Explora Journeys previously unveiled a number of its private accommodations, and now the new luxury line (from MSC Group the parent company to MSC Cruises), is announcing even grander onboard penthouses and residences.
In an effort to convey “Homes at Sea” and an “Ocean State of Mind,” the company recently unveiled its Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences — which will be found onboard Explora I, one of up to six planned sister ships — beginning with its maiden voyage departing July 17, 2023, from the United Kingdom.
Stemming from the company’s European heritage and family ownership, the design has been customized across all 461 cabins with particular care given to “natural light, color, space, privacy and connection with the sea,” according to the line.
“Environmental respect and sustainability have been key in design choices, ensuring a balance between the tactile and visual experience of every material used,” said Jason Gelineau, head of product for Explora Journeys. “Eco-friendly details, such as refillable bathroom amenities, have also been weaved into the suite offering and, where feasible, we are sourcing sustainable products including B Corp-certified items. We will also have a no-single-use-plastic policy onboard.
Ocean Penthouses: 463 to 732 Square Feet
Ocean Penthouses will range in size between 463 and 732 square feet and feature floor-to-ceiling windows and sizable balconies overlooking the ocean. Common to all four penthouse varieties will be a dedicated dining area for up to four people and a large seating section, as well as a bathroom with heated floors, a walk-in wardrobe and a seated vanity space complete with a Dyson Supersonic hairdryer.
A Premier Penthouse living room
Credit: 2023 Explora JourneysOther amenities will include a set of binoculars, wireless nightstand charging capabilities, personalized minibar selections, an espresso machine using biodegradable pods, a kettle and teapot, refillable water bottles and 24-hour guest services.
Ocean Residences: 753 to 1,604 Square Feet
Ocean Residences will measure from 753 to 1,604 square feet with separate living, dining and sleeping sections, as well as balconies showcasing a private whirlpool, dining table and loungers.
Serenity Residences will have marble bathrooms.
Credit: 2023 Explora JourneysGuests booking residences can choose from four distinct categories: Cocoon, Cove, Retreat and Serenity, all with around-the-clock butler service from Residence Hosts. Cocoon, Serenity and Retreat will highlight Calacatta Macchia Vecchia marble bathrooms. Also, Cocoon and Serenity residences will have wraparound terraces, while Cocoon, Serenity and Retreat residences will come with a separate bathtub and walk-in shower.
Other Amenities and Brands
When it comes to furniture, Explora has teamed up with Molteni&C, a division of the Molteni Group, for Italian-made upscale sofas, chairs and select outdoor furnishings that reflect the brand’s tenets of “tradition, quality, durability and reliability, supported by research and innovation.”
Furnishing the line’s balconies are pieces from Manutti, considered a leading luxury outdoor furniture brand. What’s more, Frette will provide Italian-crafted bed and bath linens, and Technogym exercise equipment will be provided in Ocean Penthouses (Technogym Kit) and Ocean Residences (Technogym Kit and Technogym Bench).
Balcony furnishings will include pieces from Manutti.
Credit: 2023 Explora JourneysSpecial considerations have also been made in regard to onboard lighting. Intimate linear lights will be integrated into furnishings for both form and function, “mirroring the linear flow from the entrance to the window of the suites, to give a clear perspective of the well-equilibrated spaces,” according to a press release from Explora. Design and lighting brand Astep has also been charged with developing bedside sconce lights and chandeliers for Ocean Residences.
Art and Bubbly
Last but not least, Explora’s owners have chosen specific artists and their works to further establish a “home-away-from-home” environment. In fact, each suite will showcase a “masterpiece” in their living rooms, further complemented by other art and decorative elements.
Plus, luxury guests will receive a chilled bottle of Champagne upon arrival. Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label will welcome those in Ocean Suites, Moet & Chandon Grand Vintage 2015 will await clients in Ocean Penthouses and Dom Perignon Vintage 2013 will be ready in Ocean Residences.
