MSC's Explora Journeys has unveiled an expanded programme of culinary, wellness and cultural experiences for EXPLORA II during its Winter 2026–2027 "A Serene Mediterranean" season.
Operating exclusively in the Mediterranean between November 2026 and March 2027, the collection has been designed to reflect the quieter pace of the region during the off-season, with a focus on immersive destination experiences, seasonal gastronomy and personal wellbeing.
Explora stated that the programme responds to growing demand for more meaningful and personalised travel experiences by combining regional cuisine, wellness activities and cultural enrichment with the character of each destination. Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, said the new collection had been developed to create deeper connections with the Mediterranean through locally inspired experiences both ashore and on board.
A central feature of the season is the introduction of Shore-to-Table culinary experiences, which begin with guided visits to local markets accompanied by an Explora Journeys chef before continuing onboard with cooking masterclasses in the Chef's Kitchen. In Palermo, guests will explore Mercato del Capo before preparing traditional Sicilian dishes, while in Marseille the programme includes a visit to the Vieux-Port fish market followed by a culinary interpretation of bouillabaisse paired with regional wines. In Barcelona, guests will tour La Boqueria market before taking part in a paella cooking session. Additional culinary experiences will also be available in Bari, Brindisi and Puglia, complemented by Meet the Winemaker excursions showcasing family-owned vineyards and regional wine traditions. During the Mediterranean truffle season from October to November, each onboard dining venue will feature daily dishes highlighting the seasonal ingredient.
The onboard Ocean Wellness programme has also been expanded. Activities will include movement sessions, meditation, breathwork and sound-based therapies inspired by the marine environment. A complimentary 12-day programme entitled A Path to Inner Discovery will be offered on the Barcelona-to-Lisbon voyage departing on February 11th, 2027, incorporating yoga, journaling, mantra practice and pranayama sessions held at sunrise, sunset and under moonlight. The wellness programme will also feature workshops led by specialists in neuroscience, nutrition, holistic wellbeing, astrology and natural movement.
The winter season will further include a cultural enrichment programme featuring guest speakers and performers. Among those participating are Zelda La Grange, who will reflect on her experiences working alongside Nelson Mandela and discuss leadership, reconciliation and human connection; concert pianist Maxim Lando, who will present classical music performances; psychologist and neuroscientist Dr Helena Boschi, who will examine the relationship between the brain, behaviour and resilience; and movement specialist Shane Benzie, who will explore the science of posture, movement and physical wellbeing.
Bookings for all EXPLORA II Winter 2026–2027 Mediterranean voyages are now open.