Feel the Ocean State of Mind
- INTRODUCING EXPLORA JOURNEYS
- EXPLORA JOURNEY BEGINS MAY 2023
- THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE NAME
- THE EXPLORA JOURNEYS MANDALA
- EXPLORA JOURNEYS KEY MILESTONES
- EXPLORA JOURNEYS CURRENT OFFERS
- GUESTS AND YOUNGER TRAVELLERS
- FOUR LUXURY CRUISE SHIPS
- 2024 & INAUGURAL JOURNEYS COLLECTION
- STEINWAY PARTNERSHIP & EXPLORA II INAUGURAL SEASON
- DESTINATION EXPERIENCES
- OCEAN WELLNESS PROGRAM
Introducing Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is the newest luxury cruise ship lifestyle travel brand by the MSC Group with the ambition to redefine the luxury cruise category.
Meet the newest discerning Ocean Travel redefined: Explora Journeys! Starting in 2023, Explora Journeys will sail their first of four newest luxury cruise ships where guests can reconnect with what matters most – themselves, their loved ones, and the new world of Ocean Travel discoveries. Explora Journeys, providing an unrivaled assortment at sea, is equipped with the latest in environmental-supporting and marine technologies and will be introducing a very unique luxury travel experience on its 461 oceanfront suites with fabulous itineraries that will blend renowned destinations with lesser-traveled ports.
Explora Journeys offers the perfect blend of celebrated destinations and lesser known off the beaten path locations, focusing on a slower pace, and spending more time in each destination, to ensure guests can feel fully exhilarated and immerse themselves in the local culture and environment, whilst not leaving their mark on the destination. EXPLORA I’s inaugural journeys collection includes the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the United Kingdom, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, the East Coast of the United States of America, the Caribbean Sea, South America, and Hawaii. Sailings start from six-night journeys and culminate in a spectacular 44-night Northern Europe Grand Journey.
These are ENRICHING holidays for the curious, cosmopolitan traveler who wants to create CONNECTIONS that LAST long BEYOND the journey itself.
Peruse the pages of Explora Journeys’ introductory brochure to learn more about the brand’s highlights, inclusions, featured destination experiences, and more. Northstar guests sailing on an Explora Journeys Virtuoso Voyages sailing may choose either a EUR 250 journey experience credit per person, an exclusive shore experience, a private car and driver, or a personal experience credit.
Plus, our guests will save up to 10 percent by booking early and paying in full with Explora’s early booking benefit. Book at least 180 days prior to departure. Valid for departures now through January 31, 2024.
EXPLORA JOURNEYS UNVEILS DESIGNS OF OCEAN PENTHOUSES AND OCEAN RESIDENCES ONBOARD EXPLORA I – New ‘Homes at Sea’ suite categories thoughtfully designed to stimulate the senses and reflect the Explora Journeys philosophy of creating an ‘Ocean State of Mind’.
OCEAN PENTHOUSES AND OCEAN RESIDENCES ONBOARD EXPLORA I
New ‘Homes at Sea’ suite categories thoughtfully designed to stimulate the senses and reflect the Explora Journeys philosophy of creating an ‘Ocean State of Mind’
Geneva, 6 March 2023 – Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, today unveiled the design of its Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences on board EXPLORA I, the first of a planned fleet of up to six luxury ships. Ahead of its maiden journey departing from Southampton, UK, on 17 July 2023, this is the second unveiling of the unique design philosophy for its 461 ocean-front ‘Homes at Sea’ after sharing the plans for its entry-level Ocean Suites last year.
With a maritime heritage of over 300 years coupled with an innate understanding of luxury, the owners’ family has carefully curated the design of the suites, penthouses, and residences to create the ultimate luxurious Home at Sea. The elegant design is a reflection of the brand’s distinctive European DNA.
Thoughtfully designed to stimulate the senses and reflect the brand’s philosophy of creating an ‘Ocean State of Mind’ owing to carefully considered elements such as natural light, color, space, privacy, and connection with the sea, Explora Journeys has worked meticulously to ensure every guest experiences an opulent, yet intimate retreat as they embark on their own ocean journey.
EXPLORA JOURNEYS is the summation of a long-held dream of the Aponte Vago family to REDEFINE the LUXURY ocean experience and CREATE a category of its own.
With over 300 years of sea-faring EXPERIENCE and a PASSION and RESPECT for the oceans guiding all that they do, we believe that Explora Journeys can prove to be truly TRANSFORMATIVE, with SUSTAINABILITY sitting at the very heart of the experience. We are excited to be able to tell you more about Explora Journeys’ VISION and we look forward to WELCOMING you onboard their vessels very soon.
