The Ultimate Guide to Explora Journeys: Ships, Itineraries & What’s Included

Luxury Redefined on the High Seas

Why Choose Explora Journeys? 🚢

A Boutique-Style Ocean Escape for the Modern Luxury Traveler

Explora Journeys is not just another cruise—it’s an entirely new way to travel by sea. Launched by the MSC Group, this luxury lifestyle brand is all about slow travel, immersive experiences, and hotel-style living on the ocean.

Forget crowded buffets and cookie-cutter excursions. Explora Journeys is built for curious explorers who crave comfort, culture, and connection, all with a dose of world-class style.

🌟 What Sets Explora Journeys Apart?

✅ Ultra-luxury suites (all with ocean views & private terraces)✅ All-inclusive fare (think fine dining, premium drinks, gratuities & Wi-Fi)✅ Small ship vibe – fewer guests, more space✅ Slow travel focus – longer stays in port, overnight visits✅ Wellness & mindfulness at the heart of the journey✅ Designed like a high-end boutique resort, not a cruise ship

💡 Bottom Line: If you're looking for a modern, intimate, luxury travel experience without the traditional cruise vibe, Explora Journeys delivers that and more.

Which Explora Ship Is Right for You? 🛳️

Explora’s fleet is growing fast—with two ships already in service and four more on the way. Each one is crafted with elegance, sustainability, and personalization in mind.

Ship Name	Launched	Guests	Best For
Explora I	2023	461 suites (900 guests)	First-timers, Europe & Caribbean explorers
Explora II	2024	461 suites (900 guests)	Longer journeys & more immersive itineraries
Explora III–VI	2026–2028	Coming soon	Future-ready luxury with LNG-powered engines

🚨 Insider Tip: For your first Explora voyage, start with Explora I in the Med or Caribbean—it offers the perfect mix of luxury and laid-back travel.

Top Explora Itineraries & Destinations

Explora Journeys isn’t about hitting 5 ports in 5 days. It’s about immersive travel—spending real time in dream destinations and getting under the surface of local culture.

🌊 Mediterranean (Explora I & II)

🚢 Sail From: Rome, Barcelona, Athens, Istanbul📍 Top Ports: Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Mykonos, Santorini, Dubrovnik💡 Best For: Foodies, culture lovers, and Mediterranean dreamers

🏝 Caribbean & Central America

🚢 Sail From: Miami, Bridgetown, San Juan📍 Top Ports: St. Barts, Cartagena, Virgin Gorda, Curaçao💡 Best For: Winter sun seekers & beach enthusiasts

🏔 Northern Europe & the Arctic Circle

🚢 Sail From: Copenhagen, Reykjavik, Hamburg📍 Top Ports: Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, Baltic gems like Tallinn & Stockholm💡 Best For: Nature lovers & photographers

🌍 Transoceanic & Grand Journeys

🚢 Sail Between Continents📍 Unique Routes: Africa to Europe, Caribbean to the Med💡 Best For: Slow travelers, digital nomads & round-the-world dreamers

What’s Included in Your Explora Fare? 🎁

One of the most refreshing things about Explora Journeys? No surprise add-ons. What you see is what you get—and that “get” is pretty incredible.

✅ Included Perks:

• All-suite accommodation (oceanfront with private terrace!)

• Gourmet dining across 9 culinary venues

• Unlimited beverages (including fine wines, cocktails, specialty coffees)

• Gratuities & service charges – no tipping awkwardness

• High-speed Wi-Fi

• 24/7 in-suite dining

• Access to holistic wellness facilities & group fitness classes

🚫 Not Included: Spa treatments, ultra-premium wines/spirits, curated shore experiences, personal trainers, and boutique purchases.

Cabins & Suites: What’s the Best Choice? 🛏️

Let’s be honest—every cabin on Explora is a suite. And not just a “junior suite” situation. We’re talking 355 sq ft and up, with private terraces, walk-in wardrobes, and spa-like bathrooms.

💸 Best Value: Ocean Terrace Suite

✔ Spacious, modern suite (avg. 377 sq ft)✔ Large terrace with daybed & dining area✔ Walk-in closet, espresso machine, Dyson hair dryer

💎 Upgrade Pick: Cove Residence or Owner’s Residence

✔ Priority services, private butler, and personal concierge✔ Large outdoor lounge with private jacuzzi✔ Separate living and dining areas – apartment style

💡 Budget Hack: Book early to snag limited-time pricing or wait for Wave Season deals (more on that below).

Dining on Explora Journeys: World-Class Cuisine 🍽️

Forget stuffy cruise dining rooms. Explora’s culinary game is on another level—with an emphasis on local sourcing, seasonal menus, and true gastronomic storytelling.

🍴 Highlight Restaurants:

• Anthology: Rotating menus by Michelin-starred chefs

• Sakura: Contemporary Pan-Asian cuisine

• Med Yacht Club: Mediterranean coastal dishes with wine pairings

• Emporium Marketplace: Upscale global food market – no trays or buffets here

• Fil Rouge: Elegant French dining with a twist

🥂 Unlimited drinks at all dining venues, lounges & poolside. No drink package required!

What’s Life Like On Board? 🌅

Each day with Explora is yours to shape. Mornings might start with sunrise yoga on deck, followed by a cappuccino in your robe. Afternoons? Explore ancient ruins or chill at the infinity pool with a glass of rosé.

🕰 Day-to-Day Highlights:

• 🧘‍♀️ Morning: Meditation, pilates or a juice by the pool

• 🧭 Midday: Shore excursions, culinary workshops, or spa time

• 🍷 Evening: Wine tastings, live jazz, sunset dining

• 🌌 Late Night: Stargazing, cigar lounges, or simply a quiet read in the library

🎭 Entertainment is low-key and sophisticated – think live music, cultural talks, and immersive performances. No Broadway-style mega shows here!

How Much Does Explora Journeys Cost? 💳

Okay, luxury has a price tag—but considering what’s included, Explora is excellent value in the ultra-lux space.

💰 Average Pricing:

• Per Night (Standard Suite): $650–$950 per person

• Residences & Owners Suites: $1,800–$5,000+ per night

• Booking Promotions: Often include free transfers, extra OBC, or suite upgrades

💳 Payment Plans:

• 25% deposit

• Pay the rest in installments up to 120 days before departure

🕐 Booking Tip:Book during Wave Season (Jan–Mar) for the best rates and perks. Also check for last-minute luxury sales 90 days before sailing.

FAQs: Quick Answers Before You Book 🧳

Q: Is Explora Journeys only for older travelers?

A: Not at all. While it leans adult-focused, it attracts younger luxury seekers too—especially on Mediterranean or Caribbean itineraries.

Q: Is there a dress code?

A: Smart casual by day, elegant chic by night. No tuxedos, no flip-flops at dinner.

Q: Is it family-friendly?

A: Yes—but with a mature, serene vibe. Great for multi-gen trips or families with teens.

Q: Are solo travelers welcome?

A: Absolutely! Expect a low-key, respectful environment and occasional social events for solo guests.

Ready to Set Sail with Explora Journeys? 🌍

Explora Journeys is redefining what luxury ocean travel looks like—and more importantly, what it feels like. If you’re craving a slower, deeper, and more meaningful way to see the world (without sacrificing comfort), this is it.

Whether you’re sipping wine on the Amalfi Coast or discovering volcanic beaches in the Caribbean, one thing’s for sure—you’ll never look at cruises the same way again.