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A Journey Through Mythical Isles & Captivating Shores

Ship: Explora II   
Departure: Monday, October 4, 2027
Nights: 7 nights
Departs: Athens
Returns: Istanbul
+ Solo Offer
One Way Trip
One
way trip
Duration
7
Nights
Days at Sea
1
Sea Days
Ports
7
Ports
Countries Visted
2
Countries
  • Itinerary

    A Journey Through Mythical Isles & Captivating Shores

    Ports of call

    To find out more about the itinerary for this cruise, select the itinerary items below.

    Day Date Port of Call Arrival Departure
    1 Monday, October 4, 2027 Athens, Greece Embark 8:00 PM
    View of Athens, Greece

    Athens, the capital and largest city of Greece, is also one of the world's oldest cities with an unparalleled history that spans around 3,400 years. Experiencing long periods of sunshine throughout the year, and known as "the cradle of Western civilisation", it is a 'must-see' destination for world travellers. The city contains a fascinating variety of different architectural styles, ranging from Greco-Roman through Neo-Classical, to Modern. Read more about Athens, Greece

    2 Tuesday, October 5, 2027 Nafplion, Greece 9:00 AM 8:00 PM
    View of Nafplion, Greece

    Nafplion (with a variety of spellings), the first capital of Greece, is situated on the Peloponnese Peninsula just a two and a half hour drive from Athens. Its picturesque harbour, with two mountains crowned by medieval fortresses overlooking the town. The small island fortress called the Bourtzi that once protected the harbour presents a scene that will ever be remembered. Read more about Nafplion, Greece

    3 Wednesday, October 6, 2027 Paros, Greece 9:00 AM 9:00 PM
    View of Paros, Greece

    Paros is an island of Greece, part of the Cyclades island group, in the central Aegean Sea. Historically it was known for its fine white marble; today it is considered as the 'island for every man', as almost every ferry stops here, and according to the locals once people stop here some simply do not want to leave. Visitors enjoy the many delightful beaches that offer a range of water-based activities including kayaking, windsurfing and sailing. Read more about Paros, Greece

    4 Thursday, October 7, 2027 Skiathos, Greece 9:00 AM 6:00 PM
    View of Skiathos, Greece

    Skiathos is a small island (population 6,000) off the eastern coast of Greece, in the Aegean Sea. It is a popular tourist destination with more than 60 sandy beaches along the coastline. The hilly interior, rising to 433 m, is covered with pine trees. Read more about Skiathos, Greece

    5 Friday, October 8, 2027 Volos, Greece 7:00 AM 7:00 PM
    View of Volos, Greece

    Volos is a coastal port city situated about midway on the Greek mainland, 326 km north of Athens. This picturesque town earned its place in history as the birthplace of Achilles and the port from which Jason set out to find the Golden Fleece. It has a remarkably large proportion of modern buildings, built after the devastating earthquake of 1955. Read more about Volos, Greece

    6 Saturday, October 9, 2027 Kusadasi, Turkey 9:00 AM 9:00 PM
    View of Kusadasi, Turkey

    Kusadasi is a resort town on Turkey's Aegean coast and the centre of the seaside district of the same name. While best known as a starting point for visiting Ephesus, once one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a history dating from 3000 BC, there’s also a delightful range of activities in town. Places of interest include: the City Walls, of which one gate remains to-day; the peninsula at the end of the bay with its castle and swimming beaches; several aqua parks with wave-pools and white-water slides; Ladies Beach, once segregated but now open to all; and Dilek Peninsula National Park. Read more about Kusadasi, Turkey

    7 Sunday, October 10, 2027 At Sea
    8 Monday, October 11, 2027 Istanbul, Turkey 8:00 AM Disembark
    View of Istanbul, Turkey

    Istanbul (Byzantium from 660 BC, Constantinople from 330 CE, and Istanbul since 1930) is the largest city in Turkey and the fifth largest city proper in the world. It has dominated the Straits of Bosphorus, in the NW of the country, for 25 centuries, and as Constantinople was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire. It was a metropolis of stunning splendour when the great capitals of Europe were mere villages and is the only metropolis in the world that is situated on two continents. Read more about Istanbul, Turkey

  • Ship

    Explora II Overview

    Explora II

    Dive into the vibrant heartbeat of urban life melded with the luxurious touch of European sophistication aboard Explora II. Embark on a gastronomic voyage with five-star dining experiences, find peace with ocean wellness programmes, and revel in the ultimate comfort of beautifully appointed suites, all while being mesmerised by the breathtaking ocean views. As an esteemed part of the MSC Group, Explora Journeys leads the charge towards a greener future. Explora II champions this mission with its advanced hybrid energy technologies, thorough waste management practices, and eco-friendly initiatives. Explora's unwavering dedication to the planet ensures the absence of single-use plastics, both onboard and on land, solidifying their commitment to sustainability. 

