Luxury Iberian Splendour & Atlantic Discoveries Cruise | Explora Journeys

Indulge in a spectacular 7-night luxury voyage tracing the dramatic Atlantic coastline from the sun-drenched hills of Lisbon to the historic shores of Southampton. Sailing aboard the exquisite, state-of-the-art EXPLORA III, this itinerary offers a sophisticated blend of world-class wine regions, avant-garde art, and timeless maritime charm.

Your journey begins in the vibrant Portuguese capital before taking you north to sample the rich, world-renowned fortified wines of Porto. From there, you will cross into Spain’s green Galician coast at La Coruña and explore the bold Basque spirit and futuristic architecture of Bilbao. Wine connoisseurs will delight in a dedicated call to Pauillac, the undisputed jewel of Bordeaux’s Médoc peninsula, followed by a visit to the chic, historic coastal haven of Saint-Jean-de-Luz in France.

This ultra-luxury cruise is perfectly suited for discerning travellers, wine enthusiasts, and cultural explorers who appreciate a slower, more refined pace of travel. Designed by Explora Journeys to evoke an ‘Ocean State of Mind’, the experience balances immersive, under-the-radar destination storytelling with an unparalleled all-inclusive onboard lifestyle. Offering the ultimate convenience of sailing back directly into the UK, this voyage provides an effortless, ultra-luxury summer escape.

Holiday Highlights

• Ultra-Luxury Sailing: 7 nights in oceanfront suite accommodation aboard the brand-new EXPLORA III.

• No Return Flight Required: Sail directly back into Southampton for a seamless, stress-free end to your holiday.

• Bespoke Culinary Excellence: Nine distinct onboard dining experiences included, alongside unlimited premium beverages.

• Wine Lover’s Paradise: Dedicated stops in Porto and Pauillac (Bordeaux) for access to world-famous vineyards and tastings.

• Under-the-Radar Gems: Discover the unique Basque charm of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the ancient Roman history of La Coruña.

Day 1 – Lyrical Lisbon, Portugal

• Port: Lisbon (Departure: 18:00)

• Key Experiences: Your luxury adventure begins in Lisbon, a city bathed in captivating Atlantic light. Before boarding, wander through its charming cobbled streets, admire the colorful architecture, or sample traditional petiscos (Portuguese tapas).

Day 2 – A Taste of Porto, Portugal

• Port: Leixões for Porto (Arrival: 08:00 / Departure: 18:00)

• Key Experiences: Discover the terracotta rooftops and dramatic granite architecture of Porto. Spend your day exploring historic hillside wineries, enjoying a glass of authentic port wine in the sea breeze, and sampling sweet, flaky pastéis de nata at a bustling piazza café.

Day 3 – Galicia’s Green Gem of La Coruña, Spain

• Port: La Coruña (Arrival: 09:00 / Departure: 19:00)

• Key Experiences: Anchor at this beautiful, under-the-radar enclave on Spain’s scalloped Galician coast. Visit the ancient Tower of Hercules—a UNESCO-listed Roman lighthouse—before wandering the medieval heart of the Ciudad Vieja to feast on fresh grilled octopus paired with crisp Albariño white wine.

Day 4 – Bilbao’s Bold Basque Heart, Spain

• Port: Bilbao (Arrival: 09:00 / Departure: 19:00)

• Key Experiences: Experience the spectacular contrast of 14th-century history and futuristic architecture. Marvel at the iconic, titanium-clad curves of the Guggenheim Museum, or stroll through the Old Town’s Siete Calles to sample gourmet pintxos and sparkling txakoli wine.

Day 5 – Pauillac’s Grand Vin of Médoc, France

• Port: Pauillac for Bordeaux (Arrival: 08:30 / Departure: 20:00)

• Key Experiences: Arrive in the absolute jewel of the Médoc peninsula, home to prestigious Premier Grand Cru estates like Château Latour and Château Mouton Rothschild. Tour the magical Médoc Wine Route, master the local terroir, and indulge in artisanal cheeses and caramelised canelé pastries.

Day 6 – The Light of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France

• Port: Saint-Jean-de-Luz (Arrival: 08:00 / Departure: 18:00 – Tender Port)

• Key Experiences: Drink in the opulent energy of the French Basque coast. Explore wild coastlines, golden beaches, and historic villages, or opt for a private culinary tasting. For the adventurous, excursions offer a chance to ride the historic Rhune mountain train or make a pilgrimage to nearby Lourdes.

Day 7 – At Sea

• Key Experiences: A day dedicated entirely to the ‘Ocean State of Mind’. Disconnect from the outside world and take advantage of the ship’s ocean-inspired wellness facilities, indulge in unhurried fine dining, or simply relax on deck as you sail towards the English Channel.

Day 8 – Southampton, United Kingdom

• Port: Southampton (Arrival: 07:00)

• Key Experiences: Disembark after breakfast. From this bustling maritime hub, you can easily journey home or extend your trip with a tour of the beautiful Hampshire countryside, the ancient stones of Stonehenge, or the nearby Bombay Sapphire gin distillery.

Accommodation

Ship: EXPLORA III

Explora Journeys redefines luxury ocean travel, and EXPLORA III represents the absolute pinnacle of their innovative, boutique design. Crafted to feel more like a private superyacht than a traditional cruise ship, she offers an elegant, calm, and spacious sanctuary at sea.

• Suites: Every booking features a luxurious, oceanfront suite complete with a private veranda, a welcome bottle of champagne on arrival, and a personalized bottle of wine and spirits chosen to match your preferences.

• Dining: Guests can enjoy nine distinct, world-class culinary experiences, including sophisticated specialty restaurants and the ultimate luxury of 24-hour in-suite dining.

• Leisure & Wellness: Unwind completely inside the Ocean Wellness spa thermal area, participate in complimentary group fitness and mindfulness sessions, or relax beside one of the pristine, panoramic pool decks.

What’s Included

• 7 nights of ultra-luxury cruise accommodation onboard EXPLORA III

• Nine distinct culinary onboard experiences, including In-Suite Dining

• Unlimited beverages, including fine wines, champagne, premium spirits, specialty coffees, and soft drinks available anytime across the ship

• One in-suite welcome bottle of champagne on arrival

• One in-suite bottle of wine and one bottle of premium spirits of your choice on arrival

• Full access to the Ocean Wellness spa thermal area

• Included group wellness, fitness, and mindfulness activities

• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the vessel

• All onboard gratuities and tips

• Complimentary port-to-city-centre shuttle services (where required and available)

• Full financial peace of mind via our direct ATOL license (12814) and Protected Trust Services membership (6325)