23-Night Explora Journeys Northern Europe Cruise
An Extended Journey from Northern Spirit to Cultural Riches & Artistic Marvels on New Explora III
Set sail on a montage of nature and culture, leaving Southampton for Norway’s glacier-carved fjords, from Mandal’s southern charm to the dramatic peaks of Flåm via Sandnes, Olden and Bergen. Drift to Copenhagen’s welcome, Tallinn’s medieval beauty, stylish Stockholm, Riga’s ornate avenues and Visby’s historic walls. Rønne’s coastal calm and Aarhus’s creative soul lead us to Lysekil’s rocky peace, Oslo’s serenity and finally, Hamburg’s beats before returning to historic Southampton.
“We fell in love with EXPLORA I's sleek, yacht‑like vibe — infinity pools and hot tubs that seem to spill into the sea, outstanding food, and both indoor and outdoor gyms. Our suite was a serene retreat: spacious, luxurious, with large closets, heated bathroom floors and subtle floor lighting. The cruise is truly all‑inclusive — drinks, dining, gratuities, Wi‑Fi and more — and instead of one formal dining room you can enjoy several onboard restaurants (only one has an extra charge). Evenings were full of live music, great entertainment and thoughtful lectures, and the crew were always nearby, friendly and clearly proud to be there.”
Save up to 20% on Select Extended Journeys.
Ship: EXPLORA III | Cruise Line: Explora Journeys | Sail Date: August 17, 2026 | From/To: Roundtrip Southampton | Length: 23-Nights
Ocean Terrace Suite From
$23,805
Per person including all taxes, fees and port expenses
Ocean Penthouse From
$27,765
Per person including all taxes, fees and port expenses
Ocean Cove Residences From
$36,945
Per person including all taxes, fees and port expenses
Owner's Residence From
$195,525
Per person including all taxes, fees and port expenses
Explora Journeys' Extended Journeys invite you to see the world with greater depth and ease — combining two or more consecutive journeys into one seamless exploration.
Enjoy up to 20% savings compared to booking each journey individually* and allow yourself the luxury of time — to linger longer, discover more, and truly immerse in the rhythm of the ocean and the destinations we explore.
Each of our curated Extended Journeys offers a continuous flow of discovery, with enriching destinations, a deeper sense of connection, and the convenience of remaining in your suite throughout — no need to pack or unpack, simply settle in and savour every moment.
All Journeys Include:
- Nine culinary experiences
- Unlimited fine beverages
- Thermal spa access
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
- Wellbeing and fitness programs
- All on-board gratuities
- Shuttle services from port to city centres
- Bottle of wine and spirit of the guests’ choice upon arrival
- In-suite welcome bottle of champagne and refreshments
- Authentic, cultured and intuitive service
Are you a solo traveler? Ask our travel experts on solo traveler specials!
Southampton, United Kingdom:
Sail into this vibrant quay with enough shops and entertainment to form its own village. Modern and lively, this coastal town bustles with waterfront restaurants, heritage charm, bars, cinemas and offers great access to other spots in the South of England. Sit back and drift through heavenly countryside to ancient Stonehenge, see if the King is at home in Windsor, learn secrets from the Bombay Sapphire gin distillery or slip up to London for some rich British culture. Then enjoy a cup of tea as you reflect on formal traditions, perfect your cockney accent and recall England’s green and pleasant lands.
Mandal, Norway:
The ‘summer city’ of Mandal welcomes us to its sunny beachfront and lovely harbour for an afternoon of history, architecture, and fresh fare from the ocean. Stroll along an 800km stretch of golden Sjøsanden Beach, explore the city's pier, venture into the archipelago, visit museums, or find peace in Norway’s largest wooden church. Established by King Eric of Pomerania as a major salmon trading station, Mandal has morphed into one of the prettiest harbours lined by whitewashed houses. Descend to the Lindesnes lighthouse to find small lakes and coves dotted with isolated islands. Tour the birthplace of Gustav Vigeland, one of Norway's greatest artists, where his quest for spirituality began.
