A Journey from Shimmering Skylines to the Gulf's Hidden Gems

7 nights - 25 Jan 2027

Explora II | Dubai & Emirates

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View prices as:

PER PERSON TOTAL PRICE

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CRUISE ONLY

FLY CRUISE

Select Cabins

Ocean Terrace Suite OT1

From £3230PP

Ocean Grand Terrace Suite

From £3740PP

Deluxe Penthouse

From £4630PP

Cove Residence

From £6160PP

Select Cabins

Ocean Terrace Suite OT1

~~WAS £4909pp~~ From £4339PP

Ocean Grand Terrace Suite

~~WAS £5509pp~~ From £4849PP

Deluxe Penthouse

~~WAS £6559pp~~ From £5739PP

Cove Residence

~~WAS £8359pp~~ From £7269PP

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Explora Journeys under ATOL number 12363

Please click here to check the essential travel requirements before booking this cruise.

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Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

Included with Cruise & Fly -

Flights
Private overseas transfers
One-night pre-cruise 5* hotel stay in Dubai

Itinerary

List Timeline

Dubai

Day 1

25 January 2027

Dubai

More Info

Day 2

26 January 2027

Dubai

More Info

Day 3

27 January 2027

Abu Dhabi

More Info

Day 4

28 January 2027

Bahrain

More Info

Day 5

29 January 2027

Doha

More Info

Day 6

30 January 2027

Ad Dammam

More Info

Day 7

31 January 2027

At Sea

More Info

Day 8

01 February 2027

Dubai

More Info

Dubai

Abu Dhabi

Just a few decades ago, Abu Dhabi, the island capital of the United Arab Emirates, was a small fishing village with houses made of mud-brick and palm fronds. Today, as a result of revenue from oil, Abu Dhabi is one of the world's richest cities, with wide, tree-lined okulevards, lush green... Read More

Doha

Dubai

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

25 January 2027

Dubai

Dubai sits on a golden sandy coastline in the Arabian Gulf, where the warm azure waves of the sea meet the desert. A high-rise oasis, this city is a pleasure-dome surrounded by dunes; one of the most fashionable on the planet thanks to its ability to satisfy the needs of legions of demanding vacationers. Dubai is about having fun—and it's one big adult playground.Nature plays her part here, with year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, dramatic arid landscapes, and warm waters, but it's the man-made attractions that make Dubai so alluring. You can launch yourself into high-adrenaline desert adventures, diving and water sports, and some of the world's best golf courses. The 5-, 6-, and 7-star hotels offer the ultimate in luxury, and the party scene is hot. Shopping malls are the biggest in the world and are packed full of high-class merchandise. And with hundreds of restaurants with cuisine from around the world, you can munch your way from Mexico to Malaysia.Dubai is an Arab country with a long history as a trading port. Traces of its traditional life, customs, and architecture can still be seen and explored, but today and tomorrow are much more important than yesterday. Almost every building in this metropolis is less than 20 years old and the most dramatic developments—groundbreaking megaprojects—have just been completed or are still under construction.The city is certainly unique. Islam is its anchor, but it has opened its doors to the rest of the world and has invited them in to work, rest, and play, which creates a truly international atmosphere. Unashamedly modern and materialistic, life here takes place at breakneck speed. The landscape is stark, the confidence is sky high, the can-do spirit is palpable, and the bling is in your face. Dubai produces strong reactions in people, but one thing is certain—love it or loathe it—you will not forget it. It is without a doubt, one of the world's true must-see destinations.Shisha: Smoke Without Fire. Emirati men love socializing, but as they don't drink alcohol they get together over coffee and shisha instead of a drink at the bar after work. The shisha, or hookah, is a smoking device, usually made of glass, that filters smoke through water before it reaches the smoker's mouth. Shisha tobaccos are aromatic and are often mixed with apple, cinnamon, or cherry, so their taste isn't as strong as other tobaccos. Smoking shisha is said to induce relaxation—but you'll have to decide if it's for you!

