We absolutely love Explora for their gorgeous staterooms, laid-back European atmosphere, and dedication to providing the best of everything to our clients. Think of it as a sophisticated floating resort where you can truly unwind – they even avoid calling themselves a “cruise line,” preferring to create “journeys” that help you find your “Ocean State of Mind.” This MSC Group premium brand brings European elegance to the seas with spacious ships, longer port stays, and an all-inclusive approach that removes the nickel-and-diming common elsewhere.

The Explora Experience

Real guest posts reveal what sets Explora apart. One Instagram reviewer described her experience: “My very first LUXURY cruise experience onboard Explora II was… The food- TOP NOTCH. The ship- SIMPLY STUNNING. The people- CULTURED & FRIENDLY. The service- UNMATCHED! Entertainment- NOT MUCH OF IT, But the experience itself was absolutely incredible.” Another guest noted, “Had the best holiday on the EXPLORA I From amazing restaurants on board to swimming in the Arki archipelago and learning how to cook the greek…” Travel agents consistently report clients returning saying “it was the best cruise they’ve ever been on.”

Newest Ships & Innovation

Explora III, launching August 2026, features 463 ocean suites (all with balconies) starting at 35 square meters (376 square feet) – among the largest entry-level accommodations at sea. The key differentiator: every single cabin is a suite with a private balcony, from the 377-square-foot Ocean Terrace suites to the massive 3,014-square-foot Owner’s Residence.

Entertainment Excellence

Rather than Broadway shows, Explora offers something completely different. They partner with Steinway & Sons, featuring world-class pianists in intimate settings where you can “have a cocktail with them, go for dinner with them, talk to them.” The spa experience is phenomenal – over 7,500 square feet including a hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, salt cave, and heated marble loungers. There are four swimming pools including an adults-only infinity pool with stunning views. Their sports partnerships are impressive too – they’re the official cruise partner of Formula 1 through 2030, with Explora ships serving as floating hotels at Monaco Grand Prix races, and tennis world #1 Jannik Sinner as their Global Brand Ambassador. The entertainment uses QR codes throughout the ship for trivia and crosswords themed to your destination, plus you can send music requests directly to performers during late-night sessions.

Culinary Program

The standout is Emporium Marketplace – not a traditional buffet but live cooking stations including a sushi bar with daily selections, made-to-order pasta, raw bar with oysters and mussels, and even make-your-own ceviche at lunch. The Chef’s Kitchen offers hands-on cooking classes for around $160, using ingredients sourced from local markets in each port. The only extra-charge restaurant is Anthology (around $190 per person), featuring multi-course Italian cuisine from renowned guest chefs. Most dining, beverages, and gratuities are included, but Anthology requires an additional fee.

2026 Itineraries of Interest

25-Night Grand Voyage: Athens to Dubai, November 19 – December 14, 2026, featuring Greek Isles, Turkey, Suez Canal, Saudi Arabia, and Oman (from $14,830).

14-Night Europe: Athens roundtrip, May 11-25, 2026, visiting Paros, Rhodes, Corfu, Croatian coast, and Venice (from $10,370).

8-Night Caribbean: San Juan to Miami, December 28, 2026 – January 5, 2027, featuring New Year’s Eve fireworks at sea (from $6,440).

10-Night Canada/New England: Quebec City to Miami, October 15-25, 2026, showcasing fall foliage and Canadian Maritime provinces (from $7,695).

Pricing per person based on double occupancy, correct as of September 22, 2025