EXPLORA I defies expectations

There are no words for my time spent on EXPLORA I. 

I was so emotional from the moment I saw her. The holiday from start to finish brought the meanings unique and exquisite to another level.

When we arrived at the port of Istanbul, and I was speechless, the whole check in and arrival process was seamless and was well needed after a long flight. The arrival juice was muchly appreciated after the travelling and your suitcases get taken care of from the second you arrive.

I have never seen a Stateroom like it. We had the Ocean Suite OT1 grade and the space you have is exceptional, the ladies will love the walk-in wardrobe, especially if you pack like I do! The Dyson hair dryer is a special touch and helps dry your hair in minutes, which gives you time to hit the dancefloor and restaurant earlier than expected.

Dining debrief

When you’re onboard Explora Journeys almost every venue is included and whether you’re in Emporium Marketplace where food is made to order, Sakura Asian Dining experience or In suite breakfast to Afternoon tea.

Med Yacht Club - a mixture of Mediterranean flavours and dishes
Emporium Marketplace - we don’t use the word buffet because it’s not adequate… a huge selection of dishes many of which are made while you wait so it couldn’t be fresher. Loved it!
Sakura - beautiful Pan Asian food which screamed high quality
Marble & Co - This was our favourite aboard - A European Steakhouse
Fil Rouge -  French inspired International cuisine and incredible service
In Suite Dining - take your pick from an extensive menu 24/7!!
Crema Cafe - All day cafe with tasty little treats including broken chocolate slabs!
Creperie - served waffles, pancakes or just ice cream including soft serve with a host of toppings …. Erm we may have visited here more than once!

Facilities onboard EXPLORA I

I really enjoyed the Astern Pool on deck 5 and we would spend most of our days here as nothing was too much trouble for the bar stewards, they would remember your favourite tipple from the day before! Meaning I had a Moscow Mule awaiting my arrival. The infinity edged pool situated at the back of the ship helps you channel your Ocean state of mind.

Every night you would make your way to The Explorers Lounge were you would be entertained from the bands carefully selected by Explora and every night you would experience mind blowing performances from talented musicians, the Mcdonald brothers stood out for me and they played the fiddle to songs to which you could hit the dancefloor too.

We hated disembarking, all the planning, all the looking forward and boarding day excitement and now it’s all over… but the experience of disembarking in Athens this morning made it as relaxed and as stress free.

We had breakfast on our veranda on our last morning. In Suite Breakfast Dining available on disembarkation day which is rarely an option! We had breakfast delivered to our suite at 7.30am and then a phone call to make sure it was all to our tastes and that we enjoyed it.

We then head to the lounge for disembarkation with no rush you simply had to  listen for announcements and have a coffee or a drink while you wait…

Make your way to the gangway when ready, no queues, no panic, no crowds of guests… hosts all along the way to say goodbye and see you soon.