Now Booking Explora Journeys Ocean Cruises
Monday, July 21, 2025
The Imagine Going There Travel Team is excited to announce we are now booking Explora Journeys Ocean Cruises!
Explora Journeys is a new luxury cruise line that launched in 2023. They offer small-ship journeys to some of the most remote and beautiful destinations in the world. Their ships are designed to get guests up close to the natural wonders of each destination, and the itineraries are carefully curated to offer unique and unforgettable experiences.
Explora Journeys offers unique onboard experiences targeting self-care and wellness. They refer to this as the "Ocean State of Mind," which is characterized by a calm, elegant, and rejuvenating environment. Guests can enjoy a variety of mind, body, and spirit-focused activities, such as:
- Yoga and meditation classes
- Personal training sessions
- Spa treatments
- Culinary classes
- Wine tastings
- Cultural excursions
These experiences allow guests to immerse themselves in new experiences and connect with new people and cultures. They can also take some time for themselves to relax and rejuvenate, which can be a great way to de-stress and reset.
Each room aboard an Explora Journeys ship is a luxurious, serene, and spacious suite with ocean-front views and private terraces. There are six restaurants, 12 bars
and lounges, in-suite dining and a chef’s kitchen which includes private dining and culinary classes. The food is sophisticated and carefully crafted using locally sourced ingredients.
The entertainment onboard has something to offer everyone. From their casual events designed to connect travelers to their enrichment programs designed to spark curiosity about diverse subjects.
Carol Shaddix, founder of Imagine Going There Travel, sailed on the maiden voyage of Explora Journeys' first ship, the Explora I. She was impressed by the ship's luxurious amenities and unique itineraries, which focus on exploring lesser-known destinations. But more than that, Carol was in awe of the generous, kind and attentive staff who were more than happy to go out of their way to enhance the experience of travelers. Carol also came home with raving reviews of the ship’s Head of Culinary, Franck Garanger.
“The food on board was an experience in and of itself. Franck Garanger has worked in some of the best restaurants in the world, including Alain Ducasse at the Plaza Athénée in Paris and Le Bernardin in New York City,” Carol Shaddix.
Click here to watch Carol’s exclusive interview with Franck Garanger.
Some of the perks of cruising with Explora Journeys include:
- Smaller ships: Explora Journeys' ships have a maximum capacity of 922 guests, creating a more intimate and exclusive experience.
- Unique Itineraries: Explora Journeys focuses on exploring lesser-known destinations, such as the Galapagos Islands, the British Virgin Islands, and the Azores. Not only does this create a unique travel experience, but it also guarantees less tourists allowing you to fully immerse in new lands and culture.
- Luxury amenities: Explora Journeys' ships offer a variety of luxury amenities, including spacious suites, fine dining restaurants, state-of-the-art gym, and a spa.
- Unlimited beverages: All beverages, including fine wines and premium spirits, are included in the price of your cruise.
Here are a few Explora Journeys Ocean Cruises:
Explora Journeys offers a variety of itineraries, ranging from 7 to 14 nights. Destinations include the Arctic and Antarctic, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, South America, Asia and more. The itineraries are designed to be active and adventurous, with plenty of opportunities for guests to explore the local wildlife and culture.
- A Journey of Greco, Roman and Turkish Majesties
Embarks: Rome, Italy
Disembarks: Athens, Greece
Duration: 7 Nights | 8 Days
About: This cruise itinerary takes you on a journey through the amphitheater of gods, exploring mankind's most enthralling enigmas. You will start your cruise in Rome, where you can see the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon. Then, you will sail to the Sorrentine Peninsula, where you can visit the Amalfi Coast and Mount Vesuvius. Next, you will make an overnight stop in Istanbul, where you can see the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar. Finally, you will end your cruise in Athens, where you can see the Parthenon, the Acropolis, and the Acropolis Museum. This itinerary is a great way to see some of the most iconic landmarks in three countries that have shaped the course of history. You will have the opportunity to learn about the rich cultures and traditions of Italy, Greece, and Turkey, and you will make memories that will last a lifetime.
- A Journey To Africa’s Garden of Eden
Embarks: Cape Town, South Africa
Disembarks: Mombasa, Kenya
Duration: 13 Nights | 14 Days
About: Begin your journey in Cape Town, a city with a vibrant cultural scene. From there, wind your way through the wine country of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, or visit the Cape of Good Hope, which was once described by sea captain Sir Francis Drake as the fairest cape he had ever seen. Next, trace the famed Garden Route along the coast between Mossel Bay and Port Elizabeth. Here, you can explore forested trails alive with birdsong, golden beaches, and the hidden network of Precambrian Cango Caves. Then, head to Durban, where you can go on a safari to see the Big Five animals. Karen Blixen once said that "there is something about safari life that makes you bubble over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive," and the Kruger National Park is one of Africa's best places to see wildlife. From Durban, continue on to Mozambique, where you can relax on white-sand beaches and snorkel among coral reefs. Next, visit Zanzibar, a spice island with a rich history and culture. Finally, end your journey in Mombasa, Kenya, where you can experience the Maasai Mara, one of the most beautiful and iconic wildlife reserves in Africa. This itinerary is a great way to experience the diversity of South Africa and Africa. You will see stunning scenery, learn about different cultures, and have the chance to see some of the most amazing wildlife in the world.
