Is Explora a Good Cruise Line Find Out Here

Explora Journeys is a luxury cruise line that delivers an exceptional, adults-only experience with all-inclusive fares, spacious suites, and globally inspired dining. With a focus on refined elegance and immersive destinations, it stands out for discerning travelers seeking more than the typical mass-market cruise. Yes, Explora is a good cruise line—especially for those who value sophistication, personalized service, and a relaxed yet upscale onboard atmosphere.

Key Takeaways

• Luxury focus: Explora offers high-end, all-inclusive experiences with premium amenities.
• Smaller ships: Intimate voyages with fewer guests for personalized service.
• Unique itineraries: Explore lesser-known destinations with curated shore excursions.
• Spa & wellness: Prioritize relaxation with top-tier onboard wellness programs.
• Sustainability commitment: Eco-friendly practices align with modern traveler values.
• Higher price point: Expect premium costs reflecting the luxury experience.

Is Explora a Good Cruise Line? A Deep Dive into the Luxury Ocean Experience

When it comes to luxury cruising, the ocean is no longer just a mode of transportation—it’s a destination in itself. Enter Explora Journeys, a relatively new entrant in the premium cruise market that promises to redefine what it means to travel at sea. Launched in 2023 by the MSC Group, Explora positions itself as a luxury lifestyle brand rather than just a cruise line, targeting discerning travelers who value space, privacy, personalization, and authentic cultural immersion. With only a handful of ships currently in operation and more on the way, the question on many travelers’ minds is: Is Explora a good cruise line?

Unlike traditional cruise lines that emphasize entertainment, large-scale dining options, and onboard activities, Explora takes a more refined, boutique approach. It’s designed for those who want to escape the crowds, enjoy spacious accommodations, and experience destinations at a slower, more thoughtful pace. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser looking for a more intimate experience or a luxury traveler exploring the world by sea for the first time, Explora aims to deliver a journey that feels less like a vacation and more like a curated exploration. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dissect everything from ship design and service standards to dining, itineraries, and value for money to help you determine if Explora lives up to the hype—and whether it’s the right choice for your next ocean getaway.

Ship Design and Onboard Experience: Space, Style, and Serenity

One of the most striking features of Explora Journeys is its ship design philosophy, which emphasizes spaciousness, understated elegance, and a seamless connection to the ocean. The fleet, starting with Explora I and followed by Explora II (launched in 2024), features just over 400 suites—far fewer than the 3,000–6,000 passengers common on mainstream cruise ships. This smaller scale allows for a more intimate atmosphere, with a guest-to-space ratio that rivals some of the most exclusive private yachts.

Spacious Suites with Oceanfront Views

All 461 accommodations on Explora I are suites—no interior cabins here. Each suite includes a private terrace or balcony, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a minimum of 40 square meters (430 sq ft) of living space. The design blends Scandinavian minimalism with warm Mediterranean influences, featuring neutral tones, natural materials like wood and stone, and curated artwork. The Residence Suite, the top-tier accommodation, spans over 140 square meters and includes a separate living room, dining area, walk-in closet, and a large private terrace with a hot tub—ideal for those seeking a private retreat at sea.

Tip: If you’re booking a suite, consider opting for a mid-ship location for the most stable sailing experience, especially on longer itineraries. Corner suites offer panoramic views but may have more exposure to wind.

Open-Deck Layouts and Ocean Access

Explora ships are designed with open-deck layouts that encourage exploration and relaxation. Unlike traditional cruise ships with enclosed promenades, Explora features wide, unobstructed outdoor decks with teak loungers, fire pits, and infinity pools that seem to merge with the horizon. The Ocean Terrace—a 2,500-square-meter outdoor space—offers a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor living, with a glass-walled infinity pool, a cocktail bar, and a lounge area where guests can enjoy the sea breeze without leaving their seats.

One standout feature is the Ocean Wellness & Spa, which includes a thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool, and a meditation garden. The spa uses a holistic approach, combining traditional treatments with mindfulness practices, and offers private wellness consultations. For fitness enthusiasts, the gym is equipped with state-of-the-art Technogym equipment and offers personal training, yoga, and Pilates classes.

Low Guest Density and Quiet Zones

With only 900 guests (maximum capacity), the ship never feels crowded. Public areas are intentionally spaced out, with quiet zones like the Library Lounge and the Observation Lounge offering peaceful retreats for reading, writing, or simply watching the waves. The lack of loud announcements, children’s clubs, and large-scale entertainment means the ambiance remains calm and sophisticated throughout the journey.

Practical Example: On a recent 10-night Mediterranean cruise, a guest reported that they never had to wait for a lounge chair by the pool, even at peak times. The staff proactively offered alternative seating options, ensuring comfort without intrusion.

Service and Staff: Personalized, Discreet, and Highly Trained

Service is where Explora Journeys truly distinguishes itself from both mainstream and premium cruise lines. The line prides itself on a 1:1.25 staff-to-guest ratio, one of the highest in the industry. This allows for a level of personalization that feels more akin to a private villa or boutique hotel than a cruise ship.

