheduled for 3 August 2026 from Barcelona to Lisbon, with prices starting at £5,300 per person. The ship will sail around the Mediterranean as well as to the Norwegian fjords from Southampton in August and September 2026. Two more Explora Journeys ships are also being built at the shipyard, creating a triple celebration. Explora IV had its coin ceremony – where coins are put under the keel of a newly built ship for good luck – on Monday, and there was a steel cutting for Explora V to mark the start of its construction. The aim is for Explora IV and Explora V to join the fleet in 2027, while Explora VI is due to launch in 2028. Explora IV's maiden voyage is on 15 April 2027, an eight-night sailing from Genoa to Portugal. Prices start at £4,450 per person. The vessel will also operate itineraries to Copenhagen and Iceland. Similar to Explora I and II, the new ships will have capacity for around 900 guests but will have space for 463 suites instead of 461 and a higher gross tonnage of 72,810 (compared with 63,900 in the current fleet). There will still be five heated pools, six restaurants and 12 bars and lounges with a guest per host ratio of 1.25 to 1. Further details are yet to be revealed for Explora V and VI, but they are expected to be the same size as the new vessels. Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, said: "This triple celebration reflects the strength of our vision and the power of collaboration between our team, our partners at Fincantieri, and the unwavering support of the Aponte-Vago family. 'Guided by our values of care, respect, and excellence, we are not just building ships - we are creating a legacy of transformative journeys that will endure for generations to come."
Travel Weekly
14-07-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Explora Journeys celebrates milestones for three ships under construction
Explora Journeys is celebrating three milestones on July 14: the Explora III's float-out, the Explora IV's coin ceremony and the Explora V's steel-cutting. The three ships are under construction at Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, Italy, where leaders from the cruise line gathered for the triple-milestone event. This was Explora's second consecutive year reaching three milestones at once. Last year, at the same shipyard, it celebrated the delivery of the Explora II, the coin ceremony for the Explora III and the construction launch for the Explora IV. "We've had a very solid 10 months working with the team to get the ships where they are today -- those ships sailing and those that are under construction," said Explora president Anna Nash. "It's an emotional moment for me, and I think the team as well, to see the reality that we're halfway through this incredible family vision and we're delivering it on time with confidence, and, I'd say, with poise." Explora Journeys is owned by MSC Group, the cruise and shipping company owned by the Aponte family. The Explora III is on track to debut in August 2026, with the fourth and fifth ships following in 2027 and a sixth in 2028. Sailings for the Explora III's first season in Northern Europe have already proven "extremely popular," Nash said. The luxury brand is also seeing the highest-end suites selling first, she said. Explora Journeys president Anna Nash and MSC Cruises executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago in front of the Explora III. Photo Credit: Explora Journeys "I think that just comes with longevity as a brand, more confidence," Nash said. "We're seeing that with our repeat guests. They want to come back and experience a different level of suite." The Explora I debuted in August 2023. The Explora II followed in September 2024. The line is introducing its first Alaska sailings on the Explora III, and Nash hinted that this fall it will announce Explora's first Asia itineraries.
Times
13-06-2025
- Times
17 of the best cruises in Croatia
Croatia is one of Europe's best cruise destinations. Once you have stepped foot on its pine-backed beaches, swum in sparkling blue coves and toured its terracotta-topped fishing villages you'll understand why. There are more than 1,000 islands to explore as well as adventures inland for forest hikes and winery visits. When it comes to bustling centres, there's no need to limit yourself to Dubrovnik's walls. Cruising allows visits to the palaces and cathedrals of ancient waterfront cities such as Split and Zadar, while sampling the seafood restaurants, snorkelling and sunsets of the glittering Adriatic. Whether you prefer to sail on a large cruise ship packed with facilities or a glamorous yacht, these are some of the best cruises in Croatia. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue Explora Journeys was launched by MSC Cruises in 2023 and the ships feel a cut above your average cruise line. Expect chic suites with walk-in wardrobes and floor-to-ceiling windows, and lavish all-inclusive packages that cover everything from thermal spa access to fine wines. Children over six months are welcome on board, but only those over six can use the excellent Nautilus Club with its games consoles,digital library and pool table. Croatian itineraries include seven-night cruises between Athens and Fusina, near Venice, calling at Zadar and the picturesque town of Rovinj, with its cobbled streets, busy fishing port and baroque church. • Read our full guide to Croatia Sea days will sail by on a Seabourn cruise thanks to a generous all-inclusive fare that includes servings of caviar and champagne, a bespoke in-suite bar and wi-fi powered by Starlink. There are several Croatia itineraries, including a 14-day sailing from Dubrovnik to Istanbul and a seven-day round-trip from Dubrovnik tracing the Dalmatian coast, with stops in some of the country's prettiest ports. Optional activities along the way include a winery tour in Korcula, a Dalmatian cookery class in Zadar and brandy tasting in Opatija, a seaside resort often likened to the French Riviera. • Discover our full guide to cruise holidays This holiday company, catering to UK travellers, has a ten-day Venice, Split and Treasures of the North yacht itinerary. You'll glide through Croatia's crystal-clear waters on the comfortable 36-passenger MS Stella Maris and visit islands such as Losinj and Rab, with plenty of time to explore. Shore excursions include a land-train trip to see the natural beauty of Brijuni National Park. Riviera offers flights from regional airports and you can upgrade for a stress-free home pick-up service, too. Built in response to the growing interest in small-ship cruising, river line Emerald Cruises launched a pair of 100-passenger superyachts — Azzurra and Sakara — which both offer Croatian itineraries. Almost 90 per cent of the cabins, which go up to the two-room 110 sq m Owner's Suites, have balconies and terraces with unimpeded views. Shore excursions are geared around authentic experiences, including visits to island towns like Korcula where you can sample its white wines amid the medieval walls and towers; and contrasting outcrops from bustling Hvar to far-flung Vis. Back on board there's a spa and a water sports platform for paddleboarding and snorkelling. You'll find plenty of quirky shore excursions designed to showcase the many facets of Croatia on a Celebrity cruise. Swim, cycle and kayak in and around Dubrovnik, and explore big-name TV and film locations from a tuk-tuk at Split. Trips to coastal towns, such as the tree-lined Cavtat, the southernmost Croatian resort, show a sleepier side to the country. On board, splash out on the Retreat suite, giving you access to an exclusive restaurant plus a clubhouse-style lounge open 24/7. Little ones will be equally happy in the Fun Factory area, or taking part in Camp at Sea activities adapted to suit four age groups. Renowned for its friendly, smaller ships that attract a loyal band of repeat guests, Fred Olsen has round-trip cruises to Croatia from Newcastle, Southampton and Liverpool on ships including the Balmoral and Bolette. It also runs one-way cruises from the UK to Dubrovnik. Your itinerary might include basking next to waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park, scouring Roman ruins in Zadar and Split, or delving into Dalmatia's beloved red wines. Some sailings also slip into the fjord-like waters of the Bay of Kotor in neighbouring Montenegro. An onboard art studio means that you can join classes to capture highlights of your voyage on canvas. Get under the skin of Croatia with Azamara Cruises, focused on showcasing local life and culture. You'll have more time to explore with a different port of call each day and late-night departures on the line's immersive cruises of varying lengths. Your cruise could call at Pula, which was picked by the Romans as an administrative base and has a magnificent amphitheatre. Insightful excursions include discovering truffles in Istria, sampling local wines at vineyards in the Konavle Valley, and seeing a silk-weaving workshop outside ships in Silversea Cruise's all-inclusive luxury fleet sail to Croatia, including Silver Nova, one of the newest vessels. Active passengers can set off on hiking tours in national parks while there are lots of gentler options such as wine tasting and visiting an intriguing salt museum and salt pan in Zadar. Back on the ship, Silversea places