This is a story that starts in 1940s Sorrento with a Neapolitan ferry captain, Gianluigi Aponte, who, together with the Swiss sweetheart he met when she was a passenger on one of his crossings, went on to create MSC, a global shipping operation and the world’s largest privately-owned cruise company. Now this Swiss seafaring family are fulfilling their life-long dream and launching Explora Journeys, an exquisite, modern luxury cruise experience like no other.

Explora Journeys is to transforming ocean travel through a synergy of the chicest ships and the most immersive itineraries that allow guests to discover further, travel deeper and linger a little longer at each destination. These are enriching holidays for the curious, cosmopolitan traveller who wants to create connections that last long beyond the cruise itself. Explora Journeys’ aspiration is to create a unique ‘Ocean State of Mind’ by connecting guests with the sea, with themselves, and like-minded others.

Designed in partnership with the world’s foremost superyacht specialists and harnessing cutting-edge maritime technology, the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA I, is now sailing, with EXPLORA II setting sail in September 2024, and four more to follow by 2028. Explora Journeys ships offer refined yet effortless luxury and thanks to their size, they offer an incredible richness of experiences, all whilst maintaining a feeling of intimacy and exclusivity.  With the founding family as passionate about preserving the sea as they are exploring it, each ship will be RINA DOLPHIN certified for reduced underwater noise whilst sustainability initiatives include no single-use plastic on board or ashore.

Onboard, European elegance permeates every detail. The 461 suites, penthouses and residences - each with sweeping ocean views from their floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces - offer guests comfortable homes at sea. Each suite is thoughtfully designed to stimulate the senses and reflect the brand’s philosophy of creating an ‘Ocean State of Mind’ owing to carefully considered elements such as natural light, colour, space, privacy, and connection with the sea, Explora Journeys has worked meticulously to ensure every guest experiences an opulent, yet intimate retreat as they embark on their own ocean journey.

Culinary experiences promise something for every palate and provide the perfect scene for long, languorous lunches and vibrant evenings. A celebration of global culinary talents, cultures, and passions, sophisticated and varied culinary experiences are showcased across six vibrant restaurants, as well as in five of the 12 bars and lounges onboard (eight indoor and four outdoor) - a truly unique culinary and beverage ‘journey of discovery’.

More than 27,000 sq feet of outdoor space includes three swimming pools and 64 private cabanas, whilst an indoor pool with a retractable glass roof allows for relaxation poolside whatever the weather and 9,700 sq feet for the spa and fitness studios ensures guests can do as much (or as little) as they like.

Ashore, guests will venture both on and off the beaten path, with a series of mesmerising itineraries each thoughtfully designed to allow for a slower pace of travel, with overnight stays while in port to allow time to be fully immersed in the local culture and environment.

From the cobbled streets of Europe’s hallowed capitals to savouring French chic in Saint Barths. Or from lolling beneath Hawaiian waterfalls, to discovering the fragrant foods and bustling souks of the Red Sea & Arabian Peninsula. Explora Journeys promises exclusive access that goes far beyond the classic luxury cruise experience.