SEA & MUSIC
SHIMMERING COASTS AND CULTURAL TREASURES ON EXPLORA I
THE MAIN PROGRAMME: 22 JUNE – 29 JUNE 2026
THE ENCORE: 29 JUNE – 6 JULY 2026
with
GABRIELA MONTERO
LA PHILHARMONICA
CHRISTIANE KARG
KRISTĪNE OPOLAIS
DANIEL HOPE
THOMAS HAMPSON
HIROAKI FUEDA
XAVIER DE MAISTRE
CHU YI-BING
Trip details
GET EXCITED ABOUT SEA & MUSIC 2026!
We are looking forward to seeing you on board.
MS6
Your Travel and Concert Organizers
„Music and rhythm find their way to the most secret places of the soul.“
Platon
YOUR EXPERIENCE AT SEA AND ON LAND
Exclusive concerts on board and ashore
Ultimate luxury on the suite ship Explora I
Enjoy the Mediterranean
Unique concert evenings
With excursions for culture fans
Explora I - Lobby
Top-class cuisine & wines
The Most Beautiful Places of the Western Mediterranean
The Artists
LA PHILHARMONICA
The Vienna Philharmonic can count itself fortunate that another special chamber ensemble has emerged from its ranks, one that cultivates the orchestra’s unique sound culture in such a concentrated form.
Der Standard
GABRIELA MONTERO
Montero‘s playing has everything: crackling rhythmic brio, subtle shadings, steely power in climactic moments, soulful lyricism in the ruminative passages and, best of all, unsentimental expressivity.
Anthony Tomassini, New York Times
KRISTĪNE OPOLAIS
Kristīne Opolais is one of the most sought-after sopranos on the international scene.
Operawire
DANIEL HOPE
There are few figures in today’s classical music who so perfectly embody the role of ambassador for music as Daniel Hope.
Gramophone
THOMAS HAMPSON
He is without question one of the world’s greatest opera singers… a voice, a baritone so rich it can circle the universe.
Diane Sawyer, Good Morning America
CHRISTIANE KARG
Karg has a magical way of telling the songs; one almost forgets the sheer beauty of her voice because of her thoughtful interpretation of the lyrics.
Hamburger Abendblatt
XAVIER DE MAISTRE
Xavier de Maistre is a virtuoso of the highest order, profoundly musical and capable of realising a remarkable range of nuance.
Gramophone
HIROAKI FUEDA
He possesses a voice that seems to descend from the heavens and captivates the audience with a presence that is as bold as it is sensitive.
Harvest Concerts
CHU YI BING
A luminary in the field of classical music.
China Daily
THE EXPLORA I
TECHNICAL DETAILS
- Length: 248 m
- Width: 32,60 m
- Tonnage: 63,900 GT
- Power: 38,400 KW
- Cruising Speed: 18 Knots
SUSTAINABILITY
- Environmentally conscious equipment
- Selective catalytic reduction (SCR system)
- Highly efficient & energy-saving appliances
- Certified by RINA DOLPHIN for reduced underwater noise
- LED lighting, high-efficiency appliances
- Advanced wastewater treatment system according to Baltic standard
- USCD-approved ballast water treatment system
- Shore power supply
- State-of-the-art recycling and waste management
- Antifouling paint
- Innovative hull design and
- optimised hydrodynamics
- Software for trim optimisation
- Intelligent heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems
SPACIOUS OUTDOOR AREA
Total 6,250m, communal outdoor area, including three outdoor and one indoor pool with retractable glass roof, 64 private cabanas as well as dining and lounge facilities by the pool.
BARS & LOUNGES
You have the choice between twelve bar and lounge indoor and outdoor experiences with selected entertainment and atmospheric performances as well as a casino, an art gallery, and selected shopping experiences.
TOP-CLASS CUISINE
Choose from nine culinary experiences, including six unique restaurants offering delicious and healthy dishes made from local and sustainable ingredients.
UNIQUE LUXURY
The Explora I is consistently designed as a pure suite ship. The suites are among the most spacious in the luxury cruise category. Guest to staff ratio: 1.25 : 1
THE SUITES
OCEAN SUITES
The Ocean Suites are among the most spacious standard suites in the industry. They combine space and light in an elegant way.
They also have a private terrace where you can relax and enjoy the view of the sea from your comfortable lounge bed.