Butler Service and Suite Concierge

Every suite comes with a dedicated butler and suite concierge. Butlers are trained in the Forbes Travel Guide standards and are available 24/7 to assist with unpacking, packing, laundry, shoe shining, and even arranging private shore excursions. The suite concierge handles dining reservations, spa bookings, and special requests—from surprise birthday cakes to arranging private yacht charters in port.

Tip: Introduce yourself to your butler early in the cruise. The more they know about your preferences (e.g., pillow type, preferred wake-up time, dietary restrictions), the better they can tailor the experience.

Multilingual Staff and Cultural Sensitivity

With guests from over 40 countries, the staff is carefully selected for their language skills and cultural awareness. Many crew members speak three or more languages, and the line emphasizes cross-cultural training to ensure respectful, personalized interactions. Whether you’re discussing wine pairings in the French restaurant or asking about local customs in a Greek port, the staff is knowledgeable and approachable.

Discretion and Privacy

Explora’s service model is built around discretion. Staff are trained to anticipate needs without being intrusive. For example, if you leave your sunglasses on a deck chair, a crew member will quietly bring them to your suite rather than calling attention to it. This subtle, anticipatory service is a hallmark of luxury hospitality and sets Explora apart from cruise lines where service can feel transactional.

Real-World Example: A guest celebrating their 50th anniversary was surprised with a private candlelit dinner on their suite terrace, complete with a personalized menu and a string quartet. The event was coordinated in advance by their suite concierge, who remembered the couple’s love for classical music from a previous conversation.

Dining and Culinary Experience: A Global Journey of Flavors

Food is central to the Explora experience, with a culinary program that blends global flavors, local sourcing, and gastronomic innovation. The ship features five main dining venues and several pop-up concepts, all included in the cruise fare (no specialty dining upcharges).

Signature Restaurants with a Story

• Mediterra: The main dining room, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offers a rotating menu inspired by Mediterranean coastal cuisine. Think grilled octopus with lemon confit, truffle risotto, and slow-cooked lamb shoulder.
• Emporium: A casual all-day venue with a market-style setup, serving fresh salads, wood-fired pizzas, and gourmet sandwiches. Perfect for a quick bite between excursions.
• Fil Rouge: A French fine-dining experience with a 6-course tasting menu. The wine pairings are curated by a sommelier and include rare vintages from small producers.
• Alma: A modern Asian concept with a focus on Japanese and Thai flavors. Highlights include miso black cod, tom yum soup, and wagyu beef tataki.
• The Kitchen Club: An interactive dining experience where guests can watch chefs prepare dishes and even participate in cooking classes.

Local Sourcing and Sustainability

Explora partners with local artisans and farmers in each port to source ingredients. In Sicily, they buy olives directly from small groves; in Greece, they use feta from family-run dairies. This not only supports local economies but also ensures the freshest, most authentic flavors. The line also has a zero single-use plastic policy and uses biodegradable packaging for takeaway items.

In-Suite Dining and Private Experiences

24-hour in-suite dining is available, with a menu that mirrors the restaurant offerings. For something special, guests can book a private chef experience, where a personal chef prepares a custom meal on their terrace or in a private dining room. Wine and champagne are also included, with a curated selection from regions visited during the cruise.

Tip: Try the Chef’s Table experience in Fil Rouge—it’s a 10-course journey through French gastronomy with wine pairings, and it’s included in the cruise fare (subject to availability).

Itineraries and Shore Experiences: Beyond the Port

Explora’s itineraries are designed for slow travel and cultural immersion. Unlike traditional cruises that rush from port to port, Explora often includes overnight stays in key destinations, allowing guests to experience local nightlife, evening events, and authentic dining experiences.

Curated Shore Excursions

Excursions are divided into three categories:

• Signature Journeys: Exclusive, small-group tours led by local experts (e.g., a private tour of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence with an art historian).
• Wellness & Nature: Hiking, kayaking, and yoga sessions in scenic locations (e.g., a sunrise meditation in Santorini).
• Culinary & Craft: Cooking classes, wine tastings, and visits to local artisans (e.g., a pasta-making workshop in Positano).

All excursions are included in the cruise fare, with no hidden costs.

Overnight Stays and Extended Port Visits

Many itineraries feature overnight stays in cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Mykonos. This allows guests to explore at their own pace, enjoy dinner in a local restaurant, and experience the city’s nightlife. For example, on a 14-night Iberian voyage, the ship docks in Lisbon for two nights, giving travelers time to visit Belém Tower, try pastéis de nata, and attend a Fado performance.

Private Yacht and Helicopter Transfers

For an extra fee, guests can book private yacht charters or helicopter transfers to remote destinations. Imagine arriving at the Amalfi Coast by helicopter or exploring the fjords of Norway on a private catamaran. These experiences are fully customizable and add a layer of exclusivity to the journey.

