128-Day World Cruise Aboard Explora I: A Luxury Journey from Dubai to Barcelona

Published on December 2, 2025

Explora Journeys, a luxury cruise line under MSC Group, is set to embark on its first-ever world cruise aboard Explora I in 2029. This monumental journey will be the brand’s premier offering, combining luxurious travel experiences with a comprehensive global itinerary that spans four continents and visits 29 countries. With 128 days at sea, this world cruise promises to be one of the most exciting travel events of the decade.

Scheduled to depart from Dubai on January 6, 2029, the cruise will cover 63 destinations and cross multiple time zones and seas before concluding in Barcelona on May 14, 2029. The route will see the ship traverse from the Middle East to Asia, down to Australia and New Zealand, across the Pacific to South America, and finally through the Panama Canal and the Caribbean, before ending in the Mediterranean.

A Comprehensive World Cruise Itinerary

Explora Journeys has curated an impressive itinerary for the first world cruise. The voyage will begin in Dubai, making stops across South and Southeast Asia, and venture into Australia and New Zealand, marking Explora’s first visits to these regions. From there, the cruise will travel along the coast of South America, transit through the Panama Canal, and visit the Caribbean and U.S. East Coast before crossing the Atlantic into the Mediterranean. Notably, the cruise will feature 12 overnight stays in select ports, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the destinations they visit.

With this world cruise, Explora Journeys has emphasised the diversity of experiences that it will offer: from cultural and culinary experiences in Asia, and Australia, to scenic explorations of South America, and immersive experiences in iconic Caribbean islands. The cruise will allow guests to explore the Pacific Islands, the Amazon, and the bustling cities of Europe, offering a true world tour.

Luxury Meets Exploration Aboard Explora I

Explora Journeys is synonymous with elegance and luxury, and Explora I will set the standard for this inaugural world cruise. The ship, which entered service in 2023, is designed to offer guests a premium, intimate cruising experience. With its sleek design, luxurious suites, and state-of-the-art amenities, Explora I is poised to be a floating sanctuary, providing the perfect setting for an extended journey.

The ship will provide a variety of accommodation options, each designed for comfort and tranquillity, with panoramic ocean views, spacious living areas, and modern amenities. Additionally, guests will have access to fine dining, wellness centres, exclusive excursions, and onboard entertainment, all curated to ensure a truly unforgettable voyage.

Explora Journeys is positioning itself as a cruise line for those seeking to explore the world in the most luxurious way possible, blending relaxation, culture, and adventure seamlessly. The Endless Worlds cruise is designed to provide a slow-paced, immersive journey, where each destination can be fully experienced without the rush typical of shorter voyages.

When Can Guests Book?

Booking for the 128-day world cruise will officially open in February 2026. As the first world cruise for Explora Journeys, it is expected to generate significant interest, particularly from luxury travellers and those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The ship’s first world cruise is expected to sell out quickly due to the exclusive nature of the trip and the limited number of passengers allowed aboard.

What Does This Mean for Travellers?

For travellers, this world cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore four continents, 29 countries, and 63 destinations all in one journey. It’s perfect for those looking for an extended voyage with plenty of time to absorb the cultures and landscapes of each location. The overnight stays in key ports allow guests to enjoy deeper exploration, including late-night activities, local dining, and sightseeing beyond what’s possible in a typical cruise schedule.

Furthermore, the luxury experience offered by Explora Journeys will appeal to those who prefer high-end accommodation, dining, and curated experiences while travelling the globe. From private excursions to regional culinary tastings and wellness programmes, Explora I aims to set new standards for world cruising.

A Landmark Cruise for Luxury Enthusiasts

Explora Journeys’ first world cruise aboard Explora I offers an unparalleled luxury travel experience for those seeking to travel the globe in style. With an extensive, diverse itinerary, luxurious amenities, and exclusive experiences, the 2029 cruise presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the world’s most iconic destinations. Bookings will open in early 2026, and those looking for a truly immersive, world-class adventure should be ready to secure their place for this grand journey.

Explora Journeys’ debut world cruise sets a new benchmark for global cruising, combining the best elements of world exploration with the luxury of bespoke travel experiences.