Sarah Bretz, ContributorExplora Journeys, MSC Group’s small-ship luxury cruise line, has announced a new collection of shore excursions in the Mediterranean for this year. They’ll be available for guests sailing aboard both Explora I and Explora II.
“Our team has carefully crafted experiences in each destination that will enrich our guests and make each journey truly memorable,” said Explora Journeys’ Hotel VP Koray Savas. “Experiences are tailored to intimate groups of 2–25 guests, with time to experience off-the-beaten-path encounters at a slower pace. Our aim is to provide guests with unforgettable moments, deepening their connection with these timeless destinations.”
Highlights of these new Destination Experiences include:
Rovinj, Croatia: Truffle Hunting in Istria
Guests will have the chance to hunt for truffles amidst the beautiful landscapes of Istria. They’ll be able to join an old Istrian family of truffle harvesters for a truffle hunt in their private wood, accompanied by specially-trained dogs. Sampling artisanal truffle products and exploring the medieval town of Motovun add to the unique experience.
Casablanca, Morocco: Invigorating Hammam and Lunch at a Historic Palace
Guests will visit Africa’s largest mosque, the Hassan II Mosque, and indulge in a traditional hammam experience using clay from the Atlas Mountains. Afterwards, they’ll enjoy a lavish Moroccan lunch at a historic palace in the heart of the Casablanca Medina.
Mykonos, Greece: Vineyards and Villages of Mykonos
During this excursion, guests will venture to a family-owned organic vineyard. There, they’ll learn about biodynamic wine crafting and sample wines paired with local delicacies.
Málaga, Spain: Secrets of Granada
Travelers delve into the hidden gems of Granada, from the barrio culture of Albaicín to the Roma community of Sacromonte. They’ll wander through cobbled alleys, sample local food and drink, and immerse themselves in the history of this distinctly Spanish city.
Livorno, Italy: Lucca by Bike and Picnic on the Ramparts
Guests are guided on a leisurely pedal through the city within the ancient city wall. Highlights include visits to landmarks like the Romanesque Cathedral of San Martino and the oval Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. Following a Tuscan picnic atop the city walls, travelers will have time to browse local boutiques, cafés, and shops.
Brindisi, Italy: Trulli of Alberobello and Gleaming Ostuni
In Alberobello, guests will visit traditional dry-stone huts with a corbelled roof, known as Trulli. After tasting local gelato, they’ll be able to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site before lunch at a Trullo restaurant. A picturesque drive takes them to Ostuni, the ancient “white city” overlooking the Adriatic. Following that is a guided tour before returning to Brindisi.
These Destination Experiences in the Mediterranean are now open for booking. Explora I will be in the Mediterranean from June to early December 2024, while Explora II will embark on her maiden journey from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) on August 11, 2024. The vessel will sail in the Mediterranean until November and then reposition to the Caribbean.
Explora Journeys has extended its “Total Luxury Offer” until April 30, 2024 so guests can receive additional benefits including onboard credit, additional inclusions, and savings on the journey.
Comments
Which of these new excursions most interests you? If you’re planning to sail Explora Journeys in the Mediterranean this summer, do you plan to book one of these experiences? Drop us an anchor below and let us know your thoughts!