The ‘summer city’ of Mandal welcomes us to its sunny beachfront and lovely harbour for an afternoon of history, architecture, and fresh fare from the ocean. Stroll along an 800km stretch of golden Sjøsanden Beach, explore the city's pier, venture into the archipelago, visit museums, or find peace in Norway’s largest wooden church. Established by King Eric of Pomerania as a major salmon trading station, Mandal has morphed into one of the prettiest harbours lined by whitewashed houses. Descend to the Lindesnes lighthouse to find small lakes and coves dotted with isolated islands. Tour the birthplace of Gustav Vigeland, one of Norway's greatest artists, where his quest for spirituality began.
Stavanger, Norway:
At the edge of the Norwegian fjords, Sandnes offers a gentler rhythm of discovery. From its charming, walkable town centre, wander along Langgata’s boutiques and cafés or to the waterfront promenades lined with tranquil parks. Venture outward to the sweeping beaches of Jæren and the scenic North Sea Road, where lighthouses and dunes meet the wind. Beyond, the gateway to Lysefjord and the legendary Pulpit Rock invites breathtaking vistas and quiet awe — nature’s grandeur, without the crowds.
At the edge of the Norwegian fjords, Sandnes offers a gentler rhythm of discovery. From its charming, walkable town centre, wander along Langgata’s boutiques and cafés or to the waterfront promenades lined with tranquil parks. Venture outward to the sweeping beaches of Jæren and the scenic North Sea Road, where lighthouses and dunes meet the wind. Beyond, the gateway to Lysefjord and the legendary Pulpit Rock invites breathtaking vistas and quiet awe — nature’s grandeur, without the crowds.
Olden, Norway:
Ethereal, exhilarating and nestled 100km within an extremely steep-sided fjord, Olden opens us to the lapis lazuli blue Briksdal Glacier, notable as part of the greater Jostedal Glacier, which is the largest glacier on Europe’s mainland. Hike, boat, then whoosh from fjord to sky in minutes on the Loen Skylift for heavenly views and sips of wine at cliff’s edge. Lean into nature at lovely Lovatnet Lake, where emerald green glacier waters make the perfect backdrop for a picnic, then shop amongst flower-bright houses for home-made cakes and folk art in Olden’s town centre.
Ethereal, exhilarating and nestled 100km within an extremely steep-sided fjord, Olden opens us to the lapis lazuli blue Briksdal Glacier, notable as part of the greater Jostedal Glacier, which is the largest glacier on Europe’s mainland. Hike, boat, then whoosh from fjord to sky in minutes on the Loen Skylift for heavenly views and sips of wine at cliff’s edge. Lean into nature at lovely Lovatnet Lake, where emerald green glacier waters make the perfect backdrop for a picnic, then shop amongst flower-bright houses for home-made cakes and folk art in Olden’s town centre.
Bergen, Norway:
Lovingly known as the ‘heart of the fjords’, this city nestled between seven mountains has plenty to live up to. Burrowed between the mighty Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord fjords – the biggest in Norway – the sensational beauty of Bergen is best appreciated from the top of the funicular, Fløibanen. Flightsee around the peak for a summit advantage to enjoy panoramic views of this city’s beauty. Hike to Fløyen or mountain bike to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Bryggen, before winding down to the sound of calming piano recitals honouring Edvard Grieg Troldhaugen. Raft, crab, kayak or head to a local farm. With lungs full of fresh air and hearts full of love, sink into seafood heaven at the historic fish market to consume mouth-watering Bergen fish soup, fish cakes and customary persetorsk.
Lovingly known as the ‘heart of the fjords’, this city nestled between seven mountains has plenty to live up to. Burrowed between the mighty Hardangerfjord and Sognefjord fjords – the biggest in Norway – the sensational beauty of Bergen is best appreciated from the top of the funicular, Fløibanen. Flightsee around the peak for a summit advantage to enjoy panoramic views of this city’s beauty. Hike to Fløyen or mountain bike to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Bryggen, before winding down to the sound of calming piano recitals honouring Edvard Grieg Troldhaugen. Raft, crab, kayak or head to a local farm. With lungs full of fresh air and hearts full of love, sink into seafood heaven at the historic fish market to consume mouth-watering Bergen fish soup, fish cakes and customary persetorsk.
