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- A Journey of Coastal Allure & Artistic Marvels from Copenhagen with Stay
A Journey of Coastal Allure & Artistic Marvels from Copenhagen with Stay, 17 May 2027

From Copenhagen to Southampton by sea
Spend a night in Copenhagen before an eight-night voyage to Southampton, taking in Aarhus's rainbow-topped ARoS museum and Hamburg's historic Speicherstadt warehouses.

Cruise overview
The Baltic’s cultural capitals whisper stories across centuries, from Copenhagen’s fairy-tale spires to Hamburg’s maritime grandeur. This eight-night odyssey aboard Explora IV traces Northern Europe’s most compelling coastline, where each port reveals a distinct character shaped by sea and sky.
In Denmark’s Aarhus, cobblestone streets wind between Viking heritage and cutting-edge design museums, while Sweden’s Lysekil offers a more intimate encounter—former fishing cottages now frame galleries showcasing contemporary Nordic art. Oslo emerges as perhaps the journey’s greatest surprise, a green metropolis where forests stretch to the city’s edge and world-class sculpture parks invite contemplative wandering. Between these cultural treasures, days at sea provide space to absorb the richness encountered ashore, watching endless horizons from the ship’s sophisticated vantage points as you drift towards Southampton’s storied harbour.
Itinerary
Copenhagen, Denmark
Your flight from London brings you to Copenhagen, where a private transfer delivers you directly to your hotel in Denmark’s elegant capital. The remainder of the day is yours to settle in and perhaps take your first stroll through this Nordic metropolis, preparing for tomorrow’s embarkation on EXPLORA IV. Stay overnight at NH Collection Copenhagen (or similar).

Copenhagen, Denmark (Embarkation)
Aarhus, Denmark
Lysekil, Sweden
Oslo, Norway
At sea
Hamburg, Germany
At sea
Southampton, UK (Disembarkation)
What's Included
This exclusive cruise and stay experience includes:
- Flight from London to Copenhagen (alternative departure airports available on request)
- Private overseas transfers
- 1-night pre-cruise stay at 5-star hotel in Copenhagen with breakfast included
- Seven-night Northern European cruise aboard EXPLORA IV
- Nine culinary experiences
- Unlimited fine beverages and in-suite welcome bottle of champagne and refreshments
- Thermal spa access
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
- All onboard gratuities
- Cruise taxes, fees and port expenses
Ocean Terrace Suite
The Ocean Terrace Suite offers refined simplicity and elegant comfort. Featuring a light-filled living area, marble bathroom and spacious private terrace, it provides a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind in style while enjoying the gentle rhythm and endless views of the sea.
Amenities
- Double or Twin Configuration
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Bath
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
Owner's Residence
The Owner’s Residence is the epitome of ocean-going luxury, combining expansive living spaces with contemporary design and private outdoor areas. Guests enjoy an exclusive haven of tranquillity, bespoke service, panoramic ocean views and every comfort imaginable, crafted to deliver an effortless sense of privilege and refinement at sea.
