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Travel is the only thing

You buy, makes you richer.

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The best view comes after

The hardest climb, travel tends to magnify, human emotions, travel brings power & love, back to your life, don't call it a dream, call it a plan.

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Welcome to our Prime Explorer Tourism

Enjoy your dream vocation with us. our prime explorer tourism is safe way to reach your destination.

At Prime Explorer Tourism, we believe that travel is more than just visiting new places; it's about creating lasting memories and meaningful connections. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous trek through the mountains, or a cultural exploration of vibrant cities, we have the expertise to design the perfect itinerary for you.

Our team of experienced travel professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional service and personalized attention every step of the way. From the moment you contact us to the end of your journey, we strive to exceed your expectations and ensure a seamless and unforgettable travel experience.

Prime Explorer Tourism

Welcome to Prime Explorer Tourism, your premier destination for unforgettable travel experiences. As expert tour planners, we specialize in crafting tailor-made journeys that immerse you in the wonders of the world.

Accomodation

Discover the perfect accommodation with Prime Explorer Tourism. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, we have something for every traveler. Relax and enjoy your journey with us.

Transportation

Explore worry-free with Prime Explorer Tourism. We've got your transportation needs covered, from private transfers to guided tours. Enjoy the journey hassle-free.

Travel Guides

Explore with confidence with Prime Explorer Tourism's expert travel guides. Uncover hidden gems and local favorites for an unforgettable journey.

Best Locations

Discover the best locations with Prime Explorer Tourism. From breathtaking natural wonders to culturally rich cities, we'll guide you to the most unforgettable destinations.

Travel with peace of mind with Prime Explorer Tourism's comprehensive insurance coverage. We prioritize your safety and well-being throughout your journey, ensuring you have a worry-free experience.

Prime Explorer Tourism prioritizes your safety for every trip. With thorough planning and expert guidance, we ensure your journey is not just memorable, but also safe and secure.

Domestic Tour Destinations

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Popular Packages

Sogran siripaye.

• Per Person : PKR 9,000
• For Couple : PKR 20,000

MALAM JABBA

• For Couple : PKR 20,000.
• Per Person : PKR 13,000
• For Couple : PKR 30,000

KALM,MALAM JABBA

Testimonials, recent traveller.

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Yousaf Plaza,Office No 1 Main Muree Rd,Barakahu Islamabad.

• +92 300-5495933
• +92 333-5752115
• [email protected]

Welcome to Prime Explorer Tourism, your premier destination for unforgettable travel experiences. As expert tour planners, we specialize in crafting tailor-made journeys that immerse you in the wonders of the world. .

Contact Info

• Yousaf Plaza,Office No 1 Main Muree Rd,Barakahu Islamabad

Quick Links

• Recent Trips

© 2024 Prime Explorer Tourism. All rights reserved | Design by MUSAB / AHMAD.

What is Explorer Tourism? Why Philippines?

What is “explorer tourism”? In a nutshell, explorer tourism is all about going somewhere that is so new to tourism that you may be the first person to experience or discover something there. The additional benefit of being the first to experience or discover something is that you frequently receive the honor of naming the something.

Some examples may be: scuba diving in an area where nobody has been before and discovering an uncharted sea mount with rare corals flourishing; while hiking a forest trail you find a flower that does not look quite like anything that you can find in any reference book; river trekking a tributary to a popular river you discover a cave that opens into a vast chamber that is home to a rare specie of fruit bat; or, you discover a rock with pictographs on it that are quite unlike any previously recorded and may be evidence of an ancient civilization.

By being one of the first to explore a location you also have the opportunity to help the people of the area to understand what is interesting to other potential visitors.

The challenge for many parts of the World, that are just starting to explore the concept of tourism promotion, is that they do not know what potential tourists will find interesting. Oft times there is an assumption that to please a tourist you must endeavor to offer what a tourist is already familiar with – be it food, drink, environment or amenities. In fact, with the exception of the fashionable-sheep who flock to places like Boracay or Pi Pi islands, the majority of tourists take the trouble to travel because they want to experience the difference and uniqueness of a location (be it food, drink, environment or amenities) and not its similarity and familiarity.

Visiting one island recently, my partner and I spent the best part of three days receiving the combined knowledge of twenty five, young island residents; the list that they imparted, of unique island features, flora and fauna, finally numbered more than 100 items . . . and we had not yet tapped the knowledge-base of the island’s elders!

