Review: Explora I From Explora Journeys

When Explora Journeys was first announced as a luxury spinoff of MSC Cruises, I was intrigued by what I assumed would be an expansion of the company’s MSC Yacht Club, which I had experienced twice onboard MSC Meraviglia.

But now that I’ve also experienced life onboard Explora Journeys’ first vessel, the 922-guest Explora I, I believe the new brand goes far beyond MSC Yacht Club’s ship-within-a-ship concept — successfully raising the bar in the luxury segment against other legacy lines.

Here’s a look at the first ship in a scheduled fleet of six by 2028 from Explora Journeys.

Staterooms Onboard Explora I

Accommodations onboard the all-suite Explora I come with a complimentary bottle of welcome Champagne, and even my entry-level Ocean Terrace Suite presented Veuve Clicquot, the preferred bubbly of my wife and I. (As categories ascend, so too does the free libation — to the likes of Dom Perignon.) Although my wife could not join me on this sailing, she was quick to notice that every stateroom also features a Dyson Supersonic hair dryer — her favorite — in a form-fitted vanity drawer. (Ordinarily, she has to bring her own, and there are seldom enough amps on ships to power it.)

The only thing that proved electronically inconsistent in my 377-square-foot suite was the induction charger on the nightstand, which did not fully replenish my iPhone 15 Pro Max. Otherwise, I found the USB and USB-C charging ports and standard electrical outlets to function consistently. Meanwhile, the bed in my stateroom was comfortably plush, and the room featured floor-to-ceiling windows, a walk-in closet, a personalized minibar and a separate lounge area divided by a bookshelf.

Similar to MSC Yacht Club configurations, the bathroom was voluminous, featuring a wide, walk-in shower. The line’s mantra is an “ocean state of mind,” and its Mandala Blue by Explora Journeys toiletries follow suit with fresh sea-breeze scents. Of course, the sizable terrace also invited me to connect with the ocean thanks to a padded chaise lounge, two chairs and a table.

Public Spaces Onboard Explora I

Elsewhere onboard the 63,900-gross-ton Explora I, there are even more connections to the sea, including five pools — a staggering amount for a ship of its size. Two outdoor pools overlook the stern on separate decks, while an adults-only pool sits on the forward-most upper level. (Families with children are welcome onboard Explora I, and there is a colorful kids club for young guests.) The Conservatory Pool features an arched sliding glass roof, while a fully indoor hydrotherapy pool awaits at the Ocean Wellness Spa's complimentary thermal suite.

And the spa and its attached salon are sublime; just like the standout treatments onboard MSC vessels, those onboard Explora I are top-notch. My hourlong Intensive Muscle Release massage and its soothing stretching made for one of the most relaxing treatments I’ve ever experienced at sea.

A fully equipped fitness center is located separately on Deck 10, as is a complete-circuit running track on Deck 12, where there is also a pair of outdoor whirlpool tubs that feature outward-facing views of the passing scenery. Two more whirlpool tubs are located inside under shade. Additionally, Deck 14 has a full-size sports court and yet another whirlpool at the Sky Bar on 14.

Bars and Restaurants Onboard Explora I

There’s no shortage of bars and eateries onboard. My favorite watering hole was the handsome Malt Whisky Bar, located off the scenic Explora Lounge observation venue. (Note for those sensitive to smoke: The whiskey bar is also adjacent to a cigar lounge.) On the opposite side is the bright Chef’s Kitchen, where itinerary-inspired cooking classes are available for an added fee.

The only other culinary charge onboard is for Anthology, which features rotating menus from Michelin-starred chefs. During my sailing, Swedish chef Emma Bengtsson — who leads the team at New York City’s famed Aquavit — curated the best meal I’ve ever had on a cruise ship. The mouthwatering caviar service, savory lobster bisque, perfectly prepared turbot and beautiful Arctic Bird's Nest dessert — and every other plate — were truly Michelin-level.

Related: A Full Ship Overview of Explora I

The five complimentary onboard restaurants, as well as room service, are also impressive. As main open-seating dining rooms go, French-inspired Fil Rouge impressed me with its excellent lobster Thermidor, while Med Yacht Club and its nautical decor drew me in for both lunch and dinner.

Emporium Marketplace is the buffet spot, offering a wide culinary selection that’s on par with much larger cruise ships. Not to be missed is Gelateria & Creperie at The Conservatory next door, as well as Crema Cafe downstairs for specialty coffees, hot-pressed paninis and other sweet treats.

The only venues requiring reservations are the Marble & Co. Grill steakhouse — where I had a decadent porterhouse — and the pan-Asian Sakura, where I enjoyed perfect lobster pad thai.

Onboard Entertainment

I found Explora I’s entertainment program to be pared down and refined, featuring two vocalists and an orchestra of up to six players, plus talented guest entertainers.

Sessions took place in the main Journeys Lounge — a cabaret-style theater with well-spaced individual seating, as opposed to fixed rows — and Astern Lounge, a small, stylish venue complete with a pool table. The instrumental Le Jazz sets were simply delightful, as were the Postmodern Jukebox-like performances.

Furthermore, art aficionados will appreciate the expansive Galleria d’Arte and its rotational display of pieces.

Clientele and Future Sailings

For travel advisors determining the ideal client for Explora Journeys, I must say, I saw the broadest international demographic I’ve ever seen on a luxury cruise. Many guests were part of traveling groups and families, some of which I overheard had upgraded from Disney Cruise Line or Norwegian Cruise Line.

At every sail-away from port, the public address system plays Andrea Bocelli’s “Time to Say Goodbye,” and upon returning home, clients can relive their cruise experience with a custom Explora playlist (available on Apple Music and other services).

Newly announced upcoming itineraries for Explora I have been scheduled through 2026, including in the Caribbean from October 2024 to April 2025. From April to November 2025, the luxury ship will head for the Eastern Mediterranean. By winter 2025-2026, Explora I will be positioned in the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula.