Earlier this year, as a guest on a 7-day cruise with Explora Journeys, my goal was to experience their Ocean Wellness program aboard EXPLORA I. As defined by Explora Journeys, Ocean Wellness is “A wellness experience inspired by the oceans’ natural forces, embracing the mystical power of the sea to invigorate senses and lift spirits.” A booklet handed out to all onboard passengers goes further to say that Ocean Wellness is also “a series of experiences where our guests can embark on personal journeys of inner discovery and regeneration.”
An all-inclusive luxury line division of the Switzerland-based MSC Group, Explora Journeys was launched in 2023 and has already won numerous awards, including several from Recommend magazine.
A Wellness Journey Aboard EXPLORA I
According to Chris Austin, Explora Journey’s President, North America, “From the very beginning, the Aponte family, founders of MSC Group, envisioned a brand that seamlessly merges their generations of seafaring expertise with the refinement of modern European luxury.” He adds that the company has aimed to transform the luxury cruise industry to offer ocean journeys that leave guests truly energized and inspired by a deep passion for the sea and European elegance. Based on my own personal experience, I say that they are living up to expectations.
Catering to clients wanting short getaways or extended time away, Explora Journeys offers all-inclusive luxury ocean journeys across Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, North and South America and, new for 2026, the Red Sea. Scheduled journeys range from four to 44 nights.
Beyond the seasoned luxury traveler, Explora Journeys also targets those who are new to cruising because, according to Austin, “we offer something that is completely elevated from what guests typically think of when they think about cruising.”
The cruise line also welcomes solo travelers, which is important because, according to Wellness Tourism Association consumer surveys, the majority of wellness-minded travelers are women who tend to travel solo. ”Explora Journeys offers a fantastic option for solo travelers with a single supplement as low as 25 percent,” says Austin, “and this includes all services, amenities and gratuities.” The cruise line also offers solo travelers the opportunity to meet other like-minded travelers via a variety of activities that allow for connecting with other guests.
Ocean Wellness offerings aboard EXPLORA I include the full-service spa complete with 11 treatment rooms plus a Beauty Salon and Wellness Area accessible not just to those booking spa treatments but to all guests. The Wellness Area features a hydrotherapy pool, a salt cave, a Finnish sauna, a steam room, heated marble lounge chairs, aroma-therapy showers and an icefall for cold plunges. Beyond the spa experience, there’s a fully-equipped gym that is open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., plus four to seven guided movement classes per day. Passengers can work out on their own, participate in classes included in the price, and, for an extra hourly fee, book a fitness coach for personal assessments and customized workout programs. Passengers can also take time to breathe in the invigorating ocean air while working out in the outdoor gym area or relaxing in serene outdoor spaces with swimming pools, whirlpools and cabanas.
When it comes to the culinary experience, that—along with exemplary service offered by the staff—is what most guests rave about. With six restaurants and 12 bars and lounges on EXPLORA I, guests can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines. During the cruise, I had the opportunity to chat with Executive Chef Travis DaSilva, and he pointed out that his team strives to offer healthy living choices and, generally, they rely on local and organic ingredients whenever possible. He says, “With a culinary staff of 119, we believe in the open market style where you can choose your own ingredients and allow us to create dishes personalized to your own tastes and preferences. Think made-to-order.” He added, “We try to give a very personalized attention to our culinary service, including catering to different food preferences—for instance, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, kosher and even halal. We also cater to guests with allergies and, when given advance notice, can even remove the allergic ingredient from the dishes they select.
Beyond the ship’s all-inclusive culinary experiences (including in-suite dining), for an additional fee, passengers can sign up for daily cooking classes.
Acknowledging that music can decrease levels of anxiety and bring a sense of joy to people, EXPLORA I features live music in the various bars and lounges plus musical stage shows throughout the journey.
On a final note, Austin says, “Explora Journeys is more than a cruise line; it is a reimagined luxury lifestyle brand, redefining ocean travel for the discerning traveler.” Plus, from my perspective, Explora Journeys is a leader in the growing wellness cruise space.
For more information, visit explorajourneys.com.
