October 10, 2026 — Explora Journeys will run its first “President’s Journey” on Explora II from December 9 to 16, 2026. President Anna Nash designed the cruise and will host it, with private access in Gibraltar and an overnight stay in Casablanca.
What is planned
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ship | Explora II |
| Dates | December 9 to 16, 2026 |
| Embarkation and disembarkation ports | TBA (not stated in the report) |
| Gibraltar | Access to the World War II tunnels and The Convent, the Governor’s residence |
| Casablanca | Overnight call, with a sunset cocktail hosted by Nash at the Royal Mansour Casablanca (limited capacity) |
| Fares | TBA |
Speakers on board
- Lewis Pugh, endurance swimmer and UN Patron of the Ocean
- Annabel Croft, former British number one tennis player and broadcaster
- Matt Barbet, broadcaster and journalist
- Gail Packer, destination expert
The cruise is part of Explora’s Mediterranean winter program, which runs from November 2026 to March 2027 and adds four- and five-night options. Nash said “hospitality begins with listening.” Explora Journeys is the luxury brand of MSC Group.
What it means for airline travelers
- Do not book flights until Explora confirms the start and end ports. They were not published with the announcement.
- Early to mid-December is a quieter period for transatlantic flights before the holiday peak, which helps standby travelers. Still plan to arrive a day early.
- The Casablanca overnight means you can stay ashore late without watching the clock.
- The new four- and five-night winter cruises are an easier fit for a short block of days off than Explora’s usual longer voyages.
- Fares and any interline or travel-industry rates: TBA.
Sources
- Seatrade Cruise News — Explora Journeys launches first President’s Journey with Anna Nash
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