There’s a new name in luxury cruising, and it’s making waves—quite literally. While it may not be a new name for those of you who have been following us for a while, it is a newer name in the cruise industry. An interesting fact is that most people we met onboard had a travel advisor which is how they knew to try Explora Journeys, the luxury cruise line redefining ocean travel with an entirely new approach to luxury at sea. If you think cruising means crowded decks, generic buffets, and rigid itineraries, think again. Our recent experience aboard Explora Journeys was nothing short of extraordinary, blending intuitive service, bespoke experiences, and an elegant, yacht-like ambiance that felt more like an exclusive floating resort than a traditional cruise ship.
Explora Journeys has set out to convert non-cruisers—just like my husband and me. I was already hooked after my experience along the Northeast coast in the fall of 2023 aboard Explora I, but he remained a skeptic, convinced that cruising wasn’t for him. That all changed the moment he stepped on board. He quickly realized that this was nothing like the mega-ships he had imagined. Explora Journeys truly offers a fresh perspective on ocean travel, designed to appeal even to those who never thought they’d enjoy a cruise. Just look how happy & relaxed he looks at Atoll Pool & Bar as we lounged above the ship wake as we sailed away from Virgin Gorda BVIs!
While there is so much to love about Explora Journeys, what truly sets it apart is the exceptional crew. From the moment we stepped on board, we were greeted with warm smiles and genuine hospitality that never wavered. People like Michael, the Entertainment Director, embody the spirit of Explora Journeys—passionate, engaging, and dedicated to creating an unforgettable experience.
It was clear that the entire team not only takes pride in what they do but genuinely enjoys it, and that energy is contagious. Their attention to detail and personalized service made all the difference, elevating our journey from exceptional to truly unforgettable.
A Fresh Take on Luxury Cruising
Explora Journeys isn’t just another cruise line; it’s an entirely new concept in ocean travel. Designed for discerning travelers who crave immersive, elevated experiences, Explora Journeys offers a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration. With a focus on longer stays in port, curated shore experiences, and an atmosphere that encourages spontaneity rather than rigid schedules, it’s ideal for those who want to experience the world at their own pace.
We had four ports of call in total and two of them allowed us to stay in port until after sunset so that we could fully enjoy the destination.
Suite-Only Accommodations with a Residential Feel
Every guest aboard an Explora Journeys ship enjoys suite accommodations, all with private terraces and floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Forget cramped cruise ship cabins—these suites feel like a home at sea, with spacious layouts, sophisticated décor, and an emphasis on comfort. High-end touches like walk-in closets, spa-like bathrooms, and personalized service elevate the experience even further.
For our voyage, we stayed in a Premier Penthouse suite, and it was nothing short of spectacular. This suite category offers even more space, with a separate living and dining area (perfect for hosting our group for a champagne party), an expansive private terrace, and rainfall shower. The attention to detail—from the plush bedding to the curated minibar—made our stay feel effortlessly luxurious. It was the perfect retreat after a day of exploring, offering both comfort and elegance in equal measure.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the beautifully designed interior and the extra space it provided—especially during moments when I had to work—my absolute favorite part of our Premier Penthouse was the oversized terrace. Whether sipping my morning coffee as the waves gently rolled by or unwinding with a glass of wine while watching the sunset, this private outdoor haven became my sanctuary at sea. The seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living truly elevated the experience, making every moment aboard feel effortlessly luxurious.
Culinary Excellence Beyond the Buffet
One of the standout aspects of my journey was the culinary experience. With multiple dining venues featuring menus inspired by global flavors, Explora Journeys offers a refined take on cruise dining. Expect fresh, locally sourced ingredients, innovative dishes, and an emphasis on quality over quantity. There are no traditional buffets or set dining times—just exceptional meals in an atmosphere that encourages leisurely indulgence.
While my husband appreciated many facets of the cruise, what really impressed him was the quality of the food. I have never seen him eat like he did onboard, and he even tried raw sushi for the first time! However, his favorite meal was when Emporium Marketplace served crab legs! My favorite lunch was my bento box served poolside at Sakura and my favorite dessert was the passion fruit souffle at Fil Rouge. However, our favorite overall dining experience was our dinner at Sakura, although our steak dinner at Marble & Co. was a close second!
Ocean Wellness: A New Approach to Relaxation
Wellness is at the core of the Explora Journeys philosophy. From state-of-the-art fitness centers and immersive spa treatments to open-air relaxation spaces that embrace the sea, the focus is on holistic well-being. Unlike other cruise lines that pack in water slides and bustling casinos, Explora Journeys cultivates a serene atmosphere, making it perfect for travelers who want to truly unwind.
Explora Journeys offers water therapy as part of its Ocean Wellness spa experience, which involves switching between water-based treatments of varying temperatures, including hot tubs, saunas, and even a salt room, to reap the benefits of each. The best part is that you do not even need to book a spa treatment to enjoy these benefits!
Our sailing include two days at sea, so we used our onboard credits (which we receive by booking through our affiliation with Virtuoso – to book your Explora Cruise and receive these amenities, please fill out our Cruise Inquiry Form.
Pro Tip: If your sailing involves sea days, make sure you head to the spa as soon as you are onboard. The spa appointments on at sea days fill up fast!
Exclusive Experiences Ashore
What truly sets Explora Journeys apart is its curated shore experiences. Instead of large-group excursions, the emphasis is on bespoke, intimate experiences that connect travelers with local cultures. In St. Barths, guests can enjoy a private sailing adventure, exploring hidden coves and pristine beaches before indulging in a gourmet picnic on the sand. In Antigua, a behind-the-scenes tour of an exclusive rum distillery offers an immersive look at the island’s rich heritage, complete with a private tasting of aged Caribbean rums. Each experience is thoughtfully designed to offer an authentic connection to the destination.
We chose to partake in an uncrowded catamaran adventure in Antigua and enjoy the resort passes they offer on St. Barths, but we put our own spin on it by renting a convertible mini Cooper to arrive at the resort and explore the island before and after!
Who Is Explora Journeys For?
If you love the idea of cruising but crave a more refined, immersive experience, Explora Journeys is for you. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy five-star hotels, appreciate top-tier service, and want a cruise that prioritizes quality over quantity. Whether you’re an empty nester looking for a sophisticated way to see the world, a well-traveled couple seeking an elevated ocean experience, or a family who is more interested in destination experiences than water slides, this is the kind of cruise that transforms how you see the world. After our experience onboard, we plan to cruise again with our kids. There were several families on board this sailing, and every family we chatted with was having a wonderful time. While not as elaborate as bigger cruise lines, there is a kids club onboard that kids were enjoying.
It is also for a group like the one we were traveling with – we were able to come together for various activities but also had the space to do our own thing if we desired.
Is Explora Journeys Worth It?
Absolutely! And honestly, by the time you factor in the included drink package, specialty dining, and wi-fi on board that is an additional charge on mass market cruise lines, I can honestly say sailing with Explora is an excellent value.
After experiencing Explora Journeys firsthand, I can confidently say that it’s a game-changer in luxury cruising. It delivers a fresh, contemporary take on ocean travel, catering to those who value space, exclusivity, and a more personalized approach to luxury. If you’ve been searching for a cruise experience that breaks away from the traditional model, this is it.
Ready to explore the world in a whole new way? Let’s craft your perfect voyage aboard Explora Journeys—because ocean travel should be as extraordinary as the destinations themselves.
photo credit: www.ritzcarlton.com