- Double or Twin Configuration
- King or Twin Configuration
- Second Bedroom
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Bath
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- Suite Benefits
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Room Service Available
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
- Sofa Bed
- Free Wi-Fi
Retreat Residence
The Retreat Residence offers a serene escape with generous interiors, private terrace and refined furnishings. Its elevated position and butler-attended service ensure complete privacy and relaxation, while bespoke amenities and elegant décor create an atmosphere of understated sophistication perfect for long, unhurried days at sea.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Bath
- Sofa Bed
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
- Free Wi-Fi
Cove Residence with Whirlpool
Designed for those seeking connection to the sea, the Cove Residence pairs elegant indoor living with an expansive private terrace. Natural light, calm tones and tailored comforts define its style, while guests enjoy attentive service and access to exclusive areas reserved for residence-level travellers.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Pillow Menu Available
- Telephone
- Desk
Cove Residence
Designed for those seeking connection to the sea, the Cove Residence pairs elegant indoor living with an expansive private terrace. Natural light, calm tones and tailored comforts define its style, while guests enjoy attentive service and access to exclusive areas reserved for residence-level travellers.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Bath
- Sofa Bed
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Pillow Menu Available
- Free Wi-Fi
Serenity Residence
The Serenity Residence lives up to its name, offering calm sophistication in a spacious setting overlooking the ocean. With a stylish lounge, marble bathroom and large terrace, it provides the ideal retreat for quiet moments, personalised service and indulgent comfort throughout each journey.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Shower
- Bath
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Sofa Bed
- Vanity Area
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
- Free Wi-Fi
Cocoon Residence
The Cocoon Residence offers a soothing sanctuary where soft textures, neutral tones and floor-to-ceiling views blend harmoniously. Thoughtfully designed for rest and renewal, it features an open living area, private terrace and exclusive amenities, delivering a warm, residential ambience that feels effortlessly like home at sea.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Whirlpool Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Sofa Bed
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Butler Service
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
Premier Penthouse
The Premier Penthouse offers spacious comfort and refined style, with a private terrace, lounge area and sophisticated design touches. Guests enjoy enhanced amenities, personalised service and panoramic sea views, making it the perfect balance of exclusivity and modern elegance.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Bath
- Sofa Bed
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Room Service Available
- Pillow Menu Available
Grand Penthouse
The Grand Penthouse embodies contemporary grandeur, combining refined décor with sweeping ocean views. Generous indoor and outdoor spaces, a separate lounge and dining area, and elevated service create an inviting atmosphere ideal for elegant entertaining or peaceful relaxation during extended voyages.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Bath
- Sofa Bed
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
Deluxe Penthouse
The Deluxe Penthouse delivers stylish living and exceptional comfort. Its bright, open layout includes a relaxing lounge and private veranda, complemented by luxurious finishes and curated amenities. Ideal for guests seeking a contemporary, spacious retreat enriched by seamless service and oceanfront tranquillity.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Bath
- Sofa Bed
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Room Service Available
- Pillow Menu Available
Penthouse
The Penthouse suite offers elegant, modern living with a comfortable lounge and private terrace. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, it provides a refined yet inviting atmosphere, blending residential warmth with the effortless service and exclusivity that define the Explora Journeys experience.
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Dining Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- TV
- Free Wi-Fi
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Bath
- Sofa Bed
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
Ocean Grand Terrace Suite
The Ocean Grand Terrace Suite captures the spirit of modern ocean living. With generous space, a contemporary design aesthetic and an extended private terrace, it offers the ideal balance of indoor comfort and outdoor freedom for guests who appreciate refined relaxation.
- Double or Twin Configuration
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Bath
- Toiletries Provided
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Room Service Available
- Pillow Menu Available
Ocean Terrace Suite
The Ocean Terrace Suite offers refined simplicity and elegant comfort. Featuring a light-filled living area, marble bathroom and spacious private terrace, it provides a peaceful retreat where guests can unwind in style while enjoying the gentle rhythm and endless views of the sea.
