Onboard with Explora Journeys

Combining elegant design, stylish ocean-front suites, exquisite gourmet dining and first-class wellness amenities, a voyage with Explora Journeys offers a luxurious, boutique home at sea. Whether you’re well versed in the world of luxury cruising or you’re looking to experience one for the very first time, Explora Journeys invites you to discover some of the world’s most compelling coastal destinations at a pace that allows for in-depth exploration as well as ample relaxation. For a taste of what to expect, Wexas expert Tim Tan shares his experience from a recent Explora Journeys voyage, sailing between Istanbul and Athens.

A boutique home at sea

To say I was excited about embarking on a voyage with Explora Journeys would be an understatement. It’s a fabulous new cruise line that does things differently; indeed, from the moment you step onboard, you feel as though you’ve arrived at a floating luxury hotel. The interiors are contemporary, smartly designed and beautifully appointed, creating a sophisticated yet simultaneously relaxed ambience.

Conservatory Pool

The suites are extremely comfortable, spacious and homely. Mine was an Ocean Terrace Suite, featuring a furnished sea-facing terrace and plenty of thoughtful touches including underfloor bathroom heating, an Espresso coffee machine and a complimentary bottle of champagne on arrival. Staying connected was no trouble, either, with complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access available in-suite and in the communal spaces.

Terrace Suite

Throughout my journey, I was struck by just how smoothly the ship glided across the water, almost to the extent that you wouldn’t notice you’re out at sea – unless, of course, you’re taking in the views. There are so many ways to unwind onboard, from perusing the marvellous art gallery (featuring works by Lichtenstein and Warhol) and browsing the luxury stores (including the only Rolex boutique at sea) to swimming in the pools (either indoors or outdoors) and using the outstanding wellness and fitness facilities, including a Finnish sauna, a steam room and treatment rooms.

Gourmet all-inclusive dining

I was enormously impressed by both the quality and the variety of the culinary options, which included wonderful Italian, Mediterranean, French and Pan-Asian venues, as well as a high-end steakhouse. However, it was the Emporium Marketplace that truly stood out. It’s somewhat akin to a buffet restaurant, except for the fact that everything is freshly made to order at individual cooking stations. The pasta station had eight different types of pasta, each with different ravioli fillings and sauces, while at the seafood counter, you could choose from deliciously fresh lobster, crab and fish. This was, without doubt, one of the finest ‘buffet’ restaurants I have had the pleasure of dining at.

Anthology Restaurant

As for the bars, there were more than I could count, some of which were gently soundtracked by live piano and violin music in the evenings. Afternoon tea at the Explora Lounge was another highlight, with lots of delicious sandwiches and cakes, while the Crema Cafe became one of my favourite hangout spots for daytime coffee and pastries. While most restaurants had ample indoor andoutdoor seating, you could also take advantage of 24-hour in-suite dining service.

Exceptional service

The whole experience was underpinned by exemplary service throughout: warm, attentive and catering to our every need. We were superbly looked after, not only on board, but also on the excellently organised shore excursions, which took place in small groups. All in all, there was simply nothing not to like – other than the seven days passing far too quickly! In fact, I already rebooked my next Explora Journeys cruise while onboard.

Inspired? I’ve picked out two journeys below.