Marco was amongst the first onboard not only a brand new ship, but also a brand new cruise line, when he stepped aboard Explora Journeys‘ first of six luxury ships, Explora I, as she set sail from Portsmouth on a shakedown sailing ahead of her maiden journey from Copenhagen.
Itinerary
Portsmouth – Day at Sea – Copenhagen
How Was The Embarkation Process?
The embarkation process was extremely smooth, having already checked in via the easy-to-use Explora Journeys app. The first impressions of the ship certainly do not disappoint, with the deep blue livery shining in the summer sun. As soon as you get onboard you’ll see the impressive lobby bar. The wall of spirits makes for a spectacular backdrop to this stylish lobby, the perfect meeting place to grab a pre-dinner drink. The grand piano, overlooking the light and airy space, provides an atmospheric ambience as you relax with a glass of champagne or cocktail.
What was the accommodation like on Explora I?
The accommodation onboard certainly has the wow factor, it’s clear as soon as you enter that there has been a huge amount of thought put behind the design of all 461 of the ocean-front suites. The Ocean Terrace Suites are the entry-level type of accommodation, with spacious sofa area, plush bed and a terrace with seating and a comfy daybed on which to relax. If you’re looking to upgrade the size of the terrace then it is worth looking at the Ocean Grand Terrace Suite which offers a larger terrace area. No matter which type of suite you book you’ll have a welcome bottle of champagne waiting for you, a mini-bar stocked to your personal preference, an espresso machine (plus kettle and various teas and coffee), a complimentary refillable bottle and a pair of binoculars for you to use during your journey. The bathrooms include a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and heated floors and even a Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, plus the bathrobes are some of the most cozy you’ll ever experience.
My suite for this short sailing to Copenhagen was a Cove Residence. The minute you entered the suite you were greeted with a huge dining area and spacious lounge, with a large TV. Along with the usual amenities the Residences have upgraded binoculars made by Swarovski which come in a custom wooden box. The incredibly spacious ocean-front terrace has a private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and a plush daybed.
I was lucky enough to tour the Owner’s Residence, an incredible suite which has a wraparound terrace featuring an infinity pool, this truly is a suite like no other I’ve ever seen! The Retreat Residence, Serenity Residence and Cocoon Residence are all equally spectacular accommodations featuring private whirlpools and beautifully appointed living areas.
What was the food like onboard?
With 6 different restaurants to choose from, this is guaranteed to be a culinary journey you’ll never forget. Whilst onboard we dined at Marble & Co. Grill, an incredible modern European-style steakhouse with prime meats from across the globe. Make sure to try the signature crushed fingerling potatoes which come topped with a generous serving of caviar. Med Yacht Club is a relaxed, family-style Mediterranean restaurant, the grilled octopus starter was spectacular whilst the Dover sole was equally impressive. My favourite restaurant was hands down Sakura, an immersive pan-Asian restaurant serving fresh sushi as well as a variety of Thai, Malaysian and Vietnamese dishes. The restaurant is as easy on the eye as the food is with an open kitchen as well as outdoor seating for those looking to dine al fresco.
Fil Rouge, an elegant restaurant, serves French-inspired cuisine, whilst the Emporium Marketplace features sushi, fresh seafood and a daily rotisserie offering grilled, roasted, and slow-cooked meats. You’ll also find a wide variety of fresh pasta which is cooked to order, and freshly baked pizzas (these are delicious!) and bread are on offer as are home-made sandwiches. If that wasn’t enough you’ll be sure to find charcuterie, fromagerie, boulangerie and patisserie stations, there is a good reason why we wouldn’t call this a buffet…
There are two dining experiences which are not included in the cruise fare. The first one is Anthology by Mauro Uliassi, an 8-course tasting menu curated by three-Michelin-starred chef Mauro Uliassi, this exclusive tasting menu costs €190 per person with the option to add the wine pairing for €75 per person and will run up until the 25th of September 2023. Every few months a new chef will curate their specific tasting menu with a host of celebrated chefs from around the world lined up to showcase their skills.
One of the highlights of the trip was experiencing the second paid-for dining option, The Chef’s Kitchen, an immersive experience for up to 12 guests. You’ll be guided by the onboard culinary experts, discovering new ingredients, flavours, textures and cultures and perfecting a selection of dishes. The sommelier will also drop in with a specifically chosen wine to pair with your culinary creations. As part of the experience, you’ll receive an apron, hat and chef’s cloth to take away with you as a memento of your class. We’re told that the experience will be continuously evolving around the regions visited by the ship, and will also extend ashore with visits to local markets and hand-picked producers, for example, Chef Jean-Luc has promised to take his guests to his personal butcher whilst in New York, as well as guiding them through his favourite market whilst in Quebec.
What was the entertainment like onboard Explora I?
