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We enjoyed the elegance of the poolside ambiance and the feeling of personal space—never once did we have to 'fight' for a spot.
FAMILY ADVENTURE ON BOARD THE EXPLORA I
MULTIGENERATIONAL LUXURY JOURNEY
In July, from the 19th to the 26th, our family embarked on a remarkable voyage aboard Explora I, sailing from Athens to Istanbul with stops in Mykonos, Skiathos, Thessaloniki, and Kavala. It was a week of discovery, luxury, and togetherness. From the moment we found a beautifully prepared suite, complete with a welcome bottle of fine champagne and sweet treats, to the impeccable service, every moment felt uniquely curated to create unforgettable memories.
DINING AND DRINKS: DISTINCT OPTIONS
SAVORING CULINARY EXCELLENCE
Explora I offers several distinct culinary experiences that delighted us daily. We especially enjoyed the variety, from the authentic Neapolitan pizza at the Emporium Marketplace to the exquisite sushi that became a family favorite. Each meal was a testament to Explora Journeys' commitment to world-class dining. The included fine beverages and the complimentary 24-hour in-suite dining options enhanced the overall luxury and satisfaction of our experience.
POOLS AND LOUNGES
SPACE AND ELEGANCE
One of the ship’s standout features is its design, tailored to provide ample space and elegance, even for its size. Explora I boasts four wonderful outdoor pools, an indoor pool, and impressive oversized infinity jacuzzies. We enjoyed the elegance of the poolside ambiance and the feeling of personal space—never once did we have to "fight" for a spot. It was a perfect setting for relaxation and family bonding.
ACTIVE FUN AND FITNESS: A FAMILY EXPERIENCE
ENGAGING ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES
One of the highlights of our voyage was the chance to enjoy various sports and fitness activities together. I particularly loved playing basketball and pickleball with my teenagers, aged 17 and 15, at the open deck courts. The state-of-the-art Technogym fitness facilities, both on the open deck and in the fitness center on Deck 10, were impressive and well-used by our entire family. Our kids also appreciated the PlayStation 5 consoles available at the lovely Nautilus center, dedicated to younger cruisers, making the journey enjoyable and engaging for them as well.
MYKONOS AND KAVALA
EXPLORING STUNNING AND SURPRISING DESTINATIONS
For us, the ports of Mykonos and Kavala were the highlights of our journey. The overnight stay in Mykonos allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in its vibrant nightlife, while Kavala’s Ammolofoi Beach offered an exciting escape with the pristine waters of the Aegean and sandy beaches. Before the cruise, we enjoyed extra nights at the embarkation port of Athens and the debarkation port of Istanbul, adding even more depth to our cultural experience.
GROUP GATHERINGS: CELEBRATING SPECIAL MOMENTS
PRIVATE CELEBRATIONS AND EVENTS
Explora I is not only perfect for intimate family vacations but also excels in hosting larger group events. We observed a multi-generational celebration on board, showcasing the ship’s versatility in creating memorable experiences for any occasion. The entertainment on board was tasteful and engaging, providing a refined alternative to typical Broadway-style shows. With complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and tech-savvy comforts, every aspect of the journey felt modern and sophisticated.
A COSMOPOLITAN EXPERIENCE
OCEAN JOURNEYS
Explora Journeys redefines luxury cruising by offering a vibrant, cosmopolitan experience on the ocean. With European elegance, 5-star dining, ocean wellness experiences, and sophisticated suites with beautiful sea views, Explora I stands out by providing a transformative journey.
Our family’s voyage aboard Explora I was an extraordinary blend of comfort, adventure, and meaningful connections. Whether for personal vacations or group events, Explora I promises a wonderful ocean journey, where every detail is designed to exceed expectations.
My special thanks to Captain Sinisi and all his fabulous hosts—it has been a privilege to be on board the wonderful Explora I