The concept: Vibrant, cosmopolitan, relaxed European luxury at sea. Instead of cruises, they create journeys – of the mind, and across the oceans of the world. Visits to places on and off the beaten track.
Onboard: Spaces that offer guests relaxed luxury, creating a home at sea. Restoring life’s essential balance with a combination of discovery and appreciation for wellbeing
and nature. This is what the newest luxury cruise ships discerning travelers have asked for and this is what they will enjoy on Explora Journeys!
Partner Spotlight: Explora Journeys from Amanda Larsen on Vimeo.
Explora Journeys Current Offers
| Grand & Extended Journeys | Valid for Travel 31 May 2023 – 27 Apr 2024 |
| Journeys For Solo Travellers | Valid for Travel 01 Aug 2023 – 16 Oct 2024 |
| Explora Early Booking Benefit | Valid for Travel Now Through 16 Oct 2024 |
Find a vacation state of mind
Linger longer, from Rio to Oslo
Welcome to a new generation of ocean travel on the new ship EXPLORA I. One that celebrates laid-back luxury with itineraries that take you to lesser-known ports and renowned cities. On these 10- to 17-day voyages with Explora Journeys, you’ll enjoy whiskey and wine-tastings, 11 distinct culinary experiences, and a wellness program that helps you achieve a new state of calm. Reserve your suite through your NorthStar Virtuoso travel advisor early and get up to 10% off your all-inclusive fare. Plus, a private welcome reception, the services of a dedicated onboard host, and $250 shipboard credit per person, your exclusive NorthStar Virtuoso Voyages benefits.
- An Extended Viking Lore of Fjords & Hanseatic Cities – Copenhagen to Southampton – 10 Days | Departs August 15, 2023 – Virtuoso Ocean Terrace Suite fares FROM $5,200 per person View Sailing ›
- Diamond Beaches & Sparkling Private Idylls – Round-trip from Miami – 10 Days | Departs December 13, 2023 – Virtuoso Ocean Terrace Suite fares FROM $3,500 per person View Sailing ›
- Inaugural South American Journey – Bridgetown to Santos – 17 Days | Departs January 31, 2024 – Virtuoso Ocean Terrace Suite fares FROM $8,200 per person View Sailing ›
- Inaugural Alaska Journey – Remote Wrangell & Spectacular Sitka – Round-trip from Vancouver – 12 Days | Departs May 6, 2024 – Virtuoso Ocean Terrace Suite fares FROM $6,400 per person View Sailing ›
EXPLORA EARLY BOOKING BENEFIT
SAVE UP TO 10%
As part of their commitment to guests, Explora Journeys Ocean Travel has introduced the Explora Early Booking Benefit offer. With significant savings and flexible ocean travel dates available for those who pay in full, this is the ideal benefit for guests who like to plan ahead. Again, this Early Booking Benefit is valid for departures now through January 31, 2024, if booked at least 180 days prior to departure.
SAVE UP TO 10% BY BOOKING EARLY AND PAYING IN FULL*
This benefit can be combined with: Flexible Journeys, Extended & Grand Journeys savings, Journeys for Solo Travelers, additional guests and younger travelers’ savings
- Available up to 180 days prior to departure
- Flexible Journeys policy applies
- Standard cancellation policy applies
- Expected full payment within 3 days
*Savings vary according to journeys, dates of booking, and category of suites. Terms and conditions apply, please go to page 50 for more information.
Journeys for SOLO Travelers
For guests undertaking an Ocean Journey solo and those who simply prefer to enjoy a suite to themselves, Explora Journeys are delighted to offer a lower supplement fare on selected Journeys, with all services and amenities included.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT STARTING FROM ONLY 15%
NorthStar guests enjoying their suite solo can book any suite with a single supplement starting from only 15% above Explora Journeys’ current per person fares.
GRAND & EXTENDED JOURNEYS
EXPLORE MORE AND SAVE UP TO 20%
Explora Journeys has extended Grand Journeys offer guests the opportunity to discover and explore even more, by combining multiple Journeys or through longer sailings to wonderful destinations. This allows guests to extend their ocean journey by combining several itineraries and take advantage of savings of up to 10% compared to booking the journeys individually* — With longer immersive sailings, this Grand Journeys Collection allows savings of up to 20%*
*Savings vary according to journeys, dates of booking, and category of suites. Terms and conditions apply, please go to page 50 for more information.
FLEXIBLE JOURNEYS
In these unpredictable times, Explora Journeys Flexible Journeys policy means that when planning a journey with them, guests are guaranteed the flexibility and reassurance they need should their circumstances change.