Why is the Philippines at the top of the list of explorer tourism destinations?

The main reason why the Philippines is at the top of the list of explorer tourism destinations is two fold: geography and fiscal focus (or rather the previous lack of focus (on tourism development) in the national budget).

The Philippines has approximately 7107 islands, the majority of which have only been investigated by the occasional fishermen looking for fresh water or food. In other words, unlike in most countries around the World, with an established tourism focus, the Philippines has only recently started to take inventory of potential attractions in remote locales.

Coupled with this is that the previously stated direction for growth of the Philippines tourism industry has been in pursuit of the development of, what I call, mass-tourism (e.g the beach in Boracay, casinos in Clark, golf and casinos in Laoag).

In recent discussions with senior personnel in the Philippine Department of Tourism, the focus for 2015 and beyond will be the promotion of all of the other exciting adventures that you can have in the country, i.e. the things that explorer tourism most usually discovers. However, as most of the people who are tasked with exploring the post-2015 adventure vacations are the same people who have thus far been advising Boracay, Clark etc. on how best to handle the needs of tourists, there is a potential for a disconnect between expectation and delivery.

If you really want to explore somewhere untouched by commercial tourism and if you really want to discover something that is totally new or rare, come to the Philippines and get off the beaten track in places like: Sibale , Sibuyan and Marinduque . Or, send an email to us here at GetWet Asia [[email protected]] and let us know how/what you like to explore or what you would like to discover.

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OUR HISTORY

Founded in 2002 by Ruperth and Chay Lazaro, our travel agency has become a one-stop solution for all your travel needs, including flights, accommodations, insurance, and visa assistance. With branches across the country, we hold accreditations from esteemed organizations like the Department of Tourism, Philippine Travel Agencies Association, and the Philippine Franchise Association.

OUR MISSION

Powered by expertise, technology, and dedicated professionals, Mosconi Tours Inc. is committed to delivering travel services of unparalleled excellence.

To set the industry standard for customer-focused travel services.

MEET THE TEAM

Meet the Passionate Minds Behind Philippine Explorer! Our team is a diverse group of travel enthusiasts, experts, and customer service stars committed to making your journey unforgettable. With years of experience in the industry, each team member brings unique skills and insights to ensure you have the best travel experience possible. From planning the perfect itinerary to ensuring smooth operations, we're with you every step of the way. Scroll down to get to know the individuals who make magic happen here at Philippine Explorer.

RUPERTH LAZARO

Ruperth Lazaro, our CEO and President, has a remarkable career spanning key roles in the business world. He served as CEO of Green Farm Estates from 1991 to 1994 and was President at Green Merchandising Company from 1995 to 2002. In 2002, Ruperth Lazaro assumed leadership at Philippine Explorer, a position he holds to this day. With a strong entrepreneurial background, he's guided our company to success, emphasizing ethical and sustainable tourism in the enchanting landscapes and cultures of the Philippines.

MARIA THERESA LAZARO

Maria Theresa Lazaro, our VP of Finance, has been a steadfast pillar of financial stewardship for Philippine Explorer. She has skillfully managed our finances since 2002, ensuring the fiscal health of our travel agency.

In addition to her role at Philippine Explorer, Maria Theresa wears another hat as the President of Check This Out Advertising since 1999. Her extensive financial expertise has been instrumental in driving the success of both organizations, ensuring that they continue to thrive and provide top-notch experiences to our clients.

GLAIZA VILLATE

With an impressive 22-year tenure in the travel agency industry, has been an invaluable member of the team since the beginning of the organization. As the head of Accounting and Finance, her expertise and unwavering loyalty have made a significant impact on the growth and prosperity of the organization. Her extensive knowledge and dedication continue to contribute to the success of the team, ensuring continued growth and prosperity.

Department Head of Accounting and Finance

Elizabeth ong.

With over two decades of experience, Elizabeth Ong leads our Reservations and Sales department. She is a GDS expert, ensuring efficient bookings. Her international travels foster strong relationships with operators and hotel owners worldwide. Elizabeth's expertise extends to crafting cost-effective packages, familiarization tours, promotions, group tours, educational trips, and MICE services. She also plays a crucial role as a trainer, passing on her knowledge and salesmanship skills to new team members.

Department Head of Reservations and Sales

JA Aquino is the Department Head of Human Resources and Franchising. With a background in psychology and experience as an HR Manager, JA excels in managing the human aspect of our organization. JA's remarkable achievement includes successfully applying to the Philippine Franchise Association and presenting our company as a franchisable business to the association's board, showcasing a dedication to our growth and success.

