My Incredible Journey Onboard the Stunning Explora I — Sailing from Athens to Bari

My Incredible Journey Onboard the Stunning Explora I — Sailing from Athens to Bari

Our journey began in the timeless city of Athens, where ancient history meets modern energy. But the moment I stepped aboard the Explora I, I knew this was going to be something extraordinary. This wasn’t just a cruise — it was a floating sanctuary that offered peace, style, and indulgence in every detail.

🚢 A Sea Day to Savour

Our first full day at sea was everything you hope a sea day will be — calm, indulgent, and completely unhurried. No ports. No excursions. Just time to explore, relax, and enjoy the ship in all its elegance.

🍴 Lunch at Emporium Marketplace

We started our day with lunch at the Emporium Marketplace, which is technically the ship’s buffet — but calling it that almost feels unfair.

Here, chefs prepare and plate each dish for you, eliminating the chaos of traditional buffets and adding a refined, relaxed vibe to the entire experience.

On the menu:

Freshly made sushi

Grilled fish and carved meats

Colourful, vibrant salads

Made-to-order pastas and sandwiches

🌊 Serenity at the Infinity Pool

After lunch, we discovered one of Explora’s best-kept secrets — the adults-only infinity pool on Deck 5.

Surrounded by 16 plush double cabanas and featuring a dedicated bar, this quiet haven felt like a private beach club at sea. Just the sound of the waves, a gentle breeze, and a signature cocktail in hand — total bliss.

🍸 Sunset Vibes at the Sky Bar

As golden hour approached, we made our way up to the Sky Bar. A live DJ created a relaxed vibe with chilled beats, while the sky turned to pastels. It was the perfect setting for sunset drinks and good conversation.

🍽️ Dinner Highlights: Sakura & Med Yacht Club

Dinner on Explora I is an event in itself, and we split into two groups to sample even more of the ship’s incredible culinary offerings:

Sakura: A sleek, Asian-inspired dining experience with dishes that were as beautiful as they were flavorful.

Med Yacht Club: Bright Mediterranean cuisine prepared with flair — fresh, vibrant, and full of personality.

🌅 Beautiful Shore Days: Katakolon & Fiskardo

While the ship was the star of the journey, the ports offered their own magic:

Katakolon gave us a relaxed seaside atmosphere and a gateway to ancient Olympia.

Fiskardo, with its pastel buildings and crystal-clear waters, felt like a scene from a postcard.

Inside My Luxury Suite on Explora I ✨

Explora I’s suites redefine what it means to travel in style. My suite was a masterpiece of thoughtful design and luxurious comfort.

Suite Highlights:

✔️ Heated bathroom floors — hello, spa vibes

✔️ Dyson hairdryer — top-tier quality

✔️ Wireless bedside charging — sleek and simple

✔️ Motion-sensitive lighting — subtle and smart

✔️ Spacious walk-in wardrobe

✔️ Elegant glass jewellery drawer

✔️ Generous supply of hangers (finally!)

✔️ Tailored pillow menu

✔️ Complimentary in-suite drinks by the bottle

✔️ 10 items pressed upon arrival

✔️ Private balcony with luxury loungers

✔️ Curated books and stylish artwork

✔️ A bedside clock — a small but thoughtful touch

Every element felt intentionally crafted to enhance the experience. It was the kind of space that made it hard to leave — even for shore excursions.

Final Thoughts

Explora I isn’t just a ship — it’s an experience. A world where design, comfort, and culture come together in perfect balance. Whether lounging by the infinity pool, enjoying an exquisitely prepared meal, or simply watching the sunset from your suite balcony, every moment felt deeply considered and effortlessly luxurious.

If you’re dreaming of a journey that blends exploration with elegance — this is the one.