It’s nothing you would expect and everything you would want.
When Patricia Di Benedetto, Business Relationship Lead, National & Key Accounts Canada for Explora Journeys, heard these words from a guest she immediately knew it would become the perfect way to describe what Explora Journeys was all about. This new luxury ocean experience is changing the way travellers experience cruising.
Throw away your preconceived notions of what the words “cruise ship” conjure up and insert “luxury hotel at sea.” This is the mind set that Explora Journeys wants your clients to have as they step onboard.
From the moment guests enter the lobby and make their way through the ship, the hotel feel is evident, says Di Benedetto. “The gorgeous Lobby Bar, the four pools and their locations, the various culinary venues, the exquisite suite accommodations, and linens.”
All of these carefully designed features mimic the experience one has when they stay at a high-end hotel.
It starts in the lobby but extends and expands the feeling as guests arrive at their suites. At 377 square feet, even the smallest suite is spacious and allows the same level of privacy and personal space one would expect in a large hotel room.
“Luxury is personal…time and space are part of that equation for most guests. The spacious Homes at Sea allow guests to unwind and discover the Ocean State of Mind.” Di Benedetto says. “Discovering the Ocean State of Mind – i.e., connecting with the ocean & oneself – is best accomplished by being as close to the ocean as possible. All guests can relax in their home at sea, on the private terrace, gazing out to the ocean.”
The Ocean State of Mind can be found anywhere on the ship, but mostly in the well-appointed suites.
“Each of our 461 ocean-front suites, penthouses and residences are all designed with a refined, European elegance and are created to bring guests closer to the ocean itself, with floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces. Service is everything so our guests can relax into their comfortable homes at sea with their luggage delivered and a chilled bottle of champagne ready for them to enjoy as they begin their journey with us.” Di Benedetto adds.
With nontraditional arrival times (10:00 am versus the early dawn hours), Explora Journeys allows for a relaxed, less frantic transition from ship to land adventures.
Of course, guests will want to leave their suites to explore the rest of this gorgeous ship, and to indulge themselves in the extensive cuisine options on board. From the Emporium Marketplace for a wide selection of options (including rotating plant-based foods), and on to Sakura, a Pan-Asian themed restaurant. Marble & Co. Grill is a must for their 30-day aged prime rib. Med Yacht Club offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while Fil Rouge takes your clients to the culinary wonders of France.
For an experience fee, Chef’s Kitchen is a culinary adventure where guests can immerse themselves in a unique and interactive dining experience, or experience Anthology, the signature fine-dining experience, elevates Italian cuisine, offering an unparalleled gastronomic adventure. atmosphere.
Casual dining options are also available. That includes Crema Café, where guests can relax and enjoy a selection of artisanal coffees, freshly baked pastries, and light bites, or Gelateria & Crêperie, where guests can satisfy their cravings for both sweet and savoury delights.
Guests looking to maintain or up their fitness level while onboard have the perfect gym venue, with floor-to-ceiling windows and state-of-the-art fitness equipment, plus classes and assessments to stay motivated. The Ocean Wellness program at the spa is the perfect complement.
There are no shortage of experiences and events onboard the EXPLORA I, with experts and talent changing regularly. Go shopping, or just lounge. There is something for everyone.
Smell the sea and feel the sky. Let your soul and spirit fly. — Van Morrison
After all the research, planning, and execution, has the ship’s unique sales proposition impressed travel agents who will be selling it? “You have to sail it to sell it.”, says Di Benedetto.
“EXPLORA I is one of the finest ships I’ve ever been to. The ship is a floating luxury hotel, not merely a ship. The accommodation is extremely comfortable; the food and beverage quality and choice are outstanding. Marble & Co. Grill and Med Yacht Club are my top favourites. The Emporium Marketplace, with its fresh homemade pasta, is second to none. I like the idea that itineraries are shorter for next season. Easier to combine I think. I am definitely a fan of Explora Journeys now.” says Ico Inanc, from Travel Maverick. Alli Allen from Travel Edge agrees. “I can’t begin to express how much I LOVED the journey we just took together! The ship is absolutely stellar in every way! The food was incredible – both in its taste and presentation, and the staff were extremely nice and professional! I am 100% sold on the brand and will be a very enthusiastic cheerleader and seller of your incredible voyages! My friend has sailed on all the 5-star cruise lines, and it was so wonderful to see how each day she fell more and more in love with the brand! Please know that I will propose Explora Journeys to all my cruise clients! I hope to send lots of clients your way.”
EXPLORA I is the first of six Explora ships to be launched in this fleet in the next four years, with EXPLORA II set to launch for sailings in 2024.
Agents should note that commissions and incentives are also paid out at the highest rate, with no NCF’s. Plus, the commission on deposits is paid out within one month, making EXPLORA I & EXPLORA II a destination, and a journey, your clients will want to take.