  • Cabins

    Explora II Cabins

    Owner's Residences

    Owner's Residences

    Owner's Residences on the Explora II Owner's Residences on the Explora II

    Cabin Types

    OR

    Size: 1,668 sq. ft. with 1,345 sq. ft. of terrace area, Deck 8: Aft. The iconic Ownerrsquo;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.bull; Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea Separate living, dining and sleeping areasbull; Abundant lounge area with fireplacebull; Dining table for 8 guestsbull; Spacious work desk area Private bar, replenished according to the guestsrsquo; preferencesbull; Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teasbull; Laptop-size safebull; Guest lavatory and powder roombull; Butler pantry area

    Residences

    Residences

    Residences on the Explora II Residences on the Explora II

    Cabin Types

    CR, SR, RR, CO

    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 terracersquo;s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of the dedicated butler service.bull; Oversized windows with views of the seabull; Separate living, dining and sleeping areasbull; Abundant lounge areabull; Dining table for 6 guestsbull; Spacious work desk areabull; Private bar, replenished according to the guestsrsquo; preferencesbull; Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teasbull; Laptop-size safe

    Penthouse

    Penthouse

    Penthouse on the Explora II Penthouse on the Explora II

    Cabin Types

    GP, PP, DP, PH

    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.bull; Spacious lounge areabull; Spacious work desk areabull; Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guestsrsquo; preferencesbull; Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teasbull; Safe accommodating most tablets and laptopsbull; Spacious oceanfront terrace with a dining area, Comfortable daybeds or sun loungers for relaxation

    Ocean Terrace

    Ocean Terrace

    Ocean Terrace on the Explora II Ocean Terrace on the Explora II

    Cabin Types

    GT, OT4, OT3, OT2, OT1

    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.bull; Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows helping you feel closer to the sea, Lounge area with flexible coffee/dining tablebull; Private refrigerated mini-bar, replenished according to the guestsrsquo; preferencesbull; Espresso machine and tea maker with a complimentary selection of coffee and teasbull; Safe accommodating most tablets and laptopsbull; Comfortable sunbeds for relaxation

  • Deck Plans

    Explora II Deck Plans

    Legend

  • Other Dates

  • Promotions

    Current Cruise Deals for Explora II

    Explora Journey Luxury Inclusions

    Explora Journey Luxury Inclusions

    Take advantage of Explora Journeys extraordinary benefits:
    • Welcome bottle of champagne and sweet treats
    • A bottle of wine and a bottle of spirit of your choice upon arrival
    • 9 Culinary Experiences, including in-suite dining
    • Thermal Spa Access and well-being and fitness programmes
    • Unlimited fine wines, premium spirits, coffees, teas and soft drink available anytime - inc. in-suite mini-bar
    • All on board gratuities & high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi
    • Shuttle services from the port to city center (where required/available)

    Ask your Clean Cruising consultant about flights and accommodation in conjunction with your cruise!

    Terms & Conditions apply.

    Explora Journeys Solo Offers

    Explora Journeys Solo Offers

    Experience a journey of one with Explora Journeys with reduced solo supplements available*
    Plus your Explora Journey's voyage will include:
    • Welcome bottle of champagne and sweet treats
    • A bottle of wine and a bottle of spirit of your choice upon arrival
    • 9 Culinary Experiences, including in-suite dining
    • Thermal Spa Access and well-being and fitness programmes
    • Unlimited fine wines, premium spirits, coffees, teas and soft drink available anytime - inc. in-suite mini-bar
    • All on board gratuities & high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi
    • Shuttle services from the port to city center (where required/available)
    Prices displayed a twin share, speak to your Clean Cruising consultant to confirm solo pricing.

    Offer ends 31 October 2025. Terms & Conditions apply.

    Explora Journey's Early Booking Benefit

    Explora Journey's Early Booking Benefit

    Book a select 2027 Journey and receive:
    • Bonus 5% savings on journey fares

    PLUS, enjoy Explora Journeys extraordinary benefits on all departures:
    • Welcome bottle of champagne, wine and spirit of your choice and sweet treats
    • 9 Culinary Experiences, including in-suite dining
    • Thermal Spa Access and holistic well-being and fitness programmes
    • Unlimited premium beverages, coffees, teas and soft drink available anytime
    • All on board gratuities & high-speed complimentary Wi-Fi and more!

    Offer ends 31 October 2025. Terms & Conditions apply.

    Explora Journeys An Invitation to Discover Offer

    Explora Journeys An Invitation to Discover Offer

    Book a select Explora Journeys sailing and receive:
    • Up to US$1,000 Journey Experience Credit per suite for US & Caribbean sailings*
    • Up to EUR1,000 Journey Experience Credit per suite for all other destinations*

    PLUS, always included with Explora Journeys:
    • Wi-Fi internet access
    • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
    • Gratuities and port charges

    Offer ends 31 October 2025. Terms & Conditions apply.

Cabin Availability

Hold a cabin or view live cabin availability aboard Explora II for this sailing

Ocean Terrace at the Explora II

Ocean Terrace

From $6950
Penthouse at the Explora II

Penthouse

From $10070
Residences at the Explora II

Residences

From $13870
Owner's Residences at the Explora II

Owner's Residences

From $62430

Why us?

  • Large team of cruise experts
  • Highly personalised service
  • Australian owned
  • 20 years in business
  • Family owned & operated
  • Multi-award winning
  • Highest rated booking service in Australia
  • Full service agency
Benice Parkinson's profile

Speak to our team about your travel plans or book over the phone today!
1800 121 187

  • A Journey Through Mythical Isles & Captivating Shores

    Cruiseline: Explora Journeys Ship: Explora II Departure: Monday, October 4, 2027 Nights: 7 nights Departs: Athens Returns: Istanbul

    Your enquiry will be sent to one of our cruise experts.

    They'll be in touch shortly to assist further with your cruise enquiry

  • Select and Hold Cabin

    Continue through to hold a cabin:

    • View live cabin availability for this sailing
    • View interactive deck plans
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    • Hold a cabin for FREE instantly with no obligations
    • Or call 1800 121 187 to speak to a consultant now

    Once held, a cruise expert will be in touch to confirm your booking

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