A Modern Vision of Luxury Cruising
Explora Journeys represents a new way to experience the sea. Created by the MSC Group, this contemporary luxury cruise line brings together European elegance, sustainability, and the feeling of a private boutique hotel at sea. Rather than the formality of traditional luxury cruising, Explora Journeys offers a more relaxed, residential style of travel — refined but not pretentious, sophisticated yet warm.
For travellers seeking comfort, space, and attentive service, Explora Journeys redefines what it means to sail in style.
The Explora Journeys Fleet
Explora Journeys launched its first ship, Explora I, in 2023, marking the start of a six-ship luxury fleet. Each ship is designed with the concept of “ocean state of mind” — a phrase the brand uses to describe tranquillity, connection, and exploration.
Explora I
The flagship of the fleet, Explora I carries just over 900 guests, attended by more than 600 crew. This creates one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios at sea. The ship offers 461 ocean-front suites, all with private terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, and spacious bathrooms. Every detail, from the lighting to the linens, has been designed to evoke calm and comfort.
Explora I currently sails to a variety of destinations including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and North America.
Future Ships
Explora II is due to launch in 2025, followed by Explora III and Explora IV in the years ahead. Each new ship will feature the same core design philosophy but with continuous enhancements in technology, comfort, and sustainability.
What Sets Explora Journeys Apart
Residential Comfort
Explora Journeys has created a ship experience that feels more like a contemporary coastal residence than a cruise liner. Interiors are spacious, light-filled, and designed by leading European studios. Natural materials, warm tones, and elegant furnishings create a sense of calm that runs throughout the ship.
Cabins are replaced by suites, all of which are ocean-facing. Even the smallest suite offers a generous living area and a private terrace large enough for outdoor dining.
All-Inclusive Simplicity
Explora Journeys operates a truly all-inclusive model. Guests enjoy unlimited premium beverages, fine wines, and dining at every venue. Gratuities, high-speed WiFi, fitness programmes, and access to the thermal spa area are all included in the fare. This approach allows guests to fully relax, with no need to sign bills or think about add-ons.
Culinary Excellence
Explora Journeys has placed gastronomy at the centre of its experience. On board Explora I, there are multiple restaurants offering everything from refined European cuisine to Asian fusion and relaxed grill dining. Menus are inspired by local flavours from each destination, with ingredients often sourced fresh from ports along the route.
The wine selection is curated by expert sommeliers, while the mixology programme offers inventive cocktails crafted with precision and flair. Each venue maintains an intimate, uncrowded atmosphere, allowing guests to dine at their own pace.
Wellbeing and Mindfulness
The brand’s focus on balance extends beyond luxury to holistic wellbeing. Explora Journeys’ spa and wellness offering includes a thermal suite, salt cave, hydrotherapy pool, outdoor relaxation area, and bespoke treatments using sustainable products.
Guests can take yoga, Pilates, or meditation sessions with trained instructors, or join fitness classes in state-of-the-art facilities. The atmosphere encourages a slower pace, where wellness is part of daily life rather than a special activity.
Enrichment and Entertainment
Entertainment on Explora Journeys is cultured, elegant, and relaxed. Instead of large-scale productions, expect intimate live music, guest speakers, art exhibitions, and cocktail soirées. The mood is more akin to a private members’ club than a theatre.
The onboard team also hosts talks and workshops designed to inspire curiosity — from photography and wine tasting to destination storytelling.
Destinations and Itineraries
Explora Journeys is not about rushing from port to port; it’s about immersion and discovery. The itineraries are carefully curated to include both famous destinations and hidden gems.
Typical journeys include:
- Mediterranean sailings featuring the French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, and Greek Isles
- Caribbean voyages visiting boutique islands and secluded beaches
- Northern Europe explorations including the fjords, the Baltic, and Iceland
- Transatlantic crossings designed as peaceful, rejuvenating voyages
Time in port is generous, often with overnight stays, allowing travellers to explore at a relaxed pace rather than feeling hurried.
Sustainability and Responsibility
Explora Journeys is built with sustainability at its heart. Each ship uses the latest hybrid energy solutions, advanced wastewater treatment, and zero single-use plastics. The company is investing heavily in green technologies such as liquefied natural gas propulsion and future-ready battery power.
In addition, partnerships with local suppliers and cultural organisations ensure that Explora Journeys supports the destinations it visits rather than overwhelming them. The aim is to leave a positive impact both at sea and on shore.
Who Explora Journeys Is Perfect For
| Traveller Type | Why It Suits You |
|---|---|
| Couples | Private suites, fine dining, and serene settings create a romantic, indulgent atmosphere |
| Solo Travellers | High staff-to-guest ratio and intimate scale encourage connection without crowds |
| Mature Travellers | All-inclusive simplicity, refined service, and relaxed pace |
| Luxury Seekers | Spacious design, world-class cuisine, and attention to detail rival top hotels |
Explora Journeys appeals most to travellers who value calm luxury and personal space over crowds or formal dress codes. It’s a brand that celebrates the art of travel itself, rather than entertainment or spectacle.
The Explora Journeys Experience
A voyage with Explora Journeys feels both luxurious and liberating. There are no fixed dining times, no formal nights, and no queues. The service is polished yet genuine, the décor elegant yet welcoming. Guests are encouraged to slow down, savour each day, and enjoy the simple pleasure of being at sea.
Whether you’re dining under the stars, reading on your private terrace, or exploring a hidden coastal town, Explora Journeys creates a rhythm that feels deeply personal. It is, in every sense, a journey rather than a holiday.
Why Book Explora Journeys with Cruise Holidays
Booking Explora Journeys through Cruise Holidays ensures you receive the best expertise and service. Our team understands the differences between each ship and sailing, and we can match you to the itinerary that perfectly suits your style of travel.
From choosing your suite to arranging pre- and post-cruise hotels or flights, we take care of every detail. We also have access to exclusive offers and early booking incentives that aren’t always available directly.
If you value a seamless, stress-free experience from start to finish, Cruise Holidays will make your Explora Journeys cruise effortless to plan and unforgettable to experience.
Ready to Sail with Explora Journeys?
Explora Journeys is redefining luxury ocean travel with elegance, authenticity, and heart. It’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect, and rediscover the joy of discovery.
Contact Cruise Holidays today to explore the latest Explora Journeys itineraries and book your perfect voyage. Our cruise specialists are here to help you find the right ship, sailing, and suite for an unforgettable journey at sea.
