Discover about our team

Passion. Adrenalin. Inspiration. Adventure

We combine our passion and knowledge for sports and outdoor activities to offer a wide range of interactive adventures. Each experience brings a new level of challenge to actively improve people performance, while experiencing beautiful destinations.

We plan and put together impactful, rewarding experiences that inspire people to appreciate our oceans and the environment.

We create memories

We select the best locations and bespoke experiences of a top-tier standard

Our team’s in-house ambition and mission is to change the way we see the world, means we leave no stone unturned in designing tailored experiences for groups, corporate brands and UHWNI private travelers.

Since 2005, our team individually have been doing what we do best; now, with ACTIVEXPLORER we take people on unforgettable mountain biking, swimrunning, skiing, hiking and multisport adventures throughout Italy, France, Switzerland, Morocco, Scandinavia and other selective locations.

We work in close partnership with the yachting charter sector in order to offer unique itineraries and activities to guests.

ACTIVEXPLORER has an unrivalled network of contacts and partners that reaches from our base in Monaco to the most untouched corners of Europe, and the remote niche spots on the planet, we have curated an ecosystem of experts who strive to innovate whilst delivering experiences safely and comfortably.

Passionate about the outdoors and adventure, we deliver excellence in every detail and are active on the ground uncovering off-the-beaten track spots. Our experienced team are complementary and responsive experts, composing by a photographer and videographer specialised in sport and outdoors who can bring every trip to life, yachting charter professionals, endurance sport specialists and action sport athletes.

Matteo Testa

CEO/Founder

A passionate skier, climber, waterman, trail runner and entrepreneur, enjoy the most showing people how great the outdoor lifestyle can be. This led Matteo to create ACTIVEXPLORER, as a way to combine outdoor and sport lifestyle with yachting and high-end clientele. Living in Monaco but adventuring around the globe.

carina-bruwer
Carina Bruwer

Partner-business development

Carina Bruwer is one of Africa’s most decorated female open water marathon swimmers, an internationally renowned musician and a successful entrepreneur. Known for boldly going where most do not – in the ocean, as well as in business and life – Carina inspires and motivates audiences through her incredible stories of courage, transformation and altruism.

James Howard
James Howard

Winter sport and extreme Specialist

As a professional ski racer, James won ‘’Le Coque d’Or’’ at the age of 16, the same year he spent his first full ski season in the Alps. He went on to compete in the World Junior Championships for Great Britain but a nasty crash and serious injury whilst training wrecked his World Cup and Olympic hopes.

Veera Parviainen

Business Development

Growing up amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Finland, Veera developed a profound love for nature and outdoor sports. A former professional alpine skier, Veera transitioned from conquering the slopes to academic excellence by studying Tourism Research at the University of Lapland.
Anna Lindell

Biking and OutDoor specialist

An avid outdoor enthusiast who loves biking, hiking, and water activities. She is incredibly passioned for bikepacking and endurance sports and she has participated in extreme biking events such as Bikingman and completed cycling journeys across the Canary Islands. With a yachting background and a strong love for travel and sports, she strives to inspire others to push their limits.

Alessandro Bonaldo

media manager, project coordinator

Alessandro has spent most of his life at sea as a sailor. Graduated as a yacht designer he worked for reputable yacht design companies and then founded a Media Production House specializing in Yachting and Sport.  Alessandro’s strength is to capture the most unique moments of each action or travel experience and wrap-up memorable images.

Petra Bacova

Social Media manager

A former professional ballroom dancer, she now enjoys spending her time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, running, or exploring new trails. Her passion for staying active and embracing nature fuels her love for adventure, whether on land or water. With a drive to push her limits, she finds joy in challenging herself and exploring the great outdoors. Alongside her active lifestyle, she excels in marketing and social media management, using her creative insights to build strong brand identities and connect with audiences across digital platforms.

Our expertise

Sporty corporate experiences & incentive

We bring a new perspective to active travel, pioneering a fresh way to travel effortlessly with customised experiences designed to be experiential and interactive. Explore the possibilities of multi-stop yachting or helicopter trips, sport adventures, immersive gastronomy, educational family voyages, and celebrations and events.

Our commitment to purposeful travel drives us to collaborate with sports, science, and conservation experts. By curating genuinely unique experiences, we aim to inspire travellers to make a positive impact on the world. Join us in exploring the extraordinary and leaving a lasting legacy through unforgettable adventures.

Private Adventures for High-Net-Worth Individuals and Groups

Whether it’s a brief escape or an extended journey, we craft bespoke itineraries featuring curated sports activities that cater to all skill levels. Experience luxury, exclusivity, and adventure in extraordinary destinations.

Bespoke yacht charter itineraries
Our exclusive collaboration with H2OMARITIME grants us access to a global fleet of superyachts, ensuring year-round availability and flexibility in every region. Paired with high-end adrenaline-fueled shore activities, this partnership offers unparalleled luxury and adventure.
High-net-worth families’ outdoor journeys

Thrilling, sport-centric adventures designed for families. These experiences blend excitement with active pursuits, offering opportunities to engage in dynamic outdoor activities that challenge, connect, and create lasting memories. Ideal for families seeking high-energy, adventurous escapes.

