Sailing with Explora Journeys immerses you in a voyage designed to feel like your very own private yacht experience. Our cruise expert, Jane Schumm, has worked in the travel industry for over 40 years and says Explora has redefined the meaning of luxury cruising.

As a smaller ship, EXPLORA I can reach beautiful destinations that larger ships simply cannot, offering a more intimate way to experience each place.

Luxury at Every Turn

Sailing from Venice to Athens onboard EXPLORA I was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped onboard, it was clear that this was a truly elevated experience, and much of that came down to the exceptional service. From the concierge and housekeeping teams to the restaurant and bar staff, every interaction felt warm, professional and genuinely personal. They remembered our names, our favourite drinks and even where we liked to sit and unwind. Staff seemed to appear precisely when you needed them, delivering a level of intuitive yet unobtrusive service that made every moment feel effortless and unlike anything I'd experienced before. Evenings were made for exploring the ship's collection of bars, each offering an impressive array of drinks, from expertly crafted cocktails to an extensive selection of spirits. There was even a dedicated whisky bar, the perfect setting for a relaxed nightcap.

Sip, Savour, Unwind

Every restaurant onboard was exceptional. The Emporium Marketplace, the ship's main restaurant, was far from your typical buffet, with dishes cooked to order and an incredible choice of delicacies. At the Med Yacht Club, the flavours of the Mediterranean were brought beautifully to life, while at Marble & Co. Grill, we indulged in perfectly cooked steak, expertly paired with a wine recommended by the sommelier. Entertainment struck just the right note too, with talented singers, engaging shows and soothing piano sets providing the perfect soundtrack to an indulgent evening. The ship's pool areas were designed with relaxation and indulgence in mind. The main pool deck offered sweeping panoramic views, plush loungers and the perfect opportunity to soak up the sunshine with a cocktail in hand. My favourite spot was the infinity pool, where you could unwind and take in the views without ever feeling crowded, whilst whirlpools and private cabanas added to the resort-like atmosphere.

Life Onboard EXPLORA I

As a smaller ship, EXPLORA I can reach beautiful destinations that larger ships simply cannot, offering a more intimate way to experience each place. There was never any need to rush ashore or hurry back onboard; instead, we had the freedom to explore at our own pace, linger over dinner in Dubrovnik and still sail away as late as 11pm. It felt wonderfully relaxed and unhurried, allowing us to settle into the rhythm of each destination rather than simply passing through. After 40 years working in the travel industry, this voyage has redefined what a five-star experience means to me. EXPLORA I isn't simply a cruise ship; it's a floating boutique hotel, combining exceptional service with unforgettable experiences. It's the kind of place where you can truly switch off, slow down and simply savour every moment of the journey.

The Canary Islands offer a year-round luxury escape, combining warm weather, stunning landscapes, and exclusive experiences. Located off the coast of northwest Africa, this Spanish archipelago is home to upscale resorts, world-class golf courses, private yacht marinas, and Michelin-starred dining.

Tenerife is renowned for its luxury hotels, high-end spas, and the dramatic backdrop of Mount Teide, while Gran Canaria blends sophisticated beach resorts with charming historic towns. Lanzarote attracts discerning travellers with its volcanic scenery, boutique retreats, and unique wine region, and Fuerteventura is celebrated for its pristine beaches and exclusive beachfront resorts.

For luxury travellers, the Canary Islands offer everything from private catamaran charters and whale-watching excursions to gourmet cuisine and wellness retreats, all within a destination that enjoys sunshine and mild temperatures throughout the year. Their combination of natural beauty, exceptional service, and relaxed sophistication makes them a popular choice for those seeking both indulgence and adventure.

The Adriatic is one of Europe's most captivating luxury cruise destinations, offering a blend of historic cities, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Stretching between Italy and the Balkan Peninsula, the region is renowned for its elegant ports, charming islands, and rich cultural heritage.

Highlights include the medieval city of Dubrovnik in Croatia, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," the beautiful walled town of Kotor in Montenegro, and the picturesque Croatian islands of Hvar, Korčula, and Vis, known for their secluded beaches, luxury marinas, and fine dining. On the Italian side, Venice provides an iconic gateway to the region with its romantic canals and historic landmarks.