AMEND OR MOVE YOUR JOURNEY AT NO ADDITIONAL CHARGE
- Ocean Suites: up to 120 days prior to departure
- Ocean Penthouses: up to 120 days prior to departure
- Ocean Residences: up to 200 days prior to departure
*Terms and conditions apply, please go to page 50 for more information.
JOURNEYS FOR SOLO TRAVELLERS
For guests undertaking an Ocean Journey solo and those who simply prefer to enjoy a suite to themselves, Explora Journeys is delighted to offer a lower supplement fare on selected Journeys, with all services and amenities included.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT STARTING AT ONLY 15%
Guests enjoying their suite solo can book any suite with a single supplement starting at only 15% above their current per-person fare.
ALL SERVICES AND AMENITIES INCLUDED
- Explora Journeys solo guests can enjoy all services and amenities included in the regular journey fare (depending on the suite booked), including complimentary culinary experiences, wines and spirits, personalized entertainment programs and all onboard gratuities.
- This Solo Travelers policy applies to all suite categories without exception (single occupancy supplements vary according to journeys, dates of booking, and category of suites), on all Journeys.
- Taxes, fees and port charges are paid for one guest only
*Terms and conditions apply, please go to page 50 for more information.
ADDITIONAL GUESTS AND YOUNGER TRAVELLERS
Explora Journeys welcomes all generations and they are delighted to offer exceptional savings for younger explorers and larger groups.
- INFANTS BETWEEN 6 MONTHS* AND 2 YEARS OLD** SAIL FREE OF CHARGE
- CHILDREN BETWEEN 2 AND 18 YEARS OLD** ARE ELIGIBLE FOR ADDITIONAL SAVINGS OF UP TO 50% OFF THE CURRENT FARE
- ADULTS TRAVELLING AS 3RD GUESTS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR SAVINGS OF UP TO 25%
- To benefit from this special offer, infants, children or adults should be registered as 3rd or 4th guests in the same suite. The 1st and 2nd guests are not eligible, regardless of their age at the time of sailing.
*Explora Journeys is unable to accommodate infants under 6 months **Age at the time of sailing Savings apply to selected categories of suites. Terms and conditions apply, please go to page 50 for more information.
Steinway Partnership & Explora II Inaugural Season
Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, on Dec 13, 2022, announced the inaugural itineraries of its second ship, EXPLORA II, launching in summer 2024, are now open for booking and a recent partnership with Steinway!
A new unique set of journeys and new destinations will allow guests to explore renowned and off the beaten path locations in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, India, the Indian Ocean, and Africa marking the first time the luxury lifestyle brand will sail in these regions.
Featuring 25 journeys and 14 extended journeys between August 2024 and end of April 2025, the itineraries will include 82 unique ports across 26 countries. At each stop, guests will have opportunities to discover the local nature and culture through exclusive activities, whilst exploring exotic ‘bucket list’ destinations and delving into the locations through sustainable and tailored experiences. All journeys are designed for the discerning traveller who wants to stay longer, leave later and travel deeper.
The brand provides guests with a slower pace of travel, unconventional arrival and departure times and the opportunity to spend more time in each destination with overnight stays while in port to ensure they feel fully exhilarated and immersed in the local culture and environment.
This is a new chapter for the brand, we are extremely proud to unveil EXPLORA II and these new itineraries. Our portfolio of destinations is constantly expanding, and we look forward to welcoming guests on board our ships to enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences in incredible countries where they will be able to reconnect with themselves, whist connecting with the people they meet, the surroundings and the local communities.
Michael Ungerer, the Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is constantly innovating and adapting to alternative energy solutions as they become available. Aiming to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, the brand recently announced that EXPLORA III and EXPLORA IV will feature LNG engines, whilst EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI will feature not only an LNG engine, but will be hydrogen powered with industry-first features. The ships will have new generation technologies on board and tackle the methane slip issue effectively, including a containment system for liquid hydrogen that will enable them to use promising low-carbon fuel. The Hydrogen fuel will power a six-megawatt fuel cell to produce emissions-free power for the hotel operation and allow the vessels for zero emissions operations while in port.
Explora Journeys Destinations
EXPLORA JOURNEY
BEGINS MAY 2023
EXPLORA I will commence her inaugural Mediterranean Journey at the end of May 2023 with an 11-night journey from Barcelona to Athens. In her first year at sea, EXPLORA I will visit 132 ports in 40 different countries, including two destinations – Kastellorizo in Greece and Saint Pierre in Martinique – that have never been previously visited by any cruise ships.