Leadership events for yachting and proactive businesses

Dynamic, sport and nature-based activities that enhance leadership skills, teamwork, and physical fitness. These experiences are designed to challenge and inspire, offering a unique blend of adventure and professional growth

Exclusive & Authentic cultural voyages

Travel itineraries that harness exploration and inspire friendships and discovery. Led by experts in their respective fields, we’ll be the backbone of planning and delivering memorable experiences for individuals, groups, brands and businesses

Exclusive training camps for groups
We scout out extraordinary events worldwide and offer specialised training camps to prepare you for these unique challenges. Experience elite coaching, luxury accommodations, and engaging cultural exchanges that enhance your preparation and enjoyment of the adventure ahead.

Explore the best on offer such as

Immerse yourself in the stunning vistas of the Alps or Dolomites with an invigorating hike, paired seamlessly with accommodations tailored to your desires. Whether you prefer the opulence of a resort boasting world-class spa facilities and a championship golf course or the cozy charm of a mountain ski chalet, unwind in style after your day’s exploration.

Discover the perfect luxury villa rental serving as your exclusive retreat for a multi-activity journey in Sardinia or the Cote d’Azur. Every detail is meticulously planned to ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience, tailored precisely to your preferences.

Contact our expert team today and see where it takes you

The philosophy that embodies our everyday life also shines in the corporate events we organise to build upon the strength of relationships and networks, magnified by sharing outstanding experiences.

Matteo Testa

CEO/FOUNDER​

Ex motocross rider, freeride skier, mountain biker, trail runner, windsurfer, kitesurfer, open water swimmer, triathlete, addicted to action, endurance sports and to a life in the OutDoors and InWater.

Founder of a few sport events, brands and OutDoor communities, is now committed to deliver sport-elite-travel experiences to people who desire to get new inspirations and challenges in life.

Matteo is active in multiple sports, activities and projects, often linked to water activities and ocean protection. Swimming is his greatest passion and he has always participated in prestigious international events such as, the Master Swimming World Championship and various IRONMAN triathlons, XTERRA Emea Tour.
Matteo combines his experience as sportsman, events specialist and outdoor adventurer with his professional life and career in yachting, which exposes him to UHNWI and their expectations.
Over the years, he has managed and been involved with projects operating in oceanographic research, deep dive missions and ocean conservation. After 10+ years of activity in the Principality of Monaco, Matteo has developed solid professional relationships with institutions and private businesses, and abroad, designs ambitious projects linking the sport, travel and luxury industry and specialises in the organisation of elite events, sport incentive and corporate experiences along the French Riviera, Balearic Islands, north Italian coast with a particular focus on the beautiful Sardinia island.
With an uncompromising approach to surpassing client expectations, and providing quality service, thanks to his background in the yachting industry, Matteo is highly committed to provide customers with the best experience, and this is what his team also delivers.

Carina Bruwer

Partner-business development

Carina’s extensive ultramarathon swimming resume includes crossing the 36km English Channel, the Gibraltar Straits, Bonifacio Straits, Messina Straits, Triple Country (France – Monaco – Italy), False Bay, Nelson Mandela Bay, Walker Bay, Robben Island and dozens more, with most of her swims being firsts and/or record breaking feats. This International Marathon Swimming’s Hall of Fame nominee who was also ranked as one of the World Open Water Swimming Association’s “Top 50 Most Daring, Courageous and Audacious open water swimmers in the world”, has raised millions in cash and media value for various South African causes through her Swim For Hope project.

Carina has not only crossed some of the most shark-infested oceans in the world, she has also broken boundaries as a musician, forging a path into pop culture despite her strict Classical training. The business of music has been said to be one of the toughest, and having mastered this, Carina comfortably branched out to other industries as an entrepreneur, and currently runs a creative production company whilst also swimming, performing and delivering inspirational talks across the world.

For her, nothing is more rewarding than playing a part in someone else’s journey, be it by helping to shift perception through her own example, or by simply encouraging and inspiring others to break through their own personal barriers in order to move closer to their potential. Authentic outdoor experiences often aid in achieving just this, which is why Carina is passionate about adventure travel and a proud member of the Active Explorer team.

James Howard

Winter sport and extreme Specialist

Paragliding replaced the adrenaline rush that he needed and James soon became an avid tandem pilot with a passion for sharing this awesome experience with others. His favourite flight is from the Aiguille du Midi at 4000m above Chamonix, where he lived for many years.

Event organisation has always played a key role in James’ life, from organising World renowned ski exhibitions, trips, races and chalet holidays, as well as paragliding events, mega parties, private events, festivals and concerts.

As the founder of eFoil Sensation, based in Monaco and Saint-Jean Cap-Ferrat, the new sport of eFoiling, a unique blend of ‘’la glisse’’ and flying above water is what drives James now. Working with Audi’s e-Tron Aerofoils, World distance and speed records are being reckoned with.

