We’re back with another fantastic guide about one of our favourite ultraluxury cruise lines: Explora Journeys.
As you know, at Panache Cruises we work with the very best in ultra-luxury and all-inclusive cruising to ensure our guests experience the most refined voyages available anywhere in the world.
I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing Explora Journeys first-hand – many of you reading this have even joined me on board! My experiences in both the Mediterranean and Caribbean have been nothing short of exceptional, with incredibly immersive shore excursions, fantastic food influenced by each destination and the most wonderful crew.
What immediately stands out to me (and from chatting with other guests, they tend to agree) is the feeling of space, calm and relaxation on board. From the moment you embark, there’s a sense that this is something genuinely different. Their dedication to wellness at sea is inspiring. Every detail feels intentional and considered.
Quite simply, Explora Journeys is setting the standard for luxury travel at sea – and this is only the beginning.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll be showcasing all of the exciting updates we’ve received from Explora Journeys. We’re talking about new ships, dining concepts, destinations and partnerships.
Not to mention Explora’s new promotion: save up to 30% for a limited time only and an additional 20% exclusive savings on select sailings. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to book onto brand-new ships and itineraries using this discount.
Anyway, I’ll stop waffling on about why I love Explora Journeys and let you discover them for yourself. To find out more, read on and enjoy…
All the best,
James Cole Founder & CEO Panache Cruises
Scan to discover the latest offers from Explora Journeys
Your vibe, your choice
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Asia
Spice up your holiday
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Alaska
Adventure into the wild
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Luxury offers
The best deals from Explora Journeys
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A look inside EXPLORA I
A sneak peek of our Explora highlights
Lobby Bar
Same luxury new experiences
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Exciting times are ahead for Explora Journeys! Three new ships are on their way in 2026 and 2027 with more slated for launch in the next few years.
Not only that, but the new ships in the fleet will be LNG-powered, significantly reducing emissions and future-proofing the fleet for synthetic fuels. The ships will be slightly larger but carry the same number of guests, delivering one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in cruising.
Each stunning new ship will increase the size of the Ocean Penthouses, Ocean Residences and Owner’s Residences, creating an even more yacht-like, private feel. EXPLORA III and IV will both also feature two Owner’s Residences, a first for the cruise line.
New culinary experiences are also on the cards for the upcoming ships.
EXPLORA III, debuting this summer, will introduce three new venues: Shore Club on 11 for relaxed, beachy themed dining by the pool; the Chef’s Table, an exclusive private dining experience crafted by the chefs; and The Cellar, a sanctuary for wine lovers who love elegant dining with exquisite pairings.
Last but certainly not least – in fact possibly the most anticipated new arrival for the brand – is a whole new roster of immersive journeys through two new destinations: Asia and Alaska. Rich culture, new tastes, wildlife encounters and nature’s most vivid landscapes await on a myriad of fantastic new itineraries, beginning in spring 2027.
Read more about these new deluxe offerings over the next few pages.
ASTERN POOL & BAR
This part of the ship feels like a hidden gem, akin to an invite-only luxury club. With its own bar and Sakura’s alfresco dining area, once you’re ensconced on a day bed soaking up the rays, you may never leave.
COCOON RESIDENCE
Imagine a multi-million-dollar penthouse in New York City, now picture it sailing across the world’s oceans. That’s the feeling the moment you step inside one of these extraordinary Residences.
OCEAN TERRACE SUITE
The pinnacle of entry-level stays at sea. These suites are so exceptional, they set a new standard. Once you’ve stayed here, everything else may fall short.
Timeless
Luxury
Explora Journeys is all about the uber-luxurious partnerships and this one is no different. Welcome to the Explora Journeys family, Rolex. Timeless elegance, uncompromising excellence and a passion for indulgence.
At their core, Explora Journeys and Rolex are united by their dedication to every minute detail and a belief that quality should never be rushed. Explora Journeys’ philosophy of slow, meaningful
travel mirrors Rolex’s meticulous approach to watchmaking, where precision and longevity are paramount.
The fact that this is the first and only Rolex boutique at sea speaks volumes about its exclusivity and significance. You don’t need to be waitlisted to buy a Rolex when you can simply combine a luxurious holiday with a quick pitstop at the onboard boutique; that’s right, Explora Journeys guests have
the exclusive opportunity to discover and purchase iconic Rolex timepieces aboard EXPLORA I and EXPLORA III.
