Explora Journeys:  Rooted in a 300-year seafaring legacy, the Aponte family built MSC, the world’s largest shipping company. In 2023, their vision was further realised with Explora Journeys, welcoming a new era for ultra-luxury ocean travel.

Embark on an extraordinary voyage with our new collection of Journeys, sailing from October 2026 to May 2027

Explore the untouched beauty of the Caribbean, Amazon, the Pacific Coast of Central and North America as well as the Mediterranean, reimagined for the cooler seasons, onboard EXPLORA I, EXPLORA II, and EXPLORA III.

All Journeys Include

• Nine distinct culinary experiences, including In-Suite Dining
• Unlimited beverages including fine wines, champagne, premium spirits, specialty coffees, teas and soft drinks, available anytime, including in-suite
• One in-suite welcome bottle of champagne on arrival
• One in-suite bottle of wine and one in-suite bottle of spirit of your preference on arrival
• Access to Ocean Wellness – The Spa thermal area
• Group wellness, fitness and mindfulness activities 
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the ship
• Authentic and intuitive service from our team of hospitality experts
• Onboard gratuities
• Shuttle services from port to city centre (where required / available)

The Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis is an Arctic experience that brings joy and wonder from participants of all ages and experiences.

Up north in the Lofoten Islands, the sun's explosive behavior gives amazing performances from autumn through winter. Tours leave in the afternoons and evenings from autumn until mid-April. During summer time, there is too much light to see the Northern Lights, but from the last week of August, it starts to get darker and it becomes possible to see the Northern Lights again.

Connect with the local culture through food and stories from local guides while we silently set course for the darkness of the fjords of Lofoten in search for the Northern Lights.

Explore majestic fjords, take a deep dive into Norwegian culture and indulge in fresh, first-class seafood. Bear in mind that Norway is a big country. Pick your favorite region and stay a bit longer to explore everything it has to offer!

There are more than a thousand fjords in Norway. 

Many fjords resemble still blue lakes yet consist of saltwater (mixed with freshwater from rivers and glaciers). They are prolonged arms of the sea, often reaching deep inland with majestic mountains towering above them on both sides.

Even though the fjords are often intertwined, and you can sail from one fjord to another or back out to sea, visiting them is like stepping into a secluded universe, especially when visiting the region in winter.

The Villas of Distinction Difference

We believe in offering truly exceptional escapes from start to finish, and it all starts with our approach to villa travel. Our expert staff fully inspects every villa rental before it's offered for bookings to ensure they are the best of the best properties around the world.

We have unmatched expertise in the industry; with over 25 years of award-winning experience providing luxury vacations, we offer a personalized approach to your travels. By providing a personal villa concierge to cater to your requests for activities and amenities, we offer effortless vacation planning.

Above all else, Villas of Distinction upholds a standard of excellence. We pride ourselves in offering the best villas; not the most – the best. And with an exclusive inventory of product in more than 50 of the most sought-after locations around the world, we're thrilled to customize your escape.

Features & Amenities

We go above and beyond entertainment and surround sound. It's about private gyms, spas, children’s spaces, al fresco dining, private gyms, and beyond. Nothing is too big or too extravagant for our guests.

Staff & Services

We offer and fully guarantee that our Concierge Services will take the guesswork out of your getaway. Additionally, many of our villas feature private chefs, butlers, gardeners, and more to elevate your experience.

Featured Specials

Don't miss out on great opportunities to rent the finest villas at special rates. With our villa specials, you'll find discounted nightly rates, free nights, added luxuries and more!