Under an azure-blue sky, the lapping of the waves gently caresses the hull, while the wind brings a scent of iodine mingled with the sparkle of sea spray.
Explora II rises majestically, an invitation to suspend time and indulge in the pleasure of a voyage in which the ocean is not just a backdrop, but an inspiration. This floating palace, the jewel in Explora Journeys' crown, embodies a philosophy subtly summed up in three words: “Ocean State of Mind”.
It was in this elegant setting that Journal des Palaces embarked for an unforgettable Mediterranean episode. Today, as Explora II sails through the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, its memory remains engraved: a promise of escape, serenity and discovery.
A floating sanctuary of intimacy and grandeur
Explora II, the new flagship of Explora Journeys, a brand of the Swiss Italian giant MSC, embodies a contemporary vision of sea travel, blending refinement, wellness and modernity. From the very first steps on board, travelers are struck by the ship's impressive sense of space and design. With her 248-meter length, 461 suites, 11 decks, 5 swimming pools, 6 restaurants, 12 bars and lounges, the ship may seem imposing. Yet each space is surprisingly intimate, allowing passengers to reconnect with themselves, with other passengers and crew and, above all, with the ocean.
Designed by Antonio di Nenno, Explora II 's design blends contemporary elegance with warm comfort. The lobby, the heart of the ship, boasts cream and olive-green armchairs, herringbone parquet flooring and a bar with vintage champagne and rare spirits. Throughout the ship, works of art by Emilio Isgró and marine photographs by Prince Hussain Aga Khan lend a cultural and poetic dimension to this maritime odyssey.
It is in this inspiring setting that each traveler can join his or her cabin, or rather suite, and gradually discover the secrets of Explora II. Each door opens onto a cocoon of serenity facing the ocean. The 461 suites, ranging in size from 35 to 280 m², offer private terraces where the spectacle of the waves seems to be played out for our eyes alone. The most generous and exclusive, the Owner's Residence, perched at the top of the ship, with its terrace stretching from port to starboard, boasts amenities worthy of the finest hotels, such as butler service provided by the residence manager.
In every category, suites benefit from attention to the smallest detail: top-of-the-range bedding, spacious dressing rooms, private terraces and heated marble bathrooms, not to mention Mandala Blue amenities, created by perfumer Alberto Morillas. Explora II is a sanctuary to be shared, and the 80 connecting suites are a perfect illustration of this.
Wellness enhanced by the ocean
Continuing the tour, the traveler enters one of the ship's flagship experiences: its outdoor spaces, a hymn to the ocean. Of the three heated pools, the Astern Pool, located at the stern, is without doubt the most spectacular, with its unobstructed view of the ship's wake and the infinite horizon. An outdoor/indoor pool, located on Deck 11 and topped by a retractable glass roof, allows you to enjoy aquatic pleasures whatever the weather. On either side of Explora II, 64 private cabanas invite you to read, relax or contemplate. In the evening, these outdoor spaces are transformed into magical places where exclusive events, such as themed evenings or screenings under the stars, are organized.
And when you're thinking about the wellness you'll experience on board, it's hard not to think of Ocean Wellness, a 700 m² sanctuary dedicated to relaxation and regeneration. From the moment you enter, a soothing atmosphere envelops visitors, and spa staff guide each passenger towards a tailor-made experience. Here, the therapists' precise, caring gestures transform each treatment into a moment of pure serenity. The 11 dedicated rooms, some with private outdoor areas, offer exclusive treatments, including Dr. Levy Switzerland's Medi Luxe. At the heart of the spa are multi-sensory facilities such as the hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, ice waterfall and salt chamber, inviting you to truly unwind.
This temple to relaxation is complemented by 350 m² of sports facilities. A Technogym-equipped fitness center overlooking the ocean, a fitness deck and an athletics track are sure to please even the sportiest athletes. Sunrise yoga classes on the upper deck add a spiritual dimension to physical well-being. Another intoxicating experience is the sound baths, which plunge passengers into a meditative state, suspending time in a cocoon of acoustic harmony.
Haute couture gastronomy
The culinary voyage aboard Explora II is just as captivating. The talent of French chef Franck Garanger and pastry chef Christophe Sapy is expressed in every culinary experience offered on board. The Fil Rouge restaurant, a genuine ambassador of French cuisine, blends tradition and modernity with dishes such as langouste thermidor, and the attentive service enhances each dish, subtly accompanied by the sommelier's delicate suggestions. The Sakura, with its uncluttered decor and Asian inspirations, will appeal to fans of Wagyu beef tataki or exceptional sashimi. Excellence is to be found in the dining room and on the plate, particularly at Anthology, the only additional restaurant on Explora II.
At Med Yacht Club, the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean are celebrated in an atmosphere reminiscent of a yacht moored in Porto Cervo, while meat is king at Marble & Co. Grill. For travelers who prefer a more casual experience, the must-visit Emporium Marketplace keeps the show on the road.
Designed to extend this sensory experience, the 12 bars and lounges are must-see attractions, where passengers can savor both the exceptional bottles presented by smiling, dedicated staff and the company of fellow travelers. In the Malt Whisky Bar, lovers of rare spirits and cigars will find themselves in a hushed atmosphere, while the Explora Lounge offers a 270° panoramic view of the sea, ideal for a sunset cocktail. The Sky Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a drink under the stars.
An invitation to entertainment and exploration
Art and entertainment enthusiasts are not left out. The intimate casino, art gallery and cooking school add a touch of exclusivity to the onboard experience, while the Nautilus Club delights the youngest guests.
The journey is not just aboard Explora II, and the brand promises an experience of exploration. Each port of call is carefully designed, and the next travelers to the Mediterranean will experience exceptional moments. The stopover at the heart of the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix 2025 promises to be iconic. The only boat docked directly in Port Hercule, Explora II will offer a breathtaking view of the track, and travelers will be able to experience total immersion in the excitement of the race thanks to an exclusive partnership.
Towards a sustainable future
Finally, Explora II has benefited from cutting-edge technological innovations to turn the company towards a sustainable future. Certified Green Plus by RINA, the vessel is equipped with underwater noise reduction systems, state-of-the-art energy equipment and the company's commitment to marine conservation.
More than a ship, Explora II is a destination in herself. Explora Journeys delivers on its promise to transform cruising into an exhilarating, serene experience. A model that has been emulated by many, and has led Explora Journeys to order a fleet of four new ships.
Aboard Explora II, every detail, every service and every space reflect a meticulous attention to detail, designed to offer much more than just a stay, but a truly timeless experience. A voyage aboard Explora II is more than just a destination: it's a revelation, an “Ocean State of Mind”.
As a journalist and luxury hotel expert inspired by the men and women who embody it, Vanessa aspires to enhance and sublimate the beauty and elegance of palaces through her writing. "In a palace, simplicity serves the quest for excellence" she admires.
