Explora I is the first luxury cruise ship from Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s new premium ocean travel brand. Since launching in 2023, the ship has attracted attention for its spacious Ocean Terrace Suites, refined dining, and relaxed approach to luxury cruising.
If you are wondering whether MSC Group’s new luxury lifestyle brand truly lives up to the hype, you are not alone. With promises of an “Ocean State of Mind,” no formal nights, and a yacht-like atmosphere, Explora Journeys aims to redefine luxury ocean travel.
Patrick Hill from Paramount Cruises recently experienced Explora I during a voyage from Barbados to Panama, including a full transit of the Panama Canal. Reflecting on the trip, he shared his honest thoughts on the suites, dining, service, and whether the ship really delivers on its promise of modern luxury at sea.
Travellers interested in the ship can explore the latest Explora Journeys cruises available through Paramount Cruises.
From spacious Ocean Terrace Suites to Michelin level dining and beautifully designed outdoor spaces, here is what stood out most from Patrick’s time onboard Explora Journeys’ flagship ship.
Explora I Ocean Terrace Suite Review: Inside the Ship’s Most Popular Suites
During the sailing, Patrick stayed in an Ocean Grand Terrace Suite and said the first thing that stood out when entering the room was the incredible sense of space. Even the entry level Ocean Terrace Suites start from around 377 square feet, making them among the largest standard suites you will find at sea.
The layout feels calm and thoughtfully designed. Rather than a traditional cruise cabin, the space feels closer to a stylish apartment overlooking the ocean.
The private terrace quickly became one of Patrick’s favourite spots onboard. With a comfortable dining area and plush daybeds, it was the perfect place to enjoy quiet mornings watching the ocean pass by.
Some of the standout features of the suite included an in suite espresso machine using biodegradable pods. Enjoying coffee on the balcony while watching the sunrise quickly became part of the daily routine.
Another unexpected touch was the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer. It is a small detail but one that highlights the level of attention to detail throughout the ship.
The suite also includes a spacious walk in wardrobe, a seated vanity area, heated bathroom floors, wireless bedside charging, and binoculars for wildlife spotting while at sea.
Overall, the suites on Explora I feel far more like luxury hotel rooms than traditional cruise cabins, which is exactly the experience Explora Journeys is aiming to create.
The Ocean State of Mind: Design and Service
One of the biggest surprises during the voyage was just how beautifully designed the ship is throughout. Explora I does not feel like a typical cruise ship. Instead, it feels more like a collection of stylish boutique hotel spaces.
The interiors are modern and residential in style, with soft colours, elegant furnishings, and large windows that keep guests connected to the ocean.
Explora Journeys promotes an impressive guest to host ratio of around 1.25 to 1. With roughly 900 guests and around 640 crew members onboard, service feels attentive without ever feeling intrusive.
Many crew members come from luxury hotels and resorts, which shows in the way they interact with guests. The service feels polished and professional while remaining warm and relaxed.
One morning Patrick tested the 24 hour in suite dining by ordering poached eggs, smoked salmon, and a “Vitamin Sea” smoothie to enjoy on the balcony. The presentation and quality felt closer to five star hotel room service than typical cruise dining.
Explora I Pools and Outdoor Spaces
Explora I has clearly been designed to keep guests connected to the ocean. The outdoor decks are wide and open, with multiple pool areas and plenty of space to relax, even on sea days.
The ship features three heated outdoor pools as well as the beautiful Conservatory Pool, an indoor pool with a retractable glass roof.
Patrick’s personal favourites were the infinity pools positioned right at the edge of the ship. From the water, it almost feels as though the pool blends directly into the ocean horizon.
One of the most memorable moments of the voyage came during the Panama Canal transit. Relaxing in the infinity pool with an Aperol Spritz while watching the Miraflores Locks open beside the ship was, in Patrick’s words, an unforgettable travel experience.
With shaded cabanas, attentive poolside service, and a relaxed atmosphere, the outdoor areas feel more like an exclusive beach club than a traditional cruise ship deck.
