Explora Journeys unveils 2027–28 program with debut sailings in Asia

Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has released its 2027–2028 Journeys Collection, which includes nearly 100 sailings across five continents. 

The program marks a milestone with the brand’s first itineraries in Asia and the debut of its fifth ship, EXPLORA V.

Asia itineraries debut with EXPLORA III

For the first time, Explora Journeys will operate sailings in Asia, with EXPLORA III offering 28 itineraries that call at 47 destinations. 

All ports will be maiden calls for the brand, spanning Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore.

Overnight stays are planned in cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Ha Long Bay, Ho Chi Minh City and Bali. 

The itineraries are designed to align with seasonal highlights, including cherry blossom season in Japan and Chinese New Year festivities onboard in January 2028.

“The introduction of Asia is a landmark moment for our brand and for our guests,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. 

“It reflects not only our ambition to continually expand our horizons but also our deep respect for the cultural richness and natural beauty of this remarkable region.”

EXPLORA V launches in 2027

EXPLORA V, the fifth ship in the fleet, will launch in December 2027 with a series of Mediterranean sailings.

The program focuses on the region’s quieter winter season, visiting 27 destinations across nine countries.

Highlights include a maiden call in Salerno, overnight stays in Istanbul, and New Year’s Eve in Naples.

Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula

After its Mediterranean program, EXPLORA V will reposition to the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula, joining EXPLORA I. 

The ships will sail itineraries in Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain, with visits to UNESCO sites such as Petra, Luxor and AlUla.

Dubai’s New Year’s Eve celebrations will also feature on the program, with sailings offering views of the city’s fireworks from the water.

Caribbean, Central America and the Amazon

EXPLORA II and EXPLORA IV will continue to operate in the Caribbean, Central America and South America. 

The ships will visit 51 destinations in 30 countries, with calls at ports such as Port Antonio in Jamaica and Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands.

The program includes opportunities to explore Mayan ruins in Central America, sail along the Amazon River with an overnight in Manaus, and celebrate New Year’s Eve off the coast of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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