Explora Journeys has announced details for the inaugural itineraries for Explora II, its second ship.
The itineraries, on sale now, will run from August 2024 to the end of April 2025 and feature sailings in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, India, the Indian Ocean and Africa.
The ship – scheduled to launch in summer 2024 – will start in the Mediterranean, visiting ports in Italy, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Israel and Croatia.
After calling into Israel, Explora II will pass through the Suez Canal and visit Egypt. The ship will then sail onto the Arabian Peninsula towards Saudi Arabia, cruising the coastline of the Red Sea.
Cities such as Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi will also be on the agenda, before Explora II reaches the coast of India.
Other destinations include the Seychelles, Maldives, Mozambique, Tanzania, Madagascar, Kenya, and Mauritius.
Explora Journeys hails ‘next chapter’
Explora Journeys CEO Michael Ungerer said: “This is a new chapter for the brand, we are extremely proud to unveil Explora II and these new itineraries.
“Our portfolio of destinations is constantly expanding, and we look forward to welcoming guests on board our ships to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences in incredible countries where they will be able to reconnect with themselves, whist connecting with the people they meet, the surroundings and the local communities.”
In November, Explora also revealed that first ship, Explora I, will depart for its maiden voyage on 17 July 2023.
The ship, which will sail from Southampton, will operate a 15-night Maiden Journey into Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle voyage.
Ports of call will include Zeebrugge, Belgium, and Geiranger, Trondheim, Molde, Leknes, Brønnøysund, Flåm, Bergen and Stavanger, in Norway.
The luxury line also announced a series of appointments to its senior leadership team.
Heike Berdos, formerly hotel director with Azamara, has been appointed general manager of Explora I, while Simone Canessa has been named staff captain for the ship.