Spending seven nights aboard the luxurious EXPLORA I provides the experience of changing locations without the need to reorganize belongings, which lends a magical aspect to the trip. The author describes having unpacked their luggage in Barcelona and only repacking it after seven nights, during which they visited Ibiza, Menorca, Sardinia, and Saint-Tropez, always returning to the same environment of comfort.
The EXPLORA I has a navy blue hull, standing out in ports full of white vessels. This ship is part of the fleet of seven luxury ships from Explora Journeys, a high-end cruise brand belonging to the MSC group. The company plans to offer itineraries through Brazil starting in January 2027, and the EXPLORA I is considered one of the main candidates to sail along the Brazilian coast.
Onboard Infrastructure and Experiences
During the stops, passengers can enjoy various facilities on the ship. Ocean Wellness offers eleven treatment rooms, a Finnish sauna, hammam, and a Himalayan salt cave, in addition to heated marble loungers and an ice waterfall. The ship accommodates approximately 900 guests distributed across 461 suites, providing a sense of privacy where it is rare to cross paths with other passengers.
The philosophy of Explora Journeys is called 'ocean state of mind', focusing not only on accumulating destinations but also on valuing the time between them. The service is supported by a ratio of 1.25 guests per employee. Leisure areas include four heated pools, ocean-view jacuzzis, and spaces such as the Astern Pool on deck 5, with an infinity edge, and the Atoll, located five decks above, which also faces the stern.
Other notable spaces are the Conservatory, which has a glass roof and can function as a cinema at night, and the Helios, on deck 12, exclusively for adults. The presence of dolphins accompanying the ship was observed, a phenomenon known by biologists as wake riding.
Accommodations range from the Ocean Terrace Suite, about 35 square meters, which includes a king-size bed and a heated marble bathroom, to the Owner's Residence on deck 8, the largest unit, with 280 square meters and a terrace spanning the entire width of the stern, equipped with an infinity edge hot tub.
Gastronomy and Entertainment
The ship was designed to optimize the moments between stops. The Astern Lounge features a pool table and games, while the Malt Whisky Bar, on deck 11, offers a selection of rare whiskies and a terrace for cigar tasting. The exercise area combines a sea-view gym and outdoor decks with a running track and pickleball and basketball courts.
The gastronomic offering is vast, with six restaurants, five of which are included in the fare. Sakura is an Asian highlight, while Marble & Co. Grill serves aged meats. Fil Rouge offers formal service, reminiscent of a Parisian breakfast. Med Yacht Club serves Mediterranean dishes, and the Emporium Marketplace functions as a spot for quick and informal meals, with fresh pasta and sushi stations.
For high gastronomy experiences, Anthology is an à la carte restaurant, currently run by Franck Garanger, and the Sky Bar, on deck 14, offers drinks and live music at sunset.
The design of the EXPLORA I reflects the inspiration of superyachts, distancing itself from the traditional aesthetic of large cruise ships. The ship displays works of art by Yves Dana and Yinka Shonibare, and features boutiques of brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Panerai, and Piaget.
Port Operations and Stops
The maneuvers entering the ports are a spectacle, involving powerful tugboats that act as brakes and steering wheels, coordinated by radio with the pilot. At some stops, the ship docks directly at the pier, while at others it remains anchored, using a tender, a closed boat, to take passengers to the port.
Each stop offers a menu of activities, allowing travelers to combine cultural tours, visits to palaces, or time at beach clubs, depending on their preferences.
