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Hotel of the Week: This Lavish New Cruise Collection Offers the Ultimate Voyage at Sea

The debut vessel of Explora Journeys combines exceptional design with artful experiences and a global array of fine dining options

By Jill Sieracki
Large cruise ship named Explora sailing on open ocean with multiple decks and amenities visible.
An aerial view of Explora Journeys’ debut vessel, Explora I. Photo: Courtesy of Explora Journeys

With plunge pools on multiple decks offering breathtaking views and a luminescent two-story bar, the new cruise line Explora Journeys gives passengers a high-glamour experience with all the thoughtful details of a luxury boutique hotel. British designer Martin Francis crafted the company’s debut vessel, Explora I, with resplendent details, including chic furnishings by Molteni&C, Minotti, and Flexform.

Rounding out each journey are gourmet meals from visiting Michelin-starred chefs, like Mauro Uliassi and Emma Bengtsson, the latter of which is currently helming the kitchen at on-board restaurant Anthology; the only Rolex shop at sea; and an innovative art program ranging from an installation of a British Library by Yinka Shonibare to the rotating display in Galeria d’Arte. 

Elegant spiral staircase with a modern, artistic chandelier overhead, creating a luxurious and sophisticated ambiance.
A sinuous Lasvit light fixture on the Explora I. Photo: Julia D'Ambola/BFA.com
A large cruise ship sailing in clear blue waters with a scenic mountain background under a bright sky.
An aerial view of Explora Journeys’ debut vessel, Explora I. Photo: Marco Leitner Attic Films

The ship made its splashy U.S. debut in October with a naming ceremony in New York. As part of the festivities, the company’s leadership, MSC Group, welcomed marine biologist and oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, who spoke on Explora Journeys’ commitment to ocean health, supporting environmental and sustainability efforts through the MSC Foundation.

Currently sailing throughout the Caribbean, Explora I will depart Miami on December 22 for a seven-night voyage stopping at Key West, St. John’s, and Guadeloupe, en route to San Juan, Puerto Rico. Then, between December 29 and January 5, the ship will travel from San Juan to Miami with visits to Saint Martin, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Martinique. Throughout the journey, holiday festivities will add to the already abundant on-board amenities; guests can enjoy seasonal concerts and a decadent Christmas Eve dinner of Maine lobster soufflé ‘Plaza Athénée’ and Christmas roasted Vermont turkey. Those sailing for New Year’s Eve can celebrate with a masked ball.

Colorful book spines on a library shelf in a modern interior with bright lighting and polished floors.
British Library by Yinka Shonibare installed on board Explora Journeys’ Explora I. Photo: Julia D'Ambola/BFA.com
Spacious modern lobby with elegant lighting, large chandeliers, brown and white color scheme, and green sofas.
Lobby Bar on the Explora I. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys

“Explora Journeys offers a truly transformative ocean travel experience,” says Explora’s Christopher Austin. “Everything onboard Explora I has been carefully curated, from designer furniture to our diverse dining experiences, vibrant entertainment, and the holistic wellbeing philosophy of our spa. Every moment is an opportunity to explore, discover, recharge, and enjoy.”

See more images below:

Luxury hotel room with a king-size bed, modern decor, seating area, and ocean view from a large window.
Ocean terrace suite on the Explora I. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Elegant dining room with round table, four chairs, modern chandelier, and decorative shelves displaying books and art pieces.
Dining area in one of the residential style suites on Explora I. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Modern lounge with circular windows, elegant lighting, plush sofas, armchairs, and a view of the ocean.
Explora Journey’s Explora I combines graceful architectural details and artful elements at every turn. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Elegant, modern restaurant interior with round tables, soft beige seating, and nautical-themed decor and artwork.
The Yacht Club dining destination on the Explora I serves Mediterranean inspired dishes. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Modern hotel lobby with a central bar, luxurious seating, and a large chandelier hanging from the ceiling.
The double-height Lobby Bar on the Explora I is punctuated by the illuminated onyx wall. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Modern restaurant interior with cherry blossom decor, elegant lighting, and red seating creating a cozy atmosphere.
On board Explora I Pan-Asian dining destination Sakura. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Luxurious showroom interior with elegant seating, wooden accents, and Rolex branding on display.
Interior of the Rolex boutique on board the Explora I. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Luxury boutique interior with elegant display shelves, glass cases showcasing designer bags, clothes, and accessories.
Interior of retail boutique The Journey on board the Explora I. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Luxurious spa room with a massage bed, bamboo-themed wall art, modern lighting, and a sink with towels.
Interior a spa suite on board the Explora I. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Modern gym room with ocean view, featuring exercise equipment and a large digital screen displaying an ocean scene.
Explora I offers indoor and outdoor fitness facilities. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys
Cruise ship sailing past illuminated city skyline at twilight.
Explora Journeys’ debut vessel, Explora I cruising into New York harbor for the October naming ceremony. Photo: courtesy of Explora Journeys

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2023 Winter Issue under the headline “Next Wave.” Subscribe to the magazine.