15-night A Journey Of Ancient Legends & Breathtaking Innovation

November 29, 2026

Explora Journeys: EXPLORA II

Athens (Pireaus)/Dubai

Vacation Offer ID 1589275

Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.

From $7,520

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Overview

Ship Info

Activities & Services

Deckplans

The Signature Collection – A Hosted Sailing
Hosted Sailings offer Outstanding Value, Exclusive Amenities and an Experienced Personable Host on board to ensure your cruise is more enjoyable.

Cruise Inclusions

The Journey fare includes:

Suite accommodation
Meals on board
Alcoholic beverages
Cocktails
Soft drinks
Mineral water
Gratuities
WiFi internet access
Entertainment where offered
Complimentary transfers from port to town centre where applicable

15-night A Journey Of Ancient Legends & Breathtaking Innovation

Destination Guide
Suggested Shore Excursions

Destination	Arrival	Departure
Athens (Piraeus) Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Piraeus: The Ancient City of Athens - 8 Hours Dominated by the remarkable Parthenon, which has stood for over 2,000 years, Athens is a city of major architectural and archaeological treasures. At Piraeus Port you will receive a warm welcome from your guide and driver who provides a captivating insight into the city’s history and culture during your full day tour. For most, the highlight of a visit to Athens is the world famous Acropolis and the Parthenon. Dedicated to the Goddess Athena, it is one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world. This afternoon, delight in the mesmerising display of eclectic Greek and Oriental art at the Benaki Museum. Complete your day with a drive past the Panethenaic Stadium, the pure marble masterpiece that served as the original site for the modern Olympics. At the end of the tour you are privately transferred back to your cruise ship. Highlights: Ascend the Acropolis to the Parthenon, one of the most important ancient monuments in the Western world Tour the Benaki Museum Tour Duration: 8 Hours Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information Physical Activity Level: Light Inclusions: Private transport by luxury car or minivan An expert local guide for 8 hours Entrance fees to all sights and museums All taxes Exclusions: All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs Gratuities Piraeus: Cape Sounion - 5 hours Meet your guide as you disembark your cruise ship in Piraeus and venture along the scenic coast to Cape Sounion where you visit the ancient ruined Temple of Poseidon. This temple is believed to date from the 5th century BC and was built to honour Poseidon, who ranked second only to Athena herself in terms of power. The Temple enjoys an impressive position, high on the cliffs, and has, over the centuries, been marked by many travellers’ carved signatures, including that of Lord Byron. After touring the site, you return to your cruise ship in Piraeus. Highlights: Venture along the coast to Cape Sounion to the ancient ruins of the Temple of Poseidon Tour Duration: 5 hours Tour can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information Physical Activity Level: Low Inclusions: • Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour • An expert A&K local guide (5 hours) • Entrance fees • All taxes Exclusions: • All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs • Gratuities	11/29/2026	11/29/2026
Heraklion Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Crete: Knossos - Archanes - Heraklion Museum -5 hours Guests will be met by our English speaking guide to commence the tour. Upon completion of the tour, transfer will be provided back to the ship. We will first visit the Archaeological Museum in the town centre and then continue with the exploration of the ruins of Knossos Palace. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization. Accompanied by a knowledgeable, qualified archaeological guide who will offer in-depth personal attention, you will browse through the restored palace. By examining the structures the Minoans lived in, you will have the best avenue for piecing together the threads of the Great Minoan civilization. After a walk through the award winning historically restored village of Archanes, you can enjoy lunch in its picturesque main square, before returning back to the pier. Duration: approx. 5 hours Notes: Because of the extensive walk in Knossos, comfortable shoes and a hat are required. Knossos Palace and Historical Heraklion Highlights/Description: Knossos Palace Heraklion A full day tour that explores the Palace of Knossos and the nearby city of Heraklion. The palace is one of the major must-see archaeological sites in Greece, presenting visitors with a rare glimpse into Minoan civilization. Accompanied by a first class guide who will offer in-depth personal attention, you will walk around the ruins and excavations of the vast ancient palace, and learn about the Greek mythological tales that are linked to it. After exploring the labyrinth of corridors and rooms on the Knossos tour, you will travel into central Heraklion for a walk around its historical center and main sites and a visit to the recently renovated Archaeological Museum. The most magnificent collection of Minoan art and culture in the world is housed in this museum, that is one of the most visited ones Greece, with an exhibition of artifacts, covering a period of 5,000 years. Tour can operate: Morning Wheelchair Accessible: No Physical Activity Level: Moderate to Heavy Inclusions: Licensed, English-speaking guide Entrance fees Applicable taxes Transfers to/from departure port Not Included: Meals, unless otherwise noted Gratuities Personal expenses Introduction to the Cretan Diet & Cooking- 5 hours Highlights/Description: Tasting of traditional delicacies and local drinks Walk in the fields and the olive groves and introduction to the local flora Introduction to the Mediterranean and Cretan diet Info booklet and Recipe Book Hands-on cooking class Outdoor lunch paired with wine and raki Visit to the chef’s nuno felt, mosaic and beeswax workshop Recipe book Allow yourselves to be shown around the scenic mountains of Crete, exploring its rich customs and traditions. Learn about handcraft professions and techniques lost in time, and walk through beautiful olive groves. Collect wild herbs and vegetables and bring them to the kitchen, to