Identical to the first vessel launched back in 2023 it's difficult to spot any changes at all. Those looking closely will notice Explora II has a slight change of colour palette in the Journeys Lounge and casino, different soft furnishings around the adults-only Helios pool, and their onboard boutiques include an offering from Buccellati, the first at sea from the Italian brand founded in Milan.
Having heard the increasingly positive reports back from guests and colleagues alike I was looking forward to experiencing Explora for myself and seeing if I could discover my own Ocean State of Mind, the at times elusive philosophy that forms part of the Explora offering.
Taking time to tour the ship I started with the outdoor spaces, of which there are many. The tapered aft allows for two pools, the Atoll Pool & Bar and Astern Pool & Bar which was recently included in the Sunday Times list of best swimming pools at sea. The back of the vessel also features outdoor seating in the Emporium Marketplace, the casual eatery with 18 cooking stations; the Skybar on 14; as well as some of the larger suites, including the Owner's Residence, which stretches the full width of the ship.
The main pool is surrounded by plush loungers and sits under the retractable roof which was open to enjoy the warm September sunshine.
Whirlpools set to the side of the ship here and on the deck above offer panoramic views outwards, as does the adults-only Helios Pool at the front of the vessel, all helping to create a connection with the ocean. This wide range of separate spaces, along with 64 cabanas, made finding a quiet corner easy.
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The six dining venues on Explora II are identical to her sister. The modern European dishes of the Med Yacht Club and the Japanese-inspired Sakura both offered standout dishes including a superb grilled octopus and exquisite Wagyu beef tataki which were divine. In Sakura white cherry blossom blooms over the tables, contrasting the monochrome décor in some of the other venues.
On deck 5 located next to the Galleria D'Arte was the Crema Café, an ever-popular spot during the day, whilst the Horizon's Lounge and adjacent Malt Whiskey bar on deck 11 were ideal for an apéritif, and live entertainment was present in both.
The suites are spacious and it's clear that much thought has gone into their design. The entry-level Ocean Terrace Suites are large (at 35 sqm) with generous outdoor space and supremely comfortable outside furnishings.
Thoughtful touches go so far as a rubber strip on the rail in the walk-in wardrobe that stops the hangers from sliding. And Explora II's spa, at over 10,000 square feet, is of course, as fabulous as her sister's.
This fussing over the details is all part of the Aponte family's passion to create a luxury brand to be proud of. The investment is clear and the commitment to their vision is apparent. Explora II is the second of six ships due to launch before 2028 and construction milestones have already been celebrated on Explora III and IV.
The expanded fleet will bring a larger range of itineraries to accompany the superb voyages to the Mediterranean and Caribbean that are currently on offer, all of which aim to balance time in port with relaxing days at sea.
Much of this is part of an effort to attract a new cruise clientele. A Kids Club caters to families who might usually enjoy a high-end resort, entrepreneurs will appreciate being able to connect three devices to the ship's complimentary WiFi, and the open-seating dining aligns with the best land-based properties.
The floating hotel at sea concept is not new in cruise, but here it is done well and will be taken even further during the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix when the ship will spend six days moored in Monte Carlo's famous harbour, with guests enjoying included grandstand tickets, a host of events, enrichment and even the suggestion of a few surprises. I expect we'll see the line continue to surprise and delight over the coming months.
