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Explora Journeys has canceled its 2027-28 cruises in the Middle East, citing the evolving situation in the region.
In a statement sent to booked guests, the company said it is redeploying Explora V to the Mediterranean and Explora I to South America instead.
"Following a careful review of our deployment plans for the winter 2027-28 season and taking into account the evolving situation in the Middle East region, we have decided to redeploy Explora V to the Mediterranean and Explora I to South America," the email stated.
Set to debut in December 2027, Explora V was scheduled to join Explora I in operating itineraries through Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Bahrain.
Explora said the decision was made well in advance to give guests and travel advisors more time to plan their future cruises, adding that new sailings will be announced and open for bookings on September 9, 2026.
"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 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.
The cruise line is contacting affected guests directly, with refunds issued to the original form of payment.
As a token of appreciation, Explora is offering a future cruise credit of EUR 250 per guest, for up to two guests per suite, redeemable within one year on any new voyage.
The move comes as MSC Cruises also changed its plans for the region, keeping MSC World Europa in the Mediterranean instead of the Middle East in 2027-28.
The cancellation has prompted a discussion in the Cruise Critic community, with many saying the changes were disappointing but expected.
"I've got to be honest...I'm not really sure why anyone WOULDN'T expect this to be highly likely given the current situation. Annoying for someone who booked it, absolutely. Surprising, not at all," wrote one member.
Another cruiser responded to the news: "Was expecting this, hopefully will be something we like when new itineraries are announced."
One cruiser, who had booked a Dubai sailing, welcomed the early notice, stating: "I am glad they cleared this early and will be happy to use the OBC."
Some suggested the cancellations may have been driven by weak bookings, but welcomed the €250 credit.
"I personally feel that the cancellations are jumping the gun and probably based on poor sales," said little britain. "We were looking to swap the cruise to a different itinerary anyway later in the year so being given €250pp is just icing on the cake!"
