At Cruise Specialists we believe in first-hand experience as the best educational tool for our cruise consultants. We invest in these opportunities to ensure we properly represent a cruise line, and our guests are matched with a ship appropriate for them.
Recently, Joe Lucero, Teresa Skeim and Bridgett Quinn Webber each had the opportunity to sail with Explora Journeys, a new luxury cruise line, which surpassed their expectations. They sailed on EXPLORA I, which carries only 922 guests, all in suites with private terraces (verandas).
Explora Journeys are designed differently. The first thing that you will notice is ports of call that other cruise lines don’t typically sail to are found on the itinerary. Secondly, they are designed for curious travelers who want to delve deep into the places they travel – Explora guests hail from countries around the world. The international flare is embodied in the cuisine on board as well.
First Impressions of EXPLORA I
Attention to detail is apparent throughout the ship, especially in the suite layout and amenities. Guests enjoy 24-hour butler and concierge service, 24-hour in-suite dining, twice daily housekeeping services, including evening turndown service. Complimentary Wi-Fi, the Explora Journeys App along with bedside wireless charging stations worked extremely well.
EXPLORA I is the first of a planned fleet of 6 ships. Exquisitely designed, our Cruise Consultants felt the elegance of the ship the moment they boarded. “With eyes wide, my first word was, WOW! This ship is vibrant, cosmopolitan, relaxed European luxury,” stated Teresa Skeim.
“Service on board was very attentive and extremely personable. Staff engaged in drawn out conversations with guests. I felt as though true connections were made between the staff and guests (myself included). We were greeted by name throughout the ship – I rate service an A+,” commented Joe Lucero.
Suites & Staterooms
Our Cruise Consultants stayed in the Premier Penthouse and the Ocean Terrace Suites. Feedback from their experiences is consistent with the overall feeling of elegance on the ship. “All the personal details are on another level – from the heated marble floors in the bathrooms to the Dyson hair dryers and wireless charging stations in every suite,” added Teresa Skeim.
Dyson hairdryer in every cabin and room safe with space for watches and jewelry
Dining Venues
There are nine dining options on EXPLORA I, all quite impressive. Dining is an immersive experience, bringing well-travelled talented culinary experts together to create dishes they are passionate about. “My favorite dining venues are Sakura and the Emporium. Sakura was so beautiful, but the Emporium had such a large variety of dishes from all over the world – from American flair, Italian and Asian, to fresh seafood and salads,” commented Joe Lucero.
“My favorite dining experience was at the Sakura restaurant! I enjoyed the Sakura Sushi Master tasting plate. Sashimi Moria was a 9-piece assortment including, savory octopus, seared teriyaki salmon, perfectly cooked veal chops and lemongrass seared pears with white chocolate – yum!” says Teresa Skeim.
“An extra special treat was the tasting menu in Anthology. It’s the only dining experience that has a surcharge ($275 per person) and includes wine pairings – it was incredible. Michelin starred Chef Emma Bengtsson, the first female Swedish Chef from Aquavit in NYC, has created a seven-course menu which was delicious and unique. It sells out quickly, so book before you go or immediately when you board,” shared Bridgett Quinn Webber.
Onboard Activities
Explora Journeys does onboard activities differently too. You won’t find Broadway productions or typical cruise shows. Instead, you may attend live shows, enjoy a spa day, an outdoor yoga session, a cooking class or take a dip in one of the four pools. “I enjoyed the entertainment from up-and-coming artists, the open-air fitness areas with Technogym and window shopping at the only Rolex boutique at sea,” stated Teresa Skeim.
There are 12 bars and lounges to enjoy a cocktail or music throughout the ship. Bridgett felt the Lobby Bar was a highlight for a pre-dinner cocktail and listening to piano music. Very relaxing.
Also, surprising for a ship this size, there are four pools. Lounge chairs are readily available poolside for your comfort. Plus, private cabanas for privacy and further enjoyment of the outdoor areas.
“My Premier Penthouse Suite was so wonderful that I enjoyed relaxing in my room on sea days. Plenty of room to play cards at the dining room table or out on the private terrace while enjoying a glass of wine,” says Joe Lucero of his most memorable time on board relaxing.
Onshore Experiences
Cruise Specialists provides guests with Distinctive Voyages amenities on select sailings. These exclusive experiences elevate the voyage with a host and additional amenities such as a private car and chauffeur. Joe Lucero participated in a Distinctive Voyages Shore Excursion as a guest.
“Virgin Gorda was beautiful; we circled the whole island by car with an excellent driver who gave us the history of the island as only a local that was born and raised there could provide. We dined on an authentic local meal too. I thoroughly enjoyed the excursion,” stated Joe Lucero.
Who do you recommend this ship to?
“This ship is perfect for foodies! The variety of dishes and unique dining experiences are outstanding,” says Teresa Skeim.
“I recommend those that are seeking international experiences and to connect with people from all around the states and Europe to try an Explora Journey,” added Joe Lucero.
EXPLORA I is the first of six ships being built by Explora Journeys, owned by the MSC Group and Aponte family. The ships will sail worldwide on diverse itineraries ranging in duration from 7-25 days. We look forward to further sharing our experiences and helping you make all the right decisions regarding an Explora Journey. To get started contact Joe Lucero, Teresa Skeim or Bridgett Quinn Webber today.
See Explora Journeys voyages >>