Flam, Norway:
Nested deep between towering mountains are narrow valleys, a mile-deep fjord and a little village called Flåm. Surrounded by breathtaking beauty, visit the Borgund Stave Church museum or board the astonishing Flåmsbana train, often titled the world's most beautiful rail journey. Climb aboard and witness waterfalls, fjords and farms so remote you wonder how they got there. Fish, cycle or experience a RIB safari through the slender Nærøyfjord - part of the UNESCO world heritage - as you appreciate the surreal landscape. Head into the abyss on the dramatic Stegastein, or - for the less adventurous but no less curious - sip homemade specialties at the local brewery.
Nested deep between towering mountains are narrow valleys, a mile-deep fjord and a little village called Flåm. Surrounded by breathtaking beauty, visit the Borgund Stave Church museum or board the astonishing Flåmsbana train, often titled the world's most beautiful rail journey. Climb aboard and witness waterfalls, fjords and farms so remote you wonder how they got there. Fish, cycle or experience a RIB safari through the slender Nærøyfjord - part of the UNESCO world heritage - as you appreciate the surreal landscape. Head into the abyss on the dramatic Stegastein, or - for the less adventurous but no less curious - sip homemade specialties at the local brewery.
Copenhagen, Denmark:
Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.
Rejoice in one of the happiest and most vibrant capital cities in the world. Relax like a local alongside joyful Danes and varied culture; the Gefion Fountain, the Little Mermaid statue, Old Citadel, the Amalien Palace with four Rococo buildings, medieval history, charming fishing villages, leading examples of sustainable living and - of course - flaky Danish pastries. Cycling is the preferred way to shuttle across town and it’s well worth the pedal to enjoy the trendy, cosy neighbourhood of Norrebro, Christiansborg Palace and the waterfront home of Christian Andersen. Genuine, vibrant and welcoming... rather like the smiles of those that live here.
Tallinn, Estonia:
Romantic and revered, Tallinn boasts one of the best-preserved UNESCO old towns bursting with medieval magic. Hundreds of years of conquests and cross-culture history all fuel its current burgeoning status as one of Europe’s most desirable jewels. Stoll cobbled alleys; squeeze through St. Catherine’s Passage; scout the 13th century Toompea Castle. Hop two wheels to explore the national park and shore then have a Soviet flashback in the posh Kadriorg Palace (built for Catherine I) or below the black domes of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Romantic and revered, Tallinn boasts one of the best-preserved UNESCO old towns bursting with medieval magic. Hundreds of years of conquests and cross-culture history all fuel its current burgeoning status as one of Europe’s most desirable jewels. Stoll cobbled alleys; squeeze through St. Catherine’s Passage; scout the 13th century Toompea Castle. Hop two wheels to explore the national park and shore then have a Soviet flashback in the posh Kadriorg Palace (built for Catherine I) or below the black domes of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Stockholm, Sweden:
Spanning 14 islands linked by more than 50 bridges, Sweden’s capital is often called the Venice of the North. A city where waterways and heritage blend effortlessly, Stockholm invites exploration on foot or by bicycle. Discover the cobbled charm of Gamla Stan, home to the narrow Mårten Trotzigs Gränd and the stately City Hall. Step inside the remarkable Vasa Museum to see the 17th-century warship that lay beneath the sea for over 300 years, or visit Skansen — the world’s first open-air museum — for a glimpse into Swedish traditions. Across the water at Drottningholm Palace, the royal residence, the 18th-century Court Theatre still preserves its original stage machinery. Finally, stroll along the elegant Strandvägen waterfront, lined with grand townhouses and yachts gently swaying in the harbour.
