A Journey Across the Caribbean’s Colourful Heart

7 nights Nov 13, 2027

The A Journey Across the Caribbean’s Colourful Heart is a 7-night Central America cruise aboard EXPLORA IV, operated by Explora Journeys. Departing San Juan, Puerto Rico on November 13, 2027, the voyage visits 7 ports. Fares start from $4,020 per person.

Itinerary

Day 1 Nov 13, 2027 San Juan, Puerto Rico Departs 18:00 Blessed with some of the oldest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, San Juan, Puerto Rico’s cap-ital, is romantically charming with its bright pastel Spanish colonial facades, wrought-iron balconies abloom with flowers, narrow cobblestone streets and beloved park squares. Once you arrive on an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise at the port, explore Old San Juan (Viejo San Juan), a UNESCO World Heritage district, widely renowned for the fortresses of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Castillo San Cristóbal. The old town occupies the headland of a 2.5-mile-long island (connected by bridge to the mainland) that shelters San Juan Bay, for centuries a key port in the New World. It was originally known as Puerto Rico, or “rich port,” because its location made it the perfect stop for shipping. Several MSC excursions offer walking tours that let you soak up amazing views of San Juan, while making cultural discoveries of a lifetime. Wander through the old town along the Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan’s oldest tree-lined avenue; head up its southern city wall, La Muralla, which until the late 19th century encircled all of Old San Juan with sandstone; and tour the 16th-century fortress of El Morro, with its six different lines of defence. Take a coffee-tasting walking tour to explore Puerto Rico’s rich coffee culture, and learn how the island’s rich volcanic soil and climate have contributed to the rise of coffee as one of its main crops. Taste a delicious cup of freshly brewed Puerto Rican café con leche, learn about the island's historical ties with the caffeine-rich beverage, and explore how coffee and the church are connected on this MSC excursion through the streets of Old San Juan. Or savour San Juan’s culinary delights, in a Martha Stewart excursion curated exclusively for MSC that will have you tasting local cuisine and drinks at five destinations along the route through the fortified colonial city. From Puerto Rican fritters at historic El Convento Hotel, to chocolate tasting at a fourth-generation chocolatier, you won’t want to miss this tour, which ends at La Casita de Rones for a rum lesson and a piña colada, the national drink of Puerto Rico. With more than 80% of the world's rum coming from Puerto Rico, delve deeper into the spirit on an MSC excursion to Casa Bacardí in the town of Cataño. Discover the story behind Bacardí’s legendary cocktails, sniff the products on display and learn about the rum-making process including wood barrelling, ageing and finishing. For the grand finale, enjoy a fascinating mixology show. Nature lovers will not want to miss a visit to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. territory and one of Puerto Rico's finest spots of natural beauty. Marvel at its small horsetail waterfalls, giant ferns and tropical hardwoods. For an enchanting experience, kayak into the enchanting bioluminescent bay at Laguna Grande of Fajardo on another MSC excursion. Under the blanket of the night sky and the lighthouse of Fajardo, paddle through the water and watch it glow with the bioluminescence of millions and millions of tiny organisms. Go to San Juan, Puerto Rico Cruises visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico

San Juan, Puerto Rico photo — Day 1 Nov 13, 2027 San Juan, Puerto Rico Departs 18:00 Blessed with some of the oldest buildings in the Western Hemisphere, San Juan, Puerto Rico’s cap-ital, is romantically charming with its bright pastel Spanish colonial facades, wrought-iron balconies abloom with flowers, narrow cobblestone streets and beloved park squares. Once you arrive on an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise at the port, explore Old San Juan (Viejo San Juan), a UNESCO World Heritage district, widely renowned for the fortresses of Castillo San Felipe del Morro and the Castillo San Cristóbal. The old town occupies the headland of a 2.5-mile-long island (connected by bridge to the mainland) that shelters San Juan Bay, for centuries a key port in the New World. It was originally known as Puerto Rico, or “rich port,” because its location made it the perfect stop for shipping. Several MSC excursions offer walking tours that let you soak up amazing views of San Juan, while making cultural discoveries of a lifetime. Wander through the old town along the Paseo de la Princesa, San Juan’s oldest tree-lined avenue; head up its southern city wall, La Muralla, which until the late 19th century encircled all of Old San Juan with sandstone; and tour the 16th-century fortress of El Morro, with its six different lines of defence. Take a coffee-tasting walking tour to explore Puerto Rico’s rich coffee culture, and learn how the island’s rich volcanic soil and climate have contributed to the rise of coffee as one of its main crops. Taste a delicious cup of freshly brewed Puerto Rican café con leche, learn about the island's historical ties with the caffeine-rich beverage, and explore how coffee and the church are connected on this MSC excursion through the streets of Old San Juan. Or savour San Juan’s culinary delights, in a Martha Stewart excursion curated exclusively for MSC that will have you tasting local cuisine and drinks at five destinations along the route through the fortified colonial city. From Puerto Rican fritters at historic El Convento Hotel, to chocolate tasting at a fourth-generation chocolatier, you won’t want to miss this tour, which ends at La Casita de Rones for a rum lesson and a piña colada, the national drink of Puerto Rico. With more than 80% of the world's rum coming from Puerto Rico, delve deeper into the spirit on an MSC excursion to Casa Bacardí in the town of Cataño. Discover the story behind Bacardí’s legendary cocktails, sniff the products on display and learn about the rum-making process including wood barrelling, ageing and finishing. For the grand finale, enjoy a fascinating mixology show. Nature lovers will not want to miss a visit to El Yunque, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. territory and one of Puerto Rico's finest spots of natural beauty. Marvel at its small horsetail waterfalls, giant ferns and tropical hardwoods. For an enchanting experience, kayak into the enchanting bioluminescent bay at Laguna Grande of Fajardo on another MSC excursion. Under the blanket of the night sky and the lighthouse of Fajardo, paddle through the water and watch it glow with the bioluminescence of millions and millions of tiny organisms. Go to San Juan, Puerto Rico Cruises visiting San Juan, Puerto Rico

Day 2 Nov 14, 2027 Charlotte Amalie 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore During an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands, experience the spectacular beauty of St. Thomas as you encounter colonial history, panoramic mountaintop views and some of the top-rated beaches in the world. Disembark in the capital of Charlotte Amalie, where the streets and places still bear Danish names and its history of pirates remains visible to this day. Experience the charming historic district of the Kongens (King's) Quarter on an MSC excursion that explores the former centre of Danish colonial enterprise and visit several National Landmark Properties and historical manor homes including Villa Notman, Britannia House, Crown House, Haagensen House and Hotel 1829. Visit the landmark 99 Steps - perhaps the most famous step street built by the Danish using bricks brought in European ships as ballast. These will lead you to the famous 17th-century Blackbeard’s Castle, where you will get a chance to step back into the age of the Caribbean pirates while admiring stunning views. Edward Teach, a.k.a. Blackbeard, inspected the bays of the island from the castle’s observation tower, the Skytsborg, which is the oldest structure on the Virgin Islands at more than 300 years old. A Charlotte Amalie cruise lets you explore Drake's Seat, another scenic overlook from which you can admire all of the Virgin Islands, both the U.S. and the British. On a clear day, you can even see Puerto Rico from Drake’s Seat. To bring out your inner pirate, hop on a pirate schooner, manned by a friendly motley crew, in search of wildlife, snorkelling and beach fun. An MSC excursion that’s great for the whole family, this pirate adventure includes a personal “pirate” tattoo, a turn at the helm as an honorary captain and an eye-patch for the kids. Or let us whisk you to away to the beach at idyllic Magens Bay, once named by National Geo-graphic as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Slightly tucked away from view, this immaculate sandy beach is framed by palm trees, turquoise water and green hills and is the perfect spot to sunbathe and snorkel. For something special, join an MSC excursion to neighbouring St. John and the charming town of Cruz Bay. After a short scenic sail, board an open-air safari-style bus to explore the ruggedly beautiful St. John with a quick stop or two to enjoy the spectacular views en route to Trunk Bay, Waterlemon Cay and Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins, followed by a beach and snorkelling experience. Then taste some authentic West Indian fare and experience coal pot cooking on an exclusive Martha Stewart excursion that blends cuisine, culture, and the best sites of St. John all into one tour. Go to Charlotte Amalie Cruises visiting Charlotte Amalie