transform them into delicious Cretan dishes. Tour Duration: 4-5 Hours Tour can operate: Morning Wheelchair Accessible: No Physical Activity Level: Light Inclusions: Licensed, English-speaking guide Entrance fees Applicable taxes Transfers to/from port of Heraklion Not Included: Meals, unless otherwise noted Gratuities Personal expenses Looking for the Muses (Crete) - 5 hours Highlights/Description: Visit to the oldest olive tree in the world Visit to 2 traditional wineries and their vineyards Visit to a traditional Cretan musical workshop Information about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varietals Two wine tasting sessions with 10 different types and styles of wines Visit to a Minoan farm and a Medieval wine press A traditional lunch in the picturesque village of Archanes Info booklet and wine certificate Explore your senses enjoying a day full with ancient old flavors, sounds and sights. Embark on an epic journey around quaint villages, amazing wineries, a musical workshop and a medieval wine press. Pay a visit to a Minoan farm and discover the mystic way of wine making in Crete, before enjoying your lunch in a picturesque village (paid locally). Tour Duration: 4-5 Hours Tour can operate: Morning Wheelchair Accessible: No Physical Activity Level: Light Inclusions: Licensed, English-speaking guide Entrance fees Applicable taxes Transfers to/from port of Heraklion Not Included: Meals, unless otherwise noted Wine Tasting and Cooking in Crete - 5 hours Highlights/Description: Visit to a traditional winery and its vineyard Tour around the scenic area of Peza Information about the unique viticulture and the indigenous grape varietals A wine tasting session with 5 different types and styles of wines Visit to a Minoan farm and a Medieval wine press Hands on cooking class Outdoor lunch paired with wine and raki Info booklet, wine certificate and recipe book Visit one of Crete’s most renowned wineries and indulge in its fine wines. Drive through scenic roads, visit a medieval wine press and trust yourselves into the hands of a celebrated local chef. Experience a hands-on cooking class uncovering the secrets of the Cretan cuisine, and enjoy regional specialties in a traditional setting. Tour Duration: 4-5 Hours Tour can operate: Morning Wheelchair Accessible: No Physical Activity Level: Light Inclusions: Licensed, English-speaking guide Entrance fees Applicable taxes Transfers to/from port of Heraklion Not Included: Meals, unless otherwise noted Gratuities Personal expenses	11/30/2026	11/30/2026
At Sea	12/01/2026	12/01/2026
Cairo (Port Said)	12/02/2026	12/02/2026
Suez Canal	12/03/2026	12/03/2026
At Sea	12/04/2026	12/04/2026
Jeddah	12/05/2026	12/06/2026
At Sea	12/07/2026	12/09/2026
Salalah	12/10/2026	12/10/2026
At Sea	12/11/2026	12/11/2026
Muscat	12/12/2026	12/12/2026
Khasab	12/13/2026	12/13/2026
Dubai Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Highlights of Dubai - Including at the Top (148) and the View Description Experience the best of the best of what Dubai has to offer! Embark on this awe-inspiring Dubai city tour, taking you to the most historic landmarks from Dubai’s past and the world-famous attractions of modern Dubai. The Highlights of Dubai tour is an ideal way to experience the best of Dubai’s past, present and future! Inclusions • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle • Photo opportunities at Jumeirah Mosque, and a drive past the famous flag at Union House • VIP Tickets to The View observation deck at the top of Nakheel Mall • Photo opportunities with Museum of the Future, Zabeel Palace and the Dubai Frame • An Abra ride across the Dubai Creek, exploring the Gold and Spice Souqs, and the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood • A visit to Souk Madinat and plenty of photo opportunities with Burj al Arab and the canals of the Madinat • A ride on the Dubai Monorail, from the trunk of the Palm Jumeirah to Atlantis The Palm • A photo stop on the bridge of Ain Dubai, with views across Jumeirah Beach Residence • A visit to the Dubai Mall, the Middle East’s biggest mall and one of the largest in the world • A photo stop in front of the Burj Khalifa as part of the visit to the Dubai Mall • Leisure time at the Dubai Mall, or transfer back to the hotel • Admission to At The Top Burj Khalifa, including the SKY Lounge at Level 148 Duration 10 to 12 hours Dubai - Evening Desert Safari - (Private) Description Leave the buzzing city behind as you’re whisked off to the beautiful and peaceful Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, ready to deliver the best of what the dunes have to offer. Enjoy a thrilling dune drive, spotting local wildlife along the way, snap unbeatable photos at sunset, find your balance on a camel or a sand board and have your hands decorated in Henna to help the memories last longer. Inclusions • Pick-up and drop-off in a shared/private vehicle in a 4 wheel drive (Toyota Land Cruiser or similar) • Dune drive • Sunset stop • Modern Bedouin-style camp • Enjoy a variety of entertainment: Camel ride, sandboarding, henna hand painting • Arabian Adventures fire and dance show • BBQ dinner • Unlimited soft drinks • Option to add an adult beverage package (House or Premium beverages) • Guests on a sunset stop can enjoy Aperol Spritz refreshments as an optional extra Duration 6 Hours - Late afternoon until early evening (estimated departure at 3:00 pm with estimated return at 9:00 pm) Authentic Dubai Food Tour Description If you’re looking to take your taste buds on an adventure around the globe, Dubai is the perfect destination for you. Join our Taste of Dubai tour, to learn about traditional Arabic dishes and the importance gastronomy holds in the Emirati culture. Get ready to add some flavour to your visit! Inclusions • Hotel pick-up and drop-off in a private vehicle • Knowledgeable tour guide • Enjoy a juice and get introduced to local spices at the Spice Souk • Enjoy delicious starters at Bayt Al Wakeel restaurant • Experience Mandi, a traditional Middle Eastern dish, at Robou Al Yemen Mandi Restaurant • Finish the tour with Arabic sweets and desserts while enjoying stunning views of the Dubai Creek, at City Creek Restaurant Duration 4 hours Based on the guests’ preference, the tour can start as early as 8:00 am and 4:30 in the evenings. During Ramadan the tour will operate from 6pm to 10pm.	12/14/2026	12/14/2026