Explora Journeys’ first ship, Explora I, will debut in 2023 with eight inaugural journeys and a series of mesmerizing itineraries throughout the Mediterranean, the British Isles, Fjords and Baltics, the Caribbean, Iceland and Greenland, the Pacific Coast and Hawaii, and more. Now, here’s where things get interesting. Explora Journeys really sets itself apart from other ocean experiences.
The ships have been designed as if they are super-superyachts by a design team of superyacht maritime architects in partnership with Fincantieri, the world’s finest luxury shipbuilders. In fact, the team at Explora Journeys do not think themselves as creators of another classic luxury cruise brand, but rather a provider of journeys. In other words, an Explora Journeys trip is an experience, before it is a cruise. It’s part of why they talk about finding your “Ocean State of Mind.”
What’s more, Explora Journeys is backed by a financially strong group and is rooted in traditions of family, excellence, European luxury, and passion for the power and wonder of the sea. That’s because Explora Journeys is the vision of the Aponte family, who founded the Mediterranean Shipping Company over 50 years ago. Today, MSC Group is the world’s largest private shipping corporation.
With the utmost thoughtfulness and mindfulness about today’s travelers, Explora Journeys also sets itself apart by focusing on the essence of discovery, and the travelers who crave it. Experiences onboard and on land are wholly guest-centric, developed in response to what people want. The team at Explora Journeys know that for travelers who want to sail with purpose…who want more space, choice, design, and privacy…who appreciate the Swiss gold thread of luxury…and who hold our planet’s oceans in the highest regard, not just any ocean liner will do.
Every private guest space is a home at sea, each suite oceanfront with a large terrace. Foodies will be delighted by nine onboard culinary experiences. Explora’s ships also offer a comprehensive and holistic wellbeing experience both indoors and out, both onboard and in select destinations. Hosts onboard are passionate hospitality experts who wish to deliver intuitive personalized service.
Travelers who holiday with Explora Journeys are those who long to be left exhilarated and not exhausted. Explora Journeys offers a different pace: slower, deeper and with more opportunity for immersion. You may even have a sense that you can touch the impossible; to reach out and fulfill a transcendent need that resonates deep within your being.
The land experiences this team has offered are also remarkable, with a goal of fostering profound personal enrichment. Think camping on a polar ice cap in Greenland…whale-watching while soaking in a whirlpool in Norway…helicoptering over the colorful UNESCO World Heritage Site Iguazu Falls in Brazil…going behind the scenes into the private world of the Swedish Royal Opera, and much more.
All of this brings to mind a line from the poet Emily Dickinson: “Find ecstasy in life.”
The Explora Journeys team has created something where luxury becomes joyful, personal, and transformative – whether onboard, exploring destinations with purpose, or reminiscing about the trip long after you’ve returned home.
Explora Journeys’ policies support this, too. They realize that things do come up to change travel plans: you can move your journey with no penalty up to 120 days prior to sailing. They’re also keen to welcome solo travelers, offering fares that start at 115% on select journeys. And their early booking benefit offers value savings on journey fares up to 10% when you choose to pay in full.
We would love to share their story even more with you and review some of their future 2023 and 2024 journeys, and how Explora Journeys can inspire you to travel further, immerse yourself deeper and linger a little longer. Let’s extend your horizons.
Let your NorthStar Advisor cultivate your Ocean State of Mind.
THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THE NAME
Explora Journeys is inspired by their PASSION for exploration and discovery, alongside an inherent RESPECT for the seas and oceans of the world. It’s why their MODERN, elegant brand logo subtly reflects the curves and MOVEMENT of the sea and waves.
THE EXPLORA JOURNEYS MANDALA
An integral element of the logo and brand is the Explora Journeys MANDALA – DESIGNED by Alexa Aponte-Vago, CFO of the MSC Group, daughter of founder Gianluigi Aponte and wife of Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago. With deep roots in spirituality, the mandala pattern represents a journey of personal discovery and fulfillment. Illustrations of the lotus flower symbolize purity of body, speech, and mind, while a nod to the fleur-de-lis represents humility and a clear connection to Explora Journeys European heritage.
EXPLORA JOURNEYS CELEBRATES KEY CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE WITH FLOAT OUT OF EXPLORA I
- Float out event marks 12 months until EXPLORA I launches as planned at the end of May 2023
- Brand to explore introduction of LNG on EXPLORA III and IV
Geneva, Switzerland – 30 May 2022
Explora Journeys today celebrated another important milestone in the construction of EXPLORA I with the float out ceremony held at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. This is the first of four ships from the luxury ocean travel brand and EXPLORA I is set to be delivered in just 12 months at the end of May 2023. EXPLORA II will launch in summer 2024 and is also already under construction with the keel being laid earlier this month.
