7 reasons to cruise with Explora Journeys
As we approached the ship, which was docked in the ancient port of Piraeus Athens, we could sense this was going to be something quite special! EXPLORA I, our home away from home for the week resembled a sleek, beautiful new super-yacht. From the classic navy blue hull, to the beautiful balconies of the all-suite, all ocean-facing accommodations. EXPLORA I dazzled from the get-go!
At just 63,900 gross tonnes, she hosts 461 suites ranging from penthouses and residences, which are all designed with a refined European elegance with the aim to bring each guest closer to the ocean itself …. And this is one of Explora Journeys unique selling points as it creates a connection with the ocean, where guests can embark on a personal journey of wellbeing and rejuvenation, where each guest can be captivated by their own ‘Ocean State of Mind’.
Phenomenal service onboard
I just wanted to touch on the exceptional service, cuisine, space and choice onboard. EXPLORA I boasts one crew member (hosts, as they are affectionately referred to onboard) to every 1.25 guests, which means that your every whim is catered for! Hosts greet you by name, are attentive and intuitive without being obtrusive. They can even preempt your wishes before you yourself have decided what it is you would like next!
Elmer, for example, one of the chefs in Emporium marketplace, who had started to grill my shrimps even before I had asked, and then proceeded to give me extra portions! … Nothing was too much trouble for any of the staff onboard.
Speciality dining options
Speaking of chefs, the cuisine was Wow! Just Wow! I would consider myself a foodie and love good quality ingredients and EXPLORA I delivered in abundance. The choice was exceptional, from the effortless all-day dining in Emporium marketplace to immersive Pan-Asian dining in Sakura to French- inspired international cuisine in Fil Rouge. The speciality dining is complimentary, with the exception of Anthology, which is home to an eight-course tasting menu, celebrating the talents of guest chefs from around the globe.
Enjoy the spacious features aboard
Space; In abundance! From the plentiful day beds and sun loungers around the pool areas to the many secluded areas around the luxurious ship where you’re able to sit and read a good book or simply watch the world go by. Some of the best space ratios at sea, you will not be disappointed!
Whether you are looking for a choice of ‘homes at sea’ or choice of bars & lounges (12 of them!) to the choice of entertainment and amenities - the options are vast in all areas and rest assured, there is something for everyone … including my travel companion, my 12 year old son, Charlie.
‘Ocean state of mind’
Now more on my favourite part… the ocean wellness onboard EXPLORA I!
A series of experiences where guests can embark on their own personal journey of rejuvenation. Energy, sleep, relaxation, mindfulness and immunity are available onboard. The aim is to enhance the oceans’ calming and revitalising influence, culminating in each guest discovering their own ‘Ocean state of Mind’. For me personally, this included participating in relaxation and immune-boosting yoga and Pilates sessions with highly trained instructors. Dheeraj, my yoga instructor of 15 years, offered bespoke 1-2-1 yoga techniques which focussed on reducing stress levels and anxiety. I can confirm that I felt absolutely fantastic and totally rested after the one hour session, which was well-worth the 120€. However it is worth noting that all group sessions as well as the indoor wellness facilities are all complimentary, so my group Pilates and meditation/ sound bath experience were all free of charge and were wonderful shared experiences with a small group of like-minded travellers.
Spa and wellness facilities
The Spa at Ocean Wellness is one of the very best I have been to. It was over 7500 sq ft of indoor and outdoor wellness facilities. Ranging from an indoor hydrotherapy pool to steam room, sauna, rain showers, ice showers and salt therapy loungers. The choice of wellness options are endless and by far exceeds most other cruise lines in the ultra luxury sector. You will also find a further 3 heated outdoor pools (one being adult-only), an indoor pool with a retractable glass roof, 5 whirlpools which are all ocean-facing to enhance that connection with the sea. All of these incredible facilities are completely complimentary.
If spa treatments are your thing, then the choice once again, is endless! From specially-curated full day wellness programmes, to a variety of massages and facial options. Explora offered fitness classes including reformer Pilates to sound therapy and sleep retreats! There really is something for everyone! The sleep retreat provided guests with a series of sleep-enhancing practices which included a one to one workshop where guests discover more about the importance of sleep. Yoga Nidra classes were available as well as in-suite mediation, guests will be left feeling fully revitalised and will most definitely discover their Ocean State of Mind!
Included fitness schemes
Finally… for the gym-lovers, EXPLORA I has over 3750 sq ft of indoor and outdoor fitness facilities designed in partnership with Technogym. That features all of their latest equipment for you to utilise and enjoy if and when you please. Strength and cardio training are available onboard as well as cycling classes, outdoor exercise and other bespoke classes. One of the very best fitness suites and studios I have seen at sea!
For more information, please contact our expert luxury cruise connoisseurs who will be happy to help you discover your own "Ocean State of Mind"!
