We were invited to Southampton to spend some time on board the new ship 'Explora I' and hopefully to get an insight in to why it might be 'different' from all of those we've seen/experienced previously. Explora I is the first of 6 ships from Explora Journeys, the new luxury arm of MSC Cruises. Explora I departed on her Maiden Journey on 1 August 2023, sailing round-trip from Copenhagen on a 14-night journey in northern Europe calling at seven destinations with a two-night stay in the capital city of Iceland, Reykjavik.

We were greeted by our hosts on board with a glass of champagne before taking our seats in the Journeys Lounge for an hour-long presentation from various Explora representatives. They don't have 'crew' as other ships do as it's seen as a 'journey' rather than a cruise. We'll find out hopefully.

Following the presentation, we took a tour of the ship. As the ship had guests already on board, we had the opportunity to see just 2 of the suites but sufficient to get a good idea of what passengers could expect when sailing on Explora.

EXPLORA I offers 461 oceanfront suites, suites with balcony and are located on decks 6 through to 10 with the entry level being what they call an Ocean terrace (OT). They are of a decent size with the inside area measuring 28 square metres and the outside balcony 7 square metres. The king-size beds are adorned in the finest linen (by Frette) with no expense spared. There is a large, wall-mounted TV where guests can view their on-board account or watch a film/play music etc A big plus is the Illy coffee machine and a kettle (plus teapot) for making a morning cuppa. The mini fridge contains beer and soft drinks, and all guests receive a bottle of champagne (yes real champagne). The brand depends on the suite grade and ranges from Veuve Clicquot, Moet & Chandon and Dom Pérignon Vintage 2013. The bathroom is ample and there is a nice walk-in shower complete with an adjustable shower head as well as their own brand 'Mandala Blue' toiletries. A nice touch is the heated bathroom floor, especially if in colder climes! There is a walk-in wardrobe (which closes via a sliding door), Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, bathrobes and clothes hanging area complete with quality hangers. Storage space is plentiful. There is even a nice pair of Swarovski binoculars to use whilst on board. Outside on the balcony is a table & 2 chairs and a nice lounger.

The second accommodation we were shown was a Cove Residence suite on deck 10 (suite 10022) of which there are 10 in total. There are 4 types of Ocean Residence – Cove, Retreat, Serenity and Cocoon, their very names inspired by the calming nature of the oceans. All provide a tranquil sanctuary and come with a spacious ocean-front terrace with private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers. The main sleeping area is separated from the lounge area where there is a nice size sofa bed which makes a generous size bed for a third occupant. There is a large wall-mounted TV on either side of the separator. The spacious lounge area has a dining table for 4 guests a large work desk area, private refrigerated mini-bar (replenished according to the guests’ preferences) and a cocktail making set.

Other types of suites on Explora are the Grand Ocean Terrace Suite which has a larger outside area than the Ocean Terrace, the larger Penthouse Suites which come in varying sizes and the Owners Residence where the panoramic ocean-front terrace covers the full ship’s width, with a private spacious outdoor whirlpool, day beds, a dining table, a scenic lounge area and shower.

Deck 4 is where guests can discover 2 dining venues named Med Yacht Club and Fil Rouge. The Med Yacht Club was inspired by authentic Mediterranean dining, and infusing tastes and textures of Italy, Spain, Greece, France, and North Africa – while incorporating plant-based, vegetarian, and wholesome ingredients – the menu of Med Yacht Club serves sharing plates, created for guests to enjoy with friends and family alike. Signature dishes here include grilled octopus, San Marzano tomato sauce, Taggiasca olives, green beans, parsley and, as a dessert, Sweet caprese with cherry tomatoes, strawberries, burrata and pesto (this is delicious!). Seating is for 136 (34 at the bar) and is open for lunch and dinner.

Adjacent is the Fil Rouge. Serving French-inspired international cuisine, Fil Rouge has a relaxed ambience and is where we took lunch. I took a photo of the actual menu put together for us and, without going into too much detail, I can honestly say that it did not disappoint at all. The Angus Beef Tenderloin was the best and the French red that accompanied it was not bad either!!

