Explora I: Destination Experiences in Northern Europe
Luxury travel and lifestyle brand Explora Journeys has announced details of its first series of destination experiences for EXPLORA I, the first of six luxury ships to join its fleet.
The extraordinary Northern European experiences will feature a mix of well-known destinations, which will be explored from unusual perspectives such as Copenhagen or Edinburgh, and lesser known and rarely visited ports such as Leknes in the Lofoten Islands or Ísafjörður in Iceland.
The experiences, designed for small groups of two to 25 guests, will offer exclusive encounters off the classic tourist track that will allow you to fully immerse yourself in each destination.
Explora I Fjords
Sacha Rougier, Head of Itinerary Planning and Destination Experiences at Explora Journeys commented, “To create our experiences, we began by understanding the true essence of each destination, then identifying new ways to offer our guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoy authentic food and discover hidden treasure. Under the sponsorship of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), we partner with Travelife for Tour Operators, the leading international tourism sustainability training, management and certification program.”
Among the various experiences offered, guests in Norway will be able to discover some of the most evocative coasts in Europe, landing in Leknes, in the Lofoten Islands, with adventures focused on nature; in Geiranger, a Nordic walking excursion will offer an adrenaline-pumping sporting adventure with breathtaking views. Other experiences include a trip on a Viking ship to discover an 18th-century fishing village, a gourmet dinner of dishes paired with the best Norwegian spirits in Trondheim, and an excursion on the iconic Flåm railway line.
Geiranger Fjord Norway
In Denmark it will be possible to discover Copenhagen in a different way with a guided kayak tour, in Skagen you will be able to admire the extraordinary shifting dunes of Grenen, while in the Faroe Islands there will be outdoor yoga sessions and an extraordinary excursion to the lake suspended over the sea of Leitisvatn.
In Iceland in Reykjavik , guests will experience unique adventures, flying over volcanic craters in helicopter or swimming in the famous blue lagoon, while in Ísafjörður they can spot whales. It will also be possible to visit the remote Grimsey island , admire the Waterfall of the Gods or get to know Icelandic horses.
Kayaking on Calm Waters in Isafjorour Iceland
In Sweden, it will be possible to reconnect with an ancient nature reserve in the green Swedish countryside, complete with lunch in the woods, during an excursion with meditation session in Gothenburg. On the windy Hamneskar island, it will be possible to spend a day dedicated to wellness and the best Swedish food.
In the Netherlands you will discover the charm of Rotterdam with a unique excursion on a tram with live music. For art lovers, a private after-hours visit to the Mauritshuis in Rotterdam is planned, with dinner in the splendid Golden Room followed by live classical music.
In the UK, a number of great experiences include VIP access to the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo; a private visit to one of Scotland’s leading whisky distilleries; a cookery masterclass in Lerwick, in the Shetland Islands and finally a private visit to Liverpool’s Strawberry Field, John Lennon’s childhood playground.
Pelorus Scottish Highlands
In Greenland, it will be possible to experience exciting adventures from the port of Qaqortoq, such as helicopter excursion with a glacier landing or a visit to the Uunartoq hot springs with immersion in its boiling waters. In Nuuk, you will be able to interact with the locals by participating in one of the traditional Kaffemik meetings. Finally, golf enthusiasts will enjoy a round on the Arctic’s only grass golf course.
The Northern European Destination Experiences on Explora I board, which will be christened on July 8th , 2023 in Civitavecchia, can already be booked as part of the inaugural trip with departures from July 17th , 2023 with the possibility of enriching the trip with stays in luxury hotels before and after the cruise.
Don’t miss further updates, news and reviews of Explora Journeys on Cruising Journal with photos, videos and offered cruises.