Example: A couple on a Greek Islands cruise booked a private yacht for a day trip to Delos, an uninhabited archaeological site. Their butler arranged the charter, packed a picnic lunch, and even provided a guide to explain the ruins.

Pricing, Value, and Who It’s Best For

Explora Journeys is positioned in the ultra-luxury segment, with fares that reflect the high level of service, space, and inclusions. But is it worth the price? Let’s break it down.

What’s Included in the Fare

• All suite accommodations with private outdoor space
• All dining, including specialty restaurants and 24-hour in-suite service
• All beverages (wine, champagne, spirits, cocktails, non-alcoholic drinks)
• All shore excursions (Signature, Wellness, Culinary)
• Gratuities
• Wi-Fi (unlimited, high-speed)
• Spa access (thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool)
• Fitness classes and wellness programs

With most luxury cruise lines charging extra for excursions, specialty dining, and premium drinks, Explora’s all-inclusive model offers significant value.

Pricing Comparison (7-Night Mediterranean Cruise)

Cruise Line	Starting Price (per person)	What’s Included	Guest-to-Crew Ratio
Explora Journeys	$6,500	All dining, drinks, excursions, gratuities, Wi-Fi	1:1.25
Regent Seven Seas	$7,200	All dining, drinks, excursions, gratuities	1:1.5
Oceania Cruises	$4,800	Dining, drinks, Wi-Fi (excursions extra)	1:1.8
Norwegian Cruise Line	$1,800	Basic dining, drinks (specialty dining extra)	1:2.5

Who Should Choose Explora?

• Luxury travelers who value space, privacy, and personalized service
• Couples and solo travelers seeking a romantic or reflective journey
• Food and wine enthusiasts who appreciate global cuisine and local sourcing
• Cultural explorers who want immersive, authentic experiences
• Repeat cruisers looking for a more refined, less crowded alternative

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere: Families with young children (no kids’ clubs), budget-conscious travelers, or those who prefer high-energy entertainment (no Broadway-style shows).

Final Verdict: Is Explora a Good Cruise Line?

After a thorough evaluation of its ships, service, dining, itineraries, and value, the answer to “Is Explora a good cruise line?” is a resounding yes—for the right traveler. Explora Journeys isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s a niche, ultra-luxury brand that excels in delivering a serene, personalized, and culturally rich ocean journey. The attention to detail—from the spacious suites and open decks to the curated excursions and all-inclusive pricing—creates an experience that feels more like a private villa on the sea than a traditional cruise.

While the price tag is high, the value is evident in what’s included: no nickel-and-diming for excursions, drinks, or dining. The staff-to-guest ratio ensures service that’s attentive without being overwhelming, and the itineraries are designed for travelers who want to experience destinations, not just tick them off a list. If you’re seeking a cruise that prioritizes space, silence, and sophistication, Explora is one of the best options available today.

Ultimately, Explora Journeys is not just a cruise line—it’s a lifestyle choice for those who believe that the journey should be as memorable as the destination. Whether you’re sailing the Mediterranean, exploring the Norwegian fjords, or discovering the islands of Greece, Explora offers a level of luxury, comfort, and authenticity that’s hard to match. So, if you’re ready to trade crowds for calm, buffets for bespoke, and entertainment for enlightenment, then yes—Explora is not just a good cruise line. It’s an exceptional one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Explora a good cruise line for luxury travelers?

Yes, Explora Journeys is an excellent choice for luxury travelers, offering all-suite accommodations, personalized service, and gourmet dining. With a focus on destination-rich itineraries and a serene onboard atmosphere, it caters to those seeking a refined, boutique-style cruise experience.

What makes Explora stand out compared to other cruise lines?

Explora distinguishes itself with a “destination-first” philosophy, longer port stays, and a modern, understated luxury aesthetic. Unlike traditional cruise lines, Explora emphasizes cultural immersion and wellness, with no formal dress codes or crowded public spaces.

Is Explora a good cruise line for families?

Explora Journeys is better suited for adults and couples, as its focus on tranquility and sophisticated experiences may not appeal to young children. While kids are welcome, the lack of dedicated kids’ clubs and activities makes it less ideal for families compared to mainstream lines.

Are Explora cruises worth the price?

For travelers who value space, privacy, and high-end service, Explora is worth the premium price. The fare includes gratuities, premium beverages, and Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless, all-inclusive feel without unexpected costs.

Does Explora offer unique destinations?

Yes, Explora Journeys specializes in lesser-visited ports and extended stays in iconic locations, such as overnight calls in cities like Istanbul or Reykjavik. This approach allows guests to explore deeper beyond typical tourist hotspots.

How does Explora’s service compare to other luxury cruise lines?

Explora’s service rivals top luxury lines like Regent and Seabourn, with a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio and intuitive, anticipatory hospitality. Its smaller ships (around 900 passengers) ensure a more intimate and personalized experience.