First Impressions
December in Miami shimmered with festive energy as I boarded the Explora II, one of the newest additions to Explora Journeys’ luxury fleet. This Explora II review begins aboard a ship that feels more like a private floating resort than a traditional cruise vessel. The aesthetic struck me immediately: a blend of contemporary European design, soft natural tones, and an atmosphere that was both chic and welcoming.
Our Ocean Terrace Suite set the tone for the week. Spacious at 377 square feet with a private oceanfront terrace, it felt more like a boutique hotel room than a ship’s cabin. Floor-to-ceiling windows opened to Caribbean blues, the marble bathroom featured a rainfall shower, and thoughtful details such as curated books and an Illy espresso machine made it feel deeply personal. Our favorite features, standard in every suite, include crisp Frette linens and bathrobes, a Dyson hairdryer, heated bathroom tiles, and a wireless charging base beside each bed.
From the very first evening, I knew Explora was crafting a new kind of luxury at sea—refined, modern, and quietly indulgent.
Life Onboard Explora II
Carrying just under 1,000 guests, the Explora II strikes a balance between intimacy and variety. The atmosphere evokes contemporary European elegance: lounges adorned with curated art, terraces with infinity pools, and open spaces where indoor and outdoor living flow seamlessly together.
The Explora II mirrors her sister ship, Explora I (read my review), with a few enhancements. This vessel features the first Buccellati jewelry boutique at sea, a redesigned Ocean Wellness Spa with Ayurvedic treatments, and a refreshed Helios Pool & Bar with new outdoor furniture. The ship also continues the line’s partnership with Steinway & Sons, with three Steinway Spirio pianos aboard. Guest artists perform throughout venues including the Lobby Bar and Explora Lounge.
As this Explora Journeys review shows, the brand continues to perfect its blend of European sophistication and personalized service, creating an experience that feels as intentional as it is indulgent.
Highlights included:
- The Astern Lounge with live music and cocktails under the stars.
- The Conservatory Pool & Bar, a glass-roofed retreat perfect for sun or shade.
- The Ocean Wellness Spa, featuring a hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, salt cave, and treatments inspired by holistic wellness.
What struck me most was the sense of calm luxury. There was no rush, no lines, no announcements. Instead, life onboard unfolded like a private resort at sea.
Dining and Daily Life at Sea
Bow-to-stern Wi-Fi connectivity—powered by Starlink and SES—kept connections seamless worldwide. Each suite includes a personal router with access for up to six devices.
Dining is a standout across Explora Journeys, with nine complimentary venues. Anthology featured Michelin-inspired menus by rotating guest chefs, while Marble & Co. Grill elevated the classic steakhouse experience. Fil Rouge offered refined French cuisine, and Med Yacht Club celebrated Mediterranean flavors with mezze, grilled seafood, and fine wines. The Emporium Marketplace served global dishes made to order, while Sakura impressed with fresh sushi and a creative Pan-Asian menu. In-suite dining proved perfect for evenings when a private terrace dinner felt too good to resist.
Enrichment and Entertainment
The Explora II review would not be complete without highlighting its enrichment focus. Explora Journeys emphasizes cultural immersion over spectacle. Evenings brought live jazz, acoustic guitar, and regional performances. Guest lecturers shared insights into Caribbean heritage, Creole culture, and marine ecology.
While I skipped the casino and sports deck, I found the fitness center well equipped and ideal for balancing indulgence with wellness. Morning yoga, mindfulness sessions, and wine tastings filled the days with balance and depth.
The overall ambiance was relaxed, refined, and distinctly international—an atmosphere shaped by intention, not itinerary.
Ports of Call
The “Journey of Wild Isles and Charmed Creole Harbours” itinerary blended iconic islands with authentic, lesser-visited gems:
Miami, Florida: Our embarkation city sparkled with holiday lights, its Art Deco skyline the gateway to a new adventure.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas: Here, I joined a catamaran to Buck Island, snorkeling at Turtle Cove where green sea turtles glided gracefully through coral gardens. The crystalline water and sea life felt like an aquarium come to life.
