Explora Journeys unveils updated winter 2026-27 schedule

Explora Journeys has revealed details of the winter 2026-27 sailings taking place on Explora II following confirmation the ship will no longer be deployed to the Middle East. 

From November 2026 to March 2027, the new programme will include western Mediterranean itineraries and the luxury line’s first visit to Algeria, plus five maiden ports in Ceuta, Algiers, San Sebastián de La Gomera, Fuerteventura and Palamós.

The collection features 46 destinations across 10 countries, including Spain, Morocco, Portugal, France, Italy, Malta, Greece and Gibraltar.

There will be extended and overnight stays and activities such as a private Christmas concert in Gibraltar’s St Michael’s Cave and an after-hours opening of the Alhambra.

A highlighted itinerary is A Journey of Atlantic Light and Volcanic Shores on December 9 which sails from Barcelona to Lisbon, with ports of call in Casablanca and Madeira.

Meanwhile, A Journey of Riviera Lights and New Year Celebrations on December 28 departs from Barcelona to Civitavecchia, with visits to Cannes and Rome.

A Journey from Amalfi’s Cliffs to Andalusian Sun leaves Civitavecchia for Barcelona on January 14, with calls in Tangier.

President Anna Nash said: “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.

“Beyond the pace of peak travel, coastal towns become havens of calm, where culture is experienced on a more human scale.

“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.”