MEDITERRANEAN SOUL & MOROCCAN CHARM

Welcome to Barcelona. You have 3 nights to explore the city.

Your final morning ashore before Explora I becomes home. Wander back through the Gothic Quarter one last time or linger over coffee in a Passeig de Gràcia café before transfer to port. Boarding brings its own sense of occasion: floor-to-ceiling windows, a glass of something cold, and the pull of the Mediterranean ahead. Barcelona will still be here waiting on your return, but for now the horizon does the talking.

Lisbon opens with its grand architecture and river light. Walk the Alfama’s steep lanes past tiled façades, ride the historic trams through Baixa, or head west along the Tagus to Belém for the tower and the monastery. Custard tarts, strong coffee and the low hum of fado drifting from a back-alley taverna set the tone for the days ahead.

A second day in port means time to range further. Sintra’s hilltop palaces are close enough for a half-day trip, or head to Cascais for quieter beaches and sea air. Back in the city as evening falls, settle into a petiscos spread and let Lisbon’s blues carry you into the night.

Enjoy the epitome of Spanish charm. Slowly discover Andalusian riches to reveal Picasso’s birthplace, the Alhambra in Granada, Mezquita in Cordoba and the Ronda valley. Explore ancient heritage sites, dance the flamenco, dare to hike the Caminito del Rey trail and delve into white villages sprinkled amongst mango groves and avocado orchards. Sip cocktails by day and sangria by night. And as you watch the sun slip down, reflect upon this gateway of delights.

Experience the magnetic vibes of Ibiza. Relax as you feel the gentle pull of vibrant island life. Experience Las Salinas salt flats, eat paella, sip sangria, meditate, shop boutiques… do whatever you please. Hidden away are fincas, pine valleys, orange groves, almond trees and lush orchards. Retreat to renowned spas for wellbeing, yoga, massage and healing. Soothe in warm waters at private beach affairs. As darkness falls, cavort in bars and clubs where the world’s finest DJ’s thrill. Warm and easy-going, nature’s elements blend beautifully with island life. It’s little wonder that Ibiza has drawn artists, writers, gurus and beatniks for years. Some have never left.

Leave craggy coastlines behind and venture to the heartland of the biggest Balearic. Where endless authentic charm, history and nature await. Celebrate at Spain’s oldest winery, shop chic Palma boutiques and marvel at blossoming UNESCO-limestone mountains aboard a vintage train. Experience a tranquil monastery, art at a historic hacienda and tons of protected wildlife. Delve into nature at reserves, feast on wood-fired paella at lively hangouts, pilgrimage to historic churches and tour old-world Mallorcan villages. And as for sapphire seas that frame spotless beaches – Mallorca is truly an immense Balearic beauty.

Thirteen nights on, Barcelona welcomes you home. Take a slower morning over breakfast onboard before farewells with the crew who’ve looked after you since Alicante. Disembarkation is unhurried, giving you time to reflect on a route that ran from Catalonia’s coast to Morocco’s edge and back. If your flight allows it, one more wander through the Gothic Quarter or a last plate of tapas near the port is the right way to close the loop.