Charlotte Amalie photo — Day 2 Nov 14, 2027 Charlotte Amalie 08:00 – 17:00 9.0 hrs ashore During an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise to the U.S. Virgin Islands, experience the spectacular beauty of St. Thomas as you encounter colonial history, panoramic mountaintop views and some of the top-rated beaches in the world. Disembark in the capital of Charlotte Amalie, where the streets and places still bear Danish names and its history of pirates remains visible to this day. Experience the charming historic district of the Kongens (King's) Quarter on an MSC excursion that explores the former centre of Danish colonial enterprise and visit several National Landmark Properties and historical manor homes including Villa Notman, Britannia House, Crown House, Haagensen House and Hotel 1829. Visit the landmark 99 Steps - perhaps the most famous step street built by the Danish using bricks brought in European ships as ballast. These will lead you to the famous 17th-century Blackbeard’s Castle, where you will get a chance to step back into the age of the Caribbean pirates while admiring stunning views. Edward Teach, a.k.a. Blackbeard, inspected the bays of the island from the castle’s observation tower, the Skytsborg, which is the oldest structure on the Virgin Islands at more than 300 years old. A Charlotte Amalie cruise lets you explore Drake's Seat, another scenic overlook from which you can admire all of the Virgin Islands, both the U.S. and the British. On a clear day, you can even see Puerto Rico from Drake’s Seat. To bring out your inner pirate, hop on a pirate schooner, manned by a friendly motley crew, in search of wildlife, snorkelling and beach fun. An MSC excursion that’s great for the whole family, this pirate adventure includes a personal “pirate” tattoo, a turn at the helm as an honorary captain and an eye-patch for the kids. Or let us whisk you to away to the beach at idyllic Magens Bay, once named by National Geo-graphic as one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Slightly tucked away from view, this immaculate sandy beach is framed by palm trees, turquoise water and green hills and is the perfect spot to sunbathe and snorkel. For something special, join an MSC excursion to neighbouring St. John and the charming town of Cruz Bay. After a short scenic sail, board an open-air safari-style bus to explore the ruggedly beautiful St. John with a quick stop or two to enjoy the spectacular views en route to Trunk Bay, Waterlemon Cay and Annaberg Sugar Plantation ruins, followed by a beach and snorkelling experience. Then taste some authentic West Indian fare and experience coal pot cooking on an exclusive Martha Stewart excursion that blends cuisine, culture, and the best sites of St. John all into one tour. Go to Charlotte Amalie Cruises visiting Charlotte Amalie

Day 4 Nov 16, 2027 Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic 09:00 – 17:00 8.0 hrs ashore Christopher Columbus dubbed the peak overlooking the town Monte de Plata due to the silvery hue of its cloud cover, but the region is actually best known for its abundant amber deposits. View ancient fossils and insects encased for millions of years in this translucent, hardened sap at the Amber Museum, stroll among vividly painted Victorian mansions and then take a cable car to the 2,600-foot summit of Pico Isabel de Torres for glorious views of the entire Amber Coast. At the superbly preserved 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe, look out to sea and imagine an onslaught of pirates eager to plunder the town’s treasures. Fortunately, today you need not cannonade Puerto Plata from a frigate to access its myriad attractions. Go to Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic Cruises visiting Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic

Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic photo — Day 4 Nov 16, 2027 Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic 09:00 – 17:00 8.0 hrs ashore Christopher Columbus dubbed the peak overlooking the town Monte de Plata due to the silvery hue of its cloud cover, but the region is actually best known for its abundant amber deposits. View ancient fossils and insects encased for millions of years in this translucent, hardened sap at the Amber Museum, stroll among vividly painted Victorian mansions and then take a cable car to the 2,600-foot summit of Pico Isabel de Torres for glorious views of the entire Amber Coast. At the superbly preserved 16th-century Fortaleza San Felipe, look out to sea and imagine an onslaught of pirates eager to plunder the town’s treasures. Fortunately, today you need not cannonade Puerto Plata from a frigate to access its myriad attractions. Go to Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic Cruises visiting Puerto Plata/Dominican Republic

Day 6 Nov 18, 2027 Key West 09:00 – 17:00 8.0 hrs ashore If viewed from afar, Key West seems to float amid a large expanse of sky and sea. An MSC Cruise will take you right to the southernmost point of the United States, in the Sunshine State, a land of sun-seekers and wild beaches. About 150 km from Cuba, an MSC cruise in the Caribbean and the Antilles is an opportunity to admire the crystal clear waters surrounding Key West, a strip of land just a few kilometers from Miami. The Spaniards nicknamed it "Island of Bones", because here the indigenous people buried their deceased loved ones. Connected to the mainland by bridges, Key West is literally a paradise that offers a breathtaking panorama and stages an ancient culture and history. Enjoy the sunset at Mallory Square and get lost in Duval street, one of the liveliest streets of the city, with shops, clubs and restaurants, and you won't ever want to leave. It is no coincidence that the likes of Harry S. Truman, Tennessee Williams and Ernest Hemingway decided to reside here. Don’t miss the chance to visit the residence of Hemingway himself: An MSC excursion will take you inside the villa, now a museum, where the writer lived for about ten years. A dive into his life: the paintings, the typewriter, the kitchen and every corner that the writer shared with his second wife Pauline Pfeiffer. During his stay in Key West, Hemingway wrote his novel The Old Man and the Sea, winner of a Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize. When in Key West, a visit to the sea is a must. With an MSC excursion it is possible to see its depths, from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat, built to admire the different varieties of colorful fish that populate the Atlantic Ocean. For adventure lovers, the ideal is an MSC kayak excursion. A unique experience through coral reefs and mangroves: experienced professionals will guide you in search of fish, birds, turtles and, if you're lucky, even barracudas and manta rays. Go to Key West Cruises visiting Key West

Key West photo — Day 6 Nov 18, 2027 Key West 09:00 – 17:00 8.0 hrs ashore If viewed from afar, Key West seems to float amid a large expanse of sky and sea. An MSC Cruise will take you right to the southernmost point of the United States, in the Sunshine State, a land of sun-seekers and wild beaches. About 150 km from Cuba, an MSC cruise in the Caribbean and the Antilles is an opportunity to admire the crystal clear waters surrounding Key West, a strip of land just a few kilometers from Miami. The Spaniards nicknamed it "Island of Bones", because here the indigenous people buried their deceased loved ones. Connected to the mainland by bridges, Key West is literally a paradise that offers a breathtaking panorama and stages an ancient culture and history. Enjoy the sunset at Mallory Square and get lost in Duval street, one of the liveliest streets of the city, with shops, clubs and restaurants, and you won't ever want to leave. It is no coincidence that the likes of Harry S. Truman, Tennessee Williams and Ernest Hemingway decided to reside here. Don’t miss the chance to visit the residence of Hemingway himself: An MSC excursion will take you inside the villa, now a museum, where the writer lived for about ten years. A dive into his life: the paintings, the typewriter, the kitchen and every corner that the writer shared with his second wife Pauline Pfeiffer. During his stay in Key West, Hemingway wrote his novel The Old Man and the Sea, winner of a Pulitzer Prize and the Nobel Prize. When in Key West, a visit to the sea is a must. With an MSC excursion it is possible to see its depths, from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat, built to admire the different varieties of colorful fish that populate the Atlantic Ocean. For adventure lovers, the ideal is an MSC kayak excursion. A unique experience through coral reefs and mangroves: experienced professionals will guide you in search of fish, birds, turtles and, if you're lucky, even barracudas and manta rays. Go to Key West Cruises visiting Key West

