A Journey of Shimmering Shores & Timeless Mediterranean Treasures

With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.

Too few have experienced the quiet yet breathtaking beauty of Corsica, an island graced with cobbled streets, medieval villages, pine landscapes, natural pools and waterfalls. Climb trails coursing through beautiful villages which cling to jagged cliffs, relax on white sandy beaches spilling into turquoise waters and delight in the views of flourishing fauna. Rejuvenate in marina bistros purring with Corsican polyphonic music, and as the sun melts into the sea – remember the sentiment of Matisse’s famous observation, “All is colour, all is light.”

A bejewelled siren sunning along the Côte d’Azur, Villefranche-sur-Mer beckons with provincial scenes, rainbow-bright houses and flowers fluttering everywhere. Poised at the tip of a sapphire harbour, this genteel enclave has curves in all the right places, including the only Corniche that winds beside Plage des Marinièr with its crescent flour-soft sand that sweeps around the cobalt Med. Escape into charming chapels and centuries-old citadel that affords shimmering views of Cap Ferrat then venture to two nearby medieval walled towns of atelier-focused St Paul de Vence or easy-on-the-eyes Eze which captured the imagination of Mr. Walt Disney.

Lounging under a Provençal sun, Marseille is the oldest city in France yet seemingly grows younger each day. A multi-cultural melting pot with top-notch museums, galleries, smart squares and hip port-side bars, where you can tuck into a bowl of bouillabaisse, its famous fish stew. Meander past fountains built under the reign of Napoleon III and city hall erected during Louis XIV. Fall in love with the Calanques cliffs for a bit of French coastline drama, or wind through cypress trees and lavender fields to Avignon and Aix-en-Provence, famously once home to Van Gogh, Cézanne, and author Peter Mayle. Chase light, ripening Syrah grapes and drink in the nuances of terroir. From Marseille’s boisterous roots to its French coastline drama and nearby classic Provence, wander at will and fall in love with it all.

Beckon the buzz of a small UNESCO-listed island; proud of producing its own cheese, wine and rather distinguished gin. Sink into a lemon-scented laidback lifestyle that reflects elegant Georgian architecture, Spain’s oldest opera house, history, art and a monastery-based museum. Off glittering turquoise shores, visit the Royal Naval hospital, shop for world-renowned shoes, amble amongst butterflies up coastal paths and rest for tapas in harbour-side tavernas. Celebrated yet discreet – unhurried Menorca is the low-key location to go and not to be seen.

Your cruise comes to an end as you sail into Barcelona harbour. You will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Dublin.

Breathe in the cultural heart of Catalan; an elegant blend of high energy and undisturbed tradition. Muse over the origins of captivating Gaudi architecture within the enchanting labyrinth that is the Gothic Quarter. Savour the flavours of fresh tapas and crisp cava in breezy plazas, tranquil terraces and coveted cafés, or glide down to a shimmering beach club to unwind. Imagine a visit to peaceful Passeig de Gracia, where modernist buildings merge to showcase iconic global labels. And, as dusk falls, prepare for urban action and swing by the lively bohemian bars to fiesta on the leafy stretch of La Rambla. If you’re serious about style, this colourful city provides plenty to celebrate.