6 nights · China · Departs Shanghai (China) · Visiting Naha, Miyakojima Island, Ishigakijima Island, Hong Kong · Aboard MSC Explora Journeys on the MSC Explora 3
Image courtesy of MSC Explora Journeys ©
| Cruise line | MSC Explora Journeys |
|---|---|
| Ship | MSC Explora 3 |
| Duration | 6 nights |
| Port calls | 5 |
| Departures | 1 sailings |
| From fare | $5,160 per person |
| Year built | 2026 |
| Guests | 1473 |
| Cabins | 463 |
| Crew | 640 |
| Length | 268 m |
| Beam | 32 m |
| Cruising speed | 18.0 kn |
Shanghai is a city of striking contrasts, where historic lanes meet a skyline that ranks among the world’s most recognizable. Walk the Bund for views across the Huangpu to Pudong’s soaring towers, then explore the former French Concession’s tree-lined streets. At Yu Garden, classical pavilions and rockeries offer a quieter counterpoint to the city’s pace. Allow time for a meal: Shanghai’s restaurants range from traditional xiaolongbao shops to contemporary kitchens.
Naha is the gateway to Okinawa, where Japan’s subtropical south feels distinct from the mainland. Begin at Shuri Castle, former seat of the Ryukyu Kingdom, now being rebuilt after the 2019 fire. Along Kokusai Street, browse local crafts and taste Okinawan specialties, including bitter melon and sweet-potato treats. For a quieter glimpse of island life, explore Shikinaen, a royal garden with ponds and traditional architecture. Naha rewards curiosity beyond the waterfront.
Miyakojima, in Okinawa’s southern island chain, offers a quieter Japan of sugarcane fields, coral shores and turquoise water. Hirara Port puts the island’s main town, beaches and coastal viewpoints within reach. Cross the 3.5-kilometre Irabu Bridge for sweeping sea views. Yonaha Maehama’s pale sand and clear shallows reward an unhurried stop. Try Miyako soba, then take in the limestone landscape that gives this reef-fringed island its distinctive character.
Ishigaki is the southern gateway to Japan’s Yaeyama Islands, where subtropical forests, coral reefs and clear seas set the pace. From the port, head to Kabira Bay for its jade-green water and glass-bottom boat rides; swimming is prohibited there. Explore Ishigaki Yaima Village for traditional Yaeyama houses, or seek out the island’s limestone cave. Return for grilled Ishigaki beef and Yaeyama soba, two local specialties worth making room for.
Hong Kong is best approached from the water, where the Star Ferry crosses Victoria Harbour beneath a skyline of towers. Ride the Peak Tram for sweeping views of the harbour and surrounding islands. In Central, colonial landmarks stand beside glass towers; across the harbour, Kowloon’s markets and temples offer a different pace. Cantonese kitchens range from dim sum teahouses to polished dining rooms. Leave time for the harbour after dark, when the city’s lights come into focus.
Published September 8, 2026
Last updated October 3, 2026
Author: J. Richard
Good to know: Prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. Availability and prices can change quickly, so please continue through the booking process to confirm the latest availability and pricing before you pay.
We work hard to make sure everything on this website is accurate and up to date. However, some information may be incomplete or inaccurate, including details supplied by third parties or otherwise outside our control, and we cannot be held responsible for such errors. We work with 41 cruise line operators, that are providing cruises on 585 ships visiting 1,731 ports across 7,194 unique cruises, creating 13,822 itineraries. This is a great deal of data to continually update daily from our suppliers. If a pricing error, misrepresentation, or omission occurs, we reserve the right to adjust the pricing, correct the information, or cancel or decline any booking made in error, with notice to you. Thank you for your understanding!
