This first ship of new luxury lifestyle brand Explora Journeys was introduced to trade media and travel advisers from Spain, France, Italy and Portugal during its maiden call at Barcelona.
‘Luxury is no longer about abundance and about possession, but about space, time and long-lasting experiences,’ Explora Journeys CEO Michael Ungerer said. ‘Our view, short- and long-term, redefines such a luxury lifestyle voyage. It offers guests the freedom and the opportunity to fully connect to the ocean, travelling deeper, longer, to experience a slower pace of travel and authentic ways of connections with destinations, cultures and their people.’
He added, ‘It’s about inner and outer discovery that broadens horizons. All of this creates unique and emotional connections that are powerful, transformative and universal. We call it the "Ocean State of Mind.”’
Carefully styled luxury
The 248 mtr long and 32 mtr wide ship sports a sleek dark blue hull with a profile that hints at superyacht.
Soothing, chic beige and light brown colours fill the lobby.
There is no theatre nor typical production shows to be found on board, but, instead, a more intimate Journeys Lounge, with armchairs, a stage and dance floor, dedicated to reimagined entertainment experiences. Here, the ship’s 14 resident artists are found plus enrichment activities that evolve throughout the day. Additionally, the lounge hosts one of the three Steinway grand pianos.
Fourteen other venues, bars and lounges are found across the ship.
Outdoor areas are inspired by the sea, with three heated pools and one indoor pool with retractable roof.
One of the 11 spa treatment rooms
The over 700 sq m Ocean Wellness spa, with 11 treatment rooms and 21 treatment options, is focussed on energy, sleep, relaxation and mindfulness.
Food and beverage
Eating well has been entrusted to French head of culinary, Frank Garanger. There are 11 ‘culinary experiences’ on board – including six all-inclusive dining experiences. The focus is on delivering healthy food from local and sustainable sources, exploring bolder flavour profiles and enabling passengers to discover cuisines they've never tried.
‘Anthology’ (€190 supplement, wines included) serves 10 passengers at a striking table, hosting menus designed by celebrated chefs ‘that still cook and don’t only sign books,’ according to Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman, cruise division, MSC Group. Its first chef will be Mauro Uliassi.
Passengers need a reservation for Marble &Co Grill, a European steak house concept, and Sakura, a pan-Asian experience.
Fil Rouge serves French-inspired international cuisine
The Emporium Marketplace and The Med Yacht Club offer open seating, as well as Fil Rouge, serving French-inspired international cuisine.
Homes at sea
For Jason Gelineau, head of product and guest experience, ‘Accommodation is, of course, one of the most important parts of a luxury lifestyle experience on vacation.’ Hence, all 461 Ocean Front Suites have floor to ceiling windows and a private terrace. Terrace Suites, Grand Terrace Suite and Ocean Penthouses range from 35 sq mtr to over 43 sq mtr.
There are 22 Ocean Residences (70 sq mtr) with several rooms and butler service, as well as the exclusive Owner’s Residence (280 sq mtr.)
Inspiring exploration
When it comes to itineraries, ‘our destination philosophy is yacht-style,’ said Norbert Stiekema, Explora Journeys' CCO. ‘We repeat them very seldom, select off the beaten track destinations, favouring contact with locals to immerse and feel the vibe of that destination.’
Sustainability is the line’s central component. Immersive destination experiences are designed to leave a positive impression on the places and people visited. Local talents and knowledge, gastronomy, craftsmanship and traditions will be spotlighted.
Sample fares
The ship has a passenger-crew ratio of 1.25 :1. Built to host a maximum of 922 passengers, it is the first of six Explora ships planned up to 2028. Prices start at €4,350 per person for a seven-day all-inclusive cruise in the Mediterranean, or €6,450 for 10 days.
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