Rave Review: Caribbean Cruise with Explora Journeys
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
My wife, Barb and I boarded the Explora I, a new entry in the MSC family, at the Miami Cruise Port in mid-December 2023 and were welcomed with champagne served by exquisitely nice ship employees. The ship’s ambiance provides a photographer’s paradise. We took dozens of photos just on Deck 5, the boarding deck, before we took the elevator to Deck 11 for a light lunch at the Emporium Marketplace, which is so expansive with every buffet selection imaginable, that it consumes most of the real estate on the deck."
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
“In discussion with some of the staff, we all agreed that it would have been fun to have been one of the architects who designed the Explora I and all of its beautifully appointed public areas and rooms. Back to Deck 5 for some relaxation at the Crema Cafe, which has 6 coffee machines, an enormous assortment of finger foods, and is the largest coffee cafe on any ship we've cruised on. A favorite place for a light breakfast and coffee after dinner. The ceiling is studded with vertical wood blocks and randomly recessed lighting areas: very Avant Garde!”
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
“After unpacking we enjoyed a “Happy Hour” at the faux marble bar in the beautiful contemporarily designed spacious Lobby 4. A piano player entertained us from the top of the lighted staircase"
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
Dinner at the Med Yacht Club (one of six restaurants offering 11 culinary experiences) was wonderful; the ambience, the service, and our sea bass and filet mignon were superb. And the choices of wines! The wall hangings and model boats enhanced the experience: we felt like we were dining in an exclusive yacht club.
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
After dinner, we enjoyed a wonderful performance delivered by a male and female singer and their 4-piece accompanying band. The setting was Explora Lounge 11, a thoroughly posh, modern theater like one would find off Broadway.”
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
“We were in no hurry getting out of our comfy bed the first morning, so we had a late brunch. The veggie lasagna and mango sorbet were to die for.”
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
"Trivia in the Astern Lounge 5 was a highlight each afternoon.”
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
“We enjoyed our excursions at each of the ports: Basseterre, Nevis & St. Kitts, Samana, Dominican Republic, Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda, San Juan, and Ocean Caye. At each port, we were able to "get off the beaten path" and partake in the culture with the locals.”
Photographed by Russ Vanderbeek
“A highlight was Ocean Caye, their private island. Outdoor bars, a nice walking path around the entire island offering spectacular views of the lighthouse and surrounding turquoise water and kayaking and other water sports kept us busy! Back in Miami, where our cruise began, we had time to visit Little Havana before catching our flight home.”
Interested in traveling with Explora Journeys? Contact one of our Travel Consultants! Call us today at 314-439-5700
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