Cruising in Style: Jane’s Journey Aboard Explora I

In September, I had the pleasure of sailing from Venice to Athens aboard the stunning Explora I, and it was nothing short of extraordinary. I was excited to step on board this amazing ship as I had heard so many good things about it, but WOW was I impressed…. And here's my top five reasons why.

What truly elevated the experience was the staff. From the concierge and housekeeping team to the restaurant and bar staff, every interaction was warm, professional, and personal. Somehow, they remembered our names, our favourite drinks, and even where we liked to sit and unwind; how they managed it, I’ll never know. The ship itself feels incredibly spacious. And while there were staff everywhere, you never felt crowded. They seemed to appear just when you needed them, offering a level of attentive yet unobtrusive service unlike anything I’ve experienced before.

Every restaurant onboard was exceptional. The Emporium Marketplace, the ship’s main restaurant, was far from your typical buffet; everything was cooked to order, and the choice was unbelievable. The Med Yacht Club captured the essence of Mediterranean cuisine beautifully, while the Asian-inspired dishes at Sakura were outstanding, and available for lunch, not just dinner! One of my personal favourites was Marble & Co. Grill; the steak was cooked to perfection and perfectly paired with a wine recommended by the sommelier.

Evenings were made for exploring the ship’s bars, each offering every drink imaginable. The cocktails were crafted with care and were delicious. There was even a dedicated whiskey bar, perfect for a relaxed nightcap. Entertainment hit just the right note, too, from talented singers and engaging shows to soothing piano sets, the perfect soundtrack to a luxurious evening.

The ship’s pool areas were designed with both relaxation and indulgence in mind. The main pool deck offered panoramic views and plush loungers, ideal for soaking up the sun with a cocktail in hand. My favourite spot, though, was the infinity pool; peaceful, calming, and never overcrowded. Whirlpools and cabanas added to the resort-like atmosphere, and what impressed me most was how serene the spaces remained throughout the voyage, even on sea days.

One of the things I loved most was the generous time spent in port. With Explora I being a smaller ship, we could visit some truly beautiful destinations, even tendering into hidden spots that larger ships can’t reach. There was no rush to disembark or hurry back on board; instead, we had the freedom to explore, linger over dinner in Dubrovnik, and still sail away at 11 pm. It felt relaxed, unhurried, and perfectly in tune with the pace of the voyage.

After 40 years in travel, I can honestly say it’s redefined what a five-star experience means, the finest “hotel” I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. Explora I isn’t just a cruise ship; it’s a floating boutique hotel offering world-class service and unforgettable moments. Everything onboard felt so thoughtfully designed, from the elegant suites to the calm, luxurious atmosphere that made it impossible not to relax.