Department Head of Human Resources and Franchising

Visit our branches.

ROBINSONS PLACE 1

Level 1 Stall 15 Adriatico Wing Robinsons Place Manila, Ermita Manila

Globe: 09166058574, 09060987562

Smart: 09399186753

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 9AM - 10PM Daily

ROBINSONS PLACE 2

G/F Adriatico Wing, Robinsons Place Manila

Globe: 09265203715

Smart: 09099748712

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 10AM - 10PM Daily

SM FAIRVIEW 1

Lower ground SM Supermarket SM Fairview

Globe: 09260750068

Smart: 09325875532

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 9AM - 9PM Sunday to Thursday, 9AM - 10PM Friday to Saturday

SM FAIRVIEW 2

Lower ground SM Hypermarket, SM Fairview

Globe: 09454919460

Smart: 09693011577

Email: [email protected]

ROBINSONS GALLERIA

Level 1 Service Area,Robinson’s Galleria, Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City

Globe: 09456191276

Smart: 09399186762, 09288611632

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 10AM - 9PM Daily

FESTIVAL SUPERMALL

1081H Level 1 Services Area, Bridgeway Court, Festival Supermall Alabang Muntinlupa

Globe: 09178259468

Smart: 09088816787

Email: [email protected]

SM CITY DASMARINAS

LGF SM CITY, SAMPALOC 1, DASMARINAS CITY CAVITE

Smart: 09102745440, 09387275763

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 10AM - 9PM Monday to Thursday, 9AM - 9PM Friday to Sunday

SM CITY BACOOR

SM CITY BACOOR LOWER G/F SUPERMARKET BACOOR CAVITE

Globe: 09167555655

Smart: 09084870963

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 9AM - 9PM Weekdays, 9AM - 10PM Weekends

SM SOUTHMALL

Globe: 09778469747

Smart: 09189099374

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 10AM - 9PM Weekdays, 9AM - 9PM Weekends

PACIFIC MALL LUCENA

2nd Floor, Pacific Mall Lucena, ML Tagarao St. Brgy. 3 Lucena City, Quezon 4301

Globe: 09175535599

Smart: 09209711007

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 10AM - 8PM Daily

MCC VIAJERA

J.P. Rizal St., Brgy. 1 San Lorenzo, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2900

Smart: 09603096450

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 8AM - 5PM/9AM - 6PM Monday to Friday, 8AM - 12PM/9AM - 2PM Saturday

SM CITY ILOILO

SHOP1, LGF SM SUPERMARKET, SM CITY ILOILO, BENIGNO AQUINO AVE., ILOILO CITY

Smart: 09095748494

Email: [email protected]

Operating Hours: 9AM - 10PM Friday to Sunday, 10AM - 10PM Monday to Thursday

ACCREDITATIONS AND ACHIEVEMENTS

At Philippine Explorer, we're not in this journey alone. From secure payment options to esteemed affiliates and award-winning services, learn more about the collaborations and recognitions that make us your premier choice for travel.

ACCREDITATIONS

Our accreditation with IATA signifies our compliance with international aviation standards and regulations. This membership allows us to provide a wide range of air travel services, ensuring the highest level of safety, security, and service quality for our clients.

IATA (International Air Transport Association)

Our affiliation with the Department of Tourism highlights our commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism. We adhere to the DOT's guidelines to offer authentic and enjoyable travel experiences that showcase the cultural and natural wonders of our destinations.

DOT (Department of Tourism)

Ptaa (philippine travel agencies association).

Being a member of PTAA showcases our dedication to professionalism and ethical business practices in the travel industry. This accreditation assures our clients that they are working with a reputable and reliable travel agency.

PFA (Philippine Franchise Association)

Our affiliation with the Philippine Franchise Association reflects our commitment to franchising excellence and ethical business practices. It underlines our mission to provide top-quality travel services while adhering to high standards of integrity and transparency in our operations.

PAYMENT PARTNERS

Smart: +639279623671

Globe: +639399186758

[email protected]

Keep exploring with us—subscribe for the latest travel news and special offers from Philippine Explorer.

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The St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission (DBA Explore St. Louis) is the official destination marketing organization responsible for selling St. Louis City and St. Louis County as a convention, meeting and leisure destination, and the operator of the America’s Center Convention Complex. Explore St. Louis works to attract citywide conventions, one-hotel meetings, sporting events, group tours and individual leisure travelers to St. Louis in collaboration with more than 750 regional Partners including hotels, restaurants, attractions and service providers.

