I just came back from a chilly week after cruising with Explora Journeys, a new name in the MSC Cruises family. I had heard so many positive reviews that I couldn’t help but get my hopes up. Would it really live up to the buzz?
We sailed on Explora I, the smallest ship in the MSC fleet. I felt a bit nervous at first—could a smaller ship keep things exciting? What if I missed the theaters and casinos of larger ships? After a week aboard, I’m ready to share my thoughts on this unique experience.
Explora I: A Small Ship with Big Potential
Explora I has a maximum of 900 passengers, but we had 770 on board. It was definitely the smallest cruise ship I’ve ever been on. However, it quickly impressed me with what it offered.
With 14 decks and 461 oceanfront suites, there are only four cabin types. I stayed in an Ocean Terrace Suite, which was 300 square feet. Even though larger penthouses are available, I loved my cozy cabin, especially while soaking up the Caribbean sun.
If you enjoy the MSC Yacht Club vibe, you will find familiar touches. The stylish decor and beautiful art give the ship a sophisticated feel.
A Plethora of Onboard Amenities
Explora I is home to 12 bars and lounges, so drinks are just a few steps away. The service was impressively swift, and Crema Café served up fantastic cappuccinos and sweet treats. I’m still amazed at how they fit so many venues onto this ship.
Dining options were top-notch. We had five places to eat, including a buffet and four specialty restaurants: a steakhouse, an Asian venue, a Mediterranean spot, and an upscale French bistro. The buffet stood out, offering gourmet dishes like lobster, steak, fresh pasta, sushi, and crepes—miles above your average cruise fare.
There are five pools, complete with bars, hot tubs, and comfy loungers. The largest pool, located in the Conservatory, has a retractable roof that turned into a sports bar for a big game! Other amenities include a small theater, gym facilities, a cozy casino, and high-end shopping options.
Exploring Unique Destinations
Sailing on a smaller ship like Explora I means visiting places that larger vessels can’t reach. We started our journey in Puerto Rico, a place I was excited to revisit. The Old San Juan port was simple to navigate, and we were onboard in no time.
A highlight of the trip was exploring the British Virgin Islands, particularly Virgin Gorda. After an easy tender ride ashore, local taxi drivers were ready to give us a tour for just $20. The stunning scenery of peaks and crystal-clear waters was breathtaking. We visited the famous “Baths,” featuring gigantic boulders and caves—an unforgettable experience!
Unlike larger ships that pause in typical spots like Nassau or Cozumel, this smaller cruise lets you discover hidden gems. With only two ships sailing to the Caribbean now, I’m eager to see what new itineraries Explora Journeys will offer in the future.
Outstanding Service in a Relaxed Atmosphere
Explora Journeys prides itself on a guest-to-staff ratio of 1:25. I felt their commitment to service throughout our trip. Even at less than full capacity, we never waited long for anything.
I was initially uneasy about the tendering process, but it was a breeze. There were no long lines; we simply walked to the gangway when we were ready to disembark.
One thing I appreciated about Explora I was its serene atmosphere. There were no loud pool parties or overwhelming crowds. Evening entertainment included live music and dance opportunities but kept a relaxed vibe—perfect for the slower pace of the Caribbean.
Is the Smaller Ship Experience Worth It?
After reading glowing reviews and seeing numerous awards, I was a bit worried Explora Journeys wouldn’t meet my expectations. It did, and I’d happily cruise with them again. Although the incredible deal I snagged might be a rarity as word spreads, I hope we can keep this gem under wraps a bit longer!
If you love to unwind without scrambling for pool loungers at dawn, and you enjoy high-quality food, this cruise is tailor-made for you. The all-inclusive price, which covers drinks, meals, and gratuities, felt like a bargain at around $410 per day per person for a luxury line. It’s hard to beat that!
Explora Journeys is still expanding, and I can’t wait to see more destinations and ships join their fleet.