Spanning 14 islands linked by more than 50 bridges, Sweden’s capital is often called the Venice of the North. A city where waterways and heritage blend effortlessly, Stockholm invites exploration on foot or by bicycle. Discover the cobbled charm of Gamla Stan, home to the narrow Mårten Trotzigs Gränd and the stately City Hall. Step inside the remarkable Vasa Museum to see the 17th-century warship that lay beneath the sea for over 300 years, or visit Skansen — the world’s first open-air museum — for a glimpse into Swedish traditions. Across the water at Drottningholm Palace, the royal residence, the 18th-century Court Theatre still preserves its original stage machinery. Finally, stroll along the elegant Strandvägen waterfront, lined with grand townhouses and yachts gently swaying in the harbour.
Riga, Latvia:
Compact yet richly packed with Soviet history and architectural charms, there’s plenty to explore in Riga with its UNESCO-acclaimed medieval old town, where cobbled streets wind up at colourful squares. Gaze at the wonderful eclectic buildings, from gothic and baroque, to innovative art nouveau. Listen to the Latvian National Opera, drink age old liqueur seasoned with 24 herbs, or find plenty of personal space on the 20-mile stretch of fine, sandy beaches. Build up an appetite whilst bartering at Riga’s flavourful Central Market. Then step down into cosy restaurants that serve up hearty Latvian truffle and seafood dishes. Known as the Pearl of Latvia, it’s easy to understand why.
Compact yet richly packed with Soviet history and architectural charms, there’s plenty to explore in Riga with its UNESCO-acclaimed medieval old town, where cobbled streets wind up at colourful squares. Gaze at the wonderful eclectic buildings, from gothic and baroque, to innovative art nouveau. Listen to the Latvian National Opera, drink age old liqueur seasoned with 24 herbs, or find plenty of personal space on the 20-mile stretch of fine, sandy beaches. Build up an appetite whilst bartering at Riga’s flavourful Central Market. Then step down into cosy restaurants that serve up hearty Latvian truffle and seafood dishes. Known as the Pearl of Latvia, it’s easy to understand why.
Visby, Sweden:
Visit Visby on the island of Gotland for authentic Swedish riches. Well-preserved walls protect the city and set the scene for what lies within. You’ll be warmly welcomed with cuisine, culture, nature and Viking archaeology. With a long history and UNESCO World Heritage ruins dating back to the 12th century, this orderly medieval town rejoices in being one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved towns. Roam peaceful streets on foot or by bike to boutiques selling warm woollens for winter and shelves laden with local crafts. Visit the lengthy Lummelunda Cave in a nature reserve, experience the traditional Swedish coffee ritual and taste beer at the local brewery. Soak up the history and atmosphere in well-groomed Visby for a slice of time gone by.
Visit Visby on the island of Gotland for authentic Swedish riches. Well-preserved walls protect the city and set the scene for what lies within. You’ll be warmly welcomed with cuisine, culture, nature and Viking archaeology. With a long history and UNESCO World Heritage ruins dating back to the 12th century, this orderly medieval town rejoices in being one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved towns. Roam peaceful streets on foot or by bike to boutiques selling warm woollens for winter and shelves laden with local crafts. Visit the lengthy Lummelunda Cave in a nature reserve, experience the traditional Swedish coffee ritual and taste beer at the local brewery. Soak up the history and atmosphere in well-groomed Visby for a slice of time gone by.
Rønne, Denmark;
The beautiful harbour town of Rønne is housed on the rocky island of Bornholm, home to narrow streets lined with merchant timber houses and small craft shops proudly displaying creative passion. Gently stroll to the heart of the art scene at Hjorths Fabrik museum and join workshops to create your own ceramic artefacts. In contrast to the bustling harbour, discover the fascinating street food market and cruise across waters in a private yacht. Charming and romantic, use a bike and roll around this pretty town at your own pace.