The float out is a traditional maritime event that is a significant moment in the construction of a new ship as it is the first time that the ship will touch water and will then enter the final phases of construction as work moves to complete interiors, fixtures and fittings. The event was celebrated in the presence of senior representatives from the Cruise Division of MSC Group, Explora Journeys, Fincantieri, travel advisors and international media.
Four newest luxury cruise ships
Built by Fincantieri in Italy
2026 – EXPLORA IV
2025 – EXPLORA III
2024 – EXPLORA II
- 1 Owner’s Residence
- 22 Ocean Residences
- 67 Ocean Penthouses
- 371 Ocean Terrace and Ocean Grand Terrace Suites
- 78 multi-generation-friendly connecting suites
2023 – EXPLORA I
- 1 Owner’s Residence
- 22 Ocean Residences
- 67 Ocean Penthouses
- 371 Ocean Terrace and Ocean Grand Terrace Suites
- 82 multi-generation-friendly connecting suites
OVERVIEW
SHIP SPECIFICATIONS
- Length: 248 m (~813 ft)
- Tonnage: 63,900 GT
- Guests per hosts ratio: 1.25 : 1
461 OCEAN FRONT SUITES
Featuring
- Private terraces which are amongst the largest in the category
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows with elegant interiors
- Spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area
NINE DISTINCT INCLUSIVE CULINARY EXPERIENCE
- Focused on healthy, delicious food from local, sustainable sources
NUMEROUS LOUNGING AND ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES
- Ten indoor and outdoor bar and lounge experiences with curated entertainment and intimate performances
- Casino, art gallery, and curated shopping experiences GENEROUS OUTDOOR DECKS
- Three outdoor pools and one indoor pool with a retractable glass roof
- 64 private cabanas
- Multiple indoor and outdoor whirlpools
- Poolside dining and lounging HOLISTIC WELLNESS AND FITNESS
- Over 700 sqm (7,500 sq ft) of indoor and outdoor wellness facilities
- Over 270 sqm (2,900 sq ft) of fitness facilities with the latest equipment
THE LATEST ENVIRONMENTAL – SUPPORTING TECHNOLOGIES
- Hybrid-ready energy solutions
- Waste-management and energy-saving solutions
- No single plastic used onboard and ashore.
461 OCEAN FRONT SUITES
FEATURING
- Private terraces which are amongst the largest in the category
- Large floor-to-ceiling windows with elegant interiors
- Spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area
THE LATEST ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORTING TECHNOLOGIES
Hybrid-ready energy solutions
Waste-management and energy-saving solutions
No single plastic used onboard and ashore
HOMES AT SEA
EACH OF THEIR 461 OCEAN-FRONT SUITES, PENTHOUSES, AND RESIDENCES – ALL DESIGNED WITH A REFINED, EUROPEAN ELEGANCE – ARE CREATED TO GET YOU CLOSER TO THE OCEAN ITSELF, WITH FLOOR-TO-CEILING WINDOWS AND PRIVATE SUN TERRACES.
With unrivaled space and privacy – and service that means everything is taken care of – guests can relax into their comfortable homes at sea with their luggage delivered and a chilled bottle of champagne waiting as they undertake their Ocean Journey. Their suites start at 35 sqm (377 sq ft) with an average size of 42 sqm (453 sq ft), making them among the most spacious in the category.
371 OCEAN TERRACE SUITES AND
OCEAN GRAND TERRACE SUITES
Explora Journeys Ocean Terrace Suites elegantly combine space – at 35 sqm (377 sq ft) they are amongst the largest in the category – and light, as they all have floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces, to help you truly relax and feel closer to
the ocean that carries you on your journey. Explora Journeys Ocean Grand Terrace Suites include a larger ocean-front terrace of 11 sqm (118 sq ft), featuring an outdoor dining area and comfortable sunbeds for relaxation.
67 OCEAN PENTHOUSES
The Ocean Penthouses offer a luxurious, spacious retreat with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces to unwind and relax. With a characterful private dining area for four, and a calm, comfortable place to work, you can entertain with others or spend time to yourself as you see fit.
22 OCEAN RESIDENCES
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the sweeping decks and effortlessly elegant spaces of Ocean Residences. Enjoy perfect views of the oceans from your terrace’s dining area and private outdoor whirlpool, and make the most of their dedicated butler service.
1 OWNER’S RESIDENCE
The iconic Owner’s Residence creates the largest accommodation on board, with multiple harmonious spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind. Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your private outdoor terrace – featuring a spacious whirlpool – and enjoy intuitive, intelligent service with a dedicated private butler.
