The Game-Changer: A Luxury Hotel at Sea

In just a little over a year since its launch, Explora Journeys has redefined the luxury ocean sector by creating an onboard experience reminiscent of the world's finest boutique hotels, with the intent of making their ships the destination guests want to visit. A luxury line born from a long-held vision of its founders, the Aponte Vago family of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) and MSC Cruises, the world’s largest privately owned shipping company and cruise line. Marrying the family’s 300 plus years of maritime history with their innate understanding of luxury, they have carefully curated the design of suites, penthouses & residences to create luxurious homes at sea.  

Their two stunning ships (with four more to come by 2028), EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, carry 922 guests, enveloping them in sophisticated design, exceptional service, and a relaxed atmosphere, fostering a sense of tranquility and indulgence. Every one of the 461 ocean-front suites on board rivals those found in luxury hotels and offers a haven of sophistication and comfort – a home at sea – with an intentional connection to the sea in the form of a private terrace, with the smallest ones measuring a respectable 75 sq. ft. and featuring a lovely dining area and a day bed for guests to enjoy. 

Their provenance-focused culinary offerings, led by culinary genius Franck Garanger, rival those found in even the most sophisticated restaurants, and offer a tantalizing range of distinctive, globally influenced dining experiences included for every guest, with no set dining times. Beyond the four main dining rooms, there are several other options including a complimentary 24-hour in-suite dining. Here is where the private terrace available in every suite may come in handy. The pinnacle of all Explora Journeys' dining experiences is Anthology, the only restaurant which carries an additional experience fee. This fee allows Michelin Starred Chefs to come on board and serve a multi-course meal, a memorable experience that is completely optional but should not be skipped. That’s but one of several examples of the brand’s “do what you like, when you like” approach that widens each journey with a sense of freedom, and a feeling of being at a hotel or resort whose location just happens to be the ocean. 

Explora Journeys’ guests have confessed that it’s the time spent onboard that imprints itself most dreamily into their consciousness, even more vividly than the stunning places visited on each journey. Amongst the many elements of the ships’ appeal is the abundance of outdoor seating and lounging areas, including 64 private cabanas, spread around the ships’ three outdoor pools and tucked away in seemingly secret nooks – that nurture one’s sense of tranquility – or as they call it, one’s Ocean State of Mind. Lift your spirits at the Spa, yet another sensory journey influenced by the calming presence of the ocean. Take advantage of the spa’s Hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, steam shower, salt cave with walls covered in Himalayan salt, the ice fall which regenerates the body after intense heat exposure in the sauna and steam room, as well as the lovely heated loungers to complete your total enjoyment and relaxation.

The brand focuses on guest comfort and refined elegance, and the result is a unique blend of land-based luxury and the freedom of the open sea that together create an unforgettable travel experience for you and your fellow guests. The staff designated “Hosts” mostly come from luxury hotel backgrounds, many from the Middle East and brands like Kempinski, Jumeirah and Waldorf Astoria. They are perfectly trained, amiable, helpful, charming, endearing and on the ball. They are always nearby and keen to serve and engage, and the hotel operation is very well-run.  

All Journeys Include
-    In-suite welcome bottle of Champagne on arrival
-    Unlimited beverages, fine wines and premium spirits
-    Speciality coffees, teas and soft drinks
-    Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
-    Well-being and fitness programmes on board and at the destinations
-    Access to the spa thermal area
-    Shuttle service from port to city centre
-    All on-board gratuities

EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II will take you to the following destinations:

Caribbean and Central America
Explore a blend of maritime history, culture and Creole culinary delights. Kayak to see colourful wildlife, safari to cocoa plantations, visit pastel-hued villages, snorkel over coral and rumba to reggae.

Mediterranean & Western Europe
Surround yourself with the aromas of sea air, aromatic herbs and citrus notes as you explore a rich medley of cultural, historical and culinary delights.

Grand Journeys
Discover and explore even more, by combining multiple Journeys and longer sailings to wonderful destinations in the Caribbean, Central America and Europe.

Book with Explora Journeys to benefit from savings of up to 50% on your journey fare and pay a reduced deposit of only 5%. This limited time offer is available for journey reservations made between November 20 and December 4, 2024 and is combinable with other select offers. 

Contact your Travel Professional for complete details or visit here.