- Double or Twin Configuration
- King or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Bath
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
- Toiletries Provided
- Room Service Available
- Suite Benefits
- Free Mini Bar
- Coffee Machine
- Pillow Menu Available
Deck 14
- Sports Court
- Whirlpool
- Sky Bar on 14
- Ocean Wellness Open Air Fitness
Deck 12
- Helios Pool & Bar (Adults Only)
- Running Track
- Infinity Whirlpools
Deck 11
- Explora Lounge Outdoor Area
- Explora Lounge
- Malt Whiskey Bar
- Casino
- Nautilus Club Teens
- Nautilus Club Juniors
- Outdoor Cigar Lounge
- The Conservatory Pool
- Indoor Whirlpools
- Gelateria & Crêperie
- The Conservatory Bar
- Emporium Marketplace Restaurant
- Emporium Marketplace Outdoor Seating Area
Deck 10
- Atoll Pool & Bar
- Grand Penthouse
- Cove Residence with Private Whirlpool
- Premier Penthouse
- Ocean Terrace Suite
- Bridge
Deck 9
- Retreat Residence
- Cove Residence with Private Whirlpool
- Cove Residence
- Grand Penthouse
- Premier Penthouse
- Deluxe Penthouse
- Ocean Terrace Suite
- Penthouse
- Serenity Residence
Deck 8
- Owner’s Residence
- Retreat Residence
- Ocean Terrace Suite
- Cove Residence with Private Whirlpool
- Deluxe Penthouse
- Penthouse
- Premier Penthouse
- Grand Penthouse
Deck 7
- Retreat Residence
- Ocean Grand Terrace Suite
- Ocean Terrace Suite
- Grand Penthouse
- Cove Residence
- Penthouse
- Owner’s Residence
Deck 6
- Ocean Grand Terrace Suite
- Ocean Terrace Suite
- Premier Penthouse
- Grand Penthouse
- Cocoon Residence Penthouse
- Cove Residence with Private Whirlpool
Deck 5
- Astern Pool & Bar
- Sakura Restaurant
- Astern Lounge
- Galleria D’Arte
- MSC Foundation
- Marble & Co. Grill Restaurant
- Anthology Restaurant
- Crema Café
- Chef’s Kitchen
- Ocean Wellness
- Fitness Centre
- The Spa
Deck 4
- Journeys Lounge
- Meeting Rooms
- Guest Services
- Destination Experiences
- Future Journeys
- Shops
- Lobby & Lobby Bar
- Med Yacht Club Restaurant
- Fil Rouge Restaurant
Deck 3
- Medical Centre
Ship features
Explora IV fuses refined European design, innovative sustainability, and all-inclusive indulgence to create an extraordinary ocean experience.
- Fourth ship in the Explora Journeys fleet
- All-suite, all-balcony luxury for 922 guests
- All-inclusive fares with drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities
- Nine globally inspired dining venues
- Five pools with indoor and infinity options
- Spa, wellness centre, and fitness studio
- Dedicated enrichment and destination programmes
- Ocean Residences with private whirlpools
- Ten elegant bars and lounges
- Sustainable hybrid-ready design for cleaner cruising
Accommodation
Accommodation
Explora IV’s suites redefine contemporary seagoing luxury. Each features floor-to-ceiling windows, a private terrace, and a residential aesthetic that merges warmth and modernity. From Ocean Terrace Suites to the grand Owner’s Residence, all offer marble bathrooms, walk-in wardrobes, and bespoke furnishings. Ocean Residences include private whirlpools and butler service, while families benefit from 82 interconnecting suites.
Dining
Dining
Explora IV’s nine restaurants celebrate global flavours through culinary artistry. Signature venues include Anthology, featuring rotating menus by renowned chefs, and Med Yacht Club, offering coastal Mediterranean cuisine. Guests can enjoy Sakura for Asian fusion dishes, Marble & Co. Grill for premium cuts, and Emporium Marketplace for relaxed all-day dining. Each meal is accompanied by sommelier-selected wines and impeccable service.
Amenities
Amenities
Designed to inspire relaxation and discovery, Explora IV offers a choice of elegant social spaces. Guests can enjoy cocktails in the Lobby Bar, browse the curated art gallery, or unwind in the Observation Lounge with panoramic views. Poolside cabanas, boutique shopping, and a whisky and cigar room provide luxurious ways to spend each day at sea.
Spa
Spa
The Ocean Wellness Spa is a sanctuary of calm featuring hydrotherapy pools, saunas, and an ocean-facing relaxation area. Treatments draw on natural marine ingredients, and yoga and Pilates sessions are available both indoors and on the open deck. Guests enjoy complimentary access to the thermal area and fitness suite.
Entertainment
Entertainment
Daytime activities include art workshops, culinary classes, and destination-led talks by guest experts. When night falls, lounges come alive with live music, classical recitals, and intimate performances. The ship’s elegant atmosphere ensures every evening feels relaxed yet sophisticated.
Families
Families
Explora IV is ideal for families seeking space, comfort, and enriching experiences. Interconnecting suites, flexible dining, and multi-generational shore excursions ensure every guest — from grandparents to children — can share the joy of exploration together.



