CULINARY EXPERIENCES
The culinary riches aboard Explora Journeys take their influences from across the globe, bringing personality, sophistication, and a dash of soul to dining at sea – on deck, by the pool, or on a suite’s private sun terrace. NINE culinary EXPERIENCES
as well as in-suite dining to DISCOVER! Each DISTINCT culinary experience is
created to celebrate GLOBAL cooking talents, provenance, and wholesome ingredients sourced by LOCAL PARTNERS. ALL-DAY DINING Elegant à la carte meals day and night. STEAKHOUSE EXPERIENCE From simple steak frites to the highest quality beef. MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT Serving exquisite recipes from our home region. INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT Sophisticated flavors from around the world. COFFEE LOUNGE Speciality coffees and refined pâtisserie created with expertise and flair. POOLSIDE DINING Alfresco fare with light, modern cuisine, and an ocean backdrop. CHEF’S KITCHEN Masterful meals are prepared in tandem with our talented chef. IN-SUITE DINING From breakfast in bed to secluded sunset dinners-à-deux.
LOUNGING & ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCES
Whether seeking a vibrant buzz or a quiet cocktail, each of the ship’s more than 10 carefree, chic indoor and outdoor bars and entertaining spaces emanate European savoir-faire. DISCOVER experiences, rituals, imaginative beverage CREATIONS, and curated sounds – all inspired by the UNIQUE Ocean State of Mind.
WELLBEING
A comprehensive and holistic wellbeing experience, inspired by our love for the sea, awaits guests, with a spacious indoor/outdoor spa and cutting-edge fitness area. From treatment rooms to state-of-the-art fitness equipment, group WORKOUT classes to PERSONAL training appointments, tailor-made programs make keeping WELL while on HOLIDAY effortless and enjoyable.
371 OCEAN TERRACE SUITES AND
OCEAN GRAND TERRACE SUITE
Relax into your comfortable and luxurious home at sea, where your luggage is delivered while enjoying a chilled bottle of champagne, awaiting anticipation of experiencing your lifetime Ocean Journey. With unrivaled space and privacy – and service, everything is taken care of in your (average size) 42 sqm (453 sq ft), making it among the most spacious for the Ocean Travel Category.
2024 & INAUGURAL JOURNEYS COLLECTION
EXPLORA I 2024 Destinations
- 06-May A Journey Tracing North America’s Pacific Shores (6 nights)
Vancouver to Los Angeles, Astoria, San Francisco - 12-May A Journey Through the Panama Canal and Beyond 1(6 nights)
Los Angeles to Miami, San Diego, Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlan, Puerto Vallarta, Puerto Quetzal, Puntarenas, Crossing the Panama Canal, Cartagena - 28-May A Journey of Tempest Islands on a Transatlantic Odyssey (13 nights)
Miami to Lisbon King’s Wharf, Praia da Vitória (Terceira), Ponta Delgada (São Miguel) - 10-Jun INAUGURAL MEDITERRRANEAN A Journey into Iberia’s Innumerable charms (4 nights)
Lisbon to Barcelona, Cadiz, Málaga - 14-Jun A Journey of French-Italo Glamour, Grandeur and Gastronomy (7 nights)
Barcelona to Rome (Civitavecchia), Marseille, Saint-Tropez, Cannes, Olbia (Sardinia) - 21-Jun A Journey of Greco, Roman and Turkish Majesties (7 nights)
Rome (Civitavecchia) to Athens (Piraeus), Sorrento, Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Istanbul - 28-Jun A Journey Pulled by the Fates to Rewarding Shores (11 nights)
Athens (Piraeus) to Venice (Marghera), Paphos, Agios Nikolaos (Crete), Kusadasi, Santorini, Split - 09-Jul A Journey to Wines, Windmills and Winsome Beaches (10 nights)
Venice (Marghera) to Athen (Piraeus), Šibenik, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Katapola (Amorgos), Mykonos - 19-Jul A Journey to Saints, Sunsets, and Gods (11 nights)
Athens (Piraeus) to Venice (Marghera) Paphos, Kusadasi, Patmos, Santorini, Šibenik - 30-Jul A Journey of Gondolas, Glamour and Gaudi (11 nights)
Venice (Marghera) to Barcelona Šibenik, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Rome (Civitavecchia), Saint-Tropez - 10-Aug A Journey to the Gems of Andalusia, the Algarve and Lisbon (6 nights)
Barcelona to Lisbon Málaga, Cadiz, Portimão - 16-Aug A Journey of Oenological Adventures in Portugal and France (9 nights)
Lisbon to Southampton Porto (Leixões), Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Bordeaux, Honfleur - 25-Aug A Journey to Remote Lands in Europe’s Far North (16 nights)
Southampton to Copenhagen, Stavanger, Bergen, Nordfjordeid, Molde Brønnøysund, Honningsvåg (Nordkapp), Longyearbyen (Svalbard), Tromsø, Ålesund - 10 September A Journey to Primordial Lands and Ancient Icelandic Harbours (8 nights)
Copenhagen to Reykjavik Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Akureyri Isafjordur Grundarfjörður - 18 September A Journey from Old World to New Across the Labrador Sea (13 nights)
Reykjavik to New York City, Sailing the Prince Christian Sund Waterway, Paamiut , Nuuk (Godthaab), Saint John (Bay of Fundy), Sailing the Whale Corridors - 1 O ctober A Journey to Remote Lands in Europe’s Far North (16 nights)
Southampton to Copenhagen, Stavanger, Bergen, Nordfjordeid, Molde, Brønnøysund, Honningsvåg (Nordkapp), Longyearbyen (Svalbard)
With sailings between seven and 44 nights long, the Inaugural Journeys Collection covers the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland, USA and Canada, the Caribbean, South America, Pacific Coast and Hawaii.
