Explora Cruises offers a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. I have now been on Explora I twice in 2024 and I am a fanboy! The ship is huge and beautiful. Rooms are stunning and everything about an Explora Journey equates to a wonderful way to explore the world and relax.
If you’re considering a cruise with Explora Journeys, consider booking via me (Rocky) at Scott & Thomas Travel for added onboard credit. Yet first, here are five reasons why Explora Cruises should be at the top of your list
1. Luxurious All Ocean Veranda Accommodations
Explora Cruises is synonymous with luxury. The cabins are stunning, a perfect place to call home. First, these ships are huge for a cruise ship. Each ocean terrace suite is 377 square feet. This is about 40 sq feet larger than most luxury cruise ships!
These large rooms are not only large, but set up for comfort. Each cabin is designed with elegance and comfort in mind, featuring plush bedding, spacious layouts, and private balconies that offer breathtaking views of the ocean. Every room has a walk through wardrobe, with a vanity mirror and sitting area. The vanity comes equipped with a dyson hair dryer. A huge upgrade compared to most ships.
Featuring true king beds, not just two twins pushed together, each bed features chic Down duvets and pillows. Fine bed linens and an extensive pillow selection to ensure you sleep like a baby at sea.
The attention to detail in the decor and amenities ensures that your stay is as comfortable as it is stylish. Whether you’re in a suite or a standard cabin, you’ll feel pampered and at home. Penthouses are large, ocean residences are grand, and no matter if you take an entry level room or a grand residence, your experience at sea will not be outdone.
2. Gourmet Dining Experiences
Food lovers will rejoice on an Explora Cruise. Who doesn’t love to eat? I know I love to! The cruise line prides itself on offering a variety of dining options that cater to every palate and this is honestly where I think Explora really sets themself apart from other cruise lines. As the other companies are cutting corners, Explora is expanding. Choose from gourmet vegan options in all settings, fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and fresh pizza – all from scratch. The food on Explora is unmatched. Just writing about it I am starting to salivate as I reminisce about the fresh made pesto in the marketplace, the escargot at Fil Rouge, or the homemade gelato pool side. TAKE ME BACK!
From fine dining restaurants that serve gourmet cuisine to casual eateries offering fresh and delicious meals, there’s something for everyone. No reservations are needed at most Explora Journey restaurants. Eat where you want, whenever you want. I love this concept as there is not a main dining room. Instead you can change it up nightly and not worry about extra fees for enjoying a meal at sea.
Plus, Explora is the only ship I know of which features a different Michilin star chef monthly. Changing their dining options constantly and updating to meet the needs of their customers. If I am choosing a ship for food alone, Explora wins hands down. There’s not a single ship that comes close.
3. Space – Spread out and relax
Explora I is a huge ship, but it never feels full. My first time aboard I was worried that the ship was going to feel crowded. The ship is nearly the same size as the Norwegian Sun. Yet Instead of being home to 2,500 guests, the ship hosts a max of 900. This means when you’re on Explora you have time to spread out and relax.
There are over 4 pools and 6 jacuzzis. Yet finding a pool chair in the sun or shade is never an issue. People are waking up at 6am to leave towels by the pool. Even on Sea days, finding a place to relax is never an issue. Choose your favorite pool and bar and make yourself at home. Crowding is never an issue. Making this ship a true win when planning a vacation in the sun!
Furthermore, I was just shock to never really wait in line. From bars to restaurants, even the coffee shop, service is always fast and there’s never more than 1 or 2 people waiting. With a near 1:1 staff, this ship is great for those who like their space, but want all the amenities of the big ships.
4. Exceptional All Inclusive Service
Going on vacation is not only about the destination, it’s about the experience. When you travel and want luxury, you want a professional crew. The staff on Explora Cruises is dedicated to providing exceptional service to every guest. The crew is attentive, professional, and always ready to assist with any need or request. This high level of service ensures that your cruise experience is smooth, enjoyable, and stress-free.
On both of my trips, I have found the bartenders to be among the best in the business. With less than 900 passengers onboard I find the wait staff are quick to remember faces and preferences. Not only remembering names of guests, but prefer drinks or pallets. I had suggestions based on previous orders, custom made drinks, and more. Always a step ahead, the staff on Explora are truly special.
Yet better yet, Explora is All-inclusive. Nearly everything you can imagine is included in the cost. Free and fast Wi-fi, open bars, staff gratuities, and all dining venues except 1 are included. You can order 24 hour room service, take a fitness class, and order your favorite cocktail without additional fees.
Knowing that only an excursion or a trip to the spa is going to cost extra is a wonderful feeling and it’s so nice to not be nickel and dime throughout your vacation. Pay once and forget about it!
5. Enriching Onboard Activities
When going on vacation, for some the destination is the goal. For other’s, it’s the ship. While the destinations are a big draw, Explora Cruises also offers a plethora of onboard activities to keep you entertained throughout your journey. As the ship has space, and room, you get all the amenities of the big ships, without the people or crowds!
On Explora you can enjoy live performances including both live music and nightly shows. There’s Steinway pianos and over 12 different musicians playing every instrument from the trumpet to the drums. Dance the night away to live music or a lovely DJ. Explora knows how to throw a party and how to entertain their guests.
Another huge selling point is the engaging lectures, and interactive workshops. Explora hosts guests lectures who are experts in destinations the ship is visiting. Each day there are multiple talks about the stops on the way, ensuring guests are enriched through learning. It’s more than just a vacation or an experience, it’s an enrichment vacation if you choose.
Otherwise, relax by one of the many pools, visit the spa for a rejuvenating treatment, or take a fitness class. There’s always something to do, including amazing wine and whiskey tasting or visit the test kitchen and learn how to cook something new. From days in port to every day at sea, this vacation is something to get excited about!
Bottom Line
Explora Cruises offers a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and exceptional service. With its luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, exceptional service, and enriching onboard activities, an Explora Cruise promises an unforgettable vacation experience. I’ve been on two 7 days cruises and I cannot wait for my next. Hopefully a slightly longer one so I can enjoy the ship even more.
If you are looking to book an Explora Cruise, please consider contacting me. I work for Scott & Thomas travel and we offer €150 onboard credit for every passenger who books via our agency. Something you won’t get by booking directly with Explora. One of several reasons why you should always book a cruise via a travel agent.
BONUS for any booking before July 19, receiving up to €1000 onboard credit (OBC) bonus per suite. All new bookings through 7/19 will receive the following benefits.
- Ocean Terrace and Grand Ocean Terrace Suites €200 per person bonus, €350 per person total OBC
- Ocean Penthouse Suites EUR 300 per person, €450 per person OBC
- Ocean Residences EUR 500 per person bonus, €650 per person OBC
