Curator’s statement
The Explora II, part of Explora Journeys, represents a new level of luxury and personalized travel. It perfectly aligns with my passion for elegant and immersive experiences at sea. Designed for ocean-inspired journeys, the ship offers a refined yet relaxed atmosphere, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable adventures. Its all-suite accommodations, world-class dining and curated cultural experiences make every voyage feel exclusive and deeply enriching. With its boutique-style cruising, emphasis on sustainability and meticulous attention to detail, the Explora II embodies the kind of travel I truly cherish — where every moment is designed for discovery, indulgence and connection to the world.
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Lobby Bar
Conservatory Pool
Stepping onto Explora II in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for our weeklong Caribbean cruise, we were warmly greeted with champagne and smiles, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey. After completing the muster drill, we immersed ourselves in the ship’s sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere. We started with the beautiful lobby bar and lounge, where soothing piano music, plush seating and handcrafted cocktails made for the perfect pre-dinner retreat. Among the many inviting spaces onboard, we found ourselves drawn to Astern Lounge on Deck 4, a lively spot for entertainment, games and karaoke, as well as the adjacent Astern Pool, a stunning infinity pool ideal for sunbathing. The Atoll Pool on Deck 10 and the Conservatory Pool on Deck 11, with its retractable roof and nighttime movie screenings, offered more serene settings to unwind. For breathtaking sunsets and a chance to meet fellow travelers, Sky Bar on Deck 14 quickly became a favorite.
Atoll Pool
Astern Pool
Explora II is all-suite, all-ocean-facing. Our Ocean Terrace Suite (#6035) impressed us with its spacious layout, a queen-size bed, a sitting area, a walk-in closet and a luxurious bathroom with heated floors. The balcony, equipped with a table, chairs and a cozy lounge chair, was the perfect spot to enjoy room service and watch the world drift by. For those needing laundry services, complimentary self-service laundromats on Decks nine and 10 were a convenient perk. Dining onboard was a culinary delight, with standout meals at Med Yacht Club, Fil Rouge, Marble & Co. (the steakhouse) and Sakura, where the Lobster Pad Thai and sushi were phenomenal. Even the Emporium Marketplace (the ship’s take on a buffet) elevated the experience with staff-served gourmet dishes like fresh lobster, sushi and made-to-order meals. Each dining experience was perfectly portioned, flavorful and indulgent without being excessive.
While Explora II doesn’t feature Broadway-style shows, its intimate, high-quality entertainment was a highlight of our trip. The Journeys Lounge provides an elegant space for performances. Doug & Alex, a talented father-son violin duo blending classical and modern music, captivated us. However, the true standout was Sips & Strings with Charlie in Explora Lounge on Deck 11. We enjoyed a mix of guitar, piano and harmonica performances in a warm, inviting atmosphere. One of the most magical moments of our voyage happened as we sailed away from Virgin Gorda, BVI — Charlie, Doug and Alex performed together, creating a stunning, impromptu fusion of music against the breathtaking Caribbean backdrop.
From the impeccable service to the ship’s elegant design, Explora II delivered an experience that felt effortlessly luxurious yet deeply personal. The attention to detail, from the plush accommodations to the thoughtfully curated entertainment and world-class dining, ensured that every moment onboard was unforgettable. While the ship itself is stunning, it’s truly the crew’s warmth and dedication that made this voyage special. If you’re searching for a refined yet immersive cruise experience, look no further than Explora Journeys — this is a journey you’ll want to take again and again.
Infinity edge whirlpool
Sakura
Need to know
To make the most of your Explora II journey, we recommend booking shore excursions early, ideally through your travel advisor, as this can help you secure the best experiences and potentially save money. Dining reservations — especially for Marble & Co., Sakura, and Anthology (which require a cover charge)—should also be made as soon as possible, as these venues are popular and fill up quickly. One of the great perks of Explora Journeys is that most alcoholic beverages are included in your fare, so you can enjoy everything from champagne to craft cocktails without worrying about extra charges. Take time to explore the ship at your own pace, and don’t hesitate to ask the crew for recommendations — they’re incredibly helpful and love sharing their insights to enhance your experience.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Caribbean page.
Travel Advisor
Ryan Fitzgerald
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