- Inaugural Hawaiian Journey: Hawaii Volcanoes & the Magic of Kai
Embarks: Vancouver, Canada
Disembarks: Honolulu, United States
Duration: 9 Nights | 10 Days
About: Begin your journey in Vancouver, a cosmopolitan city that is home to a diverse population and a variety of attractions. From there, set sail across the Pacific Ocean on the EXPLORA I cruise ship, where you can relax and enjoy the journey. After five days of sailing, you will arrive in Hilo, Hawaii, on the Big Island. Here, you can explore Volcanoes National Park, hike to Akaka Falls, or take a helicopter ride over the active Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. Your next stop is Honolulu, Oahu, where you can enjoy the white-sand beaches of Waikiki, take a private tour of Pearl Harbor, or watch champion surfers ride the waves on the North Shore.
As this is a new cruise line, there are minimal dates for each itinerary. Contact us today if one of these cruises interests you, and we can help ensure you get a spot!
Onboard Accommodations
Explora Journeys is a luxurious ocean cruise line with a European, cosmopolitan flare. Onboard, their focus is self care, wellness and relaxation. You can expect outstanding and lavish accommodations with knowledgeable and well-trained staff.
- Suites: Each room aboard an Explora Journeys ship is classified as a suite or higher. They each have a separate living room area, private terrace and ocean-front view. The suites also come with complimentary 24/7 concierge service, in-suite dining and house cleaning.Their goal is to create a “Home at Sea”, and their suites truly live up to this expectation. Watch Carol Shaddix give an exclusive Ocean Terrace Stateroom tour here.
- Spas: Explora Journeys ships are equipped with state-of-the-art spas that include
- Steam Room
- Steam shower (in private spa suites)
- Hydrotherapy pool
- Finnish sauna
- Salt cave
- Experience shower
- Ice fall
- Heated marble loungers
- Relaxation room
- Restaurants: On board, there are 9 culinary experiences and six fine dining experiences to choose from. Everyday you can enjoy Pan-Asian cuisine at Sakura, curated steaks at Marble & Co. Grill, or Mediterranean flavors at Med Yacht Club. On the other hand, Emporium Marketplace is an all-inclusive buffett offering a range of dishes from around the world. When the ship ports, a team of culinary experts enters local markets to source fresh and local ingredients. This not only ensures freshness, it also provides authentic flavors and sustainably sourced ingredients.
- Fine Wine: Explora Journeys has a team of experienced and well-traveled beverage experts who create delicious and unique wine experiences. The selection changes throughout the year to reflect the region where the ship is sailing. There are always a variety of favorite grape varietals available, such as French Chenin Blanc, Pinot Grigio, New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, Australian Shiraz, and Nebbiolo. Sommeliers are always looking for new and interesting wines to add to the menu.
- Outdoor Decks: There are just over 67,000 sq ft of outdoor deck space that is available to all guests. This includes three outdoor pools. one indoor pool with a retractable glass roof and 64 private cabanas that can be reserved.
- Fitness Spaces: On board, there are multiple fitness options available to you. There are two state-of-the-art indoor gyms, one open-air gym, a running/walking track and multiple sports courts - including pickleball. If you prefer to workout in the comfort of your suite, that’s fine! The staff is happy to provide you with a portable in-suite fitness kit.
If you are considering an Explora Journeys cruise and need special accommodations, please contact our team. We would be happy to answer any and all questions regarding accessibility.
Who is Explora Journeys for?
Explora Journeys is a good choice for travelers who are looking for an adventure-filled vacation with luxurious accommodations. The itineraries are designed to be active and educational, and the ships offer a variety of amenities and activities to keep guests entertained. The ships are also small and intimate, which creates a more personalized experience.
Unlike Viking Cruises, there is no age restriction on Explora Journeys cruises. In fact, there is even a kids club. However, there are few children onboard, and the small number that were, were well-behaved and you could tell they were used to sophisticated adventures.
With something to offer everyone, having no age minimum makes this cruise line a unique opportunity for a stress-free multi-generational vacation.
Explora Journeys Sustainability Commitment
Explora Journeys commitment to wellness extends beyond human wellness into environmental and economic wellness. They have invested environmentally supportive technologies to assist in energy and fuel reduction. They are also constantly exploring newer and cleaner options as they become available. Explora Journeys is committed to not providing single-use plastics while onboard or during land-based experiences. Furthermore, Explora Journeys practices eco-tourism as much as possible by leaving as little impact on land as possible and by investing in local tour companies and experiences that fund the local economy.
In Conclusion
Explora Journeys is a new luxury cruise line that offers small-ship expeditions to some of the most remote and beautiful destinations in the world. The company's ships are designed to get guests up close to the natural wonders of each destination, and the itineraries are carefully curated to offer unique and unforgettable experiences. The onboard experience is rooted in self care and wellness, with a wide variety of activities designed to enrich the mind and body. Explora Journeys is a good choice for travelers who are looking for an adventure-filled vacation with luxurious accommodations, and there is no age restriction onboard.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when considering an Explora Journeys cruise:
- The itineraries are unique and offer an unforgettable experience.
- Lots of inclusions (like gratuities) so you are not nickeled and dimed to death once onboard.
- The ships are small, which creates a more intimate and personalized experience.
- The ships are environmentally friendly.
Are you interested in booking an Explora Journeys Ocean Cruise or have you just booked? Contact us today to see if you qualify for bonus shipboard credit!
Carol Shaddix
Carol@imaginegoingthere.com
770-421-9627
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