Explora Journeys highlights autumn itineraries in the Mediterranean

With summer drawing to a close, the Mediterranean shifts into a quieter season marked by softer light and cooler temperatures. 

Explora Journeys, the ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, is inviting travellers to experience this “golden season” on board EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II through November 2025.

The late-summer and early-autumn sailings are designed for those seeking a less crowded Mediterranean, with radiant afternoons, fewer visitors and longer port calls. 

The line says the timing allows for a more relaxed pace and a deeper connection with local culture. 

“The late Mediterranean season has an understated magic,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. 

“It’s a time when destinations become their truest selves – when local rhythms return, the light takes on new depth and clarity, and travellers can connect with places and people on a richer, more authentic level. These Journeys unveil the region’s captivating beauty while providing the space and time to truly absorb it all.”

Itineraries include destinations from the pine-covered coasts of the Aegean to the promenades of the French Riviera and the volcanic silhouettes of the Canary Islands. 

Voyages range from one-week escapes to longer options that combine multiple sailings.

EXPLORA I: Eastern Mediterranean sailings

From September through October, EXPLORA I visits Greece, Türkiye and surrounding regions. 

Departures are available from Athens, Istanbul, Antalya, Venice (Fusina) and Barcelona, with stops that include Katakolo, gateway to ancient Olympia.

Several sailings feature overnight stays to allow more time ashore.

One option, A Journey between Magnificent Ruins & Myths (October 2–8), travels from Antalya to Istanbul with calls in Paphos, Kusadasi and Mytilene. The itinerary combines archaeological sites, historic chapels and coastal villages.

EXPLORA II: Western Mediterranean routes

EXPLORA II operates across the Western Mediterranean with sailings from Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Rome), Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Lisbon. 

These itineraries include the French Riviera, Sicily, Sardinia and Corsica.

A Journey of Riviera Starlets & Napoléon’s Corsica (October 6–13) sails from Barcelona to Rome (Civitavecchia), calling at Monte Carlo, Saint-Tropez, Alghero, Ajaccio and Livorno. 

The route blends well-known ports with opportunities to explore smaller towns and coastal scenery. 

Later in the season, A Journey from Cliffs to Cathedrals (October 28 – November 2) travels from Santa Cruz de Tenerife to Barcelona via Lanzarote and Cádiz, offering a mix of volcanic landscapes, Moorish heritage and Catalan architecture.

Extended Journeys

For those seeking a longer trip, Explora Journeys’ Extended Journeys program allows travellers to combine sailings into one itinerary, linking multiple countries and cultures in a single voyage.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook