Explora I had an extremely successful launch in June 2023, the concept drawn from a desire to redefine the ocean experience for a new generation of luxury traveller. A spin-off from the privately owned MSC Group, Explora Journeys is crown jewel of the Aponte family’s 300-year history in maritime, and they have an impressive and ambitious roadmap through to 2028 to deliver several luxury ocean liners focused on connecting guests with the sea, with themselves, and like-minded travellers whilst offering unique itineraries that visit lesser travelled ports in renowned destinations to inspire a sense of discovery.
As I approached the port in Barcelona where I was scheduled to embark on Explora I, the royal blue livery gleams in the sun, at true standout in the harbour that seizes your attention as if there were no other ships present. After a very quick and painless trip through security and customs, I navigated my way to one of the ships embarkation points and took my first steps into the Ocean State of Mind.
Very soon I found myself in a huge atrium at the centre of the ship, with beautiful furniture, fixtures and fittings polished steel, and a very cool bar at the centre with a decorated feature wall that rises several stories high – the attention to detail is impeccable and smooth, relaxing piano music fills the air.
My visit in Barcelona coincided with a very special event, so this space was a little busier than one would usually expect, but for a very exciting reason. Explora Journeys were hosting a launch event for their partnership with the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, also held in Barcelona this year, and there was a palpable energy in the air. The America’s Cup is the oldest international competition in any sport, founded in 1851, and there is an incredible history behind this sailing competition, and a passionate leadership, teams and fanbase to reflect.
As the press event began, its easy to see why this partnership has caught the attention of the sailing world. The world has seen sports partnerships launched previously with little coordination and seemingly little interest from either side – almost as if a begrudging sponsorship was formed out of obligation. That is not the case here, it could not be further opposite and it is refreshing to see. Pierfrancesco Vago, Chairman of MSC Group, and Grant Dalton, CEO of the America’s Cup and Emirates Team New Zealand, sit alongside each other on a cosy sofa whilst being interviewed by the event host and you may think that these two have been best friends for decades. Their enthusiasm for the partnership, the respect for each other’s brands and missions and the genuine friendship that comes across as they laugh and joke through their answers gives a very encouraging reassurance. There is something special going on here, and although this is a fairly new partnership, the commitment and ambition is very exciting to hear about.
After a brief interview, I and other members of the press were surprised with another special announcement – Explora Journeys have also now partnered with Emirates Team New Zealand. What both Pierfrancesco and Grant hail as a landmark partnership highlights both parties shared values, namely teamwork, a passion for the sea, luxury travel and delivering an amazing, innovative and highly competitive spectacle that is the 37th America’s Cup.
The press conference wrapped up and I was able to get up close and personal with the almost 200-year old trophy, hear some more about the history of the competition and very quickly became hooked. This type of sailing event has never been in the forefront of my mind but being quite into motorsport and in particular Formula One, there are clear parallels and having been on the ground (metaphorically speaking of course) I can really see this event morphing into what we see from the F1 world in terms of fanbase, partnerships and exciting nail-biting events.
Next came the tour of the ship, where I was shown the pristine oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences all with sweeping ocean views and private terraces – designed to be a ‘Home at Sea’ for guests. The rooms are complemented by the ship’s facilities, with extensive outdoor decks, four swimming pools, state of the art indoor and outdoor gyms, a breathtaking spa and huge open spaces where it could be easy to forget you are even at sea. There are 6 restaurants onboard with a vast array of cuisines to suit everyone’s taste, and partnered with the twelve bards and lounges, Chef’s Kitchen, and in-cabin dining, food and drink is well taken care of.
Explora I has 461 suites, not a huge amount considering the amenities available to guests, it is clear to see that Explora Journeys do not compromise on their mission to provide guests with that immersive ocean experience and unmatched hospitality. I am excited to see their work in the 37th Louis Vuitton America’s Cup, the Emirates New Zealand Team, their new ship launches over the next few years and continued endeavour to curate ‘The Ocean State of Mind’
