EXPLORA TRAVEL HIGHLIGHTS HIGHLIGHTS DESTINATIONS EXPERIENCES FOR THE INAUGURAL SUMMER 2027 ALASKA SEASON | News
As anticipation mounts for EXPLORA III’s July 24 launch, Explora Journeys is looking ahead to next summer when the ship will sail the brand’s highly anticipated debut season in Alaska. Summer is one of the most alluring times to experience the region, when the wilderness is at its most vibrant, alive and expressive, while the unique perspective of discovering Alaska by sea reveals a side of the destination that few experience. With the first season less than a year away, now is the perfect time to start planning an extraordinary trip, complemented by a carefully curated collection of destination experiences, created for guests who have long dreamed of experiencing the awe-inspiring grandeur of the region.
Sailing from May to September 2027, the inaugural Alaskan Journeys Collection is designed for those who want to experience the wild grandeur of Alaska at a leisurely pace, shaped only by nature’s instinctive rhythms.
“The inaugural Alaskan Journeys Collection marks an exciting new chapter in our destination portfolio, offering a distinctive range of experiences that allow guests to explore this extraordinary region with a true sense of connection and discovery,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. “The Alaskan Journeys Collection brings guests closer to the glaciers, wildlife and cultures that define the region – from helicopter flights and whale watching to authentic heritage experiences with local communities. Designed with exceptional outdoor space and uninterrupted views, our ships provide an exceptional vantage point from which to experience Alaska’s extraordinary landscapes. We give guests the luxury of time – time to slow down, connect more deeply with Alaska and discover the Ocean State of Mind.”
The destination experiences offered ashore fall into four themes, including Alaska’s dramatic marine landscapes and its rugged, beautiful interior.
Where ice cream becomes emotion
Among glaciers and vast horizons, discover the frozen masterpieces of Alaska’s coast:
Juneau: A helicopter flight over the Juneau Ice Field leads to an exciting exploration of the Mendenhall Glacier.
Hubbard Glacier: A catamaran takes guests up close to North America’s largest tidal glacier, where calving ice reveals Alaska at its most powerful.
Wrangell: A jet boat skims across the water towards LeConte Glacier Bay or Shakes Glacier taking in harbor seals, eagles and icy glacial landscapes.
Wildlife as nature intended
Unscripted encounters with the region’s native species in their natural habitat:
Ketchikan (Revillagigedo Island): Spot black bears fishing for salmon after a seaplane trip and a short hike deep into the Tongass National Forest or from elevated platforms reached by rainforest trails at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary’s Herring Cove.
Prince Rupert (Kaien Island): A late-season whale watching adventure with the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, seals, sea lions and shorebirds.
Juneau: Combine marine life watching with a guided rainforest hike through Tongass National Forest toward Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls.
Blue wrapped in green
Elemental landscapes where fjords and rivers meet lush wilderness:
Wrangell: A boat trip along the Stikine River reveals forests, waterfalls, cliffs and wildlife, enriched with local guidance and refreshments.
Seward: Explore one of Alaska’s most striking coastal landscapes by boat, gliding beneath towering mountains and toward tidal glaciers.
Connections with stories about land and sea
Providing deep insight into the region’s rich traditions, history and communities:
Prince Rupert (Kaien Island): In the Great Bear Rainforest, guests are welcomed by the Kitsumkalum community with storytelling, drums and dancing before enjoying a unique nomadic gastronomic experience.
Skagway: A Vintage Train Journey follows the historic route to the White Pass Summit, passing waterfalls, tunnels and monuments related to the Klondike Gold Rush.
EXPLORA III: A refuge at sea
After unforgettable moments exploring Alaska, EXPLORA III offers the perfect homecoming across 14 spacious decks. Combining an intimate residential atmosphere with world-class hospitality, this ultra-elegant floating hotel features 461 suites, penthouses and oceanfront residences with floor-to-ceiling windows and private sundecks overlooking the vast Alaskan wilderness. Throughout the ship, guests can enjoy heated pools and indoor whirlpools designed to provide comfort in all weather conditions, while exceptional culinary mastery and holistic rejuvenation further elevate the onboard experience.
In addition to returning favorites such as Sakura and Marble & Co. Explora III introduces new culinary concepts including the poolside Shore Club at 11, the immersive Chef’s Table and The Cellar. Complementing these dining options are 12 carefully curated bars and lounges. Between dining and shore adventures, the 700 square meter Ocean Wellness spa offers complete renewal with its hydrotherapy pool, salt cave and contrast therapy saunas. Together with exceptional fitness and sports facilities and an unrivaled retail offering, Explora III’s thoughtful amenities ensure that every moment at sea inspires the brand’s signature Ocean State of Mind.
