Explora Journeys unveils winter Mediterranean collection
Explora Journeys has a new collection for the winter 2026 to 2027 season titled A Mediterranean Winter aboard EXPLORA II.
Running from November 2026 through March 2027, the programme features 46 destinations across 10 countries including Spain, Morocco, Portugal, France, Italy, Malta, Greece and Gibraltar. The season marks the brand’s first-ever call to Algeria as part of a list of five maiden ports that also includes Ceuta, San Sebastián de La Gomera, Fuerteventura and Palamós.
The schedule focuses on immersive experiences and extended stays, featuring four overnight stays in Casablanca, Lisbon, Madeira and Málaga. Signature highlights include a private Christmas concert in St. Michael’s Cave in Gibraltar, an after-hours opening of the Alhambra in Málaga, a bespoke overnight journey from Casablanca to Marrakech and a private cultural event in Funchal.
“The Mediterranean in winter is a collection of subtle contrasts and understated elegance, and we are delighted to dedicate EXPLORA II to the region this season, revealing its more contemplative side,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys.
“Beyond the pace of peak travel, coastal towns become havens of calm, where culture is experienced on a more human scale. We invite our guests to linger in quiet piazzas, engage more deeply with living heritage and experience the long shadows and golden light that define the season – a natural expression of our Ocean State of Mind.”
On board, EXPLORA II will offer residential oceanfront suites, Ocean Wellness rituals and culinary experiences shaped by regional wines and seasonal ingredients. Featured itineraries include a journey from Barcelona to Lisbon departing December 9, 2026 and a New Year celebration voyage from Barcelona to Rome.
Redesign for Oceania Marina
Oceania Cruises is transforming Oceania Marina, scheduled to enter dry dock in October 2026. This stem-to-stern enhancement is part of the OceaniaNEXT programme and will see every stateroom redesigned with new layouts, furniture and marble bathrooms featuring rainforest showers.
Public spaces including lounges and bars will be updated with new lighting, carpeting and furnishings. A new Founders Bar will be introduced to the enlarged Grand Lounge, serving artisanal cocktails such as small-batch gin creations and barrel-aged negronis.
Additionally, a new Chef’s Studio will replace the Artist Loft to offer expanded culinary demonstrations and tasting experiences. The ship’s coffee house, Baristas, will be enhanced with the addition of a new bakery serving fresh French and Italian pastries.
Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer of Oceania Cruises, said: “With OceaniaNEXT, we are reaffirming our commitment to modern luxury by ensuring every ship in our fleet reflects the refined style, attention to detail and thoughtful innovation that define our brand. This is how we continue to bring to life The Joy of Travelling Well.”
Speciality restaurants including Polo Grill, Red Ginger, Toscana and Jacques will receive refreshed designs and galley improvements. On the exterior, the pool deck will be updated with new day beds and sun loungers.
Fred. Holidays announces second Mekong charter for 2027
Following the success of its inaugural charter, Fred. Holidays has confirmed a second fully-escorted Mekong journey departing January 23, 2027.
The 14-night The Mekong, Angkor Wat and Saigon itinerary will be operated by the 62-guest RV Indochine II, a vessel that blends modern comfort with colonial charm.
The trip begins with two nights at the five-star Borei Angkor Siem Reap, featuring a guided tour of Angkor Wat and a performance by the Phare Cambodian Circus. Guests then embark on an eight-night cruise from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City, visiting locations such as Koh Chen, Phnom Penh, Chau Doc, Sa Dec and My Tho. The journey concludes with a two-night stay at the New World Saigon Hotel, including a ‘Saigon Streets Secrets’ tour.
Claire Webb, the Fred. Holidays Tour Manager on the first Mekong charter, said: “I was fortunate to be the tour manager on this, our first ever fully escorted departure. It was an amazing experience supporting our 40 great customers throughout the journey and seeing everyone enjoying the itinerary we worked so hard on to perfect.
“Exploring the great cities of Ho Chi Minh, Phnom Penh and Siem Reap alongside rural villages showcasing their traditional industries of aluminium pots, silk weaving, noodle making and fish farming along the Mekong was just the best way to see these beautiful, friendly countries.”
The RV Indochine II features balcony cabins, a massage room, a restaurant and a sun deck with a swimming pool. Prices for the 2027 departure start from £3,999pp, representing a saving of £1,000 per person, and include flights, transfers, excursions and the services of a tour manager.