A delicate balance of pure refinement, resilience and exploration awaits with this uniquely exceptional brand partnership. We suppose this is Explora Journeys’ answer to taking ‘yacht master’ to a whole new level.
Rolex Boutique onboard EXPLORA I
Jannik
Explora Journeys has unveiled a brand-new partnership with tennis champion Jannik Sinner, who now serves as the cruise line’s Global Brand Ambassador.
The collaboration is rooted in a shared philosophy of precision, balance and wellbeing – values that sit at the heart of Explora Journeys’ vision for modern luxury cruise travel.
For Sinner, the Explora Journey’s ethos encapsulating the ‘Ocean State of Mind’ resonates deeply with the mindset
required to compete at the highest level of professional sport, where mental balance and recovery are as vital as physical performance.
This exciting new partnership has evolved into the launch of a bespoke onboard wellness programme titled ‘In Balance: A Jannik Sinner Ocean Wellness Programme’. This carefully curated experience developed with Sinner and his performance team will be gradually rolled out across the fleet in 2026 and is designed for guests of all fitness levels; the experience includes breathwork
training, recovery and renewal.
EXPLORA III will host Sinner on the brand-new ship’s Prelude Journey from Genoa to Marseille on 24th to 25th July 2026, bringing to life the new programme and engaging with guests on board.
Together, Explora Journeys and Jannik Sinner represent a modern fusion of luxury travel, wellbeing and high performance, ultimately redefining what it means to feel truly balanced at sea.
Homes at Sea
Explora Journeys’ ‘Homes at Sea’ redefine what it means to feel truly at home while travelling the world. Designed not as traditional cruise cabins, but as elegant private residences, every suite reflects Explora’s ethos of wellness at sea, with plenty of space, comfort and understated luxury.
Each Home at Sea is oceanfacing, with a private terrace that brings the outside world in and creates a constant connection to the sea. Soft, neutral tones and natural textures create an atmosphere that is calming yet sophisticated – the perfect retreat after a busy day exploring ashore.
Space is a defining feature and there is even more of it aboard EXPLORA III and the ensuing ships in the fleet. These suites are among the most spacious at sea, offering distinct living, dining and sleeping areas that encourage guests to settle in, unpack properly and truly relax.
Thoughtful details elevate the experience further, from walkin wardrobes and marble-clad bathrooms to personalised minibars and beautiful open verandas that make the ocean feel like home.
Ocean Terrace Suite
Retreat Residence
Serrenity Residence
WHAT’S ON THE
menu
Explora Journeys has redefined dining at sea, delivering what we – and many others – consider some of the finest culinary experiences in the world.
Food is not treated as a simple onboard amenity, but as an integral part of the journey.
Across the fleet, menus are created by worldrenowned chefs using high-quality, responsibly sourced ingredients, with dishes celebrating Mediterranean, Asian and international influences.
The newest venues, debuting on EXPLORA III and beyond, have seen the success of Explora’s culinary offerings thus far and raised the bar. The Chef’s Table offers an intimate and immersive dining journey where the chef’s bespoke menus tell a unique story – no dish is the same, with flamboyant techniques and local cuisines inspiring each tasting experience.
The Cellar is a sophisticated space for those who appreciate fine wines and look for extraordinary pairings with each expertly prepared dish. Last but by no means least, Shore Club on 11 brings a relaxed, beach-club energy to the ship, offering effortless poolside dining throughout the day before shifting to elegant al fresco dining in the evening.
Together, these restaurants set a new benchmark. Dining with Explora Journeys isn’t just exceptional for a cruise – it’s among the best food in the world.
Your vibe your choice
We know what you’re thinking. “All cruise ship entertainment is the same”. No, it’s not!
Explora Journeys does things a little differently. Their distinctive and elevated approach to onboard enrichment goes beyond traditional shows, magic and musicians. It’s geared towards cultural immersion, thought-provoking talks and storytelling, live music which feels intimate rather than theatrical.
On the newer ships (EXPLORA III onwards) entertainment is set to expand outdoors, with sunset gatherings, pool-side events and late-night experiences under the stars on select sailings in
As always, ocean wellness is a key highlight of any Explora Journeys cruise, and this extends to their entertainment and enrichment schedule. New and improved wellness programmes such as mindfulness sessions and sound baths alongside movement-based experiences will offer a more laidback, wellbeing-focused approach to entertainment.
No matter your vibe, whatever you fancy getting up to on board and ashore, Explora Journeys caters to everyone. That’s what we call ultra-luxury cruising.