Whether that’s treading the cobbled streets of Europe’s hallowed capitals and exploring the ancient Acropolis; navigating the crystalline cool of the Norwegian fjords and sailing in the shadows of Svalbard’s soaring cliffs; or savoring French chic in Saint Barths, lolling beneath Hawaiian waterfalls and soaking up the sun-kissed shores of Brazil’s buzzing Rio de Janeiro, Explora Journeys promises exclusive access far beyond the classic luxury cruise experience.
- MAY 2023 – Inaugural Mediterranean Journey: Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey
- JULY 2023 – Inaugural Norwegian Journey: Norwegian Fjords, Svartisen Glacier, North Cape
- AUGUST 2023 – Inaugural United Kingdom Journey: England, Scotland
- SEPTEMBER 2023 – Inaugural Iceland & Greenland Journey: Iceland, Greenland, and Canada
- SEPTEMBER to OCTOBER 2023 – Inaugural North American East Coast Journey: United States, Canada
- NOVEMBER to DECEMBER 2023 – Inaugural Caribbean Journey: United States, British Virgin Islands, Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, Puerto Rico, St Barthelemy, St Kitts and Nevis, Dominican Republic, Bahamas
- JANUARY to FEBRUARY 2024 – Inaugural South American Journey: Barbados, French Guiana, Brazil
- APRIL to MAY 2024 – Inaugural Hawaiian Journey: United States, Canada
Inaugural Alaskan journey for spring 2024
Geneva, Switzerland, 16 June 2022 – Explora Journeys, today announced that Alaska will feature as a new addition to EXPLORA I’s unique journeys collection. The luxury lifestyle travel brand has revealed three incredible new journeys departing from Vancouver, Canada, that will provide a rare opportunity for guests to explore untouched Alaskan wilderness from a unique perspective. In doing so, each journey will achieve the brand’s aim in allowing guests to embrace enticing destinations and create lifelong memories, all done with minimal impact on the natural environments for which Alaska is best known.
The Remote Wrangell and Spectacular Sitka Inaugural Alaskan Journey will depart Vancouver on 6 May 2024 and this 11-night journey will sail the Inside Passage, Wrangell, Tracy Arm Fjord, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Ketchikan, Misty Fjord, Victoria and back to Vancouver on 17 May 2024.
Sailing the Whale’s Highway is an 11-night journey that includes, Icy Strait Point (Hoonah and the Hubbard Glacier whilst Journey of the Glaciers is a 10-night journey that will visit coastlines sculpted by rivers of jagged ice; navigating islands scattered like jigsaw pieces across cobalt bays. Mendenhall Glacier, Misty and Tracy Arm Fjords — ephemeral landmarks will leave a lasting impression and memories.
These journeys will highlight the visceral power of Alaska and a world of new adventures. Guests will be able to connect with the native cultures and experience landscapes that cannot be seen or experienced anywhere else on earth.
Michael Ungerer, the Chief Executive Officer of Explora Journeys, comments, “Explora Journeys’ Alaskan experience will inspire and excite in equal measure, especially for those who are curious for remarkable exploration. Blending luxury and adventure from soaring mountains, Arctic tundra, giant rivers, fjords, and glaciers, to deep, frozen oceans and vibrant wildlife, Explora Journeys will ensure a one-of-a kind experience. These journeys will also offer guests the opportunity to unlock our unique philosophy, the Ocean State of Mind, an elevated state of mind inspired by the sea, as elusive as it is sought after.”