26 January 2027

Dubai

27 January 2027

Abu Dhabi

28 January 2027

Bahrain

29 January 2027

Doha

Doha (population 700,000) is the capital of the State of Qatar, an emirate occupying the small Qatar Peninsula bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and otherwise surrounded by the Persian Gulf. Qatar was ruled by many different powers through the centuries, in fact historians have traced human habitation dating back 5000 years. From its earliest history, Qatar was a very important trade route connecting Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. Among its occupiers were the Portuguese, the Ottomans and finally the British during the turbulent years of the 20th century. Qatar gained independence in 1971, and with resources from oil exportation, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Hamad made improvements in social programmes including education, health and housing. In 1995, his son, His Highness Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani assumed the throne and brought with him a modern and progressive approach that quickly transformed the country. Doha, home to 80 percent of the country’s population, was founded under the name of Al-Bida in 1850. It became the capital of the British protectorate of Qatar in 1916. When the nation gained its independence, Doha remained the capital. During the early 20th century, much of Qatar’s economy depended on fishing and pearling. But after the introduction of Japanese cultured pearls, Doha and the whole region suffered a decline. Only when oil was discovered, prosperity returned following World War II. Today, the country produces over 800,000 barrels of oil daily. Doha is situated halfway down the east coast of the peninsula. It is an intriguing mixture of old and new, with ultra modern architecture next to traditional souqs and historic forts. It boasts a university and the Qatar National Museum (currently closed for renovation), which opened 1975 in what was originally the ruler’s palace. As the country’s cultural and commercial centre, Doha enjoys excellent communications with the outside world through its modern seaport, airport and telephone links. The Al Jazeera Arabic satellite television news channel began broadcasting in 1996 with its headquarters in Doha. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken. Please Note: Conservative dress is required when going ashore. As a rule, women should not wear miniskirts, shorts or sleeveless tops and men should always wear a shirt in public. Please do not photograph people without their permission, especially women.You may not take pictures of government buildings, embassies or anything military in nature, including airports.

30 January 2027

Ad Dammam

31 January 2027

At Sea

Explore Ship

01 February 2027

Dubai

What's Included with
Explora Journeys

Explore Explora II

Gelateria & Creperie at The Conservatory

Anthology

A Gastronomic Discovery

Taking guests on a unique culinary journey through Italy.

Refined Italian Cuisine

As our signature fine-dining experience, Anthology elevates Italian cuisine, offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure.

From the renowned flavours of Piedmont’s truffle-rich countryside in the North, to the famed specialities of Italy’s South, each plate celebrates the local produce and time-honoured techniques of every region in Italy.

The menu is an ingenious display of creativity – a vibrant tapestry of regional flavours and authentic ingredients which invites guests to immerse themselves in the different styles and tastes of Italy’s universally loved cuisine.

Contemporary, Refined Elegance

With the opportunity to dine outdoors, Anthology offers an intimate yet elevated dining atmosphere with flawless, attentive service.

Indoor seating: 48
Outdoor seating: 22
Open for dinner
Reservations recommended
An Exclusive Experience Fee Applies
Located on Deck 5

Enchanting Explorations

The Enchanting Explorations are the definition of distinction for bespoke groups seeking peerless experiences.

Meticulously designed to usher in next-level exclusivity for small, agile groups seeking peerless experiences, and to witness moments that are off limits to most. You may find yourself in a silent Sistine Chapel after it closes to the public. Perhaps you will sail along the coastline of enchanting Mykonos on a relaxing and captivating catamaran cruise of the south coast, home to some of the island’s best beaches. Or indulge in top-line dinner reservations to a restaurant with a 2-year wait list.

Journeys Lounge

Mixology, enrichment and entertainment continuously evolving throughout the day.

The most spacious onboard lounge features mixology specialists, enrichment activities and cabaret-style entertainment daily. This venue is designed to continuously evolve and transform throughout the day along with the ocean journey.

Indoor seating: 210
Located on Deck 4

Ocean Wellness The Spa

A calming space designed to reconnect guests to themselves – influenced at every level by the calming presence of the ocean.

The spa is where the pressures of daily life dissipate to insignificance amidst a sensory journey to the Ocean State of Mind.

Features & Services

Spa
Wellness area with thermal facilities
Signature Ocean Wellness rituals
Facial treatments
Body treatments
Specialised Medi Luxe Treatments by Dr Levy Switzerland
Ashore wellness Destination Experiences
In-suite treatments

*Spa treatments, including massages and facials, require a minimum age of 12 years, with parental supervision. Access to our Wellness area and thermal facilities is reserved for guests aged 16 years and above.

Eleven Dedicated Treatment Rooms

Two Private Spa Suites with a dedicated outdoor relaxation area
One Double treatment room
Seven single treatment rooms
One single treatment room for specialised skin treatments
Outdoor relaxation area

*Spa treatments cannot be booked until 90 days prior to embarkation.

The Spa Facilities:

Steam Room - A regenerating oasis of psycho-physical wellbeing. Air, steam, and scented fragrances combine and gently rest on the skin, making natural exfoliation easier and increasing perspiration.
Experience Shower - A multi-sensory journey, the warm shower is complete with fragrances and soft colour lights, offering moments of utmost pleasure – either at the beginning or at the end of the day.
Hydrotherapy Pool - This warm therapeutic pool is designed to promote healing, relaxation and physical rehabilitation. Heated to a soothing temperature, gentle currents and jets work to ease muscle tension, improve circulation, and support joint mobility.
Finnish Sauna - A deeply purifying experience using dry heat, to help you unwind and reduce stress levels while also opening the airways, relaxing the muscles, and oxygenating tissues.
Salt Cave - In an inviting cavern with walls covered in Himalayan salt bricks, the air is infused with microscopic salt particles and negative ions. As you inhale the mineral-rich air, respiratory health is enhanced and a sense of overall relaxation ensues.
Steam Shower - A shower that combines the relaxing heat of the steam and the regenerating freshness of water. (* Available within private Spa suites)
Ice Fall - The Ice Fall regenerates the body after intense heat exposure in the Finnish Sauna or Steam Room.
Heated Marble Loungers - A restful place to relax, equipped with an infrared system that radiates the heat to ease muscle stiffness and create on overall feeling of comfort and warmth.
Outdoor Relaxation Area - A tranquil open-air relaxation deck with infinite ocean views, perfect for reflection before or after a treatment.