Entertainment onboard Explora Journeys promises to deviate from the standard cruise ship routine, instead focussing on experiences which are unique, curated, immersive and captivating. From enjoying live piano music in the Lobby Bar, to spending some time listening to exciting talks by Luminaries, resident and guest artists and other prolific talents in the Explora Lounge, you’ll find an enriching array of entertainment to enjoy throughout your journey.
Art is a key yet understated feature onboard. You’ll expect to find regularly changing exhibitions in the Galleria D’Arte on deck 5, the passion that Geoff, Explora Journeys’ Enrichment Lead, portrays towards the young, up-and-coming artists and speakers who are booked to showcase their works onboard over the coming year certainly shines through in the pieces that are already onboard, and we’re very excited to see what future artists will feature on Explora I.
What were the Swimming Pool & Fitness facilities like?
You’ll find 3 outdoor swimming pools and 1 indoor pool (with a retractable roof), as well as plenty of hot tubs in which to relax. The two pools at the aft of the ship offer the perfect place to escape and watch the wake as you sail to your next destination. The Astern Pool, located on deck 5, is an all-day pool and outdoor lounge with plush day beds and a stunning infinity pool, it also provides a perfect setting for catching that epic sunset photo at the end of the day. If you’re looking for an intimate pool with a chilled vibe throughout the day then head straight for deck 10 where you’ll find the Atoll Pool.
The beauty of this ship is the amount of outward-facing public spaces. Up on deck 12, right at the front of the ship, you’ll find the Helios Pool & Bar, a stunning panoramic adults-only pool, with plenty of loungers and cabanas in what is possibly one of the sunniest spots on the ship. If you’re sailing in cooler climates you won’t need to worry as the Conservatory Pool & Bar is the ideal place to relax in the warmth, with a pool and huge two hot tubs on either side, the venue also transforms into an indoor cinema in the evenings. Make sure to try out the ice cream, served from the Gelateria & Creperie at The Conservatory, this has to be some of the best gelato I’ve ever tasted at sea.
Explora Journeys believe that Ocean Wellness encompasses the physical, spiritual, and emotional health of their guests, ensuring their time onboard is enriching and fulfilling. This is why each suite is equipped with a Technogym bag containing a yoga mat, foam roller and a set of resistance bands. You’ll find a host of on-demand workouts and meditation sessions on the tv, or you can choose to work out in the gym which has everything you may need to keep fit whilst onboard. You’ll also find an open-air fitness deck with bikes, rowing and resistance training with sweeping views of the ocean, and there is a 360-degree running track perfect for those looking to up their Strava game whilst at sea. The sports court provides a multi-purpose space for various activities such as pickleball, basketball and yoga.
All guests have access to the beautiful spa facilities which include a steam room, hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, salt cave, an experience shower, ice fall, heated marble loungers and a relaxation room. There are a total of 11 treatment rooms, perfect for those looking for a massage or specialised skin treatment, as well as a small outdoor relaxation area.
Tips for someone looking to cruise on Explora I?
If your budget can stretch, it would be worthwhile looking at one of the Ocean Residences. These are the epitome of refined modern European luxury at sea. Not only do they provide a tranquil sanctuary, with sweeping private decks, panoramic ocean views and private outdoor whirlpools, you’ll also experience the flawless butler services of your very own Residence Host. Starting your cruise with a welcome bottle of Dom Pérignon Vintage 2013 whilst sailing away, watching the world go by from your spacious terrace is an experience that really can’t be beaten.
Don’t worry if your chosen restaurant is fully booked on the app, there are always over 50% of tables kept for walk-ins. The idea is that you’re able to have the flexibility to dine where and when you like without the stress of having to pre-book. If you do have a favourite restaurant you can dine there as many times as you wish, however, you will only be able to book each restaurant once pre-departure.
Final thoughts on Explora I?
One of the most inclusive ultra-luxury experiences at sea, Explora Journeys offers a relaxed yet refined experience. You truly feel like you at home whilst at sea, and the experience is effortless. No matter which type of suite you book you’ll have a host of inclusions to take advantage of from the moment you step onboard this stunning ship. The Wi-Fi onboard is some of the best I’ve experienced on a cruise, it is the small, well-thought-out touches that really elevate this ship, for example being able to pair your phone to your in-suite TV to listen to music or what your favourite show.
- In-suite welcome bottle of champagne upon arrival
- A bottle of wine and a bottle of spirit of the guests’ choice upon arrival
- Authentic, cultured and intuitive service from our team of hospitality experts
- Nine distinct culinary experiences, including in-suite dining
- Unlimited beverages, fine wines and premium spirits, speciality coffees, teas and soft drinks available anytime, including in-suite mini-bar
- Access to the spa thermal area
- Wellbeing and fitness programmes on board and at the destinations
- All onboard gratuities
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
- Shuttle services from port to city centre (where required/available)
