With Explora Journeys being a brand-new cruise line, I was so excited to see how the CGI images compared to being on board. All I can say is WOW, this ship is stunning and exceeded all expectations I had from seeing the computer images! Every inch of space on Explora I is beautifully designed, from the lobby to the whisky bar to every single suite on board.

We stayed in an Ocean Terrace Suite on Deck 10. I couldn’t believe this was the entry level suite on the ship. We were blown away with how stunning and homely the suite felt. My favourite part of the ship (apart from the Dyson hair dryer!!) had to be the terrace. Every terrace included a small table and chairs plus a gorgeous day bed, perfect for relaxing during the day and eating breakfast in the fresh air every morning. Explora I truly lived up to their motto and I really felt an 'ocean state of mind' while enjoying the beautiful views of Iceland and Denmark. 

My favourite place to relax on board (besides my private terrace) has to be the Sky Bar! The modern décor of this absolute sun trap is the perfect spot to relax. I didn't expect it to be so sunny in Iceland even in summer; we were so lucky with the weather that I had to make sure I toped up the suncream! The pool decks and relaxing areas were very spacious and had plenty of sun loungers and cabanas. For this reason I believe this ship is perfect for a super relaxing Mediterranean or Caribbean cruise.

Ordinarily, I don't make much use of the onboard spa when I go on cruise holidays. However, the offering on Explora I isn't like other spa treatments you get on cruises; they focus on your sensory journey to your ocean state of mind. Explora Journeys have meticulously crafted the spa facilities which include a salt cave, ice fall, and heated marble loungers. They have partnered up with Dr Levy Switzerland to focus on specialised skin treatments which I absolutely love.

This isn't the only way you feel spoiled aboard Explora I. They shopping experiences are out of this world and Explora Journeys have partnered up with Rolex, Cartier, Panerai and Piaget! This is the first time Rolex have ever had a boutique on a ship, so it's incredibly special. This is available for all guests on board so they don’t have to wait a long time for an appointment back home!

Off the ship, Explora Journeys offer what they like to call destination experiences, not excursions. These once-in-a-lifetime experiences include a number of different unique choices. On my trip you could make the unreal trip in small groups to see whale watching TWICE on this 7-day journey, which I don't think I've come across on any other sailings in all my time in the cruise industry! One comment I loved from a local Icelandic man was that Reykjavik is like a replica of the moon. The city is really quirky and the surrounding landscapes are just otherworldly!

Back on board, Explora Journeys have curated some brilliant on-ship activities to enjoy too. We had an amazing talk with Frank Garanger who is the head of culinary and is very well known and respected on board. They have taken the time to choose each dish that is served on board Explora I. You can tell how passionate the whole team is and it shows through every dish. I personally LOVED the Med Yacht Club; we ate there twice and each time the meals were just delicious. They have created this restaurant as a sharing experience, so we ordered lots of starters to share on the table including my favourites patas bravas and falafel fritters, not to mention probably the best pasta carbonara I have ever had (and I’ve been to Italy!). I couldn't just pick one, so enjoy a selection of mouth-watering photos of our food on board!

Interested to know more about this new cruise line? Check out my colleague Adam's blog post and view all upcoming Explora Journeys sailings. This is one cruise line to look out for and add to your bucket list.

If you see something you like, please don't hesitate to contact the Panache Cruises team on 0161 513 8200 to get your dream cruise in the diary.