This past week, Kanise, J5Travel's Cruise Director, had the absolute pleasure to experience first-hand Explora I, the first ship from Explora Journeys. This brand new luxury cruise line represents the ambition and long-held dream of the MSC Group and the Aponte family to create a transformative luxury ocean travel experience and brand that redefines the luxury cruise category. Every detail has been paid attention to provide the utmost service and an amazing sailing experience for you. Kanise has only had good things to say about this ship and the cruise line overall, and she has condensed all the information to 5 things she loved the most. If you're interested in learning more email cruise@j5travel.com, the cruise team would love to chat with you about all things cruising.
Top 5 - Explora Journeys
1. The Rooms
Explora 1 has some of the most spacious staterooms at sea and they are lovely retreats during your cruise. All rooms have private balconies with patio sets and a soft chaise to lounge on. The cabins are elegantly designed in peaceful colors and have thoughtful design touches throughout. I loved the room dividers that hold figurines and books for you to read. The bathrooms are the biggest I've seen and have lovely glass, walk in showers (thank goodness no curtains) and heated floors! The penthouse suites and above are glamorous with luxury amenities and separate bedrooms. And even a private whirlpool on the terrace. The marble clad bathroom in the Retreat Residence is to die for with a separate tub and bidet.
Pro tip: Each suite has a picture of books and they are arranged to tell a story with the titles.
2. The Common Areas
Refined yet effortless luxury is the feeling you get while on Explora I. The public spaces are immaculate, yet welcoming and truly invite you to make the ship your home away from home. Take the time to enrich your mind, body and soul with 3 pools, 4 infinity whirlpools, a luxury spa, 12 lounges and bars, a casino, state of art fitness center and theater.
Pro tip: Sign up for the guided meditation and sound bath in the fitness center for a peaceful experience.
3. The Spa
The spa deserves its own special mention because it is that impressive and one of my favorite places on the ship. More than just your standard treatment rooms, the spa houses a hydrotherapy pool, salt cave, Finnish sauna, aromatherapy experience shower, steam room and relaxation room with heated marble loungers- everything you need for a relaxing sea day. They also have a beauty salon that offers skin, nail and hair services for men and women. And of course, they have treatment rooms where you can enjoy massages and various holistic treatments.
Pro tip: Experience each space clockwise for a complete mind/body rejuvenation.
4. Restaurants and Food
If you're like me, then the restaurants and food onboard are a major factor during the cruise. And Explora Journeys did not disappoint. There are four themed restaurants serving Mediterranean, Classic Steakhouse, French and Asian cuisines. There is also the massive buffet, a restaurant from a three Michelin star chef and the chef's kitchen where you learn to prepare some of the meals served onboard. The quality of the food and ambiance of the spaces were top notch. You can tell that everything is made with the freshest of ingredients and prepared with meticulous care.
Pro tip: Try the crushed fingerling potatoes in Marble & Co. It is an amazing appetizer of crushed potatoes set on Bordelais butter (arguably the finest butter in the world) and topped with crème fraîche covered in Calvisius Oscietra caviar and gold flakes.
5. Entertainment
While I do wish they had a little more variety, I can say every performance is definitely worth seeing. The entertainment onboard is mainly music focused. At any given time of the day you can expect to find a guest artist preforming in any of the lounges. Explora has a variety of musicians that are experts in singing, piano, trumpet, drums, etc. And one artist can play just about all of the instruments and can switch three times in one performance. Entertainment also includes my favorite activity, trivia, but only on sea days. They also have a dance instructor onboard that hosts bachata and salsa classes.
Pro tip: Don't miss the evening by candlelight night. There are over 200 candles (electric) placed throughought the theater and it really adds to the vibe of the show.
All Journeys Include
- In-suite welcome bottle of champagne upon arrival
- Gratuities
- 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
- Unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the ship
- Shuttle services from port to city centre (where required/available) Additional inclusions and services apply to Ocean Penthouse and Ocean Residence categories
*For fine wine and spirits connoisseurs or those wishing to elevate their experience or celebrate a special occasion, an ultra-exquisite selection of wines, spirits, and liqueurs, will also be available for an additional fee. Please note that the complimentary wine and spirits selection is not available at Anthology restaurant.
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