Discover the MSC Explora II, the epitome of modern luxury at sea. Boasting 461 ocean-front suites, this magnificent ship redefines elegance and comfort with a guest-to-host ratio of 1.25:1. Guests can indulge in nine immersive dining experiences across six world-class restaurants and unwind at over 12 vibrant yet intimate bars and lounges. Relaxation takes center stage with five heated pools, including a hydrotherapy pool, and rejuvenating ocean-inspired wellness offerings. From the serene Astern Pool to the chic Med Yacht Club, the Explora II promises a journey of unparalleled sophistication and tranquility.

Ship Statistics

Maiden Voyage: 2024
Gross Tonnage: 63, 900 GT
Number of Decks: 14
Staterooms / Suites: 461
Dining / Restaurants: 9

Bars / Lounges: 9
Pool: 3
Spa: Yes
Fitness Center: Yes
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Dining

Bar & Lounges

Casino

Onboard Activities

Outdoor Activities

Wellness

Suite

Ocean Terrace Suite (OT1) $7,520

Category: OT1
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 301 sq. ft. with 75 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6: Middle and Deck 7: Aft & Forward. The Ocean Terrace Suites are amongst the largest in the category as they all have private sun terraces. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea, Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious ocean-front terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybed for relaxation

Ocean Terrace Suite (OT2) $7,900

Category: OT2
Deck 8
Deck 7

Size: 301 sq. ft. with 75 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 7: Middle and Deck 8: Aft & Forward. The Ocean Terrace Suites are amongst the largest in the category as they all have private sun terraces. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea, Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious ocean-front terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybed for relaxation

