Explora Journeys celebrates one year at sea as sister ship Explora II readies to launch next month

Explora Journeys celebrates one year at sea as sister ship Explora II readies to launch next month
Edited by Travel Weekly


Explora Journeys is celebrating the first anniversary of EXPLORA I, its pioneering first of six luxury ships, and has launched a special offer for guests.

It has spent the past year sailing from the scenic landscapes of Northern Europe to the Americas and the Caribbean, visiting 119 ports in 45 countries.

EXPLORA I offers 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences designed to be ‘Homes at Sea’, all with sweeping ocean views, private terrace, a choice of 11 culinary experiences across six restaurants plus in-suite dining, Chef’s Kitchen, 12 bars and lounges (eight indoor and four outdoor), four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks with 64 private cabanas, wellness facilities, and refined entertainment.

EXPLORA II has also just successfully passed her sea trials and will come into service in September 2024.

Explora Journey lounge.

Explora Journey lounge.

The first anniversary of EXPLORA I, which embarked on her maiden journey on 1 August 2023, marks a significant milestone for Explora Journeys, the privately-owned luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

Guests sailing on board EXPLORA I have the chance to experience both celebrated destinations and off-the beaten-path ports, allowing to immerse themselves deeper into the local culture.

The ship is now exploring the enchanting waters of the Eastern Mediterranean, offering guests an immersive experience in the region’s rich history, stunning coastlines, and exquisite culinary delights.

Explora I indoor pool.

“One year ago, we proudly welcomed EXPLORA I, the inaugural gem in our fleet of six luxurious ships, setting out to revolutionise luxury ocean travel,” Explora Journeys chief commercial officer, Achille Staiano, said.

“Designed to evoke the intimacy of a private yacht, EXPLORA I has gracefully journeyed through the vibrant Mediterranean, the majestic Northern Europe, the invigorating coasts of North America and the enchanting shores of the Caribbean.

“We have received incredibly high levels of satisfaction from the guests that have sailed with us so far which, naturally, we are all delighted to hear. Each journey has allowed our guests to discover the Ocean State of Mind.”

Guests who make a reservation from now to 31 August 2024 will receive a Journeys Experience Credit of EUR 365 (AU$605) per suite on all sailings from 23 August 2024.

Explora I in action.

Guests on board can join in the celebrations throughout the month of August with a carefully curated entertainment and luminary program including artistes such as Magali Dahan, who was the opening performer on board EXPLORA I’s maiden journey as well as Ben Mills and Francesco Parrino.

Culinary delights that showcase the ship’s exceptional gastronomic journey through the seas of the world are also on offer and include a signature celebration cocktail, an anniversary brunch at Emporium Marketplace as well as a unique dessert to mark the occasion.

EXPLORA III will come into service in 2026 and EXPLORA IV in 2027 with both ships being LNG-powered. EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI will enter service in 2027 and 2028, respectively.

The US$500million Explora II concept.Explora I.

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