February 8-17, 2028
Set sail from Safaga and journey deep into Egypt’s soul, where vibrant coral reefs meet ancient temples and timeless deserts. Explore the serene monasteries of the Red Sea and soak in the stunning beauty of Sharm El-Sheikh’s lagoons and villages. Cross into Aqaba to wander the rose-red city of Petra and its fragrant spice markets, then pause overnight in Jeddah, a city alive with history and energy.
Every detail of this voyage reflects CEO Malaka Hilton’s intimate knowledge and passion for the region—offering you a rare, authentic experience beyond the usual.
Day 1-2
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Overnight
Tue 8 Feb · Embarkation 12:00P.M. – 5:00P.M. · Departure Wed 9 Feb
EMBARKATION
Tue 8 Feb,
12:00P.M. – 5:00P.M.
DEPARTURE
Wed 9 Feb, 11:00P.M.
Immerse yourself in the bustle and buzz of Saudi Arabia’s oldest city. Pilgrimage to Islamic holy towns, unearth secrets in the backstreets of UNESCO-celebrated Al-Balad, explore ruins and floating mosques, then unwind strolling amongst the charms of the Corniche. Seek breathtaking Edge of the World views, shop heaving souks and set out to Moon Mountain. Fish, quad bike, dive, ride camels, mountain climb, or gallop through the desert on Arabian horses. From the world’s largest dome to the world’s tallest fountain, watch the rise of this captivating city.
Day 3
At Sea
Thu 10 Feb
TIME AT SEA
One Day
With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.
Aboard EXPLORA V
EXPLORA V is the fifth ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, designed as a refined ocean retreat rather than a traditional cruise ship. Featuring all ocean‑front suites with private terraces, generous open spaces, world‑class dining, and a calm, resort‑style atmosphere, Explora V invites guests to slow down and reconnect with the sea. Sustainability, design, and intuitive service come together to create a contemporary luxury experience defined by space, elegance, and effortless living at sea.
Day 4-5
Safaga (Luxor), Egypt Overnight
Fri 11 Feb, Arrival 7:00A.M. · Sat 12 Feb, Departure 5:00P.M.
ARRIVAL
Fri 11 Feb, 7:00A.M.
DEPARTURE
Sat 12 Feb, 5:00P.M.
ARRIVAL METHOD
Dock
Safaga will set your imagination spinning as the gateway to Luxor. Head back to the start of human history and find yourself at Karnak’s staggering complex of temples. Let Egyptologists fill in the missing pieces at Luxor Temple, built with prolific pharaoh patronage. Sail high over the Valley of Kings on a private hot air balloon and go underground to unlock the mystery at Tutankhamun’s tomb. Pay respect to the only woman Pharaoh and salute Egypt’s most considerable, Colossi of Memnon. Sparkly Safaga Red Sea escapades to stony burial chambers, mighty monuments and expressive artistry – this region offers a millennia-old flavour of the world’s greatest ancient wonders.
Day 6
Ain Sokhna, Egypt
Sun 13 Feb, 7:00A.M. – 9:00P.M.
ARRIVAL
Sun 13 Feb, 7:00A.M.
DEPARTURE
Sun 13 Feb, 9:00P.M.
ARRIVAL METHOD
Dock
Egypt is not shy of national treasures. While away your time in acres of nature that make Sokhna a salty playground. Explore an underwater world of reefs and petrified forestry, amble through Red Sea monasteries, and heal body and soul in sulfur springs. Yet no visit is complete without a trip to the immortal greats. Set off for the eternal talent at the Pharaohs’ stomping ground. Cast Egyptologist eyes and perhaps a camera on the almighty Pyramids, Valley Temple and Great Sphinx. With a backdrop of mountains and turmeric-hued beaches, unique nature rubs shoulders with one of the Seven Wonders.
Sharm El-Sheikh
Day 7
Sharm El‑Sheikh, Egypt
Mon 14 Feb, 9:00A.M. – 8:00P.M.
ARRIVAL
Mon 14 Feb, 9:00A.M.
DEPARTURE
Mon 14 Feb, 8:00P.M.
ARRIVAL METHOD
Dock
Dive into raw desert adventures, glittering treasures, and world-class reefs. Float through a riot of colourful coral off Shark Bay and delve into the depths of perfectly preserved Thistlegorm. Travel out to the beating soul of Cairo for the great Pyramids and Sphinx, visit laid-back Dahab’s Blue Lagoon, or hot air balloon over the Valley of the Kings. Stop by Old Sharm to browse Souqs and impressive mosques, zip through the desert to local Bedouin villages, climb holy Mount Sinai and drop into the world’s oldest working monastery. It’s not just the year-round sunshine that lights up this beautiful region.
Day 8
Aqaba (Petra), Jordan
Tue 15 Feb, 7:00A.M. – 9:00P.M.
ARRIVAL
Tue 15 Feb, 7:00A.M.
DEPARTURE
Tue 15 Feb, 9:00P.M.
ARRIVAL METHOD
Dock
Welcome Middle Eastern culture with a splash of adventure. Jordan’s sun-kissed centre reels in distinct Islamic architecture with access to lunar-like landscapes and ancient archaeological wonders. Visit the stunning rock-hewn Petra and take a four-wheel-foray to the rust-coloured sands and towering rocks of UNESCO-listed Wadi Rum. Flock to observe migratory birds, dive through underwater wonders, or crack Arabian cooking inland. Support local artisans on a spice-scented stroll through colourful souks and dress to worship at stark white mosques. This movie-set region teems with elegant Arabic charm.
Day 9
At Sea
Wed 16 Feb
TIME AT SEA
One Day
With more time to reflect, rejuvenate, and embrace the Ocean State of Mind, days at sea with Explora Journeys invite moments of unhurried exploration. Against a backdrop of endless blue, indulge in a varied programme of wellness, dining and entertainment, enriching the mind and indulging the senses, designed to satisfy even the most curious of minds. These moments at sea offer a rare chance to disconnect from the outside world and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones. With so many onboard experiences, each day at sea is unique and memorable.
Day 10
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Thu 17 Feb · Arrival 8:00A.M. · Disembarkation 9:15A.M. – 10:30A.M.
ARRIVAL
Thu 17 Feb, 8:00A.M.
DISEMBARKATION
Thu 17 Feb,
9:15A.M. – 10:30A.M.
Immerse yourself in the bustle and buzz of Saudi Arabia’s oldest city. Pilgrimage to Islamic holy towns, unearth secrets in the backstreets of UNESCO-celebrated Al-Balad, explore ruins and floating mosques, then unwind strolling amongst the charms of the Corniche. Seek breathtaking Edge of the World views, shop heaving souks and set out to Moon Mountain. Fish, quad bike, dive, ride camels, mountain climb, or gallop through the desert on Arabian horses. From the world’s largest dome to the world’s tallest fountain, watch the rise of this captivating city.