Explora Journeys: What to Expect on MSC's Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line

A New Standard for Ocean Travel

Explora Journeys launched in 2023 as the ultra-luxury brand of the MSC Group — the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company. After decades of building mass-market ships, MSC poured everything they’d learned into creating something entirely different: intimate, all-suite ships where everything is included.

And when they say everything, they mean it.

What’s Actually Included

Let’s start with the big one: every accommodation on Explora is an ocean-front suite with a private terrace. There are no interior cabins. No ocean-view windows. Every guest gets a balcony, starting at 377 square feet — which is larger than most cruise line balcony cabins.

Beyond the suite, your fare includes:

• All dining across 6 restaurants — Mediterranean, Asian, steakhouse, and more
• Unlimited premium drinks — champagne, cocktails, wines, spirits, specialty coffee
• WiFi — high-speed, throughout the ship
• One shore excursion per port — curated cultural experiences included in your fare
• Gratuities — no envelopes, no suggested tips
• Spa thermal area — sauna, steam room, vitality pool
• Fitness classes — yoga, Pilates, group sessions with ocean views

The only things that cost extra: premium spa treatments, additional shore excursions beyond the included one, and the onboard boutique.

The Ships

Explora currently has two ships sailing — Explora I (2023) and Explora II (2024) — with four more planned by 2028. Each ship carries just 922 guests in 461 suites, creating an intimate atmosphere that’s impossible on a 5,000-passenger mega-ship.

The design is contemporary Italian — clean lines, natural materials, and an emphasis on ocean views from every public space. The ships feel more like a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship.

Crew-to-Guest Ratio

At 1:1.25, Explora’s crew-to-guest ratio is among the best in the industry. You’ll notice the difference immediately — attentive but never intrusive service, personalized touches, and staff who remember your name and preferences from day one.

Who Is Explora For?

Explora Journeys is designed for travelers who:

• Want genuine all-inclusive luxury without constantly reaching for their wallet
• Prefer intimacy and quiet sophistication over production shows and waterslides
• Value destination immersion — Explora itineraries feature longer port stays and overnight calls
• Appreciate contemporary design and European sensibility
• Travel as couples, multi-generational families, or small groups who want space and privacy

It’s not adults-only (families are welcome), but the atmosphere is decidedly grown-up. There are no kids’ clubs, no waterslides, no casino. Think of it as the cruise equivalent of a design hotel.

Suite Categories

Every suite faces the ocean. Here’s the hierarchy:

1. Ocean Terrace (377 sq ft) — The entry point. Private terrace, walk-in wardrobe, separate living area. Genuinely spacious.
2. Ocean Grand Terrace (538 sq ft) — Larger terrace, ocean-view bathtub, butler service.
3. Ocean Penthouse (721 sq ft) — Wraparound terrace, separate living room, premium amenities.
4. Ocean Residence (1,098 sq ft) — Private hot tub, dining area, the most exclusive service on board.
5. Owner’s Residence (3,000+ sq ft) — The ultimate. Multiple bedrooms, grand terrace, dedicated team.

Even the entry-level Ocean Terrace feels luxurious. If you’re coming from a standard cruise line balcony cabin, the difference in space and finish is immediately apparent.

Dining

Six restaurants, all included:

• Emporium Marketplace — All-day dining with global stations and made-to-order dishes
• Sakura — Japanese and pan-Asian cuisine with sushi bar
• Fil Rouge — Mediterranean fine dining with Italian flair
• Anthology — A rotating menu of guest chef collaborations
• Med Yacht Club — Casual poolside Mediterranean
• Marble & Co. Grill — Premium steaks and seafood

No reservation fees. No specialty dining surcharges. Book what you want, when you want.

The Verdict

Explora Journeys has done something impressive in its first two years: it’s created a genuine alternative to the established ultra-luxury lines (Regent, Silversea, Seabourn) with brand-new ships, contemporary design, and an all-inclusive model that’s hard to beat.

If you’re considering your first luxury cruise — or you’ve sailed the established lines and want something fresh — Explora is worth a serious look.

Want to know more? Reach out to one of our advisors and we’ll help you find the perfect Explora sailing.