Ocean Terrace Suite (OT3) $8,280

Category: OT3
Deck 9
Deck 8

Size: 301 sq. ft. with 75 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 8: Middle and Deck 9: Aft & Forward. The Ocean Terrace Suites are amongst the largest in the category as they all have private sun terraces. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea, Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious ocean-front terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybed for relaxation

Ocean Terrace Suite (OT4) $8,510

Category: OT4
Deck 10
Deck 9

Size: 301 sq. ft. with 75 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 9, 10: Middle. The Ocean Terrace Suites are amongst the largest in the category as they all have private sun terraces. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea, Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious ocean-front terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybed for relaxation

Ocean Grand Terrace Suite (GT) $8,660

Category: GT
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 301 sq. ft. with 118 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6, 7: Aft, Middle & Forward. The Ocean Grand Terrace Suites features a larger oceanfront terrace, featuring an outdoor dining area and comfortable sunbeds for relaxation. All suites feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea, Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining table• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Comfortable sunbeds for relaxation

Penthouse Suite (PH) $11,665

Category: PH
Deck 9
Deck 8
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 366 sq. ft. with 97 to 151 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6, 7, 8, 9: Aft. The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax and with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.• Spacious lounge area• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation

Deluxe Penthouse Suite (DP) $12,045

Category: DP
Deck 10
Deck 9
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 409 to 463 sq. ft. with 108 to 194 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6, 7, 9: Aft and Deck 10: Middle. The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax and with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.• Spacious lounge area• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests preferences• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops. Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation

Premier Penthouse Suite (PP) $12,425

Category: PP
Deck 10
Deck 9
Deck 8

Size: 452 sq. ft. with 108 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 8, 9, 10: Middle. The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax and with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.• Spacious lounge area• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation

Grand Penthouse Suite (GP) $13,525

Category: GP
Deck 10
Deck 9
Deck 8
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 506 sq. ft. with 140 to 226 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6, 7, 8, 9, 10: Middle. The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax and with a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.• Spacious lounge area• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops• Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation

Cove Residence Suite (CO) $15,045

Category: CO
Deck 10
Deck 9
Deck 8
Deck 7
Deck 6

Size: 603 sq. ft. with 151 to 258 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6, 7, 8, 9, 10: Middle. For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of the Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of the dedicated butler service.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea• Separate living, dining and sleeping areas• Spacious lounge area• Dining table for 4 guests• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Laptop-size safe

Retreat Residence Suite (RR) $16,910

Category: RR
Deck 9
Deck 8
Deck 7

Size: 678 sq. ft. with 151 to 194 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 7, 8, 9: Forward. For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of the Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of the dedicated butler service.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea• Separate living, dining and sleeping areas• Spacious lounge area• Dining table for 4 guests• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Laptop-size safe

Serenity Residence Suite (SR) $25,950

Category: SR
Deck 9
Deck 7

Size: 646 sq. ft. with 570 to 710 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 7, 9: Aft. For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of the Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of the dedicated butler service.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea• Separate living, dining and sleeping areas• Spacious lounge area• Dining table for 6 guests• Spacious work desk area• Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Laptop-size safe

Cocoon Residence Suite (CR) $33,855

Category: CR
Deck 6

Size: 797 sq. ft. with 807 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 6: Aft. For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of the Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of the dedicated butler service.• Oversized windows with views of the sea• Separate living, dining and sleeping areas• Abundant lounge area• Dining table for 6 guests• Spacious work desk area• Private bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Laptop-size safe

Owner's Residence Suite (OR) $67,715

Category: OR
Deck 8

Size: 1,668 sq. ft. with 1,345 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 8: Aft. The iconic Owner’s Residence creates the largest accommodation on-board, with multiple harmonious spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind. Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your private outdoor terrace - featuring a spacious whirlpool - and enjoy intuitive, intelligent service with a dedicated private butler.• Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea Separate living, dining and sleeping areas• Abundant lounge area with fireplace• Dining table for 8 guests• Spacious work desk area Private bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences• Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas• Laptop-size safe• Guest lavatory and powder room• Butler pantry area

Fares listed are per person, based on double occupancy and include port charges. Pricing and availability subject to change at any time.

Fares listed are per person, based on double occupancy and include port charges. Depending on the suite category or the promotional fare booked, additional benefits can be granted. The Fare does not include any medical expenses, any independent contractors' services or products, or Destination Experiences. Food & Beverage exclusive products can be available for an additional fee.

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