Each unique journey will have its own personality and opportunity for adventure from experiencing the crack and gurgle of the Mendenhall Glacier – a remnant of the last ice age, flying over the sweeping wilderness or observing nature at its most powerful with the sights of brown bears, hunting salmon or humpback whales breaching calm, ice-cold waters. For those looking to take things at a slower pace, there will be plentiful options, all of which will revolve around a state where ecotourism sits at the very forefront – allowing guests to feel enriched from their connection with nature and the wilderness.
Both on board and ashore, guests will have ample of opportunity to explore the cuisine that Alaska has to offer. While exploring, restaurants and eateries will serve up a wonderful array of locally sourced seafood, game, and the absolute freshest produce, introducing guests to a new dimension of provenance and seasonality in their culinary experience. Local favorites such as Coho salmon or Dungeness crab, all complimented with a refreshing beer or cider from one of the numerous renowned Alaskan microbreweries.
Explora Journeys’ Alaskan Journey will run from 6 May 2024 to 28 August 2024.
Ocean Wellness Program
As Explora Journeys continues to unveil their wonderful programs, they are excited to introduce their Ocean Wellness program that will truly help our clients experience the ‘Ocean State of Mind’. knowing how calming the sound of water and waves is to our mind, body, and soul and by offering over 10,000 sq ft of wellness space onboard, it will be to not only give our clients a chance to relax but also mentally and physically reconnect with themselves through the hands of Explora Journeys Spa Hosts.
Below are some details of how Explora Journeys will bring their Ocean Wellness program to life with launch of Explora I on 17 Jul 2023.
OCEAN WELLNESS – THE SPA
- Treatment rooms: There are 11 treatment rooms, including two Private Spa Suites with their own outdoor relaxation area; one double and seven single treatment rooms; an additional treatment room dedicated to specialized Medi-Luxe Treatments by Dr Levy Switzerland; and an outdoor space in which guests can relax.
- Beauty Studio: The flowing layout allows guests to enjoy all their grooming requirements in one tranquil space, from replenishing hair and barber treatments in the hair salon to bespoke hand and foot treatments in the nail salon.
- Sensorial Therapeutic Circuit: Guests will find a wide array of facilities the thermal wellness area that produce significant and noticeable benefits: the Hydrotherapy Pool, a Steam Room, Finnish Sauna, Salt Cave, Experience Shower, Ice Fall and Heated Marble Loungers.
OCEAN WELLNESS – FITNESS
- Fitness Centre: From the fitness assessment area to the Centre’s contemporary Technogym Artis equipment, there is a well-balanced workout to help every individual become the best version of themselves.
- Fitness Studio: Here, guests can take part in tailor-made Technogym classes designed specifically for Explora Journeys, or they can target core strength and balance using Pilates reformers.
- Open Air Fitness: Offering an unparalleled spectrum of fitness facilities with ultra-modern equipment that gives an astonishing variety of exercise options, this is the perfect area for solo or one-to-one training sessions.
- Running Track: Encircling the ship is a 250 m (820 ft) track where runners can enjoy commanding ocean views while they do laps.
- Sports Court: The ideal space for touch tennis, half-court basketball, or yoga ritual experiences.
- In-suite Fitness: All guests have the option of training in their ocean-front suites or their suite terraces, encouraged by a virtual coach. This is made possible by Technogym Bench, the sleek strength-training station with enclosed tools, and Technogym Case Kit with its QR code access to a digital library of guided video exercises with trainers supported by Technogym.
OCEAN WELLNESS – WELLBEING
- Yoga programmes: Choices include Energyflow power classes to replenish stamina and strength; Sleep Yoga to induce deep slumber; Relaxation Yoga to rekindle a sense of self-worth; Mindfulness Yoga to anchor body and mind through meditation; and Immune-Boosting Yogato support health and reduce anxiety via pranayama breathing techniques.
Since images are worth a thousand words, please follow them on Instagram to see the newly released renderings of their facilities.
DESTINATION EXPERIENCES
Discover a wide array of curated pursuits and experiences during your Ocean Travel Journey, to suit your every need.
- BEYOND BOUNDARIES
- TAILORED EXPERIENCES
- ENCHANTING EXPLORATIONS
- BOUNDLESS DISCOVERIES
- IN-COUNTRY IMMERSIONS
Traversing beyond the bounds of the ocean, Explora Journeys will take you deeper into the culture of the countries they visit with immersive all-inclusive excursions.
Country / Region / Territory
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