Ocean State of Mind with Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys introduces a unique luxury travel experience for those who want to explore differently. Born from a long-held vision of its founders, the Aponte Vago family of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and MSC Cruises fame, this recently launched cruise brand is quickly redefining ocean travel for a new generation of discerning travellers. EXPLORA I, first of six sister ships planned to arrive between 2023 and 2028, offers an exciting combination of exquisitely designed private and public spaces with a multitude of on board options together with immersive itineraries that allow you to discover further and linger a little longer in each destination.

The world’s first female captain to bring a cruise ship out of a shipyard, Captain Serena Melani, represents the brand’s vision of a diverse and inclusive cruise company. Sharing the founders' respect for the ocean and nature, and a passion for exploration, Captain Melani thrives in creating meaningful connections with guests on board.

EXPLORA I carries 922 guests in 461 ocean-front suites, penthouses and residences, featuring some of the largest suites in the industry and offering a real “Home at Sea” concept. Furnished with some of the best Italian and European furniture, demonstrating Explora Journeys' commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing of materials. Each accommodation option comprises a walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area and features a Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, heated floors in the bathrooms, personal binoculars, wireless bed-side charging, a personal mini-bar replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine with bio-degradable pods, a kettle and teapot, and a complimentary personal refillable water bottle. 24-hour guest services also ensure every desire or request is fulfilled.

Spread across fourteen decks, public spaces present a contemporary, boutique hotel vibe – vibrant, yet chic and intimate, maximizing guest choice with areas of quiet seclusion and privacy. There are eleven distinct culinary experiences focused on healthy, delicious food from local, sustainable sources for guests to choose from. Set in contemporary, refined elegance, with the opportunity to dine al fresco, Anthology offers menus crafted by the world’s most celebrated chefs and wine pairings by illustrious winemakers for a one-of-a-kind dining experience on board (an exclusive experience fee applies). Sakura brings Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian flavours for a taste of Pan-Asian cuisine that is both authentic and energizing. Inspired by the marbling found only in the finest beef, Marble & Co. Grill serves exceptional cuts, personally sourced and sustainably farmed. The Med Yacht Club is influenced by sophisticated, beachside Mediterranean restaurants, embracing the varied cuisines of the region. Effortless all-day dining is available at the Emporium Marketplace. Other venues include Fil Rouge, The Chef’s Kitchen (an exclusive experience fee applies), Crema Café, Gelateria & Creperie at the Conservatory, Explora Lounge as well as sumptuous In-Suite Dining when you feel like staying in. Sommeliers constantly source boutique wine labels to build an inspiring menu with truly interesting choices and very rare bottles for guests to choose from.

Twelve indoor and outdoor bars and lounges provide curated entertainment and intimate performances. Generous outdoor decks accommodate three outdoor pools and one indoor pool with a retractable glass roof, 64 private cabanas, several indoor and outdoor whirlpools and choices of poolside dining and lounging. The ship also offers over 7,500 square feet of indoor and outdoor wellness facilities and over 2,900 square feet of fitness facilities with the latest equipment available to work off some of the delicious food you won't be able to resist.

EXPLORA I’s inaugural season features itineraries covering Northern Europe, United Kingdom & Ireland, Iceland and Greenland, the US, Canada & Hawaii, as well as the Caribbean and Central America.

This winter, explore a unique blend of maritime history, culture and Creole culinary delights when you sail with EXPLORA I to the Caribbean and Central America. Roam through colourful landscapes, safari to cocoa plantations, visit pastel-hued villages, snorkel over coral reefs and rumba to the beats of reggae. It’s easy to embrace the slower island life.

The season starts with a fourteen night Yachtsman’s Caribbean departing Miami on November 3, 2023 and calling on Key West, Virgin Gorda, Guadeloupe, Antigua, San Juan, St. Barts, St. Kitts and Nevis, the Dominican Republic, as well as the spectacular Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas, before returning to Miami.

Select from a wide range of available departures, ranging from 6- to 17- nights and sailing from Miami, Barbados, San Juan, Cartagena or Colón.

Contact your Travel Professional for details or explore all your winter 2023/2024 Caribbean and Central America options here.