Day 7 Nov 19, 2027 Ocean Cay 09:00 – 21:00 12.0 hrs ashore Wander into the reality of a serene Bahamian dream. Alluring, exclusive and eco-friendly, an escape to this island marine reserve is possibly the world’s most coveted invite. Slowly snorkel, gently paddle board or glide over aquamarine waters by boat. Wonder at marine life and nature in its natural habitat, visit the marina, lighthouse, lagoon and pastel-hued buildings. Recline for a beachside massage, settle into a lazy lunch, sip endless rum cocktails and sink into powdery white sands cooled by the soothing sways of palm leaves. If paradise was packaged, this island might be the finest gift. Go to Ocean Cay Cruises visiting Ocean Cay

Ocean Cay photo — Day 7 Nov 19, 2027 Ocean Cay 09:00 – 21:00 12.0 hrs ashore Wander into the reality of a serene Bahamian dream. Alluring, exclusive and eco-friendly, an escape to this island marine reserve is possibly the world’s most coveted invite. Slowly snorkel, gently paddle board or glide over aquamarine waters by boat. Wonder at marine life and nature in its natural habitat, visit the marina, lighthouse, lagoon and pastel-hued buildings. Recline for a beachside massage, settle into a lazy lunch, sip endless rum cocktails and sink into powdery white sands cooled by the soothing sways of palm leaves. If paradise was packaged, this island might be the finest gift. Go to Ocean Cay Cruises visiting Ocean Cay

Day 8 Nov 20, 2027 Miami, Florida Arrives 08:00 Miami is called the gateway to the Americas, and it’s indeed a very glamourous global city to explore at the start or end of an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise. Home to many cultures, the city of Miami sizzles with flavours from the Americas, beginning with Cuba and the Little Havana neighbourhood - one of the most historically significant places, while Wynwood is famous for its wall art and Puerto Rican history. Across Biscayne Bay lies the city of Miami Beach, home to the world-famous South Beach. An MSC-arranged guided private tour opens up a world of possibilities for you: enjoy the beach, take in the city’s Art Deco architecture and enjoy a drink on legendary Ocean Drive, where you can people watch, and perhaps spot a celebrity. If time permits, take a stroll on artsy Lincoln Road packed with street side cafes and shops. Facing the MSC Cruises port in downtown Miami is Bayside Marketplace - a lively commercial centre that is a staging area for boat tours of Miami. Seeing the city from the water, with its impressive skyline and waterfront mansions, is an experience in itself. The downtown area also boasts the dazzling Performing Arts Centre, the Museum of Science, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (known as the PAMM), scenic Bayfront Park and the arena where the 3-time NBA champion Miami Heat basketball team plays. Miami is renowned for its shopping. Hop on a tour to see the major city sights followed by retail therapy at one of Miami's largest and newest shopping malls: Dolphin Mall. With more than 240 retail outlets, you’re bound to need a bit of room in your luggage for your purchases. Luckily, there are several luggage stores at the mall to fill that need. Head west past the city into untamed wilderness on an MSC excursion into the Everglades. At this national park where water is the central feature, unlike any other in North America, nature enthusiasts can hop on an airboat tour through the swampland and waterways to spot alligators and a variety of birds. Go to Miami, Florida Cruises visiting Miami, Florida