Also on this deck is the very impressive lobby and bar, guest services, a small casino, and several high-end boutique shops with Rolex watches (a first at sea) and other dedicated spaces for Cartier, Panerai and Piaget. There is also as a super choice of homeware & gifts, designer-wear, leather goods, perfumes & skincare products. The Journeys lounge is at the very front (forward) of this deck.

Deck 5 working from aft (back) firstly is home to the Astern Pool & Bar. This is a lovely all-day pool and lounge setting next to the infinity pool, ideal for a seaside escape offering chilled beach club vibes, with low background music by day and acoustic musicians and DJs continuing throughout the evening. Unfortunately, the weather prevented us from trying out the gorgeous cabanas. As with all of the pool and wellness areas, towels and sunscreen are offered to guests throughout the day. Outdoor dining is available from nearby Sakura restaurant in bento boxes (a Japanese boxed meal consisting of several different food types), conveniently served whether seated at a table, on a lounger or a poolside sunbed. Sakura is an immersive, authentic dining experience offering the finest Pan-Asian cuisine and takes its name from the Japanese cherry blossom which cascades from the ceiling. It truly is quite stunning. Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Malaysian dishes are on the menu. You do need to make a reservation here.

The Marble & Co. Grill is described as a 'redefined European steakhouse experience' and serves exceptional cuts of meat, personally sourced and sustainably farmed. There is seating for 80 inside and 10 outside and, it is recommended that you make a reservation.

We then arrive at the Anthology Restaurant where guests are treated to exquisite cuisine from the talents and specialities of some of the world’s most celebrated guest chefs. Put together by Chef Mauro Uliassi whose three-Michelin-star restaurant is found in the picturesque coastal town of Senigallia in Italy. The Uliassi restaurant was ranked 12 at 'The World’s 50 Best Restaurants' in 2022. Dining at Anthology is a one-of-a-kind experience enabling discovery and enrichment and is not part of the inclusive culinary experiences. Again, I have attached an image of the tasting menu for September. The cost is EUR 190 per person and a further EUR 75 per person for the wine pairing. Although it sounds expensive, if our experience in Fil Rouge is anything to go by, I am sure it will be a memorable experience.

Just beyond Anthology is the Crema Cafe, a bustling 62 seat, European all-day café culture brought to the oceans of the world. Coffee, teas, cakes, pastries, biscotti.... you get the idea!

Forward on this deck is the Ocean Wellness & Spa. We were given a tour and found it most impressive. I asked how many guests were allowed in at any one time and was told 20 which is perfect providing they do not all want to be in the hydrotherapy pool at the same time as it is a little on the small side. Facilities include Steam Room, Steam shower, (in private spa suites), Hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, Salt cave, Experience shower, Ice fall, Heated marble loungers, Relaxation room.

Additionally, there are 11 Treatment Rooms in total which include

2 Private Spa Suites with a dedicated outdoor relaxation area

1 Double treatment room

7 single treatment rooms

1 single treatment room for specialised skin treatments - the Medi Luxe Treatments by Dr Levy Switzerland

Outdoor relaxation area

Deck 6 Aft on this deck is the Atoll Pool & Bar. This is a lovely and intimate pool and relaxation area which offers total seating for 138 including large sunbeds, lounge chairs and seating at the bar. The area is open all day and, we are told, has a chilled vibe throughout the day. Next to here is the good-sized gymnasium which they call the Ocean Wellness Fitness Centre. Equipment is by Technogym and includes the usual from Cardio equipment through to weights. Accommodations take up the remaining part of the deck. The Bridge is forward.

Decks 7-10 Accommodation

Deck 11 is the Emporium Marketplace Restaurant which takes up about half of this deck! This is not your conventional buffet by any means, more like a food hall but not nearly as busy. There are 18 separate cooking stations that evolve throughout the day. Here guests will discover global cuisines such as sushi, seafood, cooked-to-order pizzas and pasta, a charcuterie (cold meats), fromagerie (world cheeses), a daily rotisserie as well as a boulangerie and patisserie station. There was simply too much to describe here but the presentation of quality foods was quite stunning, and all are served by happy, smiley staff. Wines and other beverages are available to take with meals throughout the day with juices, smoothies and acai bowls provided during breakfast. There is inside seating for more than 200 and outside (depending on the weather) for around 80.

Next to the Emporium is the Gelateria & Creperie at the Conservatory which is inside the poolside conservatory. Set in a relaxed environment, this is a fabulous place to indulge yourself in authentic Italian Ice Creams & French Crêpes...delicious!

