Explora Journeys deploys Explora II in mediterranean for winter 2026/27

Explora Journeys will keep Explora II in the Mediterranean throughout winter 2026/27.

The programme includes new ports, overnight stays, and a series of destination-focused experiences across Southern Europe and North Africa.

It also marks the first time the luxury cruise line has dedicated one of its ships to the region throughout the winter season.

Branded as A Mediterranean Winter, the programme will run from November 2026 to March 2027 and feature 46 destinations across 10 countries, spanning Southern Europe and North Africa.

The itineraries will visit destinations in Spain, Morocco, Portugal, France, Italy, Malta, Greece, and Gibraltar, combining established ports with several first-time calls and an increased emphasis on overnight stays and extended time in port.

“The Mediterranean in winter is a collection of subtle contrasts and understated elegance, and we are delighted to dedicate EXPLORA II to the region this season, revealing its more contemplative side,” said Anna Nash, President, Explora Journeys.

“Beyond the pace of peak travel, coastal towns become havens of calm, where culture is experienced on a more human scale,” she added. “We invite our guests to linger in quiet piazzas, engage more deeply with living heritage, and experience the long shadows and golden light that define the season — a natural expression of our Ocean State of Mind.”

The season introduces five maiden ports for the cruise line: Ceuta, Algiers, San Sebastián de La Gomera, Fuerteventura and Palamós. The call to Algiers will mark Explora Journeys’ first visit to Algeria.

Explora II will also spend extended periods in several destinations, with overnight calls scheduled in Casablanca, Lisbon, Madeira and Málaga. Late departures are planned from Málaga, Cannes, Siracusa and Gibraltar, allowing passengers more time ashore.

The line-up of shore experiences includes a private Christmas concert in Gibraltar’s St Michael’s Cave, an after-hours opening of the Alhambra in Málaga, a private cultural event in Funchal, and an overnight land programme from Casablanca to Marrakech.

Explora Journeys said the programme also places greater emphasis on destinations that receive relatively few cruise calls compared with more established Mediterranean ports, including quieter areas of the Canary Islands and less-visited destinations such as Puerto del Rosario in Fuerteventura and Santa Cruz de La Palma.

Explora II will continue to operate as a small luxury vessel with a focus on longer stays and destination immersion, while onboard experiences will include wellness programmes and culinary offerings inspired by seasonal ingredients and regional wines.

The deployment also creates a geographical split in the brand’s operations during the winter period. While Explora II remains in the Mediterranean, sister ship Explora I will sail in the Caribbean, Central America, and South America, offering itineraries focused on warmer-weather destinations during the northern hemisphere winter.