a big emphasis on regional dining experiences in the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) restaurant, along with cookery classes to learn how to create local specialities. You'll also be extremely pampered because all suites on Silversea come with personal butler a fly-cruise to Croatia on the 3,100-passenger Azura, one of the larger ships in P&O's fleet. Sailings visit the headline cities of Dubrovnik, Spilt and Zadar. A walk along the walls of the old city of Dubrovnik in the morning or when the sun goes down will give one of the best views across the red-roofed city. In Split, Diocletian's Palace, one of Europe's best-preserved Roman palaces, is another highlight. Among the many excursions P&O offers in Croatia, you could be visiting the Unesco-listed old town of Trogir, or foodie corners such as Ston, the oyster capital of Croatia. Families can schedule sailings to coincide with school holidays. Built for shoreline cruising, CroisiEurope's sea-going vessel MV La Belle de l'Adriatique spends much of its time sailing in Croatia and provides a comfortable floating home from which to explore a string of coastal towns. Carrying 197 guests, the small but sturdy vessel reaches ports that are inaccessible to larger ships; itineraries include a round-trip cruise from Dubrovnik. Meals reflect the line's French heritage and lunch is always a proper sit-down affair. Sailings will appeal to active types looking to hike through Krka National Park or set out on a bike tour on the island of Vis. Resembling a swish private yacht, the 36-passenger Lady Eleganza was custom-built for cruising up the Croatian coast and provides an intimate setting for Adriatic exploration. It offers a selection of sailings, up to 14 days. This ship is small enough to moor beside islands such as Rab, where the namesake town's perfectly preserved medieval buildings are squeezed onto a narrow peninsula, as well as the seaside city of Zadar, studded with Roman and Renaissance architecture. On board, relax in the air-conditioned lounge or take the plunge and leap straight into the Adriatic from the swimming buzzing race tracks to scented spas, there's something to float everyone's boat on Norwegian Cruise Line's innovative ships. The headline port of call on Adriatic sailings is Dubrovnik, where the tender to shore provides inviting views of the city and its trove of historic buildings. Upgrade your sailing with a stay in the Haven zone: a ship-within-a-ship complex that comes with spacious top-deck cabins and 24-hour butlers plus an exclusive restaurant, lounge and sundeck. If you have little ones, look out for the family cabins close to the action of the kids' clubs and nursery catering for mini-mariners as young as six sailors can expect to be kept busy aboard MSC's fleet of colourful, glitzy vessels. There are five children's clubs for all ages (over six months), including complimentary babysitting. This gives parents plenty of time to scale the city walls that encircle Dubrovnik, explore Unesco-listed Diocletian's Palace in Split or relax on a beach, safe in the knowledge that the little ones are having fun with their shipmates. MSC has a long Italian sailing heritage and offers a choice of departure points such as Venice, Trieste and Bari, bound for Istria and the Dalmatian the Adriatic Scandi-style aboard Viking's adults-only ships — the line has several Mediterranean cruises that include Croatia. There are plenty of staterooms to choose from: those on deck seven are closest to the panoramic Explorer's Lounge. This deck is also home to the incredible 134 sq m Owner's Suite, which has a sauna, if you want to splash out. Expect plenty of nature-focused shore excursions to keep you entertained, including the chance to head to Krka National Park or visit the Dubrava Falconry Centre that cares for endangered birds of cruising comes to the fore on these elegant all-suite ships, which offer multiple shore excursions along the way. Game of Thrones fans can visit the real-life location of the fictional city of Meereen, which is actually Klis Fortress just outside Split. Or you can go on a leisurely drive through the countryside to find out how flour is produced at a 15th-century mill — rounding things off with a wine tasting. The line does welcome children, but you'll find families are in the minority outside school on a small-ship sailing adventure with the over-50 specialist firm Saga. You'll sail with 40 passengers or fewer, and discover highlights of the Dalmatian coast, including lesser-known islands, national parks and ancient walled cities. Interesting shore excursions include a visit to a stonemasonry workshop in Pucisca, and as the ships moor overnight you can wander ashore to explore in the evening. These cruises come with Saga perks including an open bar and door-to-door chauffeured transfers. Classy Ponant reflects its Gallic roots by embracing the French art of living, which, happily, means a big accent on fine food and drink, with an open bar to boot. Croatia-focused sailings take in the island of Korcula, said by locals to be the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo, as well as stops at Split and Dubrovnik. Continuing the gastronomic theme, excursions include oyster and mussel tasting and a visit to a winery to learn about the local malvazija grape. Youngsters are allowed in limited numbers and can practise their French at the kids' club. • Best honeymoon cruises• Best western Mediterranean cruises