As we walked forward there is a large oblong indoor whirlpool either side of the weather-protected Conservatory Pool & Bar. These both offer a stunning view of the ocean and look so inviting. Background music plays throughout the day until early evening when the area turns into a cinema beneath the stars where guests can also enjoy cocktails beneath coloured lighting.

Forward from here on starboard side and part of the Explora Lounge area is the Nautilus Club which is, in the main, for 6–17-year-olds who are watched over by certified Explora hosts. Children aged 3 to 5 years are also welcome at certain intervals for activities appropriate to their age but only if accompanied by a parent or guardian. The club is open between the hours of 09:00 until midnight and children will have the opportunity to play the latest video games from PlayStation VR2 through Nintendo and onto iPads and Oculus Pro. There is Foosball, a pool table, multi-game table and a jukebox tablet for streaming from platforms such as Spotify and Apple. There is also a digital library. All younger guests can also enjoy reserved periods at the Sports Court, one of the heated pools, as well as other locations around the ship.

Also, in the confines of the Explora Lounge area is the Malt Whisky bar with seating for 20 guests. This is the perfect venue for connoisseurs of the worlds malt whiskies and includes some of the rarest whiskies known. There is also a walk-in humidor, complete with cigar expert, and an outdoor terrace dedicated to those who enjoy a cigar.

Across the way from here is the Chefs Kitchen where a maximum of 12 guests can immerse themselves in a private kitchen setting with culinary experts and learn new skills, discover new flavours and cultures no matter what their cooking skills are. The experience continuously evolves around the regions visited by the ship and will also extend ashore with visits to local markets and hand-picked producers. The adjacent private dining room is the perfect venue for guests to celebrate their new skills, savour the incredible dishes they created, paired with superb wines from the expert sommeliers.

An exclusive experience fee applies.

Deck 12 is outside and is home to 2 more whirlpools and a running track. Forward is the adults-only Helios Pool & Bar. This area offers amazing panoramic views and, if the sun is shining, you are sure to catch it. It is the perfect pace for lounging by the pool and can accommodate 100 guests on sunbeds, loungers, chairs & seats at the bar.

Deck 14 is the highest point of the ship and home to The Sky Bar. This is another outdoor lounge seating and is the ideal place to sip a cocktail and take in the panoramic views at sunset. On this deck is a small amount of gym equipment including spinning bikes which are great if you want to work off some of those calories! Lastly there is a small sports court with tennis net and basketball nets.

To summarise: Since we came away from our tour of Explora I we have given the concept of Explora Journeys some thought, and it is difficult to get a true feel for it after 6 hours or and we would have to cruise on Explora to get a better understanding of how different it really is. It is very contemporary in its design and there is absolutely no doubt that it is a luxury product. Experienced cruisers who enjoy quality will love it undoubtedly as will well-heeled travellers who are used to staying in 5-star accommodations.

During the day, it is a very laid-back atmosphere on board (which we personally prefer) but the onboard enrichment programme in the lounges onboard is quite diverse with dancing music from the in-house band Inferno playing soul and disco music from the 1970's, a journey where guests can take in France and can let go in a Parisian jazz club experience, accompanied by French Martinis and canapés, Jive to a New Orleans jazz cabaret with a Creole menu, absinthe cocktails and dazzling musicianship.

A big selling point of Explora is their Sustainability Commitment. In their words "Explora Journeys’ fundamental respect for the planet is the central component of the journey, never forceful nor intrusive upon the destinations and local communities, and conscientious of the environment and sustainability. We will support and give back to noble environmental causes through the MSC Foundation. Our destination experiences will be designed to leave a positive impression and footprint on the places and people visited by placing a spotlight on local talents, craftsmanship, culture, gastronomy and traditions."

"Our fleet design incorporates provision for battery storage allowing future hybrid power generation, as well as the latest selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, enabling a reduction of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 90%.

Single-use plastics will not be used onboard the ship, nor will they be offered during land-based experiences - Explora Journeys is dedicated to leaving a positive impression on the places and people visited on their ocean journeys."

I hope this gives a good insight into the Explora Journeys concept, but we can always be contacted if anyone has any questions about anything which I haven’t covered.