Explora Journeys is cancelling its itineraries in the Middle East scheduled for the 2027-28 winter season.

According to a statement sent to booked guests, the decision is part of a review of the company’s overall deployment plans for that period.

The Explora I was scheduled to sail in the region, offering itineraries to the Arabian Gulf and neighboring countries between November 2027 and February 2028.

After entering service in late 2027, the Explora V was also scheduled to sail in the Middle East, operating a short season in the Red Sea between late January and mid-March 2028.

Explora said the decision follows “a careful review of deployment plans for the winter 2027-28 season” and takes into account the evolving situation in the region.

According to the company, the Explora I will be redeployed to South America, while the Explora V will offer itineraries in the Mediterranean.

“This decision has been taken well in advance and reflects our commitment to providing guests and travel advisors with clarity and confidence as they plan their future Journeys,” the company said.

“The Arabian Gulf and Red Sea remain destinations of strong interest to our guests, and we look forward to sailing in the region in the future,” Explora added.

The company noted that the new schedules for the ships will be announced and open for reservations on September 9, 2026.

Bookings for the itineraries in the Middle East and the Red Sea will be automatically cancelled, with passengers set to receive a full refund of the cruise fare.

As a token of appreciation, Explora is also offering a future cruise credit of 250 euros per person, for up to two guests, redeemable on any new booking made within a year.

The cancellation follows a similar move from MSC Cruises, which announced plans to withdraw the MSC World Europa from the Middle East in 2027-28.

According to a recent press release, the LNG-powered vessel will now remain in the Western Mediterranean for the winter season.