Miami, Florida photo — Day 8 Nov 20, 2027 Miami, Florida Arrives 08:00 Miami is called the gateway to the Americas, and it’s indeed a very glamourous global city to explore at the start or end of an MSC Caribbean and Antilles cruise. Home to many cultures, the city of Miami sizzles with flavours from the Americas, beginning with Cuba and the Little Havana neighbourhood - one of the most historically significant places, while Wynwood is famous for its wall art and Puerto Rican history. Across Biscayne Bay lies the city of Miami Beach, home to the world-famous South Beach. An MSC-arranged guided private tour opens up a world of possibilities for you: enjoy the beach, take in the city’s Art Deco architecture and enjoy a drink on legendary Ocean Drive, where you can people watch, and perhaps spot a celebrity. If time permits, take a stroll on artsy Lincoln Road packed with street side cafes and shops. Facing the MSC Cruises port in downtown Miami is Bayside Marketplace - a lively commercial centre that is a staging area for boat tours of Miami. Seeing the city from the water, with its impressive skyline and waterfront mansions, is an experience in itself. The downtown area also boasts the dazzling Performing Arts Centre, the Museum of Science, the Pérez Art Museum Miami (known as the PAMM), scenic Bayfront Park and the arena where the 3-time NBA champion Miami Heat basketball team plays. Miami is renowned for its shopping. Hop on a tour to see the major city sights followed by retail therapy at one of Miami's largest and newest shopping malls: Dolphin Mall. With more than 240 retail outlets, you’re bound to need a bit of room in your luggage for your purchases. Luckily, there are several luggage stores at the mall to fill that need. Head west past the city into untamed wilderness on an MSC excursion into the Everglades. At this national park where water is the central feature, unlike any other in North America, nature enthusiasts can hop on an airboat tour through the swampland and waterways to spot alligators and a variety of birds. Go to Miami, Florida Cruises visiting Miami, Florida

Pricing

Lowest fare we've tracked over the observed 89-day span: $3,915 · range $3,915–$4,020

Current prices

Per person · 2 guests · incl. taxes & fees

Inside

Not available

Oceanview

Not available

Balcony

Not available

Suite

from $4,020

$574 / night

Fare rows

Ocean Terrace Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,020

$574 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Ocean Terrace Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,200

$600 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Ocean Terrace Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,415

$630 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Ocean Terrace Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,665

$666 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Ocean Grand Terrace Suite

Cabin grade

Available

from $4,875

$696 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Penthouse

Cabin grade

Available

from $5,415

$773 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Deluxe Penthouse

Cabin grade

Available

from $5,625

$803 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Premier Penthouse

Cabin grade

Available

from $8,150

$1,164 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Grand Penthouse

Cabin grade

Available

from $9,600

$1,371 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Cove Residence

Cabin grade

Available

from $10,700

$1,528 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Cove Residence with Whirpool

Cabin grade

Available

from $11,250

$1,607 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Retreat Residence

Cabin grade

Available

from $12,700

$1,814 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Serenity Residence

Cabin grade

Available

from $22,550

$3,221 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Cocoon Residence

Cabin grade

Available

from $25,350

$3,621 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Owner's Residence

Cabin grade

Available

from $56,350

$8,050 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Owner's Residence

Cabin grade

Available

from $62,000

$8,857 / night

per person · incl. taxes

Prices verified Jun 21, 2026

Prices come from third-party data feeds via Explora Journeys and may differ from the cruise line's current fare. Confirm the final price before booking. How our pricing works

All cabin grades (16) Detailed cabin specs available at booking.

Name	Supplier code	Type
Cove Residence	CO1	Suite
Cove Residence with Whirpool	COJ	Suite
Cocoon Residence	CR	Suite
Deluxe Penthouse	DP	Suite
Grand Penthouse	GP	Suite
Ocean Grand Terrace Suite	GT	Suite
Owner's Residence	OR1	Suite
Owner's Residence	OR2	Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite	OT1	Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite	OT2	Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite	OT3	Suite
Ocean Terrace Suite	OT4	Suite
Penthouse	PH	Suite
Premier Penthouse	PP	Suite
Retreat Residence	RR	Suite
Serenity Residence	SR	Suite

Ship

Your ship EXPLORA IV 5★ **72,810** GT **892** guests EXPLORA IV is the latest LNG-powered ship in our fleet, reflecting our continued commitment to decarbonising our marine operations and reducing environmental impact. A sanctuary of space and serenity, EXPLORA IV invites guests to reconnect – with themselves, the ocean, and the world around them. Go to EXPLORA IV Cruises on EXPLORA IV

A Journey Across the Caribbean’s Colourful Heart

Itinerary

Pricing

Current prices

Inside

Oceanview

Balcony

Suite

Price history

Ship

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