Monaco played host last week to the glittering arrival of Explora II, the latest vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet. More boutique resort than cruise liner, the ship’s opulence, sheer scale and culinary ambition have set an exciting new tone for the future of ultra-luxury travel by sea.
When Explora II edged into Monaco’s port last week, it was hard to ignore its superyacht silhouette. But unlike most yachts moored in the Principality, this one houses up to 922 guests in spacious ocean-view suites and residences.
The scale is immense, yet the feel is distinctly intimate. With 16,600 square metres of public space, four swimming pools, and 11 culinary venues, the ship operates more like a luxury resort than a traditional cruise liner.
Every detail dialled to decadence
Cabins aboard Explora II start from a generous 35 square metres, all with private terraces. Suites are fitted with indulgent touches like marble bathrooms, Dyson hairdryers, and walk-in wardrobes.
The pièce de résistance? The Owner’s Residence, stretching over 280 square metres and including a steam room, ocean-wide terrace and butler service.
Prices for the experience begin at around €5,000 per person for a one-week voyage, with upper-tier suites climbing far higher.
Global cuisine, sea views included
Food is at the heart of the Explora experience. Guests can pick from six à la carte restaurants and an international food court that could rival any metropolitan gourmet hall.
The Emporium Marketplace alone features 18 separate cooking stations, while restaurants such as Med Yacht Club, Anthology, and Marble & Co. Grill serve up everything from Mediterranean classics to perfectly marbled steaks.
It’s a moveable feast in the truest sense, floating between ports with the world on a plate.
Wellbeing at full speed
Unlike most cruise ships, where fitness centres are hidden away, Explora II makes health and wellness central to the journey.
The ship features a panoramic walking and running track, expansive spa and thermal suite, a pickleball court, and a range of classes for both group and personal training.
It’s a full-body reset wrapped in teak decks and sea breezes.
Green credentials meet grandeur
Beyond the grandeur, Explora II is also making strides in sustainability. The ship is free of single-use plastics and fitted with smart energy systems, from LED lighting to advanced wastewater treatments.
A commitment to ocean stewardship is as much a part of the journey as the Champagne and caviar.
Explora II’s arrival in Monaco wasn’t just another port call, it was a statement. One that suggests the future of cruising is quieter, sleeker, and far more luxurious.
See more of Explore II in Cassandra Tanti’s video reel below, and scroll down to see more in the photo gallery.
View this post on Instagram
All photos courtesy Explora Journeys.
Monaco Life is produced by a team of real multi-media journalists writing original content. See more in our free newsletter, follow our Podcasts on Spotify, and check us out on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Tik Tok.