Visitors boarding the Explora I can anticipate a cruise that blends refined luxury with intimate experiences, offering a tranquil and engaging holiday for couples, solo travellers, and small groups. This first ship from MSC Group’s Explora Journeys, with its 14 decks and capacity for 922 guests, delivers a sophisticated experience focused on curated exploration, European elegance, and personalised service.
The reception areas create an inviting first impression. The main lobby on Deck 4 features polished marble floors, plush seating, and a 24-hour concierge desk staffed by multilingual hosts. Soft lighting and contemporary art create a serene atmosphere, while the adjacent Explora Lounge offers a relaxed space for cocktails or coffee. The open design ensures easy navigation, serving as a welcoming hub for guests.
Dining on the Explora I offers six venues, each with a distinct culinary focus. The Emporium Marketplace provides all-day dining with global dishes, from sushi to Mediterranean fare, served in a casual yet elegant setting. Specialty restaurants include Anthology for Italian cuisine, Sakura for Pan-Asian dishes like dim sum and sashimi, Marble & Co. Grill for premium steaks, and Fil Rouge for French-inspired menus. Med Yacht Club offers al fresco Mediterranean meals with sea views. All dining is included, with open seating and no fixed times, and guests can pre-book beverage packages or request dietary-specific options.
Entertainment focuses on refined, low-key experiences. The Astern Lounge hosts live music, from jazz trios to acoustic sets, in an intimate setting with panoramic views. The Journeys Lounge offers daytime activities like wine tastings and guest lectures, while the casino provides blackjack and slots for up to 30 guests. For families, the Nautilus Club caters to children aged 6-17 with arts, crafts, and gaming consoles. Outdoor activities include deck games like shuffleboard, while evening entertainment features cabaret-style performances and interactive trivia.
Accommodation includes 461 ocean-front suites, all with private terraces. Ocean Suites, starting at 35 square metres, feature king-sized beds, walk-in wardrobes, and bathrooms with heated marble floors. Penthouse Suites, up to 60 square metres, offer larger terraces with whirlpools, while the Owner’s Residence, at 280 square metres, includes a private infinity pool and dining area. All suites provide complimentary Wi-Fi, minibars restocked daily, and Nespresso machines. Connecting suites suit groups, and 10 accessible suites ensure inclusivity, all maintained by dedicated stewards.
Hospitality is defined by highly personalised service, with a guest-to-staff ratio of 1.25:1. Hosts, trained for six months, deliver tailored assistance, from arranging shore excursions to curating in-suite dining. The Explora app simplifies bookings and itinerary planning. Complimentary breakfast delivery is available, and the Explora Journeys loyalty programme offers benefits like spa discounts. The Ocean Wellness Spa provides massages, facials, and a thermal suite with saunas, while fitness facilities include a gym, yoga studio, and indoor-outdoor running track. Four pools, three whirlpools, and private cabanas cater to relaxation.Standout features include the ocean-front suites, all with private terraces, ensuring uninterrupted sea views, and the Anthology restaurant’s curated Italian dining experience. The Nautilus Club’s tailored activities keep younger guests engaged, while the Astern Pool’s infinity edge adds a serene touch.