ASIA
In autumn 2027, Explora Journeys is set to embark on a new chapter in Asia.
Beginning with Japan in September 2027, EXPLORA III will take guests deep into North and Southeast Asia, offering full destination immersion and cultural exploration in some of the most beautiful places on the planet.
From the awe-inspiring limestone cliffs of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay and Tokyo’s cherry blossoms to the extraordinary
skyline of Shanghai and food markets in the ‘Kitchen of Japan’, Kyoto, these brand-new itineraries reflect Explora Journeys’ commitment to slower, more meaningful travel.
Each new itinerary is intentionally programmed to coincide with key cultural and seasonal moments throughout Asia, such as Japan’s cherry blossom season, China’s Golden Week and various Lunar New Year celebrations across the continent.
Signature overnight stays in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay and Bali allow guests to explore for longer and experience destinations after dark, when these vibrant cities and beautiful nature spots truly come alive.
On board, culinary experiences and ocean wellness will be tailored to each destination visited; Korean-style spa treatments, Vietnamese dishes and local entertainment will bring Asia alive aboard each Explora Journeys voyage.
Hong Kong, SAR China
Indonesia
Mount Fuji, Japan
Tokyo, Japan
BEGINNING
ALASKA
This switch from islandhopping in the Caribbean and Mediterranean will be a welcome change for Explora Journeys, displaying a stunning contrast between the rugged wilderness of the region and the absolute luxury guests will retreat to on board.
These journeys are crafted for travellers who want to experience the raw beauty of the Last Frontier without sacrificing comfort, space or elegance. From glaciercarved fjords and dramatic
mountain backdrops to vast waterways teeming with wildlife, Alaska is best explored slowly, a philosophy that sits perfectly with Explora Journeys’ Ocean State of Mind. And for those who love an extended holiday, Explora Journeys is offering a variety of pre- and post-cruise land programmes, including immersive explorations of Denali National Park via the Deluxe Dome Rail and journeys through the Canadian Rockies on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer.
Rocky Mountaineer
Barcelona to Rome
Explora Journeys | EXPLORA I 9 nights | 29 August, 2026 UNLIMITED PREMIUM BEVERAGES TWO-NIGHT HOTEL STAY IN BARCELONA
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Barcelona, Spain
Begin your splendid summer holiday with a two-night luxury hotel stay in Barcelona. Explore the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and beautiful Montserrat.
Barcelona, Spain
Board EXPLORA I for the ultimate all-inclusive voyage through the Mediterranean.
4
6
7 Day 8
Day 9
Ibiza, Spain
Tunis, Tunisia
Discover this unique port of call with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site at Carthage; the ancient ruins are steeped in Roman, Greek, Byzantine and Phoenician history and archaeology.
Valletta, Malta
Dazzling blue waters, golden beaches and cobbled streets await on the oft-overlooked gem of Malta.
Giardini Naxos, Italy
Sorrento, Italy
This charming town on the southwest coast of Italy is begging to be explored. Sip Aperol in the lively Piazza Tasso, taste fresh limoncello or take a private boat trip to Capri for the day.
Day 10
Rome, Italy
Say ‘ciao’ to Explora Journeys and Italy in Rome. If you have time, extend your stay to see the sights and tick the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon off your travel bucket list.
INCLUDES RETURN FLIGHTS
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• Two-night hotel stay in Barcelona
• Transfer in Rome
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• Pre-paid gratuities
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes and more
Sorrento, Italy
Venice to Athens
Explora Journeys | EXPLORA II
8 nights | 11 October, 2026
Venice, Italy
Soak up the sights of Venice with a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay.
Venice, Italy
Wander the streets of Venice – or sit back and enjoy a gondola ride through the canals – before boarding EXPLORA II for your weeklong voyage.
Rovinj, Croatia
Your first port of call is Rovinj, a charming coastal town in Croatia. Wander through Golden Cape Forest Park, taste the local seafood and spot dolphins at sunset.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Walk the city walls of this beautiful red-roofed, fortified city.
Brindisi, Italy
This historic port in Italy’s Puglia region offers plenty of sightseeing, beautiful architecture and authentic culinary experiences.
Kotor, Montenegro
Don’t miss the stunning viewpoint at St John’s Fortress – arguably one of the best views in the Med.
Milos, Greece
One of the lesser-visited islands in Greece, Milos entices guests with aquablue lagoons, moon-like rock landscapes and some of the best sunsets in the region.
