Barcelona to Venice - April 2 - 13, 2026 - A Hosted Cruise

Barcelona to Venice - April 2 - 13, 2026 - A Hosted Cruise

from $8,795.00 CAD per based on double occ, subject to change based on availability and promotions Apr 02 , 2026 - Apr 13 , 2025 12 Days Tour

From picture-perfect Barcelona, framed by Gaudi’s wonders, embark on an Easter-time exploration of ancient echoes in historic Naples’ streets, and admire the bustling culture and processions in lively Valetta. Savour the rich flavours of Siracusa, then revel in Corfu’s captivating shores, Kotor’s fairy-tale charm and Brindisi’s Puglian delights before drifting into Split’s Dalmatian paradise. Whirl through the canals and palazzos of Venice, bathing in the liquid gold of the city’s elegance. The month of April is a perfect time to travel in the Mediterranean. The crowds are much smaller, the temperatures remain comfortable and the days are already longer. A perfect time to enjoy this part of the world.

I am thrilled to be confirmed to host an Explora Journeys cruise from Barcelona to Venice in April 2026.  Join me and my husband Peter on this wonderful voyage that includes a number of lesser travelled ports of call throughout the Mediterranean. 

Explora Journeys is a European family owned business.  The family has defied the cruise industry and built ships that are truly different than all the others.  The differences take cruising to a new level of sophistication without being formal.  I will be pleased to chat with you about the features of this incredible cruise line.  Think luxury without fussiness where your travel experience and dollar value align.

The suite pictured here is the entry level suite.  You literally cannot go wrong with the accommodation.  If you look out through to the terrace you will see a bistro table set AND a beautiful two person chaise lounge.  There is also a walk-through closet to a large bathroom with an oversize walk-in shower.  The suites really are like a home away from home.  

 

 

 

Itinerary

Day 1
Apr 01

Barcelona

Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain

You are encouraged to arrive into Barcelona on 1 April 2026 so that you can catch your breath and maybe sample some wonderful Spanish tapas before embarking on the beautiful Explora I ship on 2 April 2026.

Experience the vibrant soul of Catalonia—where energy meets tradition. Wander Gaudi’s Gothic Quarter, sip cava with tapas in sunlit plazas, or relax at a chic beach club. Stroll Passeig de Gracia’s modernist gems and top boutiques. As night falls, join the fiesta in boho bars along La Rambla. For lovers of style and culture, this city dazzles.

 

 

 

Day 2
Apr 02

Day at Sea

Today is a perfect day to explore the Explora I.  Whether you want to enjoy a day of pampering at the spa, or plan your destination experiences, or sample a few of the incredible dining venues you will run out of time to discover all the ship has to offer.

Day 3
Apr 03

Naples, Italy

 

Nestled between Mount Vesuvius and the Phlegraean Fields, Naples is a living museum of Italian culture. Baroque churches, Renaissance palaces, and grand opera houses await, with sweeping Bay of Naples views from Castel Sant’Elmo. Below, ancient tunnels reveal the city’s Roman and Greek roots. Stay longer to explore Pompeii, Herculaneum, or the dreamy Island of Capri.

Day 4
Apr 05

Day at Sea

By now you have found your favourite spot on the stunning Explora I.  Whether you luxuriate in the spa, go for a workout in the very modern and well equipped gym or play some pickleball the ship is your to enjoy.  The ship is so wonderful you may find yourself making excuses to stay on board on port days.

Day 5
Apr 06

Valletta - Travel through Time

Harbour Scene - Valletta, Malta

Step inside honey-hued Valletta, where Malta’s rich past meets vibrant present. Explore ancient temples, wartime tunnels, and museums full of history and art. Sail the Grand Harbour, dine on Michelin-starred cuisine, and dive into shipwrecks. Europe’s tiniest capital is big on charm and surprises.

Ask me about the Hypogeum, a much lesser travelled UNESCO World Heritage Site found in the heart of Valletta.  Hidden behind an unassuming door, you enter into an otherworldly burial complex.  This site has extremely restricted access so requires advance planning.  Due to the exclusiveness of the visits cruise lines are unable to offer this as part of their destination experiences.

 

Day 6
Apr 07

Siracusa, Sicily

 

Soak up Sicily’s rich blend of history, nature, and flavor. Explore Roman cities, Greek temples, and Mount Etna’s lava lands. Visit ancient ruins at Selinunte, marvel at mosaics in Casale, and sip Etna Rosso wines. Unwind in nature, wander Baroque Sciacca, and end with olive oil-drenched pasta. Sicily satisfies every sense.

You will not be able to resist the beautiful hand made ceramics Syracusa is well known for.  Definitely plan to include a bit of shopping for your time in Siracusa if you enjoy beautiful Italian ceramics.  

Day 7
Apr 08

Day at Sea

If you have not already enjoyed the art throughout the ship perhaps this is the day to discover this part of the ship.  Or perhaps take in a talk in the theatre.  Personally you may enjoy some down time in your suite or out on your private terrace.  Or video chat with your cat or dog to let them know you are okay.

Day 8
Apr 09

Corfu, Greece

Corfu Old Town - Corfu, Greece

Embrace the charm of Corfu with stunning Ionian views and timeless landmarks. Stroll through the Old Town, explore the Old Fortress, and relax under the Liston arches. Dine in cozy tavernas, sail on a caique, or ride through pine-strewn hills. From Paleokastritsa’s views to Mount Pantokrator’s icons, this Greek gem never fades.

Day 9
Apr 10

Kotor - The Jewel of the Balkan Fjords

 

Do not miss the sail in to or sail out of Kotor.  This is one of the most beautiful cruise ports you will visit.  Tucked into Montenegro’s Adriatic coast, Kotor Bay enchants with jade waters and emerald hills. Within its fjord-like embrace lies Kotor Old Town—rich in medieval walls, Romanesque churches, and carnival tales. Savor Italian-influenced seafood and gelato, then climb to the Church of Our Lady of Remedy for sweeping views of red-tiled rooftops in this UNESCO treasure.

Day 10
Apr 11

Brindisi, Italy

Truilli Houses, Puglia Region

Brindisi’s historic heart brims with ancient treasures, while nearby gems like Ostuni, Cisternino, and Baroque Lecce add charm. Explore Alberobello’s iconic trulli, unwind in Torre Guaceto’s quiet nature reserve, or sail to Polignano’s sea caves. Taste orecchiette, squid ink gnocchi, and olive oil from Puglia’s 60 million trees—Brindisi is your gateway to the best of the region.

Day 11
Apr 12

Split, Croatia

Split, Croatia

Framed by pine-covered hills, Split spills down to the Adriatic in a sun-soaked blend of history and charm. Explore Diocletian’s Palace, alive with cafes, shops, and everyday life. Sip coffee on the Riva promenade, hike to hilltop parks, or swim at Bacvice Beach as locals play picigin. Embrace fjaka—the sweet art of doing nothing.

Day 12
Apr 13

Fusina (Venice), Italy

Venice, Italy

Whirl through Venice’s rich past and present—explore palaces, galleries, and modern exhibits. Ride a gondola down the Grand Canal, cross arched bridges, and marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. From Murano glass to hidden alleys, Venice is a treasure at every turn.

This is a great place to spend a few days or a great launch point to explore Italy.  Perhaps a leisurely train trip through the Italian countryside into Tuscany or the cosmopolitan city of Milano.  The options are infinite to spend more time in Italy or around Europe.

Below is a link to Explora Journeys Booking Terms & Conditions.  

https://explorajourneys.com/int/en/legal/booking-terms-and-conditions

Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.