Explora Journeys reveal wellness and culinary details for Explora II winter 2026/27

Explora Journeys has unveiled new culinary, wellness, and cultural experiences aboard Explora II.

The programme forms part of the luxury line’s Serene Mediterranean collection for winter 2026/27, introducing destination-led dining, an expanded Ocean Wellness offering, and a series of guest speakers and performers inspired by the quieter pace of the Mediterranean during the winter months.

The seasonal programme will be available aboard Explora II as the ship sails a series of Mediterranean itineraries focusing on regional gastronomy, wellbeing, and cultural enrichment.

“Our Serene Mediterranean Journeys reflect the way today’s discerning guests increasingly want to travel,” said Anna Nash, President, Explora Journeys.

“They are seeking experiences that feel more connected, more immersive, and more personal,” she said. “Every element of the journey has been designed to reflect the character of the destinations we visit, from seasonal gastronomy and Ocean Wellness to enriching cultural encounters.”

Among the new additions are a series of Shore-to-Table culinary experiences, designed to connect guests with local food traditions both ashore and on board.

Each experience begins with a guided visit to a local market alongside one of the ship’s chefs before continuing with a chef-led cooking masterclass in the onboard Chef’s Kitchen.

The programme includes market visits in Palermo, Marseille, Barcelona, Bari, and Brindisi, where guests will explore regional produce and culinary traditions before preparing dishes inspired by each destination.

Additional food and beverage experiences include Meet the Winemaker excursions at vineyards across the Mediterranean.

One of the featured experiences takes guests to Il Palagio, the Tuscan estate owned by Sting and Trudie Styler, where visitors will tour the vineyard and cellars before taking part in a wine tasting and lunch highlighting regional cuisine.

During October and November, guests sailing across the Explora Journeys fleet will also be offered The Truffle Season, a complimentary dining experience celebrating Piedmont truffles during the annual harvest.

Each day, a different truffle-inspired dish will be served across the ship’s restaurants, with fresh truffles shaved tableside and paired with wines from Piedmont.

The winter programme also expands the line’s Ocean Wellness offering through a new 12-day experience titled A Path to Inner Discovery.

Available on the Barcelona-to-Lisbon voyage departing on February 11th, 2027, the complimentary programme combines yoga, meditation, breathwork, journalling, sound therapy, and movement sessions designed to encourage relaxation and mindfulness during the voyage.

The itinerary will also feature workshops covering neuroscience, nutrition, astrology, natural movement, and holistic wellbeing, led by a panel of specialist practitioners.

Beyond wellness, Explora Journeys is introducing a cultural enrichment programme featuring internationally recognised speakers and performers.

Among those joining selected voyages is Zelda La Grange, who served as Nelson Mandela’s personal aide for nearly two decades and will share insights on leadership, reconciliation, and human connection.

Concert pianist Maxim Lando will present a series of intimate classical performances, while psychologist and neuroscientist Dr Helena Boschi will lead discussions exploring resilience, behaviour, and the relationship between the brain and wellbeing.

Movement specialist Shane Benzie will also host sessions examining posture, natural movement, and physical awareness.