Deck 14

Sports Court
Whirlpool
Panorama Lounge
Sky Bar On 14

Deck 12

Helios Pool & Lounge (Adults Only)
Running Track
Whirlpools
Lift

Deck 11

Explora Lounge
Private Dining Room
Malt Whiskey Bar
Chef's Kitchen
Children & Teens Area
The Conservatory Pool & Bar
Indoor Whirlpool
Gelateria & Creperie
Emporium Marketplace Restaurant
Emporium Marketplace Restaurant Outdoor Seating
Lift

Deck 10

Ocean Wellness Fitness Centre
Atoll Pool & Bar
Upper Aft Pool & Lounge
Grand Penthouse
Deluxe Penthouse
Cove Residence
Premier Penthouse
Ocean Terrace Suite
Lift

Deck 9

Retreat Residence
Ocean Terrace Suite
Cove Residence
Grand Penthouse
Premier Penthouse
Deluxe Penthouse
Penthouse
Serenity Residence
Lift

Deck 8

Owner's Residence
Retreat Residence
Ocean Terrace Suite
Penthouse
Premier Penthouse
Grand Penthouse
Cove Residence
Lift

Deck 7

Retreat Residence
Ocean Grand Terrace Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite
Grand Penthouse
Cove Residence
Deluxe Penthouse
Penthouse
Serenity Residence
Lift

Deck 6

Cocoon Residence
Penthouse
Deluxe Penthouse
Ocean Grand Terrace Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite
Grand Penthouse
Cove Residence
Lift

Deck 5

Ocean Wellness The Spa
Future Journeys Ambassadors
Anthology Restaurant
Crema Café
Marble & Co. Grill Restaurant
Galleria D'Arte
MSC Foundation
Astern Lounge
Sakura Restaurant
Astern Pool & Bar
Lift

Deck 4

Journeys Lounge
The Casino
Guest Services
Destination Experiences
Shops
Lobby & Lobby Bar
Med Yacht Club Restaurant
Fil Rouge Restaurant
Lift

Deck 3

Medical Centre
Marina Lounge
Marina Deck

Explora II Cabins & Suites

Suite

Owner's Residence

The iconic Owner’s Residence creates the largest living space on-board, with multiple harmonious indoor and outdoor spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind, including dedicated private butler services by the Residence Manager.

Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your expansive private terrace – extending over the full ship's aft width – with a spacious infinity whirlpool and elegant outdoor dining and lounging areas exquisitely designed by Manutti.

Every aspect of the ambiance of the Owner’s Residence reflects the meticulous curation of all details, conscious at all times of our commitment to sustainability; curated and handpicked decorative elements, sofas and chairs are by Knoll and Molteni & C, and sophisticated lighting solutions designed by Astep.

The Owner's Residence features an expansive stylishly decorated living area, a comfortable dining area for eight guests, a separate spacious bedroom with sea views, including a comfortable working space, an en-suite luxurious marble bathroom sculpted of precious Calacatta marble, with a bathtub a separate shower, a private steam room, and a walk-in wardrobe. The suite also features an additional guest powder room.

Features

Dedicated private butler services by the Residence Manager
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea
Separate living, dining and sleeping areas
Abundant lounge area
Dining table for 8 guests
Spacious work desk area
In-suite welcome bottle of Dom Pérignon
Private bar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences
Espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Complimentary personal refillable water bottle for each guest
Pair of binoculars for guests’ use during their journey
Technogym Bench and Technogym Case Kit for an efficient in-suite fitness experience
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
Butler pantry area

Bedroom

Bespoke king-sized bed sleep system - size: 200 x 200 cm (79 x 79 in)
Down duvets and pillows
Fine bed linens
Extensive pillow selection
Oversized dressing room

Outdoors

Panoramic ocean-front terrace covering the full ship’s width, with a private spacious whirlpool, day beds, a dining table, a scenic lounge area, shower

Bathroom

Luxurious marble double vanity bathroom
Spacious bathtub and separate shower room
Private steam room
Plush bathrobes and bath linens
Mandala Blue custom bath toiletries and amenities for Explora Journeys
Dyson SupersonicTM hairdryer and illuminated make-up/shaving mirror

Additional guest powder room

*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.

The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.

FLOORPLANS

Facilities

Double or Twin Configuration
King or Twin Configuration
Second Bedroom
Lounge Area
Dining Area
Vanity Area
Shower
Bath
Whirlpool Bath
Toiletries Provided
Suite Benefits
TV
Safe
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Desk
Sofa Bed
Room Service Available
Free Mini Bar
Butler Service
Free Wi-Fi
Coffee Machine
Pillow Menu Available