Athens, Greece
Disembark EXPLORA II and spend a few hours exploring the ancient metropolis of Athens before your journey home.
HOTEL STAY IN VENICE INCLUDES RETURN FLIGHTS
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• One-night hotel stay in Venice
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• Pre-paid gratuities
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes and more
Venice, Italy
A Journey of Caribbean Delicacies and Idyllic Islands
Spend two nights in a beautiful San Juan hotel and take some time to explore the island before embarking on your luxury cruise.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Board EXPLORA I for a super luxurious islandhopping voyage around the Caribbean isles.
Philipsburg, St Maarten
Spend the day relaxing on Great Bay Beach, enjoying waterfront lunches, visiting historic forts and browsing local markets.
St Johns, Antigua and Barbuda
Spend a day strolling the streets and beaches of Antigua’s colourful capital.
Little Bay, Montserrat
A lesser-visited port in the Caribbean, Little Bay offers great snorkelling opportunities, delicious cuisine and epic views while hiking along the Jack Boy Hill Trail.
Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Explore Sage Mountain National Park which offers rainforest hiking, island views, and shaded trails with tropical wildlife. Smuggler’s Cove is a quiet beach with soft sand, clear turquoise water ideal for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing in a peaceful, uncrowded Caribbean setting.
Miami, USA
Say goodbye to Explora Journeys in Miami, Florida.
PREMIUM BEVERAGES TWO-NIGHT HOTEL STAY IN SAN JUAN INCLUDES RETURN FLIGHTS
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• Two-night hotel stay in San Juan
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• Pre-paid gratuities
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes and more
San Juan, Puerto Rico
A Journey of Soft Sands, Azure Waters and Sun-Drenched Shores
Fly to Miami and enjoy a night before your cruise to soak up the buzz of this vibrant city.
Miami, USA
Step aboard EXPLORA III, the newest ship in the Explora Journeys fleet. Experience the “Ocean State of Mind” both on and off the ship as you explore the beautiful Caribbean for the next seven days.
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos
You’ve never seen water this blue – ever. Swim with turtles, kayak through mangroves and sip margaritas at Noah’s Ark Tiki Bar.
St Johns, Antigua and Barbuda
Roseau, Dominica
The colourful capital of Dominica has a stunning lush mountain backdrop. Visit the Botanical Gardens, hike to Trafalgar Falls and snorkel at Champagne Beach – what’s not to love?
Port Elizabeth, St Vincent and the Grenadines
Take a trip ashore to discover two idyllic white sand beaches, each with a slightly different vibe. Venture to Lower Bay for total relaxation.
Bridgetown, Barbados
Disembark in Barbados and if you’re not ready to leave the beauty of the Caribbean, extend your stay for a few more days of relaxation.
FLIGHTS
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• One-night hotel stay in Miami
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• Pre-paid gratuities
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes and more
Bridgetown, Barbados
Calgary to Vancouver Explora Journeys | EXPLORA III 18 nights | 16 August, 2027
Lake Louise, Canada
Begin your journey with a night at the in the heart of Banff National Park.
Rocky Mountaineer Experience, Canada
Spend five days journeying across the Rockies aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train with GoldLeaf Premium Service.
Vancouver, Canada
Disembark the Rocky Mountaineer and spend a night soaking up the sights of Vancouver before boarding your cruise on Day 9.
Vancouver, Canada
Wrangell, Alaska, USA
Today you get your first taste of Alaska. Wrangell offers breath-taking scenery, fascinating tribal history and (hopefully) a glimpse of some Alaskan wildlife
Hoonah, Alaska, USA
Haines, Alaska, USA
Surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers and pristine forests, Haines is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska, USA
Ketchikan, Alaska, USA
Victoria, Canada
Complete your Alaska voyage in Victoria and journey back to Vancouver before heading home.
Vancouver, Canada
FIVE-NIGHTS ON ROCKY MOUNTAINEER IN GOLD LEAF PREMIUM ONE-NIGHT HOTEL STAY IN LAKE LOUISE
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• One-night hotel stay in Lake Louise
• Five-nights onboard the Rocky Mountaineer in Gold Leaf Premium
• Two-night hotel stay in Vancouver
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes
HOTEL STAY IN
Rocky Mountaineer
A Journey of Tropical Shores and Historic Treasures
Stay two nights in Singapore and enjoy every moment; sip Singapore Slings at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel, watch sunset from the top of Marina Bay Sands, marvel at the man-made Cloud Forest and eat your heart out in Chinatown.
