The start-up brand, part of the MSC Group, described the programme as a ‘unique blend of well-known destinations such as Ibiza in Spain, discovered through a different lens and lesser-known ports, such as Calvi in Corsica, France or Kastellorizo in Greece.’
Experiences are tailored to small, intimate groups, from two to 25 people. All emphasise exclusive, off-the-beaten-track encounters focussed on a slower pace of travel to allow guests to fully immerse themselves in each destination, whilst not leaving their mark on the places they explore.
Michael Ungerer, CEO, Explora Journeys, commented, ‘Explora Journeys is committed to delivering inspiring and sustainable tourism as we strive to leave a positive footprint for the next generation.’
Five different interest types
Explora is categorising its destination experiences on Explora I into five different interest types;
Beyond Boundaries are described as once-in-a-lifetime experiences for active travellers who enjoy pushing their boundaries and changing their perspective on the world. For example, a private tour to world renowned Premier Grand Cru Classé Château Margaux, a legendary estate north of Bordeaux, France, and its innovative cellars.
Tailored Experiences are the travel equivalent of haute couture. These highly exclusive experiences are customised for those who value rarity in its most authentic form. Guests can embark on a helicopter adventure with aerial views of the Médoc peninsula in France, swim and snorkel on a private sail around the Maltese islands or explore Lisbon, Portugal, via a tuk tuk.
Enchanting Explorations are designed to usher in the next level of exclusivity for small, intimate groups to witness exclusive moments that are off limits to most. Participants can connect with nature through forest therapy and forest bathing near Porto, Portugal, experience the sense of well-being and calm that comes from yoga flow at dusk in Ibiza, Spain or drive a classic Citroen 2CV through the country lanes of Normandy, attend a very exclusive visit of the pope`s summer residence in Castel Gandolfo or a private cocktail party at the National Palace and Gardens of Queluz on the Portuguese Riviera.
Learn from the locals
Boundless Discoveries include hidden wonders and VIP access. There are chances to learn from the locals, with an intimate flamenco master class in Cadiz, Spain, or a photography class on the island of Mykonos, Greece. Guests can enjoy a scenic hike into history at Notre Dame de la Serra in Calvi, Corsica, France, or handpick, brew and bottle Balearic healing herbs in Ibiza, Spain.
In-Country Immersions are designed as multi-day overland experiences with luxury accommodation before or after sailing. These are opportunities to delve deeper into the culture of the countries they visit in intimately sized groups.
Sacha Rougier, head of itinerary planning and destination experience, Explora Journeys said, ‘Blending luxury and adventure, Explora Journeys will ensure a one-of-a-kind experience. Enriching and exhilarating, Explora Journeys connect travellers with the unique destination experiences of a lifetime, and we look forward to offering these authentic, immersive and transformative experiences to our guests.’
Explora I's inaugural Mediterranean season runs from end May through June and features an 11-night sailing from Barcelona to Athens calling in St Tropez, Calvi (Corsica), Civitavecchia (Rome), Fiskardo (Kefalonia) and Istanbul or an extended round-trip Barcelona of 25 nights which also includes Patmos, Bodrum, Kastellorizo, Santorini, Mykonos, Gozo and Ibiza.
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