The St. Louis Tourism Bureau was founded in 1909 by a group of local business leaders, after seeing the success of the 1904 World’s Fair. In 1984, the Bureau was restructured and combined with the St. Louis County Office of Tourism to form the St. Louis Convention & Visitors Commission (SLCVC), a regional commission of the State of Missouri. Dedicated funding for the SLCVC and the Regional Arts Commission through a new tax on hotel rooms was implemented. The SLCVC’s board was reorganized in 1991 to reflect the organization’s new role in managing the expanded America’s Center Convention Complex including the 67,000-seat Dome at America’s Center , 1,400- seat Ferrara Theatre , a 28,000 square-foot ballroom and the St. Louis Executive Conference Center . (Prior to the expansion, the convention center had been operated by the City of St. Louis.)

The SLCVC’s 11-member Board of Commissioners is headed by a chairman appointed by the Governor of Missouri. Five Board members are appointed by the Mayor of the City of St. Louis and five are appointed by the St. Louis County Executive. According to the organization’s enabling legislation, three of each official’s appointees must be actively engaged in the St. Louis hotel industry.

Explore St. Louis at a Glance

• A 3.75 percent tax paid by visitors on transient lodging in St. Louis City and County provides the funding for the Explore St. Louis, 11/15 of which is used by Explore St. Louis for its sales and marketing programs and operations. The remaining 4/15 of the tax supports the programs of the St. Louis Regional Arts Commission.
• According to a study conducted by the University of Missouri-St. Louis, the activities of Explore St. Louis directly contribute more than $5 billion to the local economy on an annual basis.
• St. Louis welcomes 28.2 million annual visitors for leisure, conventions, meetings and business travel
• Visitors spend $5.9 billion in St. Louis and tourism provides jobs for 90,000 area residents
• St. Louis area tourism workers earn $3.4 billion in wages yearly and the industry generates $1.1 billion in local, state and federal taxes each year
• Travel and tourism ranks among the top 7 industries in St. Louis City and County
• Each household in St. Louis City and County receives $1,201 a year in tax savings as a result of travel and tourism

Download the Explore St. Louis Fiscal Year 2023 Annual Report .

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From big wows to hidden gems, our tours leave you feeling that you've really explored.

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Chosen for their great knowledge of your destination and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.

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Average groups of 11; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.

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How we operate sets us apart; our flexible booking policy, our loyalty scheme & sustainable approach.

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Explore has always been known for its flexible booking conditions and since the Coronavirus pandemic, we've gone even further to ensure you can continue to book your next adventure with confidence.

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Explore Gwinnett Tourism + Film is Gwinnett County's official tourism organization and is dedicated to strengthening Gwinnett County's economy by marketing all areas of Gwinnett County as a destination for conventions, sporting events, meetings and leisure travel. Our team provides complimentary assistance with securing hotel rooms, sourcing event/meeting venues, and planning group and leisure travel, family reunions and weddings. We work to elevate Gwinnett's destination marketing through marketing initiatives including Seoul of the South Korean Food Tours, Gwinnett Burger Week, city marketing efforts, the Gwinnett Creativity Fund and more. Explore Gwinnett also runs the Gwinnett Film Office, working with Georgia's film/TV location professionals to market Gwinnett for location filming.

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Lisa anders executive director.

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Portland Explorer Tours

Join our family owned and operated tour company for unforgettable explorations. Portland Explorer offers leisurely, corporate, private, and customized year-round tours.

320 Fore Street Portland, ME

P. (207) 835-4950

Portland, Maine Lighthouse and Waterfront Tour This tour is offered daily and is a 2 hour tour. We visit 3 lighthouses and talk about the waterfront and wharf streets of downtown Portland.

Custom Tours Our tour van seats 11 passengers. We also offer private tours for 2 hours if you would like to experience one of the featured tours for a private group or for a personalized tour experience.

Charter Tours For those looking to take their touring experience to the next level, we suggest choosing our charter tours. We will work with you to create a memorable Greater Portland Maine experience.

For more information please visit: portlandexplorer.me

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Explore reviews & ratings, sri lanka in depth.

George made our trip seamless and his knowledge of Sri Lanka and the specific regions we traveled to were top notch. I would highly recommend George as a mentor for...