Road Bay, Anguilla: A tranquil gem, known for powder-soft beaches and a chic yet understated vibe. I strolled along Shoal Bay East, stopping for a long, leisurely beachfront lunch.
Roseau, Dominica: A highlight of the voyage. I hiked to Trafalgar Falls, then swam in the UNESCO-listed Titou Gorge, its cave pools illuminated by shafts of sunlight. Later, I snorkeled at Champagne Reef, where volcanic bubbles rose around me like liquid fireworks. A private lunch at Charlotte Estate followed, capped by a soak in the hot springs at Wotten Waven. It was an immersion in both nature and culture that left me enchanted.
Saint-Pierre, Martinique: Once the “Paris of the Caribbean,” this port blends history and vitality. I toured the historic ruins before a tasting at Rhum J.M. Distillery, savoring agricole rum. A scenic drive to Grand Rivière revealed black-sand beaches and fishermen hauling their nets — authentic, unfiltered Caribbean life.
Barbados: The finale. From Bridgetown, I explored colonial landmarks before unwinding at Carlisle Bay, its turquoise waters the perfect closing chapter to a journey of wild isles.
What Makes Explora II Exceptional
Among luxury cruise lines, few combine modern European design and immersive itineraries as elegantly as Explora Journeys, a distinction that defines this Explora II review.
- Ocean Terrace Suites: Spacious, airy, with terraces designed for true indoor-outdoor living.
- Boutique Luxury Atmosphere: Under 1,000 guests, yet the feel of a floating resort.
- Immersive Shore Experiences: Not just sightseeing, but cultural, natural, and culinary connections at every port.
- Refined Dining: Globally inspired, Michelin-level, and always tailored.
- Holistic Wellness: Spa, yoga, mindfulness, and fitness woven into the journey.
- Modern European Aesthetic: Sleek, contemporary design that feels elevated and cosmopolitan.
Who Should Sail Explora II
Explora II is ideal for travelers who value space, style, and authenticity. Couples seeking romance will appreciate the suite design and tranquil ambiance. Culinary enthusiasts will delight in the rotating menus and curated wines. Adventurous guests will find joy in the immersive shore excursions—hiking, snorkeling, or exploring local gastronomy.
For those familiar with Silversea, Seabourn, or Crystal, Explora Journeys offers a fresh perspective: youthful, modern, and deeply luxurious.
Families are welcome too, children from six months old can sail, and the Nautilus Club provides engaging activities for ages 6 to 17. The ship balances family-friendly energy with sophisticated serenity across its common areas and private lounges.
Final Reflections and Invitation
As Explora II glided into Barbados, I reflected on what made this journey extraordinary. From snorkeling among turtles in St. Thomas to soaking in volcanic springs in Dominica, from rum tastings in Martinique to quiet sunsets at sea, this was more than a Caribbean cruise. It was a seamless blend of discovery, indulgence, and connection.
In every sense, this Explora Journeys review reaffirms the brand’s approach to modern sea travel: not simply an escape to the sun, but a journey of discovery, indulgence, and connection.
Explora Journeys has reimagined what modern luxury at sea can be. For those who crave design-driven spaces, curated cuisine, and meaningful travel, Explora II delivers an experience unlike any other.
As a luxury cruise expert, I can say with confidence: Explora Journeys is a new star in luxury travel, and this itinerary belongs on every discerning traveler’s wish list.
If you’re ready to snorkel Champagne Reef, sip rum in Martinique, and sail in contemporary European style aboard Explora II, contact Ethos Luxury Travel today. We’ll secure exclusive amenities, VIP upgrades, and insider access on the voyage of your choice.
Because aboard Explora II, the Caribbean isn’t simply cruised, it’s curated.
Reserve your complimentary consultation call with me to begin!
Images credit: Julie Prusak and Explora Journeys
