Cruise & Ferry Review - Autumn/Winter 2021

4 1 “People loved the idea of a cruise experience that empowers them to reconnect with themselves, while at the same time enabling them to meet like- minded individuals and develop deep connections with the destinations and the local communities they visit,” says Ungerer. “Consequently, we aspire to deliver a unique form of ocean cruising that will attract discerning travellers, put them in an ocean state of mind and turn them into adventurous explorers.” To achieve this ambition, Explora Journeys has invested around €2 billion ($2.32 billion) to build a fleet of four 900-guest ships, which will enter service one per year between 2023 and 2026. There are also plans for additional vessels in future. “We’re taking a long-term approach to ensure Explora Journeys becomes a successful global brand, gradually increasing the size of our fleet and the length and breadth of our itineraries until we have a wide mix of international travellers and visit destinations worldwide,” says Ungerer. “The first two, EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, are already under construction at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.” Created in partnership with renowned superyacht and luxury hospitality designers, EXPLORA I will “blend elegant Swiss precision with modern European craftsmanship” and feature onboard spaces designed with water as a focal point to reinforce the ocean state of mind. The ship will span 14 decks and boast 461 oceanfront suites and residences with floor-to-ceiling windows and private terrace. The suites will start at 35 square metres, making them among the most spacious for the category in the industry. EXPLORA I will feature several indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, as well as nine distinct restaurants offering flexible dining times and dishes made with ingredients sustainably sourced from local partners. There will also be an indoor/outdoor spa and fitness area where guests will be able to enjoy bespoke wellness experiences and participate in group classes or personal training sessions. Other onboard highlights will include a promenade deck with indoor and outdoor whirlpool baths, a pool with a retractable “ We hope to reinvent the classic cruise experience” Explora Journeys’ new EXPLORA I will debut in May 2023 and sail itineraries designed to offer guests more time to explore destinations