Luxury travellers can enjoy private yacht experiences, exclusive guided tours, waterfront dining, and access to smaller, less-visited ports that larger ships cannot reach. Combining stunning natural beauty, fascinating history, and sophisticated Mediterranean charm, the Adriatic is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion.

The Caribbean is the ultimate luxury cruise destination, offering a stunning collection of tropical islands, turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and exclusive experiences. With over 7,000 islands, islets, and cays to explore, the region combines laid-back island charm with world-class hospitality and premium resorts.

Luxury travellers can discover sophisticated destinations such as St. Barts, renowned for its superyachts and designer boutiques, Antigua with its pristine beaches and luxury resorts, and the British Virgin Islands, known for secluded coves and exceptional sailing. Private island experiences, gourmet dining, bespoke shore excursions, and water activities ranging from snorkelling to yacht charters create an unforgettable escape.

With year-round sunshine, vibrant cultures, and a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, the Caribbean remains one of the world's most sought-after destinations for travellers seeking indulgence, natural beauty, and effortless luxury.

The Spanish and Portuguese coastlines offer a captivating blend of vibrant cities, golden beaches, rich history, and exceptional cuisine, making them an increasingly popular choice for luxury cruisers. From the cosmopolitan energy of Barcelona and Valencia to the charming riverside city of Lisbon and the wine-producing region of Porto, this region combines cultural discovery with Mediterranean relaxation.

Travellers can explore architectural masterpieces, sample world-renowned wines and seafood, stroll through historic old towns, and enjoy beautiful coastal scenery. The Portuguese Algarve is particularly renowned for its dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and upscale resorts, while Spain's southern coast offers glamorous destinations such as Málaga, Marbella, and Seville.

Luxury cruise guests can enjoy exclusive culinary experiences, private city tours, vineyard visits, and access to some of Europe's most iconic cultural landmarks. With its warm climate, diverse landscapes, and blend of tradition and sophistication, Spain and Portugal provide the perfect balance of relaxation, culture, and indulgence.

The Mediterranean is perfect for island hopping, combining vibrant cultures, stunning coastlines, and iconic destinations. This voyage takes you from the cosmopolitan city of Barcelona to the world-famous shores of Ibiza, before exploring the historic treasures of Valletta in Malta and Giardini Naxos on the island of Sicily. Along the way, you'll discover beautiful Mediterranean scenery, rich heritage, and exceptional cuisine, before arriving on Italy's spectacular coastline at Amalfi and concluding your journey in Rome.

Luxury travellers can experience everything from Ibiza's chic beach clubs and Malta's UNESCO-listed architecture to Sicily's dramatic landscapes and the timeless elegance of the Amalfi Coast. With a blend of sun-soaked islands, cultural immersion, and exclusive experiences, this itinerary offers the ideal balance of relaxation, exploration, and Mediterranean luxury.

Begin your voyage in the historic city of Athens, making your way through the bustling harbour to the luxurious Seabourn Ovation, your home for the next eight nights. Your first stop is Nafplion, a charming town sheltered beneath a Venetian fortress. Spend a relaxing day at sea, lounging on deck watching the turquoise blue waters pass by, before reaching Kotor, where medieval architecture and historic monuments await. Continue to Korcula, an island of dense forests and a beautifully preserved medieval stone town. Sail onwards to Hvar, renowned for its fragrant lavender fields and crystal-clear waters.

In Vodice, stroll along picturesque seaside promenades and discover Roman-era ruins, before arriving in Piran to experience the culture and natural heritage of Slovenia. In Fusina, disembark Seabourn Ovation and transfer to Venice, where S.S. La Venezia awaits. Spend the next few days exploring this iconic city, with its winding canals and celebrated landmarks including Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Then sail across the Venetian Lagoon towards Mazzorbo and Burano, where brightly painted fishermen's cottages create a picturesque setting to explore at leisure.

Spend a full day in the charming coastal city of Chioggia, wandering through its bustling market before embarking on a sailing excursion to the Po Delta. Finish your adventure by returning to Venice, where you can browse its boutiques and enjoy its restaurants. Savour one final night onboard with a special Captain's farewell reception and dinner before disembarking and transferring to the airport for your return flight home.

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