“Batting 1,000:” Vanessa Lee Reports on Explora I

I am in a very relaxed and happy place as I sail in the Caribbean from Colon, Panama, to Barbados on the new and very beautiful Explora I from the recently launched luxury cruise line Explora Journeys. There has been a lot of anticipation about this new cruise brand and what its ships would be like – and I am very happy to report the vessel is beyond stunning.

The attention to detail, the fixtures and fittings, the furnishings, the art, the lighting – “the simply everything” – is astonishing. I have been speaking with many other guests this week, and everyone agrees that this is a gorgeous ship; and perhaps even more importantly, the service is superb, and the food is excellent. So far, they are batting 1000.

This cocoon of luxury is a wonderful retreat, and the tranquil, calm atmosphere is much appreciated. The staff numbers 630, and we are sailing with about 500 guests –of a potential 900. Some guests are already on their second and third sailing, which is impressive as the ship was only launched six months ago.

The staff mostly come from hotel backgrounds, many from the Middle East and brands like Kempinski, Jumeirah and Waldorf Astoria. They are amiable, helpful, charming, endearing and on the ball. They are always nearby and keen to serve and engage, and the hotel operation is very well run and overseen by Maarten Smeets as the General Manager. Explora Journeys has got this right, and even though we know it isn’t, there’s an appearance of effortlessness. They are running a very smooth operation here.

The atmosphere is elegance personified, and every little detail is thought of. The shore excursion info can be accessed on the app or TV, but if you want paper, it is presented in a lovely portfolio. The luxurious sensibility permeates everything – as it should - and much to the delight of the guests. Fresh flowers are everywhere, and small touches are noted, too – I love the heated floors in my bathroom and the Dyson hairdryer in a drawer under the dressing table. The walk-in closet has lots of space for two, with ample drawers and hangers. The ports to charge one’s phone, the Illy coffee machine, and the binoculars and water bottles in the suites are lovely.

The Residences are the top accommodations, spacious and beautiful, of course, and there are even marvellous leather game boards for backgammon, chess or checkers in those suites, along with Butlers to care for those guests. I do love a Butler – it feels more special.

We have dined very well in a fine choice of restaurants. Two, Marble & Co and Sakura, require reservations; two others, Fil Rouge and Med Yacht Club, do not. We happily dined in all four, enjoying delicious cuisine and lovely décor in each and the included wines and spirits. Michelin-starred Chefs take over Anthology for a superb gastronomic experience at an upcharge – right now, Emma Bengtsson, a Swedish Chef with a New York City-based restaurant, Aquavit, is the Chef in residence.

There is all-day dining, indoors and out, at the Emporium, a lovely, casual spot with a fantastic choice of cuisine, including Sushi, an excellent pasta station, salads made to order, a carvery, a wok station, and so much more. Champagne is ever present, and one feels very spoiled wherever you might be on the ship. Appropriate music is also everywhere, the entertainment is great and varied, and the outdoor spaces are lovely, as are the various pools and outdoor bars, never noisy or frantic. A calm, peaceful feeling pervades the whole ship, and I love it. Think of a luxury hotel at sea.

I give my heartiest congratulations to all at Explora Journeys and wish them well as they grow their fleet and show their guests what an Ocean State of Mind can feel like. To me it’s a sublime and silky feel of indulgence bathed in sunshine and happiness.