Total area of the suite:
35m²
(incl. 7m² terrace) to 39m² (incl. 11m² terrace)
OCEAN PENTHOUSES
The Ocean Penthouses are wonderfully luxurious and spacious retreats, thoughtfully designed with great attention to detail. All elements are made from premium materials and crafted to highlight the sea views and natural light.
Each penthouse has an elegant, private dining area for four people, perfect for inviting other guests for a cosy get-together.
Available subcategories:
Penthouses
Deluxe Penthouses
Premier Penthouses
Grand Penthouses
Total area of the suite:
45-64 m²
suite: 34-47 m²
terrace: 11-17 m²
OCEAN RESIDENCES
The Ocean Residences - with their ocean-inspired names; Cove, Retreat, Serenity and Cocoon - are cozy retreats with spacious private terraces, panoramic views of the ocean, private outdoor whirlpools and first-class butler service by our Residence Hosts.
Available subcategories:
Cove Residences
Retreat Residences
Serenity Residences
Cocoon Residences
OWNER‘S RESIDENCE
The Owner’s Residence is the largest accommodation on board, featuring multiple harmoniously designed spaces where you can
host guests,
relax and unwind. From the private terrace, which extends across the entire width of the ship you have a boundless view of the sea. Enjoy a large infinity whirlpool and the first-class butler service of the Residence Manager.
Total area of the suite:
280 m²
suite: 155 m²
terrace: 125 m²
The Itinerary
The Main Program
Day 1 | Monday | 22/06/2026 Barcelona I Spain
Embarkation | Departure: 20:00
Welcome aboard – your journey begins! Departing from Barcelona, you set sail on a voyage full of discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.
Day 2 | Tuesday | 23/06/2026
AT SEA
Spend the day enjoying the Mediterranean and the fantastic amenities of Explora I. In the evening, you will be treated to a musical highlight: Hiroaki Fueda performs an exclusive concert aboard the ship. Let his impressive voice enchant you.
Day 3 | Wednesday | 24/06/2026 Cannes I France
Arrival: 08:00 | Departure: 21:00
Cannes represents French glamour – with yachts, palm trees, high-end boutiques, and cinematic tradition. Explore the medieval Le Suquet district, stroll along the famous La Croisette promenade, or indulge in Michelin-starred cuisine and luxurious beach clubs. For tranquility, take an excursion to Saint-Honorat island, or consider the chic alternatives of Monaco and Saint-Tropez.
In the evening, enjoy a live onboard performance by Gabriela Montero. Her passionate interpretations and stirring improvisations make this concert at sea a special musical moment.
Day 4 | Thursday | 25/06/2026 Portofino I Italy
Arrival: 09:00 | Departure: 23:00
Portofino, an idyllic coastal town on Italy’s Riviera, is an exclusive retreat with pastel-colored houses, luxury boutiques, and aristocratic villas nestled in the olive-covered hills. A path through sculpture gardens leads to the Chiesa di San Giorgio, offering views of Etruscan villas.
In addition, an extraordinary concert awaits you. Gabriela Montero and Daniel Hope will perform together in an exclusive concert at the Teatro Sociale di Camogli. In the unique atmosphere of this historic theater, the audience can look forward to an evening full of musical virtuosity, inspiration, and expressiveness.
Day 5 | Friday | 26/06/2026
Florence | Italy
Arrival: 07:00 | Departure: 20:00
Florence, the home of Michelangelo, fascinates with Renaissance masterpieces, the imposing cathedral, and the famous Uffizi Gallery. In the Giardino di Boboli, you will find peace away from the hustle and bustle.
But what would Italy be without music? In the heart of Lucca’s charming old town, in the venerable Teatro del Giglio, musical heritage meets modern virtuosity: La Philharmonica – six outstanding female musicians from the ranks of the Vienna Philharmonic – unite musical culture and the joy of playing in this ensemble.
Day 6 | Saturday | 27/06/2026
Porto Cervo (Sardinia) | Italy
Arrival: 14:00 | Departure: 23:55
Emerald-green bays, powder-white beaches, and elegant yachts define the petite capital of the Costa Smeralda. Stroll through the chic Piazzetta, party in exclusive beach clubs, or take a boat trip to the stunning island of Maddalena. In the Stella Maris Cathedral or at the “Giants’ Graves,” you can feel the spiritual depth of this ancient place.
Another musical highlight awaits you on board: La Philharmonica will perform together with soprano Christiane Karg — an unforgettable moment for all lovers of classical music.
