Discovering EXPLORA II - Founders Cruise from Athens to Venice

Having hosted Panache Cruises Founders sailings before, we always look forward to discovering somewhere new and, just as importantly, experiencing a different style of ship. Our latest ocean cruise aboard EXPLORA II was a seven nights sojourn from Athens to Venice and from the moment we stepped aboard, we knew this journey was going to be rather special.

First impressions really do count, and EXPLORA II certainly delivered. We were welcomed onboard with champagne before discovering a ship that feels incredibly spacious and beautifully designed, yet never overly formal. With oceans of space per passenger it was remarkably easy to find a quiet corner to relax in one of the many lounges on board or soak up the sun in a comfortable cabana or luxurious lounger.

Our Oceanfront suite was equally impressive. The generous balcony provided a lounger, chairs and a table, while inside we enjoyed a bespoke king-sized bed and a generous clad marble bathroom with underfloor heating, large shower and premium toiletries. The Dyson hairdryer and espresso coffee machine were also lovely additions.  One morning we were served breakfast on our balcony, a particularly lovely way to begin the day looking out across the Aegean horizon.

On this Panache Cruises Founders sailing, we hosted two drinks receptions in the bright and contemporary designed Explora Lounge delivering great views of the coastline. Throughout the week we would regularly bump into Founders members around the ship and hear of their onboard and past cruise experiences. A number had already sailed with Explora Journeys before and were clearly delighted to be back onboard, while those experiencing the brand for the first time were equally impressed, with several talking enthusiastically about sailing with Explora Journeys again. 

So why do Panache passengers talk so highly of the Explora experience? 

Food aboard EXPLORA II was outstanding. We enjoyed excellent meals at the Med Yacht Club celebrating the flavours and ambiance from across the Mediterranean alongside the elegant French inspired restaurant Fil Rouge, as well as some memorable evenings on deck dining alfresco. The speciality restaurants, Marble and Co (steak), Anthology (Italian) and Sakura (Japanese) also received glowing reports from guests. For those diners who wanted a more relaxed eating environment the Emporium Marketplace was a perfect retreat whist Cafe Crema delivered delightful coffee and chocolates at any time of day! Without doubt the standards wherever we ate, the quality of the ingredients, presentation and wines on offer were exceptional.

After a sumptuous dinner most Founders made their way to the attractive and intimate Journeys Lounge to watch, listen and enjoy high quality entertainment which did not disappoint. Meanwhile for those who love trivia or quizzes the Astern Lounge was a go to destination. More relaxed music offerings in the enticing Explora Lounge delivered the perfect backdrop to pre or post dinner drinks whilst for some the enrichment experiences on board were a highlight ranging from Cognac and Cigar, to an interactive 'Spirit of Whisky’ tasting. 

The Spa facilities also were first rate and we were surprised that in the early morning on our only sea day we had the hydro pool, sauna and chill zone almost to ourselves. It was sheer bliss chilling in such a relaxing oasis. 

For the more active and health conscious Founders passengers the quality of the gym (including top quality ‘Technogym' equipment) was the best we have ever seen on a cruise ship. Alongside rowing machines located on the upper deck, we were also impressed with the quality of our Pickleball lessons whilst the running track delivered great views as we burnt off a few calories between ports. 

The service across EXPLORA II was another standout feature. Staff seemed genuinely happy to be there: always smiling, friendly and ready to chat (and always remembered your name). What became increasingly apparent during the week was the loyalty it inspires, it was no surprise that some guests were already on their third or fourth Explora Journey!

For newcomers, ourselves included, it wasn’t difficult to understand the appeal — wonderful staff, superb food, spacious suites and an extraordinary amount of public space alongside quality facilities around the ship. The main atrium and central lounge, the Lobby alongside its stunning bar was very impressive and was a stand out feature that oozed high end luxury - delivering a true 5 star boutique hotel look and feel. 

Sailing the Aegean and Adriatic with an immersive Greek and Croatian itinerary was equally appealing. Cruising in mid September delivered a cooler time to travel and with fewer crowds in all of the ports it was a perfect time to visit this beautiful part of the Eastern Mediterranean. There is no better city than Athens to deliver an atmospheric introduction to Greece as we slipped our mooring and sailed from Piraeus.

Port Highlights

In Paros, we jumped aboard a local bus and discovered Marpissa and the relaxed seaside village of Piso Livadi. In Rhodes, we wandered through the magnificent medieval Old Town, while Corfu provided a lovely morning of Venetian architecture, narrow lanes and café-lined squares.

Hvar was particularly memorable. After a short and comfortable tender ashore, we climbed from the harbour through the stunning old town and up to the fortress, where spectacular views stretched across the Adriatic. Looking down, we could see EXPLORA II at anchor offshore — a wonderful sight after quite a climb! 

Our final Croatian port, Rijeka, had a completely different character. After visiting the Sunday market, we tackled around 400 steps to Trsat Castle and its neighbouring church and monastery. Back in town, a chance encounter with a family business led to tastings of locally produced liqueurs, wines, jams and chocolate.

Life aboard remained every bit as enjoyable as the destinations whether it was an informative port talk by the luminary or the excellent Q&A with the captain which offered an interesting insight into Explora Journeys and the background to the new ocean and river ships entering the fleet over the next few years.

Perhaps the best indication of our experience came on the final morning. As we disembarked EXPLORA II, the captain and his senior team were waiting to personally say goodbye at the foot of the gangway (This was a first for us). It was a simple gesture, but one that summed up the warmth of the impeccable service we had experienced onboard throughout the week.

We then climbed aboard our water taxi and with EXPLORA II disappearing on the horizon, we headed across the lagoon towards Venice. With the sun shining and those unmistakable Venetian buildings appearing ahead, it was a spectacular finale.

Seven nights had given us a wonderful introduction to EXPLORA II. As our Founders members headed home — some already Explora Journeys converts and others newly won over — we now understand exactly why this relatively young cruise brand has inspired such loyalty. We can’t wait to return on another Explora Journey!