Explora II

I wish I could Explore the whole world (again) with these guys

Explora II is the best copy and paste you will ever see. It’s basically an exact replica of Explora I, with only a few minor tweaks. Is that underwhelming? Nope, not at all. We are talking about one of the best luxury cruise experiences of all time and cloning its style is actually a huge plus.

Explora II offers the same suite types, generous outdoor spaces and outstanding food you loved on Explora I. Both ships are superb and your choice will really come down to price and your favorite itinerary.

What we like about Explora II

Explora Journeys©

There’s a ton to like about this ship. Much like Explora I, Explora II feels like a private yacht, with plenty of outdoor space and an excellent guest-to-crew ratio that ensures there’s always staff ready to help you out. Explora II also has a Kids Club, even if children aren’t that common onboard. 

The main differences from Explora I come down to different color palettes and a few updated chair configurations near the pools. The buffet has also been reconfigured to make it easier to move around. It’s not a major update, but it’s definitely a welcome one.

The food is amazing, as expected from Explora Journeys. This ship offers some of the best restaurants at sea, where even the Emporium Marketplace buffet is better than most specialty restaurants out there. Almost all dining venues onboard are complimentary and included in your cruise fare (except for one), so you can choose between sushi, a nice steak, caviar, or lobster each day.

Staterooms are top-notch as well. Every room onboard is a suite and comes with a private terrace, a spacious bathroom, and a separate sitting area with a sofa that can convert into an extra bed. And that’s just the entry-level suite. The higher-end options give you more perks, extra space, whirlpools on the terrace, and more. Honestly, even the entry suite is better and bigger than most rooms at sea.

Explora II also offers slightly more itineraries than Explora I. It’s the only ship that visits Monaco for the Formula One Grand Prix. I mean, can you imagine being onboard what feels like a private yacht while watching the race from afar? That’s something that basically only exists in movies… or, well, with Explora.

What we don’t like about Explora II

Explora Journeys©

As with Explora I, this isn’t a cheap cruise. Prices for Explora II start at around $10,000 per guest, which is expected from a cruise line that offers so much. Explora Journeys gives you free Wi-Fi, free drinks, complimentary dining at nearly every restaurant, and top-notch service… so what you’re really paying for is that premier experience.

If we have to point out a con on Explora II, it’s the same as Explora I: a lack of night entertainment. You’ll find plenty of live music and small performances, but that’s about it. For such a luxurious and premier cruise line, I expected a bit more - maybe a unique show or something special. I’d also love to see a few more updates compared to Explora I, like a truly unique themed bar or experience that sets it apart.

Conclusion

Explora II is basically the same ship as Explora I, with a few minor updates. You get new color palettes, more seating at the lobby bar, better teapots, and even automated exterior doors on Deck 12. All these small changes make an already excellent ship even better. If you can afford a cruise with Explora, go for it, it’s the experience of a lifetime.

Explora Journeys©