The beautiful harbour town of Rønne is housed on the rocky island of Bornholm, home to narrow streets lined with merchant timber houses and small craft shops proudly displaying creative passion. Gently stroll to the heart of the art scene at Hjorths Fabrik museum and join workshops to create your own ceramic artefacts. In contrast to the bustling harbour, discover the fascinating street food market and cruise across waters in a private yacht. Charming and romantic, use a bike and roll around this pretty town at your own pace.
Aarhus, Denmark:
A historic Nordic hub that lives like a quaint neighbourhood, Aarhus is Denmark’s second-largest city where old-world charms mingle with vibrant modern marvels. See where art and engineering intersect at ARoS Art Museum, a free space for unequalled creativity that goes beyond traditional thinking. Travel into the past in Den Gamle By (The Old Town) which recreates Denmark’s long history or head to the architecturally dramatic Moesgaard Museum with a mummified bog body man and Iron Age artifacts. Hop a bike and pedal to picture-perfect places including cobbled Møllestien Street, The Dome Skyspace, or cosy Latin Quarter for cool Scan designs. Cap off the day with a stroll up high-street Strøget for rooftop cocktails at fashionable Salling.
A historic Nordic hub that lives like a quaint neighbourhood, Aarhus is Denmark’s second-largest city where old-world charms mingle with vibrant modern marvels. See where art and engineering intersect at ARoS Art Museum, a free space for unequalled creativity that goes beyond traditional thinking. Travel into the past in Den Gamle By (The Old Town) which recreates Denmark’s long history or head to the architecturally dramatic Moesgaard Museum with a mummified bog body man and Iron Age artifacts. Hop a bike and pedal to picture-perfect places including cobbled Møllestien Street, The Dome Skyspace, or cosy Latin Quarter for cool Scan designs. Cap off the day with a stroll up high-street Strøget for rooftop cocktails at fashionable Salling.
Lysekil, Sweden:
Once a quasi-pirate lair, quaint Lysekil awaits nestled amongst a leeward network of inlets and fjords on Sweden’s wild western shore. Today, this fanciful fishing village begets a civilised sanctuary of sustainable culinary, wellness, and natural riches to explore. Set off on an oyster safari, wend through an organic vineyard, take a traditional “fika” break of coffee, tea and biscuits. Plunge into cold waters of Gullmaren then warm up in wood-fired sauna or climb red bohus granite formations at Stångehuvud Nature Reserve. Touch starfish and urchins at Havets Hus Saltwater Aquarium or stroll through its tunnel that teases with views of sharks and octopuses. Find peace beneath the rose window of the hand-honed granite Church or imagine yourself as a well-heeled Swedish socialite frequenting the burnt-orange Curman Villas.
Once a quasi-pirate lair, quaint Lysekil awaits nestled amongst a leeward network of inlets and fjords on Sweden’s wild western shore. Today, this fanciful fishing village begets a civilised sanctuary of sustainable culinary, wellness, and natural riches to explore. Set off on an oyster safari, wend through an organic vineyard, take a traditional “fika” break of coffee, tea and biscuits. Plunge into cold waters of Gullmaren then warm up in wood-fired sauna or climb red bohus granite formations at Stångehuvud Nature Reserve. Touch starfish and urchins at Havets Hus Saltwater Aquarium or stroll through its tunnel that teases with views of sharks and octopuses. Find peace beneath the rose window of the hand-honed granite Church or imagine yourself as a well-heeled Swedish socialite frequenting the burnt-orange Curman Villas.
Oslo, Norway:
Not many cities are greener – in habitat or sustainability - than Oslo. With over half Norway’s capital city being covered by forests and parks, it’s only natural that the fjord creeps into the city centre. Nature aside, there’s so much more to explore; music, museums, opera, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Learn about the works of Edvard Munch and the importance of climate change or attend a private aquavit tasting and the Royal Palace. Embark on an aquatic safari, boat jaunt or bike tour. Then consider concluding your day with a classic finish – plunge fjord deep in for some stimulating cold-water therapy. They say these organic city waters are as clean as they are unique.
