A Grand Journey From Rainforest Peaks To Japan’s Scenic Coastal Vistas

Surrounded by mountains, vibrant Vancouver is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and cosmopolitan adventurers alike. Meandering oceanside pathways surround eclectic neighbourhoods – Stanley Park, the West End, Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown. A major global city, it is renowned for its cultural diversity and thriving art, theatre, music and food scenes. Its perfectly picturesque setting makes it popular filming location – with old-growth cedar forests, mountains covering 75% and two-thirds of Canada's bird species and land mammals. A big, bustling city perched on the edge of wilderness.

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.

In Ketchikan, we step back into thousands years of history and discover a landscape that is alive beneath our feet and find moose and mountain goats, brown bears and black-tailed deer; a micro world that reminds us what it is to be wild and free. First steps lead to the picturesque Creek Street Historic District, where bridges cross creeks teeming with salmon during spawning season.

Thrills go far beyond: soar in a seaplane to Misty Fjords National Monument, a seldom‑seen American national treasure with awe‑inspiring topography of sheer walls of granite plunging 3,000 feet into the fjords, lush forests of spruce, hemlock, and cedar clinging to snowcapped peaks of rugged grandeur. Scout some of the oldest and most beloved Totems of indigenous Tlingit and Haida people.

Fishing is famous; whale and wildlife sightings are epic; stories of battles between Russian fur traders and Tlingit are legendary. Lace up your hiking shoes, for Sitka won't let you down with its vast wilderness of volcanoes, mountain forests, islands and glaciers. Seek scenic walking trails amongst rocketing Tlingit and Haida totem poles. Flock to the Raptor Center, where eagles, owls, and hawks are restored to health. Kayak Sitka Sound, witness former WWII installations, spy dormant Mount Edgecumbe through percolating clouds, then ponder the peace within the blue-domed St. Michael's Russian Orthodox Cathedral, where Russia officially handed over the reign of Sitka to the United States.

Massive and magical, Hubbard is considered the mother-of-all tidewater glaciers in North America. Taller than a 30-storey building (above water). Larger than the state of Rhode Island. The marvel is also the most active, with ice chunks regularly sloughing off in massive dimensions. The thunderous roar of cracking ice echoes against a stellar backdrop with five of the ten tallest peaks in America. The most magical moment you'll ever enjoy on deck.

Big nature and bigger adventures await in Seward, where the crack of calving glaciers and shrill cry of seabirds form the soundtrack of the Alaskan wilderness. Look out for waterspouts and tailfins on sublime sailings in Kenai Fjords National Park, a coastal masterpiece of epic icefields and tufted puffins nesting among shale cliffs. Explore past glacial waterfalls, conquer the heart-pounding trail to Harding Icefield or gentle loop around Exit Glacier. Find breathtaking views of Resurrection Bay, the dramatic fjord of deep, glacial waters and towering cliffs leading up to Seward.

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.

In eastern Hokkaido, Kushiro offers open skies, pristine wetlands and rare wildlife. Red‑crowned cranes glide over reed-filled plains and dance on snow in winter, while Lake Akan reflects the forested hills and cradles mysterious marimo algae. From the Hosooka Observatory, sweeping views of the winding Kushiro River stretch to the horizon, and nearby Lake Mashu, one of the world's clearest lakes, rests in serene volcanic embrace. Back in town, seafood markets bustle, sunsets blaze across Nusamai Bridge and Ainu culture enriches this tranquil corner of Japan.

Aomori blends deep tradition with striking natural beauty on Japan's northern tip. The Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse showcases the artistry and energy of the region's famous illuminated floats year-round, while the Sannai-Maruyama Site reveals life from the 5,500‑year-old Jomon period. Just an hour away, Hirosaki Castle charms in every season, framed by gardens and views of Mount Iwaki. Fresh seafood markets and sweeping vistas over Mutsu Bay complete Aomori's mix of culture, history and quiet charm.