The bucket list still includes sky-diving, wing-suit and speed flying, whilst sharing those experiences with as many others as possible.

Veera Parviainen

Business Development and Sustainability Manager

Growing up amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern  Finland, Veera developed a profound love for nature and outdoor sports. A former professional alpine skier, Veera transitioned from conquering the slopes to academic excellence by studying Tourism Research at the University of Lapland. This unique blend of athletic experience and academic knowledge fuels a passion for crafting exceptional travel experiences with a focus on sustainability.

With a lifelong dedication to sports and travel, Veera is adept at designing luxurious, adventure-filled itineraries that cater to discerning travellers. Specialising in eco-friendly tourism, Veera brings a deep understanding of the importance of preserving natural environments while providing unforgettable adventures. Whether it’s skiing down pristine slopes, hiking through untouched wilderness, or mountain biking along rugged trails, Veera ensures every journey is both thrilling and environmentally and socially responsible.

Anna Lindell​

Biking and OutDoor specialist

An outdoor enthusiast who loves spending time on her bike, hiking or in the water. Having cycled from her home in Antibes back to Stockholm a few years ago her love for bikepacking and endurance sports was born and since then she has done various smaller trips but also participated in events such as Bikingman and cycled across the Canary Islands. If not on her bike, you can also find her water walking the coast of Antibes as she has competed four times in the French championships in Longe Côte. With a background in yachting and a love for traveling and sports she strives to inspire others to push their own limits, whatever they may be.

Alessandro Bonaldo

media manager, project coordinator

Alessandro has dedicated a significant portion of his life to the sea, having worked as a sailor for many years. After completing his education as a yacht designer, he gained valuable experience by working for well-known yacht design companies. However, Alessandro’s creative drive and passion for yachting and sports led him to embark on a new venture. He established his own Media Production House, specializing in the field of yachting and sport.

Alessandro possesses a remarkable talent for capturing the essence of every action-packed moment and transforming them into unforgettable images. His unique ability allows him to encapsulate the most extraordinary and captivating aspects of each experience, whether it be thrilling yacht races or breathtaking travel adventures. Through his lens, Alessandro skillfully weaves together visuals that leave a lasting impression on those who behold them. His meticulous attention to detail and innate sense of composition ensure that every image is imbued with a sense of artistry and storytelling.

With a keen eye for capturing the essence of the yachting world and sporting events, Alessandro’s work has become highly sought after by individuals and organizations within these industries. His photographs and videos serve as powerful visual narratives, transporting viewers into the heart of the action and evoking a sense of awe and inspiration. Alessandro’s passion for his craft shines through in every frame, allowing him to create stunning visuals that resonate with his audience on a deep and emotional level.

Petra Bacova

SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

A former professional ballroom dancer, she developed a passion for discipline, teamwork, and artistic expression, which she now applies to her professional life. Growing up in Slovakia, she embraced cultural diversity and communication, leading her to pursue an MSc in International Management at the International University of Monaco. With a background in Liberal Arts, her academic journey has empowered her to excel in social media management, where she specializes in content creation and developing effective marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility.

Her expertise lies in marketing and social media, where she designs compelling brand identities and crafts effective campaigns. Combining creativity with strategic insight, she develops content that enhances brand visibility and engagement. She focuses on delivering captivating visuals while understanding market trends and audience behaviors to ensure long-term success. Passionate about storytelling, she elevates brand presence across digital platforms, driving growth and fostering meaningful connections.

The Pact

To avoid any use of plastic bottled drinking water onboard.

To filter and safely dispose of all washing machine microplastic waste.

To eliminate the use of all single-use plastic items with readily available alternatives.

To reduce the use of single-use plastic toiletries onboard.

To actively source provisions with low single-use plastic footprint packaging.

Inspiration

Active-adventure voyage

A contrast of landscapes and active high-end travel. Get inspired with a Masterclass experience with a World Champion Freediver on the French Riviera to cycling in the Piedmont region of Italy and skydiving with a PRO Wingsuit skydiver in Sardinia.

Cultural voyage

Indulge in the best of premium experiences and gastronomy; enjoying artisan chocolate tasting and golf in Zurich, a watchmaking tour in Geneva, a hot air balloon flight and Langhe wine tasting in Italy or discovering the iconic “Strade Bianche” in the Chianti region by Vespa or on a Harley.

Contact

Want to discuss my work or a challenge you’re facing?  Leave your details and I’ll get back to you

Program

01.

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02.

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03.

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Pakage

Pakage 1

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200 €

Pakage 2

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200 €

Pakage 3

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200 €

Events

Mönacö Swimrun
25 march 2023

Against the picturesque backdrop of the cliff-face over which hangs the iconic Oceanographic Museum near the Prince’s Palace be challenged by a SWIMRUN experience that infuses nature with history to offer a timeless adventure

Epicblue swimrun
20-23 october 2023

Against the picturesque backdrop of the of the cliffs of Liguria, in the Italian Riviera, be challenged by a SWIMRUN experience that infuses nature with history to offer a timeless adventure.