Day 7 | Sunday | 28/06/2026
Ajaccio (Corsica) | France
Arrival: 08:00 | Departure: 18:00
The name Ajaccio may derive from the Greek hero Ajax or the Latin adjaccium – “place of rest.” In the old town, you can walk in the footsteps of Napoleon, from the Maison Bonaparte to the baroque cathedral where he was baptized. Lively markets offer Corsican specialties, while the bay with its white sandy beach and views of the Sanguinaires Islands invites you to linger.
Experience a special chamber concert on board: Violinist Daniel Hope and baritone Thomas Hampson perform together in an impressive interplay of great voices and delicate sounds – accompanied by piano and cello, surrounded by the vastness of the sea.
Day 8 | Monday | 29/06/2026
Rome (Civitavecchia) | Italy
Arrival: 07:00
After eventful days at sea, this journey comes to an end – unless you have opted for the exclusive encore. In that case, your experience continues in style: a week full of elegance, musical highlights, culinary delights, and relaxing moments aboard a luxurious cruise ship awaits you.
The Encore
Day 8 | Monday | 29/06/2026
Rome (Civitavecchia) | Italy
Departure: 20:00
Rome captivates with more than just ancient architecture: fashion, street art, and Vespa rides along the Via Appia bring the city to life. Those who book in advance can visit the Sistine Chapel and the Papal Apartments in the Vatican. Other highlights include the Colosseum, Pantheon, Spanish Steps, and Caravaggio churches. Cook pasta, hunt for truffles, enjoy gelato, and relax in ancient thermal baths – Rome offers pure indulgence.
Day 9 | Tuesday | 30/06/2026
Naples & Capri | Italy
Arrival: 08:00 | Departure: 16:00
Arrival: 19:00 | Departure: 02:00 (01.07.)
Naples lies in the shadow of Mount Vesuvius – a place full of history and culture. Its baroque churches, palaces, and opera houses are truly impressive. A funicular takes you up to Castel Sant’Elmo, offering panoramic views of the Gulf of Naples and the Sorrento Peninsula. Beneath the city stretches an ancient tunnel system, once dug by Romans and Greeks. In the evening, the winding alleys and Piazza Umberto in Capri invite you to linger. Numerous restaurants and trattorias offer the perfect opportunity to end the evening with a cozy dinner featuring Italian specialties.
Day 10 | Wednesday | 01/07/2026
AT SEA
A day of peace and indulgence awaits you aboard the exclusive Explora I – unwind in the elegant pool area or the luxurious spa, treat yourself to culinary highlights, or simply take in the vastness of the sea.
In the evening, Chu Yi-Bing invites you to a special concert on board – a musical delight amidst the maritime tranquility.
Day 11 | Thursday | 02/07/2026
Calvi (Corsica) | France
Arrival: 08:00 | Departure: 22:00
Corsica impresses with its quiet, wild beauty: cobbled streets, villages, pine forests, natural pools, and waterfalls shape the island. White sandy beaches and turquoise waters offer perfect relaxation, while local wildlife can be observed along the way. In the bistros at the marina, traditional polyphonic music fills the air – and at sunset, you’ll understand what Matisse meant: “Everything is color, everything is light.”
Day 12 | Friday | 03/07/2026
Nice | France
Arrival: 08:00 | Departure: 22:00
Villefranche-sur-Mer shines on the Côte d’Azur with colorful houses, blooming alleyways, and a picturesque harbor in deep blue. The fine sandy beach Plage des Marinières stretches along the Corniche in a gentle bay. Discover ancient chapels and the historic citadel overlooking Cap Ferrat. This evening, Kristīne Opolais enchants on land with her impressive voice – a concert experience full of emotion, elegance, and musical brilliance.
Day 13 | Saturday | 04/07/2026
Marseille | France
Arrival: 08:00 | Departure: 18:00
Marseille delights with Mediterranean flair, bouillabaisse by the harbor, and the impressive Calanques. Fountains commissioned by Napoleon III and the town hall built under Louis XIV invite you to stroll through the city. In Provence, lavender fields, Syrah wines, and the traces of Cézanne and Van Gogh await – a journey through the sensual diversity of southern France. Whether on board or ashore – in the evening, Xavier de Maistre transports his audience with the harp into a world of delicate tonal colors and virtuosic elegance.
Day 14 | Sunday | 05/07/2026
Mahon (Menorca) | Spain
Arrival: 09:00 | Departure: 20:00
The UNESCO island of Menorca enchants with Georgian architecture and turquoise coastline. Stroll through the harbor town and enjoy its authentic atmosphere.
