Explora Journeys - The Explora 1

Explora 1 is a brand new Cruise Ship from Explora Journeys which is part of the MSC Group , a company whose past is deep rooted in Ocean Travel. The Explora 1 takes luxury ocean journeys to new heights. With a Super Yacht design, everyone is well and truly pampered with a guest to crew ratio of 1:1.25. Explora 1 is just the start of this exciting new concept as Explora 2 launches Summer 24 and a further 4 ships will follow taking the fleet to 6 by 2028. The Explora 1 has 461 “homes at sea” with the choice of Ocean View Terrace Suites, Penthouses or Residences. I was allocated an Ocean Terrace Suite which is the lead in accommodation. This Suite was spacious, elegantly furnished with the biggest bathroom I’ve ever had at sea! There is a sofa area which leads out to your own outdoor space furnished with table & chairs and a daybed. A Bottle of Champagne and a Spirit of your choice will be waiting for you on arrival. There is complimentary Wifi,which I must say is excellent and never missed a beat the whole time we were onboard, a huge Tv which has access to lots of Tv Shows, Movies or Music. The TV also keeps you up to date with your onboard account, what’s on around the Ship that day and the opening hours of all the restaurants, shops and amenites onboard. Benefits as standard: Gratuities are included Unlimited drinks which includes, fine wines, champagne, premium spirits, speciality coffees, teas and soft drinks.Your in suite minibar is also topped up daily. Distinct dining opportunities Insuite Dining Free Wifi Shuttle Services from Port to City ( where required ) The food choice and quality on The Explora 1 was amazing ! With 6 distinct restaurants showcasing different world cuisines you were definitely spoilt for choice.The only Restaurant to charge a supplement is Anthology but this restaurant is something else! With a Mitchelin Starred Guest Chef cooking a 10 course menu using the finest quality ingredients is truly an experience never to be forgotten. Onboard Explora 1 there is a wealth of luxurious amenties spread over 14 decks including The Ocean Wellness Spa, a state of the art fitness centre or take a dip in one of the 4 pools.There are plentiful sun loungers and cabanas too. There are 2 lounges which host entertainment, several bars including a Malt Whiskey Bar and Lobby Bar and also Crema Coffee Lounge. The Shops on board are high end such as Rolex or Cartier. As a frequent Cruiser, this didn’t feel like a Cruise. The Explora 1 has the feel of a Luxury Boutique European Hotel, very refined and elegantly furnished. It doesn’t have the bells & whistles of the bigger Cruise Ships and in some ways is trying to shed some of the traditional cruise aspects. The Entertainment is more low key, a house band or guest singer, there are no full on shows. The Dining is very intimate and personal,the quality of food is execellent. Explora Journeys are marketing this as an “ocean state of mind” and don’t refer to their sailing as Cruises , it’s journeys at sea and there is no mention of cabins , it is your “home at sea”. If you’d tried other six star cruises then Explora 1 would be for you ,a new concept in ocean travel. Or if you’ve never cruised but enjoy Luxury Europen Hotel Holidays similar to IKOS for example then also would be for you.