Sailing Explora I: My Luxury Cruise Through the Southern Caribbean
By Amy Z, Bursch Travel | Traveled December 2023
An 18-hour travel day from Minneapolis might sound exhausting, but when it ends with the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Barbados, I can tell you it’s 100% worth it!
In December 2023, I boarded Explora I with Explora Journeys for a seven-night Southern Caribbean cruise. I was excited to explore the islands, but I was just as curious to experience this luxury cruise line firsthand.
Between hiking a volcano, swimming with stingrays, and enjoying some incredible food and service onboard, this trip was one to remember! And if you’re considering an Explora Journeys cruise yourself, there’s an added benefit to booking with Bursch Travel that I’ll share below.
Life Aboard Explora I: Luxury at Sea
From the moment I stepped onboard, I was impressed. Explora I is absolutely stunning!
With 461 oceanfront suites and accommodations for approximately 922 guests at double occupancy, Explora I offers a more intimate experience than many of the larger cruise ships.
Everything felt thoughtfully designed, from the beautiful outdoor spaces to the attention given to every guest. We enjoyed some of the best food we’ve ever had, the service was outstanding, and the nightly entertainment was so impressive.
Explora Journeys describes its philosophy as an Ocean State of Mind, and after spending a week onboard, I understood what that meant.
What I especially loved was the contrast between our adventurous days ashore and the comfort waiting for us when we returned to the ship.
Take a Look Inside Explora I
From the inviting pool areas and spacious outdoor decks to the stylish entertainment spaces, Explora I has so many beautiful places to relax and enjoy your vacation.
And there’s nothing quite like having your own private terrace to enjoy the ocean views!
Here are a few photos to give you a closer look at life aboard Explora I. You can also see more from my cruise on Instagram.
St. Lucia: Incredible Views and Volcanic Springs
St. Lucia was absolutely breathtaking!
From the towering Pitons to the beautiful scenery around Marigot Bay, this island has some of the most stunning views I’ve ever witnessed.
I also had the opportunity to visit Jade Mountain, a spectacular luxury resort overlooking the Pitons. Seeing one of its incredible sanctuaries in person was a highlight.
We also took a dip in the island’s volcanic sulfur springs, which left our skin feeling buttery soft.
Between the scenery, resort visit, and sulfur springs, it was a fantastic day ashore!
St. Kitts: A Challenging Hike Up Mount Liamuiga
St. Kitts gave us a run for our money—literally!
We tackled a hike up Mount Liamuiga, climbing approximately 2,000 feet over some of the roughest terrain I’ve ever experienced.
I wish I could tell you the views from the summit made every step worth it, but fog covered the entire valley below!
Maybe next time. 😅
Even without the view, reaching the top was exciting and rewarding. Just know that this is a challenging excursion, not a leisurely nature walk.
Antigua: Stingrays, Shopping, and Beach Time
After our adventure in St. Kitts, a relaxing day in Antigua was exactly what we needed.
Our first stop was Stingray City, where we got to interact with free-swimming stingrays in the ocean.
These magnificent creatures stole my heart! I even made a new friend named Lulu.
The stingrays aren’t kept in tanks. They’re free to swim away, although they’ve become accustomed to approaching when boats arrive.
Afterward, we wandered through a local market before spending the afternoon at Dickenson Beach.
It was the perfect island day—a little adventure, a little shopping, and plenty of time by the water.
Would I Sail with Explora Journeys Again?
Absolutely!
From the incredible food and attentive service to the adventures we experienced throughout the Southern Caribbean, this was a cruise I’d happily recommend.
What I loved most was being able to spend the day exploring somewhere new and return to a beautiful ship where everything felt taken care of.
Thinking about your own Explora Journeys cruise? I’d love to help you find the right sailing, choose your suite, and see whether your trip qualifies for our $300 shipboard credit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys includes many amenities that travelers may pay extra for on other cruise lines, including multiple dining experiences, premium beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities, and access to the spa’s thermal area.
All accommodations are oceanfront suites with private terraces. Certain specialty experiences, shore excursions, and spa treatments may cost extra.
After spending a week aboard Explora I, I can see the appeal!
For me, the exceptional dining, attentive service, beautiful accommodations, and relaxed atmosphere made the experience special.
If you value those things and want the ship itself to be a highlight of your vacation, I think Explora Journeys is well worth considering.
Explora Journeys feels more like a luxury resort at sea than a traditional cruise ship.
With fewer than 1,000 guests at double occupancy, Explora I offers a more intimate setting than many large contemporary ships. The focus is on spacious suites, excellent dining, personalized service, and time to relax.
If you prefer a quieter cruise experience over the crowds and attractions of a mega-ship, Explora Journeys could be a great fit.
There are no traditional formal nights! During the day, the atmosphere is relaxed. In the evening, the suggested style is elevated resort casual, especially in restaurants and lounges.
You can enjoy a sophisticated cruise experience without needing to pack formal gowns or tuxedos.
Yes! I think Explora Journeys could be a wonderful option for families who want to travel together while still enjoying their own space. Explora I offers connecting suites, making it easier for grandparents, parents, and children to stay close while maintaining privacy.
There’s also a Nautilus Club for children and teens ages 6–17, with games and activities for younger guests. Children ages 3–5 can participate during designated times with a parent or guardian.
I especially like the idea of everyone enjoying their own activities during the day, then coming together for dinner or a shared experience ashore.
That said, Explora Journeys has a more relaxed, sophisticated atmosphere than a traditional family-focused cruise line. If your family is looking for waterslides and nonstop onboard attractions, another cruise line might be a better fit.
But for families who appreciate great dining, beautiful accommodations, and exploring new destinations together, it’s absolutely worth considering.
Choosing the right luxury cruise is about more than picking a destination. Your itinerary, suite, and onboard experience all make a difference. After sailing aboard Explora I myself, I can help you understand what to expect, compare itineraries, and choose the experience that best fits your travel style.
And there’s an extra benefit to booking with Bursch Travel!
Receive a $300 per couple shipboard credit on select Explora Journeys sailings of 7 nights or longer when you book with Bursch Travel.
Offer applies to select eligible sailings. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Ask your Bursch Travel advisor for details.