Day 15 | Monday | 06/07/2026
Barcelona | Spain
Arrival: 08:00
Our journey ends where it began. Barcelona – a city full of contrasts: historic and modern, vibrant and relaxed.
Please note that the second week’s program is provisional: Some venues are currently under request, so performance locations – whether on board or ashore – may still be subject to change. Schedule adjustments and program modifications are reserved.
Categories & Pricing
OCEAN SUITES
- category OT1-OT4 - Ocean Terrace Suite 35m² (incl. 7m² terrace)
- category GT - Ocean Grand Terrace 39m² (incl. 11m² terrace)
Ocean Penthouses
- category DP - Deluxe Penthouse 55m² (incl. 15m² terrace)
- category PP - Premier Penthouse 52m² (incl. 10m² terrace)
- category GP - Grand Penthouse 64m² (incl. 17m² terrace)
Ocean Residences
- category CO - Cove Residence 76m² (incl. 20m² terrace)
- category RR - Retreat Residence 78m² (incl. 15m² terrace)
- category SR - Serenity Residence 120m² (incl. 60m² terrace)
- category CR - Cocoon Residence 149m² (incl. 75m² terrace)
Owner`s Residence
- Owner`s Residence 280m² (incl. 125m² terrace)
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YOUR INCLUDED SERVICES
- Exclusive music program with six concerts, as listed, including one at the Teatro Sociale di Camogli and one at the Teatro del Giglio in Lucca
- Daily autograph sessions, exclusive artist talks or meet & greet with the artists
- 7 overnight stays in the booked suite category
- As a welcome gift, a bottle of champagne and sweets in the suite
- A bottle of wine and a bottle of spirits of the guest‘s choice on arrival
- Unlimited high-quality beverages included: fine wines and premium spirits as well as coffee specialties, tea, and soft drinks, including minibar in the suite*
- 8 culinary experiences and in-suite dining
- Personal support by the experienced MS6 travel guide & host team
- Suites from 35 m² with elegant interior design, private terrace, large windows, walk-in wardrobe with dressing table
- Three outdoor pools, one indoor pool with retractable glass roof, 64 private cabanas and several indoor and outdoor whirlpools
- Ten indoor and outdoor bar and lounge experiences with selected entertainment and performances in an intimate atmosphere
- Casino, art gallery and exclusive shopping experiences
- Access to over 700 m² of indoor and outdoor wellness facilities and over 270 m2 of fitness facilities with the latest equipment
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi
- All gratuities on board
- Infotainment system with Smart TV and easy connectivity for personal devices
- Phones with voicemail, on-demand TV and wireless connectivity
- Individual air conditioning in each suite
- Shuttle service from port to city centre and concert transfers (if required)
- * For lovers of exceptional wines and spirits, an exquisite selection of wines, spirits and liqueurs is available for an additional fee.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES IN WEEK 2
- Additionally, three more concerts and exclusive artist talks
- 7 more overnight stays in the booked suite category
ADDITIONAL SERVICES ON BOARD
24-hour concierge service
24-hour in-suite dining
Twice daily housekeeping service, including evening turndown service
Shoe shine service
24-hour butler service from the residence hosts for Ocean and Owner‘s Residences
24-hour laundry service, dry cleaning, and ironing service**
SERVICES NOT INCLUDED: Arrival and departure, pre-programme, airport transfers, excursions, laundry & ironing service, not included drinks such as extraordinary spirits, selected wines, cocktails, personal expenses such as hairdresser, massages, etc.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION: The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the return date. Passport details and arrival times must be submitted to us no later than 10 weeks before departure. Program subject to change.
REGARDING THE MUSICAL PROGRAMS: We are in close contact with all artists to create a wonderful and highly diverse music program for you. We expect to present a detailed program no later than 6 months before departure. Seat allocation will be based on the booked suite category.
** Additional fees may apply.
WHAT WE DO FOR YOU
PERSONAL
Service
Our team deeply cares about all your wishes - before, during, and after our trips.
UNIQUE
EXPERIENCES
All our trips are tailored around the respective artists, the locations and the destinations.
PERFECT ORGANISATION
We care about all the details, as we know that it is sometimes the small things that we keep in our memories.
EXCLUSIVE ARTISTS
We plan and curate our trips in partnership with renowned artists and agencies. Because we love music and travelling.
LET'S STAY IN CONTACT
We take great care to describe our trips as extensively as possible. However, should you have specific requests or questions, we will be happy to take care of those.
Feel free to contact us - if you wish, we will also call you back.