Explora Journeys Dining Review
Dining is one of the standout parts of the Explora I experience.
Rather than a single main dining room, Explora Journeys offers several smaller restaurants, most of which are included in the cruise fare.
Emporium Marketplace is technically the ship’s buffet, but it is very different from traditional cruise buffets. Instead of self service counters, chefs prepare dishes fresh to order at live cooking stations.
Guests can enjoy everything from handmade pasta to an impressive evening raw bar featuring fresh oysters and crab claws.
Sakura, the ship’s Pan Asian restaurant, was one of the highlights of the sailing. The standout dish of the trip was the 72 hour slow cooked short rib Panang curry, which Patrick described as rich, deeply flavourful, and packed with umami.
Another memorable experience was taking part in a cooking class in the Chef’s Kitchen. The class was interactive, relaxed, and full of laughter.
At one point the group discovered that another guest taking part was actually a Michelin starred chef enjoying his holiday. Unsurprisingly, his pasta was slightly better than everyone else’s, although he generously gave the group ten out of ten for presentation.
Is Anthology Worth the Extra Cost?
Anthology is the only restaurant onboard Explora I that carries an additional cover charge.
During the sailing, Patrick decided to spend the budget on the spa instead and enjoyed a couple of excellent massages.
However, every couple spoken to onboard who dined at Anthology praised the experience highly.
The restaurant now offers a seven course Italian tasting menu curated by Head of Culinary Franck Garanger. The menu features premium ingredients including Oscietra Royal caviar and black truffle.
At around 140 euros, it sounds like a great option for a special occasion onboard.
Explora I Dress Code and Atmosphere
One of the most refreshing aspects of Explora I is the relaxed approach to the dress code.
There are no formal nights onboard, something many modern travellers will appreciate.
Instead, the atmosphere is best described as elegant resort wear. Think Riviera evenings, stylish beach clubs, or relaxed Mediterranean dining.
Guests generally dress smart but comfortable. Linen trousers, summer dresses, and lightweight jackets are common in the evenings.
The only strict rule applies to Anthology where men are expected to wear long trousers.
Overall, the atmosphere feels polished and stylish without the pressure of traditional black tie cruise evenings.
Explora I Review Verdict: Is Explora I Worth It?
After experiencing the ship first hand, Patrick’s verdict is clear.
Explora I offers a very different type of cruise experience compared with traditional cruise lines. Instead of crowded buffets and rigid schedules, the focus is on spacious suites, exceptional dining, beautiful design, and a relaxed pace.
Throughout the voyage, the ship felt less like a traditional cruise and more like a luxury oceanfront resort that simply happens to travel with you.
For travellers looking for an elegant, modern, and unhurried luxury cruise experience, Explora I delivers exactly what Explora Journeys promises: a true Ocean State of Mind.
Ready to Book Your Explora Journeys Cruise?
If this Explora I review has inspired you to experience Explora Journeys for yourself, the team at Paramount Cruises would be delighted to help.
Because the team regularly sails on the newest ships, they can offer first hand advice on the best suites, itineraries, and dining experiences onboard.
Travellers can also explore more luxury cruises available worldwide through Paramount Cruises.
Call our Cruise Experts: 0207 947 0270
Email: info@paramountcruises.com
Explora I Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dress code on Explora I?
The dress code onboard Explora I is elegant resort wear and there are no formal nights. During the day the atmosphere is relaxed and casual, while evenings are smart casual with linen trousers, chinos, or summer dresses.
What is included in an Explora Journeys cruise fare?
Explora Journeys is highly all inclusive. Your fare includes dining at five restaurants, premium beverages including wine and cocktails, high speed WiFi, gratuities, and access to the spa thermal area.
How big are the suites on Explora I?
All suites on Explora I start from around 377 square feet and include a private ocean facing terrace with outdoor seating.
How many guests are on Explora I?
Explora I carries around 900 guests with approximately 640 crew members, creating a very high level of personalised service.
Is Explora I family-friendly?
Yes. The ship features the Nautilus Club, which offers activities and entertainment for children and teenagers aged 6 to 17.
