41
Sailing from Venice to Athens onboard EXPLORA I was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment I stepped onboard, it was clear that this was a truly elevated experience, and much of that came down to the exceptional service. From the concierge and housekeeping teams to the restaurant and bar staff, every interaction felt warm, professional and genuinely personal. They remembered our names, our favourite drinks and even where we liked to sit and unwind. Staff seemed to appear precisely when you needed them, delivering a level of intuitive yet unobtrusive service that made every moment feel effortless and unlike anything I’d experienced before. Every restaurant onboard was exceptional. The Emporium Marketplace, the ship’s main restaurant, was far from your typical buffet, with dishes cooked to order and an incredible choice of delicacies. At the Med Yacht Club, the flavours of the Mediterranean were brought beautifully to life, while at Marble & Co.
without ever feeling crowded, whilst whirlpools and private cabanas added to the resort-like atmosphere. As a smaller ship, EXPLORA I can reach beautiful destinations that larger ships simply cannot, offering a more intimate way to experience each place. There was never any need to rush ashore or hurry back onboard; instead, we had the freedom to explore at our own pace, linger over dinner in Dubrovnik and still sail away as late as 11pm. It felt wonderfully relaxed and unhurried, allowing us to settle into the rhythm of each destination rather than simply passing through. After 40 years working in the travel industry, this voyage has redefined what a five-star experience means to me. EXPLORA I isn’t simply a cruise ship; it’s a floating boutique hotel, combining exceptional service with unforgettable experiences. It’s the kind of place where you can truly switch off, slow down and simply savour every moment of the journey.
Grill, we indulged in perfectly cooked steak, expertly paired with a wine recommended by the sommelier. Evenings were made for exploring the ship’s collection of bars, each offering an impressive array of drinks, from expertly crafted cocktails to an extensive selection of spirits. There was even a dedicated whisky bar, the perfect setting for a relaxed nightcap. Entertainment struck just the right note too, with talented singers, engaging shows and soothing piano sets providing the perfect soundtrack to an indulgent evening. The ship’s pool areas were designed with relaxation and indulgence in mind. The main pool deck offered sweeping panoramic views, plush loungers and the perfect opportunity to soak up the sunshine with a cocktail in hand. My favourite spot was the infinity pool, where you could unwind and take in the views
As a smaller ship, EXPLORA I can reach beautiful destinations that larger ships simply cannot, offering a more intimate way to experience each place.
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online