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It was an amazing organisation and the leader did his best at all times to please everyone and make sure we were all happy. I had a fabulous time on this trip and th...

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A great way to experience parts of Cuba with support all the way. The itinerary is well balanced and interesting, the accommodation varied and acceptable. Cocktail m...

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A wonderful trip & great Explore Leader with Assan Saine

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Why explore, unforgettable experiences.

On our trips you'll see a mix of famous sights and hidden gems that others miss, or don't even know about. As travelers, we want to experience a country, not merely observe it. We'll take you closer to the country, its culture and people, often in unscripted, spontaneous, impossible-to-replicate ways. You'll come home having seen and experienced the country in a way that other travelers might never have.

Expert local guides

As your resident expert, your guide (or tour leader) will use their insider knowledge and local connections to make the most of unexpected opportunities. You might be invited to watch the sunrise from a lighthouse or to join family Diwali celebrations. They'll be on hand to make sure your trip goes smoothly, taking care of logistics. Our tour leaders are all hand-picked and trained by our experienced team to ensure consistently high standards.

Small groups

Our average group size is just 11; big enough to meet like-minded people but small enough to get to the heart of a destination. All sorts of people travel on our trips; groups are usually a mix of solos, couples and friends. What unites everyone is an adventurous spirit, sense of fun and a desire for real travel experiences. Call us to learn more about the group already booked on a particular trip (age range, solos vs couples etc).

Sustainable Travel

We're committed to reducing our impact on the planet and working towards a sustainable future. Every single one of our trips now has a carbon label, and we work hard to ensure we have a positive impact on the communities we visit.

Accommodation

We carefully select our accommodation to give you a comfortable night's sleep in the best possible locations. The places we stay are every bit as important as the sights we visit and the things we do. Wherever possible we choose small, local and family-run properties. Occasionally, when we want to get off the beaten tourist trail, we may stay in more basic accommodation. Choices are based on what’s available in the places we want to stay; we choose the accommodation to suit the itinerary, not the other way around.

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Solo friendly.

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About the company, about explore.

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.

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Portland, ME

Exciting charter service in portland, me.

Discover the charm of Portland, ME with our exciting charter service! Explore historic landmarks, scenic coastlines, and hidden gems with our knowledgeable local guides. Join us for an unforgettable adventure tailored to your interests and preferences. Book your tour now!

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Downtown City & Lighthouse Tour

Discover Portland’s essence with our van tour, venturing to three majestic lighthouses and exploring downtown. From the iconic Portland Head Light to the bustling city streets, immerse yourself in Maine’s coastal charm and rich maritime heritage.

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Lighthouse to Lagers Tour

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What Happened When Captain Cook Went Crazy

In “The Wide Wide Sea,” Hampton Sides offers a fuller picture of the British explorer’s final voyage to the Pacific islands.

The English explorer James Cook, circa 1765. Credit... Stock Montage/Getty Images

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By Doug Bock Clark

Doug Bock Clark is the author of “The Last Whalers: Three Years in the Far Pacific with a Courageous Tribe and a Vanishing Way of Life.”

• Published April 9, 2024 Updated April 12, 2024
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THE WIDE WIDE SEA: Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook, by Hampton Sides

In January 1779, when the British explorer James Cook sailed into a volcanic bay known by Hawaiians as “the Pathway of the Gods,” he beheld thousands of people seemingly waiting for him on shore. Once he came on land, people prostrated themselves and chanted “Lono,” the name of a Hawaiian deity. Cook was bewildered.

It was as though the European mariner “had stepped into an ancient script for a cosmic pageant he knew nothing about,” Hampton Sides writes in “The Wide Wide Sea,” his propulsive and vivid history of Cook’s third and final voyage across the globe .

As Sides describes the encounter, Cook happened to arrive during a festival honoring Lono, sailing around the island in the same clockwise fashion favored by the god, possibly causing him to be mistaken as the divinity.

Sides, the author of several books on war and exploration, makes a symbolic pageant of his own of Cook’s last voyage, finding in it “a morally complicated tale that has left a lot for modern sensibilities to unravel and critique,” including the “historical seeds” of debates about “Eurocentrism,” “toxic masculinity” and “cultural appropriation.”

Cook’s two earlier global expeditions focused on scientific goals — first to observe the transit of Venus from the Pacific Ocean and then to make sure there was no extra continent in the middle of it. His final voyage, however, was inextricably bound up in colonialism: During the explorer’s second expedition, a young Polynesian man named Mai had persuaded the captain of one of Cook’s ships to bring him to London in the hope of acquiring guns to kill his Pacific islander enemies.

