Explora Journeys is the newly established luxury cruise line division of the MSC Group, launched in 2021 as the realization of the Aponte family's long-held ambition to redefine luxury ocean travel. The brand emphasizes an "Ocean State of Mind," offering a sophisticated yet relaxed "resort at sea" experience that combines cosmopolitan energy with a feeling of being at home. Explora Journeys appeals to discerning, curious, and cosmopolitan travelers who seek an elevated, immersive journey with an emphasis on space, choice, and exceptional service. It aims for a diverse, international demographic, including multi-generational families, with dedicated programs and facilities.
Fleet and Design:
Explora Journeys' fleet consists of purpose-built, superyacht-inspired vessels, designed with a sleek profile and refined interiors. All accommodations are ocean-front suites, ensuring ample space and private terraces for every guest. The fleet includes:
- EXPLORA I: Launched August 2023.
- EXPLORA II: Launched September 2024.
- EXPLORA III: Scheduled to debut 2026, and will be LNG-powered.
- EXPLORA IV: Scheduled to debut 2027, and will be LNG-powered.
- EXPLORA V & EXPLORA VI: Planned for 2027 and 2028 respectively, designed to be LNG and hydrogen-fueled for enhanced sustainability.
The ships feature multiple indoor and outdoor pools, expansive deck spaces, and elegant public areas designed for relaxation and discovery.
Destinations (2025-2026):
Explora Journeys offers thoughtfully curated itineraries that aim for exclusivity in ports, often with longer stays and overnights, allowing guests to truly immerse themselves in the local culture. Their global itineraries include:
- Mediterranean: Extensive voyages in both the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, including the Greek Isles, Italy, France, Spain, and Croatia.
- Caribbean: Exploring diverse islands and coastal regions.
- Northern Europe: Including the Norwegian Fjords, Baltic Sea, and British Isles.
- Arabian Gulf: Visiting destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Qatar.
- North America & Canada/New England: Including routes from New York.
- South America & Alaska: New and expanded offerings in these regions from late 2025/2026.
- Transatlantic Crossings: Providing extended sea days to enjoy onboard amenities.
Onboard Experience & Inclusions:
The Explora Journeys experience is designed to be highly inclusive, providing exceptional value and minimizing onboard spending. The atmosphere is relaxed luxury, with no formal dress codes.
Key inclusions generally cover:
- Accommodation: All ocean-front suites, with private terraces, heated marble bathroom floors, walk-in closets, and high-quality amenities. Welcome Champagne and a chosen bottle of wine and spirit in-suite upon arrival.
- Dining: Nine distinct culinary experiences are included, offering diverse global cuisines. There is no main dining room or set dining times, promoting flexibility. Included restaurants often feature:
- Marble & Co. Grill: A European steakhouse.
- Sakura: Pan-Asian cuisine.
- Med Yacht Club: Mediterranean flavors.
- Fil Rouge: French-inspired international cuisine.
- Emporium Marketplace: A sophisticated buffet concept.
- Crema Café, Gelateria & Creperie.
- In-suite dining.
- Anthology (curated by guest chefs) and The Chef's Kitchen (interactive culinary experience) are typically available for an additional charge.
- Beverages: Unlimited fine beverages, including premium spirits, wines by the glass, specialty coffees, teas, and soft drinks, available anytime and in-suite mini-bars (where available).
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the ship (Starlink).
- Gratuities: All onboard gratuities are included.
- Wellness & Fitness: Access to the expansive Ocean Wellness - The Spa thermal area, fitness center, and a variety of wellbeing and fitness programs both onboard and at destinations.
- Pools: Four outdoor and indoor swimming pools, plus multiple hot tubs, ensuring ample space for relaxation.
- Entertainment & Enrichment: Reimagined entertainment with personalized performances, live music in various lounges, and enriching diversions. No large-scale production shows or casinos are the primary focus.
- Shuttle Services: Complimentary shuttle services from port to city centers (where required/available).
- Multi-Generational Travel: Dedicated "Nautilus Club" for young and teenagers (ages 6-17), with tailored activities and inter-connecting suites for families. Infants aged 6-23 months sail free, and children aged 2-17 years can receive up to 50% off the journey fare when sharing a suite.
Explora Journeys aims to provide a relaxed, elegant, and enriching luxury experience that encourages discovery and connection, both with the ocean and the destinations visited.
Exported from Firebase on 2025-08-02T14:17:19.894Z