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November 3, 2025

I recently had the pleasure of being on board Explora I, and what immediately struck me was the refined and elegant atmosphere that permeates the ship — meticulously crafted in every detail, with nothing ever left to chance. Explora I is the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, the new Luxury Lifestyle travel brand launched by MSC Cruises, with the aim of redefining the world of luxury cruising.

“Sail Unique”, the company’s motto, perfectly reflects its intention to make guests feel as though they are on board a private yacht — a place of comfort where they can truly feel at home. From the moment you step aboard, it’s impossible not to be captivated by the majestic Lobby — the heart of the ship. Elegant and filled with light, its design connects seamlessly with the aesthetic of every space on board. This distinctive style is echoed throughout the suites, all of which feature ocean views and range in size from 35 to 280 square meters, making them among the most spacious in their category. Their design creates a perfect harmony with the sea, thanks to expansive panoramic windows and private sun terraces, resembling luxurious personal apartments. Each suite includes a large walk-in wardrobe and a beauty corner equipped with Dyson accessories. Guests can choose from 461 suites, penthouses, and residences, ensuring the perfect option for every need.

With an overall capacity of around 700 guests (and a crew-to-guest ratio of 1.25 to 1), the atmosphere on board feels relaxed and unhurried, never crowded or noisy. There is always space to unwind — including on the spacious outdoor decks, which feature four heated swimming pools, private cabanas, inviting whirlpools, and bars always within reach. Self-care is elevated to an art form in Explora’s exceptional wellness area, spanning 700 square meters, complete with a large thermal area, nine treatment rooms, a beauty salon with hairdresser and barber, a 270-square-meter fitness center, a panoramic running track, and even a tennis and basketball court.

On board, exceptional culinary experiences are an absolute must: six restaurants, twelve bars and lounges, and a Chef’s Kitchen area where guests can take part in gastronomic workshops and much more. Each restaurant offers a journey within the journey — from the meticulously crafted Asian cuisine of Sakura, to the French flair of Fil Rouge, the Mediterranean-inspired creations of Med Yacht Club, and the refined Italian gastronomy of Anthology, featuring a menu designed by Franck Garanger, Head of Culinary at Explora Journeys. In addition, the Emporium Marketplace buffet, open 24 hours a day, serves delicious dishes prepared fresh to order with live cooking stations.

A true floating city, Explora I sails to a wide range of destinations: the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and Central America, Alaska, Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland, the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula, South America and the Amazon, the Pacific Coast of Central and North America, the U.S. East Coast and New England, and finally Asia. Its itineraries and ports of call stand apart from traditional, heavily trafficked routes, instead focusing on hidden gems and smaller harbors, highlighting authentic destinations less touched by mass tourism.

Since 2021, Explora Journeys has represented an ambitious expansion, establishing its own distinct brand identity and, most importantly, its own fleet of ships. Following the first two vessels, Explora III is set to debut in 2026, with Explora IV, V, and VI scheduled to join the fleet between 2027 and 2028. Over time, the differences between each ship will become more pronounced; for now, however, Explora I and Explora II are true “sister ships”, sharing the same bright, sophisticated spaces and refined details, with only subtle distinctions that make each uniquely special.

Behind it all lies the vision of a well-established company like MSC, aiming to introduce a new style of cruising. The Explora Journeys lifestyle brand was created with precisely this goal in mind — to offer a new way of experiencing the sea and the ocean, inspired by a renewed Ocean State of Mind.

Discover all the insights and highlights from the world of Explora Journeys and the cruise industry on Cruising Journal.

Giulia Pasetto

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