A few years later, George III commissioned Cook to return Mai to Polynesia on the way to searching for an Arctic passage to connect the Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Mai brought along a menagerie of plants and livestock given to him by the king, who hoped that Mai would convert his native islands into simulacra of the English countryside.

“The Wide Wide Sea” is not so much a story of “first contact” as one of Cook reckoning with the fallout of what he and others had wrought in expanding the map of Europe’s power. Retracing parts of his previous voyages while chauffeuring Mai, Cook is forced to confront the fact that his influence on groups he helped “discover” has not been universally positive. Sexually transmitted diseases introduced by his sailors on earlier expeditions have spread. Some Indigenous groups that once welcomed him have become hard bargainers, seeming primarily interested in the Europeans for their iron and trinkets.

Sides writes that Cook “saw himself as an explorer-scientist,” who “tried to follow an ethic of impartial observation born of the Enlightenment and the Scientific Revolution” and whose “descriptions of Indigenous peoples were tolerant and often quite sympathetic” by “the standards of his time.”

In Hawaii, he had been circling the island in a vain attempt to keep his crew from disembarking, finding lovers and spreading more gonorrhea. And despite the fact that he was ferrying Mai and his guns back to the Pacific, Cook also thought it generally better to avoid “political squabbles” among the civilizations he encountered.

But Cook’s actions on this final journey raised questions about his adherence to impartial observation. He responded to the theft of a single goat by sending his mariners on a multiday rampage to burn whole villages to force its return. His men worried that their captain’s “judgment — and his legendary equanimity — had begun to falter,” Sides writes. As the voyage progressed, Cook became startlingly free with the disciplinary whip on his crew.

“The Wide Wide Sea” presents Cook’s moral collapse as an enigma. Sides cites other historians’ arguments that lingering physical ailments — one suggests he picked up a parasite from some bad fish — might have darkened Cook’s mood. But his journals and ship logs, which dedicate hundreds of thousands of words to oceanic data, offer little to resolve the mystery. “In all those pages we rarely get a glimpse of Cook’s emotional world,” Sides notes, describing the explorer as “a technician, a cyborg, a navigational machine.”

The gaps in Cook’s interior journey stand out because of the incredible job Sides does in bringing to life Cook’s physical journey. New Zealand, Tahiti, Kamchatka, Hawaii and London come alive with you-are-there descriptions of gales, crushing ice packs and gun smoke, the set pieces of exploration and endurance that made these tales so hypnotizing when they first appeared. The earliest major account of Cook’s first Pacific expedition was one of the most popular publications of the 18th century.

But Sides isn’t just interested in retelling an adventure tale. He also wants to present it from a 21st-century point of view. “The Wide Wide Sea” fits neatly into a growing genre that includes David Grann’s “ The Wager ” and Candice Millard’s “ River of the Gods ,” in which famous expeditions, once told as swashbuckling stories of adventure, are recast within the tragic history of colonialism . Sides weaves in oral histories to show how Hawaiians and other Indigenous groups perceived Cook, and strives to bring to life ancient Polynesian cultures just as much as imperial England.

And yet, such modern retellings also force us to ask how different they really are from their predecessors, especially if much of their appeal lies in exactly the same derring-do that enthralled prior audiences. Parts of “The Wide Wide Sea” inevitably echo the storytelling of previous yarns, even if Sides self-consciously critiques them. Just as Cook, in retracing his earlier voyages, became enmeshed in the dubious consequences of his previous expeditions, so, too, does this newest retracing of his story becomes tangled in the historical ironies it seeks to transcend.

In the end, Mai got his guns home and shot his enemies, and the Hawaiians eventually realized that Cook was not a god. After straining their resources to outfit his ships, Cook tried to kidnap the king of Hawaii to force the return of a stolen boat. A confrontation ensued and the explorer was clubbed and stabbed to death, perhaps with a dagger made of a swordfish bill.

The British massacred many Hawaiians with firearms, put heads on poles and burned homes. Once accounts of these exploits reached England, they were multiplied by printing presses and spread across their world-spanning empire. The Hawaiians committed their losses to memory. And though the newest version of Cook’s story includes theirs, it’s still Cook’s story that we are retelling with each new age.

THE WIDE WIDE SEA : Imperial Ambition, First Contact and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook, | By Hampton Sides | Doubleday | 408 pp. | $35

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