Travel Spotlight –Explora Journeys –newest cruise with the promise to redefine the luxury cruise market.

Last month we were fortunate enough to be amongst the first to sail onboard Explora I – the newest ship in the newest cruise’s line fleet –Explora Journeys. Explora Journeys looks to disrupt the luxury cruise market with 5 new ships. Explora Journeys brings over 300 years of seafaring history to luxury cruising, offering you an ocean escape that celebrates discovery while reconnecting to what matters most. Reinventing the classic luxury cruise experience, this new luxury brand was created by inspiration from nature and the love of the sea.

They use the latest in environmental-supporting technologies, while being ready to adapt to alternative energy solutions as they become available. Built with ship-to-shore power capabilities to avoid CO2 emissions while at berth and powered by marine gas oil, all ships in the fleet will be RINA DOLPHIN certified for reduced underwater noise. Everything is geared up to allow you to explore the very best of the world’s destinations onboard a state-of-the-art ship.

The 63,900-gross-ton Explora I is one of the largest luxury vessels at sea, carrying up to 922 guests and with a passenger to crew ratio of 1.25:1. It’s a beautiful vessel with plenty of jaw-dropping spaces onboard, from the two-story Lobby Bar to the wake infinity pool and the single Owner’s Residence. The ship has 461 oceanfront Suites, Penthouses and Residences. In addition there is a choice of 6 dining venues, as well as 12 bars and lounges. Not to mention 1 indoor and 3 outdoor swimming pools, as well as extensive outdoor decks with private cabanas.

The quality for the food was one of the highlights for us - With 6 different restaurants to choose from, this is guaranteed to be a culinary journey you’ll never forget. Whilst onboard we dined at Marble & Co. Grill, an incredible modern European-style steakhouse with prime meats from across the globe. Med Yacht Club is a relaxed, family-style Mediterranean restaurant, the grilled octopus starter was spectacular, whilst the Dover sole was equally impressive. Our favourite restaurant was hands down Sakura, an immersive pan-Asian restaurant serving fresh sushi as well as a variety of Thai, Malaysian and Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant is as easy on the eye as the food is, with an open kitchen as well as outdoor seating for those looking to dine al fresco.

Fil Rouge, an elegant restaurant, serves Frenchinspired cuisine, whilst the Emporium Marketplace features sushi, fresh seafood and a daily rotisserie offering grilled, roasted, and slow-cooked meats. You’ll also find a wide variety of fresh pasta which is cooked to order, and freshly baked pizzas (these are delicious!) and bread are on offer as are home-made sandwiches. If that wasn’t enough you’ll be sure to find charcuterie, fromagerie, boulangerie and patisserie stations, there is a good reason why we wouldn’t call this a buffet… All guests have access to the beautiful spa facilities which include a steam room, hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, salt cave, an experience shower, ice fall, heated marble loungers and a relaxation room. There are a total of 11 treatment rooms, perfect for those looking for a massage or specialised skin treatment, as well as a small outdoor relaxation area.

One of the most inclusive luxury experiences at sea, Explora Journeys offers a relaxed, comfortable yet refined experience. You truly feel like you at home whilst at sea, and the experience is effortless. No matter which type of suite you book you’ll have a host of inclusions to take advantage of from the moment you step onboard this stunning ship. The Wi-Fi onboard is some of the best we’ve experienced on a cruise, it is the small, well-thought-out touches that really elevate this ship, for example being able to pair your phone to your in-suite TV to listen to music or your favourite show.

There aren’t many children facilities on board however children are welcome and they do have a dedicated multi use space for children aged 6 to 17 to enjoy that include a fair amount of high tech equipment. In addition families can expect space and privacy with 40+ multi-generational connected suites. A lovely touch was the small bathrobe and slippers for our daughter.

Entertainment onboard Explora I does not include big show productions – they opted for a more intimate, unique and immersive experiences. They include resident guests artists, themed live music and exciting talks by Luminaries.

All Journeys always include:

• In-suite welcome bottle of champagne upon arrival

• A bottle of wine and a bottle of spirit of the guests’ choice upon arrival

• Authentic, cultured and intuitive service from the team of hospitality experts

•Nine distinct culinary experiences, including in-suite dining

• Unlimited beverages, fine wines and premium spirits, speciality coffees, teas and soft drinks available anytime, including in-suite mini-bar

• Access to the spa thermal area

• Wellbeing and fitness programmes on board and at the destinations

• All on-board gratuities

• Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

• Shuttle services from port to city centre (where required/available)

We absolutely loved our time onboard – she is every inch the beauty and understated luxury they promised she will be. We can’t wait to return. She is sailing on some quite unique destinations in the Caribbean and South America this winter and she will be in Mediterranean in the summer of 2024 when her sister ship Explora II will join the fleet. For all things cruise and Explora Journeys, please come and see us in the town centre.

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