Singapore, Singapore
Begin your journey through Southeast Asia with Explora Journeys and get a taste of what this beautiful and diverse region has to offer!
Koh Samui, Thailand
If island paradise is what you came to Asia for, you’ve found it here in Koh Samui. Visit elephants at an ethical hands-off sanctuary, climb up to Na Muang Waterfalls and look for souvenirs at the local Fisherman’s Market.
Bangkok, Thailand
Discover the pulsing capital of Thailand. Visit the Emerald Buddha, drink Chang on Khao San Road and explore the floating markets.
Sihanoukville, Cambodia
The gateway to Cambodia’s beautiful islands, Sihanoukville offers boat tours and powdery beaches.
Singapore, Singapore
Head home or continue travelling around Southeast Asia – the choice is yours.
PREMIUM BEVERAGES TWO-NIGHT HOTEL STAY IN SINGAPORE INCLUDES RETURN FLIGHTS Singapore
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• Two-night hotel stay in Singapore
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• Pre-paid gratuities
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes and more
£5,099pp
AVAILABILITY OFFER ENDS SOON! Upgrade to an Ocean Grand Terrace Suite for additional £700pp Talk to a cruise connoisseur today. Nothing is too much trouble.
A Journey of Amazon Exploration and Cultural Discovery
Enjoy a three-night luxury pre-cruise hotel stay in Puerto Rico.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Board the ship for an epic Caribbean and South American adventure!
St Barthelemy
With stunning white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and lush tropical scenery, it’s easy to see why travellers fall in love with St Barts time and time again.
St Pierre, Martinique
A colourful and captivating island vibe awaits on the French isle of Martinique.
Bridgetown, Barbados
Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago
Macapa, Brazil
Welcome to Macapá, the ‘Land of the Sun’ and your gateway to the Amazon River. Discover hidden lagoons, spot vibrant wildlife and learn about both indigenous cultures and colonial history.
Santarem, Brazil
Boca de Valeria, Brazil
This small village in the heart of the Amazon region is home to colourful toucans, howler monkeys and the elusive pink river dolphins. Enjoy full cultural immersion this itinerary’s highlight.
Boca de Valeria, Brazil
Fly Manaus to London
RETURN FLIGHTS
What’s included with EXPLORA JOURNEYS?
• Return flights
• Three-night hotel stay in San Juan
• Welcome bottle of Champagne and choice of spirit on arrival
• A diverse range of nine culinary experiences
• Unlimited premium beverages
• Spa access
• In-suite mini bar
• Pre-paid gratuities
• 24 hour room service
• Unlimited WiFi
• Wellbeing & fitness programmes and more
Brazilian wildlife
Worlds
Introducing Explora Journeys’ inaugural 128-day World Journey 2029
EXPLORA I | 128 days | 4 continents | 29 countries | 63 destinations | 12 overnight stays
In this exciting new step for Explora Journeys, the brand-new World Journey 2029 will include 44 first-time visits for the cruise line. EXPLORA I will venture into exciting new regions throughout its seven passages, sailing from the Indian Ocean to Australia and New Zealand, crossing the South Pacific and exploring the west coast of South America, including Chile and Peru.
Padar Island, Indonesia
EVERY DETAIL, considered
There’s no doubt about Explora Journeys’ attention to detail. Each and every corner of the ships offers beauty and elegance in spades. Take a look at some of our favourite venues on board.
>> 813 ft in length
>> 63,900 gross tonnage
>> 1.25 : 1 guest to host ratio
>> 461 oceanfront suites
>> 18 restaurants, bars & lounges
>> 3 outdoor pools
>> 1 indoor pool with retractable roof
>> 64 private cabanas
1. Fil Rouge Restaurant French-inspired cuisine
Located on Deck 4 midship
2. Lobby Bar
Centrally located bar & lounge
Located on Deck 4 midship
>> 7,500 sq.ft of wellness facilities
>> 2,900 sq.ft of fitness space
>> 1 unforgettable experience
on Deck 5 aft
A sensory journey to the Ocean State of Mind
Located on Deck 5 forward
3. Sakura Authentic Pan-Asian cuisine Located
4. Ocean Wellness The Spa
6. Conservatory Pool & Bar
Indoor pool, bar and gelateria Located on Deck 5 forward
5. Malt Whisky Bar
A truly refined experience Located on Deck 5 forward