Luxury Redefined: A 9-Night Caribbean Voyage on Explora I
Luxury Redefined: A 9-Night Caribbean Voyage on Explora I
If you're searching for a luxury cruise experience that blends the elegance of a high-end resort with the freedom of the open sea, Explora I from Explora Journeys should be at the top of your list. I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on a 9-night sailing, exploring breathtaking destinations from Miami to the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Barths, Tortola, and back. Spoiler alert: it was an unforgettable journey.
Itinerary & Accommodations
Vessel: Explora I
Duration: 9 nights
Route: Miami → Dominican Republic → San Juan, Puerto Rico → St. Barths → Tortola → Miami
Fully Inclusive Rate: Starting at ~$5k per person (double occupancy) in the entry-level suite
We initially booked an entry-level suite but were thrilled to receive an upgrade to the Premier Penthouse (Room 10045) just days before sailing. The extra space was fantastic, and if I sail again, I would absolutely love to experience the Cove Residence, which features a separate bedroom and a private Jacuzzi on the balcony.
Our suite host provided excellent service, keeping our space spotless and ensuring a seamless turn-down service each evening.
Dining & Culinary Highlights
One of the most exciting aspects of any luxury voyage is the dining experience, and Explora I delivered in every way. Guests raved about the food, and the diverse selection of restaurants meant there was something for every palate.
Dining Overview:
Room Service: Stellar! We enjoyed breakfast in our suite daily with a wide variety of options.
Specialty Dining: A variety of culinary experiences were available, each with its own flair. The Italian specialty restaurant, which is complimentary for our clients, was an exclusive experience worth trying.
Bars & Lounges: The drinks onboard were expertly crafted, with the lobby bar on Deck 4 standing out as a favorite spot for a perfectly mixed cocktail.
Onboard Experience & Entertainment
Explora I is designed for relaxation and refined luxury. The ship offers an array of entertainment and leisure options:
Multiple Pools & Sun Decks: We particularly enjoyed the Deck 5 pool, which was perfect for families and had just the right depth for kids. Poolside service was impeccable.
Fitness Studio & Sports Deck: A well-equipped gym, a movement studio, and a walking track provided plenty of opportunities for fitness lovers. The pickle-ball and basketball courts were a fun addition.
Shore Excursions: Embarking and disembarking at ports was seamless, making it easy to explore new destinations stress-free.
Candid Thoughts & Guest Experience
Explora I delivers a refined, resort-like atmosphere at sea. The clientele was mostly well-traveled, sophisticated cruisers who had experienced other luxury lines. Many guests we met had been on several Explora Journeys and spoke highly of the service, ambiance, and overall experience.
One of the standout features was the Wi-Fi quality, which was excellent throughout the sailing.
Where Explora I Excels
Spacious, well-designed suites with top-tier service
Gourmet dining with a variety of options
Seamless embarkation and disembarkation at ports
High-quality onboard entertainment and fitness facilities
Perks for That Blonde Travels Clients
Booking through That Blonde Travels grants access to exclusive benefits, enhancing your Explora Journeys experience. These perks include:
Up to €300 Journey Experience Credit per suite
Complimentary Transfers (varies by destination)
Complimentary Dining Experience at Anthology, the Exclusive Specialty Restaurant
Complimentary Access to Hydrothermal Spa Areas
Final Thoughts
Explora I redefines luxury cruising, combining five-star service with a laid-back, resort-style atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first journey at sea, this experience is sure to impress. From world-class dining to impeccably designed accommodations, this was truly an unforgettable way to explore the Caribbean.
Would I sail with Explora Journeys again? Absolutely. The journey was seamless, luxurious, and a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
For more details or to book your own Explora Journeys experience, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help plan your next luxury escape!