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.

Tokyo's rhythm is one of striking contrasts - centuries-old shrines and neon-lit streets, serene gardens and buzzing crossings. Sensō-ji Temple welcomes visitors to the historic heart of Asakusa, while Meiji Shrine lies quietly in a forested sanctuary between fashionable Harajuku and Omotesandō. Shibuya Crossing pulses with energy, Akihabara glows with pop culture, and food lovers delight in Tsukiji's vibrant market. From the towering Skytree to Ueno Park's spring cherry blossoms, Tokyo captures timeless tradition wrapped in modern wonder.

Shimizu offers one of Japan's most iconic views - Mount Fuji framed by sea and pine groves. At Kunozan Toshogu Shrine, ornate carvings honour Tokugawa Ieyasu, while Miho-no-Matsubara's legendary pine forest and sweeping shoreline create a UNESCO-protected landscape. Fresh seafood abounds at Kashi-no-Ichi Market, connecting you to the port'ss maritime roots. Shimizu is a gateway to natural beauty, rich history and the enduring spirit of coastal Japan.

Kobe is a city where mountains meet the sea, blending natural beauty with cosmopolitan flair. Stroll along the lively waterfront of Meriken Park, framed by striking modern architecture and views of the harbour. Ride the cable car up Mount Rokko for sweeping panoramas and serene garden trails, or step back in time in the preserved streets of Kitano Ijinkan, once home to foreign merchants. And, of course, savour the city's culinary pride—world‑famous Kobe beef, celebrated for its unmatched tenderness and flavour.

Kochi celebrates samurai heritage and natural splendour. Its Edo-period castle remains one of Japan's few originals, while Chikurin-ji Temple exudes spiritual calm on Mount Godai. Katsurahama Beach offers sweeping Pacific views, watched over by a bronze statue of local hero Sakamoto Ryoma. In Hirome Market, friendly vendors serve fresh katsuo no tataki, and Cape Muroto's volcanic cliffs and sea-carved formations showcase nature's raw artistry. Kochi balances history, coastal beauty and a warm, welcoming culture.

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.

Busan fuses culture, nature and modern energy along South Korea's southern coast. The cliffside Haedong Yonggungsa Temple offers serene ocean views, while Gamcheon Culture Village, with its brightly painted houses and murals, inspires endless exploration. Nearby, Gyeongju's ancient temples and tombs reveal the "museum without walls." Whether sipping tea in a quiet temple or wandering bustling markets, Busan invites you to experience Korea's warmth and vibrant coastal spirit in every season.

Nagasaki'ss story is one of resilience, openness and beauty. Peace Park and the Atomic Bomb Museum stand as solemn reminders of 1945, while Gunkanjima'ss abandoned island structures recall industrial might. Yet life blooms anew, with sweeping harbour views from Mount Inasa and lively international influences in its streets and cuisine. Nagasaki is history, reflection and renewal intertwined.

Kagoshima stirs beneath the smoking presence of Sakurajima volcano, a dramatic backdrop to serene bays and elegant gardens. At Sengan-en, once home to the Shimadzu clan, landscaped beauty frames unforgettable views. Just beyond, Ibusuki Onsen offers unique sand baths for deep relaxation. Blending volcanic power, historic estates and natural wonder, Kagoshima delivers drama and tranquillity in equal measure.

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.

Tokyo's rhythm is one of striking contrasts - centuries-old shrines and neon-lit streets, serene gardens and buzzing crossings. Sensō-ji Temple welcomes visitors to the historic heart of Asakusa, while Meiji Shrine lies quietly in a forested sanctuary between fashionable Harajuku and Omotesandō. Shibuya Crossing pulses with energy, Akihabara glows with pop culture, and food lovers delight in Tsukiji's vibrant market. From the towering Skytree to Ueno Park's spring cherry blossoms, Tokyo captures timeless tradition wrapped in modern wonder.