Not many cities are greener – in habitat or sustainability - than Oslo. With over half Norway’s capital city being covered by forests and parks, it’s only natural that the fjord creeps into the city centre. Nature aside, there’s so much more to explore; music, museums, opera, the Vigeland Sculpture Park and one of the world’s most beautiful libraries. Learn about the works of Edvard Munch and the importance of climate change or attend a private aquavit tasting and the Royal Palace. Embark on an aquatic safari, boat jaunt or bike tour. Then consider concluding your day with a classic finish – plunge fjord deep in for some stimulating cold-water therapy. They say these organic city waters are as clean as they are unique.
Hamburg, Germany:
Known as the gateway to the world and bearing the most bridges, immerse yourself with Hamburgers to the sound of canals and cuisine, architecture and music. Prepare to be submerged in culture; from affluent villas to modest Almshouses, the last castle, an inner-city lake, a floating landing platform, the neo-Renaissance Town hall, an industrial underground tunnel and baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas Church. Wander to the solid brick warehouse district of UNESCO Hafen City; touch the shining wave of glass of the futuristic Elbphilharmonie, listen to crystal clear acoustics that pair with Sydney’s Opera House and enjoy views of the River Elbe. Hamburg offers unique, memorable entertainment - for all your senses.
Known as the gateway to the world and bearing the most bridges, immerse yourself with Hamburgers to the sound of canals and cuisine, architecture and music. Prepare to be submerged in culture; from affluent villas to modest Almshouses, the last castle, an inner-city lake, a floating landing platform, the neo-Renaissance Town hall, an industrial underground tunnel and baroque masterpiece, St Nicholas Church. Wander to the solid brick warehouse district of UNESCO Hafen City; touch the shining wave of glass of the futuristic Elbphilharmonie, listen to crystal clear acoustics that pair with Sydney’s Opera House and enjoy views of the River Elbe. Hamburg offers unique, memorable entertainment - for all your senses.
23 Nights | Northern Europe | Explora Journeys: Explora III
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Day 1:SouthamptonDepart 06:00 PM
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Day 2:At Sea
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Day 3:Mandal08:00 AM To 06:00 PM
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Day 4:Sandnes08:00 AM To 03:00 PM
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Day 5:Olden09:00 AM To 06:00 PM
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Day 6:Bergen09:00 AM To 07:00 PM
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Day 7:Flam09:00 AM To 06:00 PM
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Day 8:At Sea
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Day 9:Copenhagen08:00 AM To 05:00 PM
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Day 10:At Sea
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Day 11:Tallinn09:00 AM To 04:00 PM
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Day 12:StockholmArrive 09:00 AM
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Day 13:StockholmDepart 01:00 PM
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Day 14:Riga09:00 AM To 06:00 PM
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Day 15:Visby (Gotland)08:00 AM To 06:00 PM
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Day 16:Ronne09:00 AM To 08:00 PM
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Day 17:Copenhagen08:00 AM To 08:00 PM
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Day 18:Aarhus08:00 AM To 06:00 PM
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Day 19:Lysekil(Gotaland)08:00 AM To 08:00 PM
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Day 20:Oslo08:00 AM To 11:55 PM
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Day 21:At Sea
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Day 22:Hamburg08:00 AM To 08:00 PM
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Day 23:At Sea
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Day 24:SouthamptonArrive 07:00 AM
EXPLORA III - Setting sail in Summer 2026
A sanctuary of unparalleled comfort and space, EXPLORA III embodies effortless elegance, evoking the feeling of being aboard a private yacht.
463 Ocean-Front Suites | 5 Heated Pools | 7 Restaurants | 12 Bars & Lounges | 1.25 : 1 Guests per host ratio
*Prices are in USD, per person based on double occupancy, availability and subject to change without notice. All cruise taxes, fees and port expenses are included in the pricing. All promotions are capacity controlled by Explora Journeys and can be eliminated at any time without notice. Shipboard credit of 300 will be in either dollars or Euro depending on the ship’s itinerary. Other restrictions may apply. Ships’ registry: Malta
