21st Mar 2027 | 8 nights | Explora Journeys | Explora III
Barbados -- or B'dos, as the locals abbreviate the name -- was a British territory until 1966 and remains greatly influenced by the United Kingdom. Brits on holiday make up the largest number of visitors to the island. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, and afternoon tea is a respected ritual. Anglican churches are the anchor of all 11 parishes, although, in recent years, more evangelical churches have become the choice of many Bajuns.
But those of all nationalities will feel at ease there. The Bajuns are open, friendly people, proud to share their home with visitors. There's little crime and a general sense of safety and well-being.
The easternmost of the Caribbean islands, Barbados is technically in the Atlantic Ocean. An excursion to Bathsheba on the rugged eastern shore leaves no doubt about the vast forces of the Atlantic, unchecked for nearly 3,000 miles between there and the coast of Cape Verde, Africa. Some say the freshest air on the planet blows there. The surf looks gentle, but don't be fooled -- the undertow is something to be wary of, even for the best swimmers.
Despite heavy development along the western and southern coasts, the rest of the island is full of sweeping natural vistas, from rippling fields of sugar cane in the interior to the Atlantic surf pounding against the cliffs at the island's northernmost tip. The island rewards independent exploration; rent a car or hire a driver to see its unspoiled side.
Though today the sugarcane fields speak more to the island's past than its present (tourism, not agriculture, now drives the Barbadian economy), visitors can still experience the island's heritage at a number of plantation houses and rum distilleries. If you'd rather skip the history lesson, there are plenty of places to just get away from it all, from Bridgetown's duty-free department stores to the soft, white beaches of the south coast.
Your first look at St. Lucia's lush coast from the deck of a cruise ship is likely to include the island's most dramatic geologic feature: the Pitons, two striking volcanic peaks that rise a half-mile off St. Lucia's southwestern coast. The island's beauty has earned it the nickname "Helen of the West Indies." Though St. Lucia has plenty of visitors (including those from cruise ships and a steady influx of honeymooners), parts of the island have largely remained unspoiled due to the locals' commitment to protecting the rainforests and other natural resources. A decent percentage of the island -- some 19,000 acres -- is protected as part of the St. Lucia National Rain Forest. What development there is on St. Lucia is mostly in the area around Castries, the island's colourful, energetic capital city. It's not picturesque but it's still worth a look, especially if you're in search of duty-free goods or local handicrafts. But to appreciate St. Lucia's natural beauty, rent a car or take a cab out of town. The prettiest part of the island is in the south, and most visitors head there to see the former French colonial capital Soufriere, the lush Diamond Botanical Gardens and the world's only "drive-in" volcano. More options include hiking through the rainforest, snorkelling the sunken wreck off of Anse Cochon and horseback riding along the coast. Settled first by the Arawaks and then the Caribs, St. Lucia became a hotly-contested territory with the arrival of Europeans in the 17th century. The island passed back and forth 14 times between the British and the French until 1814, when the Brits finally took possession for good. Traces of both cultures still remain in the language; many St. Lucians speak both English and a French Creole patois, and it's visible in distinctive place names such as Soufriere, Gros Islet, Rodney Bay and Pigeon Island.
Virgin Gorda ranks as a popular cruise destination because of its white
sands and clear, turquoise seas. Plus, the island is undeveloped enough
to still feel like a private, exclusive place.
One of the most popular and fascinating natural attractions in the
Caribbean is also located here -- a beach strewn with giant boulders
known as The Baths. Brought to the ocean's edge by volcanic activity,
the boulders form caves, grottoes and tidal pools, well worth exploring.
Christopher Columbus spotted the island in 1493, on his second trip to
the New World, and gave Virgin Gorda its name. Looking at the island's
mountain ridge -- and no doubt tired of being at sea with a bunch of
sailors -- he thought what is now called Gorda Peak looked liked the
belly of a reclining chubby woman. Hence, he called it Virgin Gorda, or
"fat virgin" in Spanish.
A no man's land for a time, Virgin Gorda and other British Virgin
Islands were used by pirates as a base for raids on Spanish galleons
(large sailing ships). Capt. William Kidd was among the more notorious.
The British established a sugar trade on the island in the 1700's, but
that ended when Britain abolished slavery in 1838. A copper mine was
opened around the same time and operated for about 24 years before it
was abandoned. The ruins are now part of a national park.
Fishing and farming were the way of life for a century. Then Laurance
Rockefeller, the New York financier and conservationist, came in the
1960's and opened an exclusive eco-resort called Little Dix Bay. By the
1970's, Virgin Gorda was "discovered" as a tourist destination, and
tourism remains the mainstay of the economy.
Only 12 miles from Tortola, the 8.5-square-mile island, with a
population of 3,500, remains remarkably quiet. Most visitors hang out at
swanky private resorts or arrive by private yacht to enjoy some of the
best powder sand beaches in the Caribbean.
Given the rather small geographical scope of the island and the large
number of taxis available, it's a pretty easy place to explore on your
own. Visitors typically are drawn to two main areas of interest --
attractions near Spanish Town at the south end of the island and North
Sound at the other extreme. Offshore, popular attractions include The
Dogs, the marine area protected by the BVI National Parks Trust and
considered to be one of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the
Caribbean -- the waters are teeming with marine life and colorful coral
formations.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
Relax and enjoy the facilities and entertainment onboard your ship. If the weather is good take some sun and sunbathe on the pool deck. Otherwise explore below deck the wide range of activities that will be available during the day. Perhaps you prefer to find a quiet spot and catch up on your reading.
Explora III, the third ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, is set to launch in summer 2026, offering a refined and spacious cruising experience reminiscent of a private yacht. With 463 ocean-front suites, a guest-to-host ratio of 1.25:1, and a design focused on comfort and elegance, the ship promises a luxurious home-away-from-home at sea. Guests can enjoy five heated pools, 12 bars and lounges, and six distinct restaurants, all thoughtfully curated to provide an atmosphere of effortless sophistication.
Explora III offers a variety of activities designed to enrich and entertain guests throughout their journey. The ship features five heated pools, providing ample space for relaxation and leisure. Guests can also explore curated shopping experiences, including luxury boutiques, and participate in wellness programmes that focus on holistic health and rejuvenation. The ship's design encourages a seamless connection with the sea, allowing guests to engage in both active pursuits and tranquil moments.
Culinary excellence is a cornerstone of the Explora III experience, with six restaurants offering a diverse range of global cuisines. Dining venues such as the Marble & Co. Grill and the Asian-fusion Sakura provide guests with a variety of flavours and atmospheres. The ship's wine programme is particularly noteworthy, featuring a selection of hard-to-source wines and older vintages, curated by experts to complement the dining experience. Guests can also participate in wine classes led by professionals, enhancing their appreciation of fine wines.
Accommodation aboard Explora III is designed with comfort and elegance in mind. The Ocean Terrace Suites, among the largest entry-level suites in the industry, feature floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces with dining areas and daybeds, allowing guests to feel closer to the ocean. Each suite includes a lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity, and a bathroom with a walk-in shower and heated floors. Additional amenities such as a replenished minibar, espresso machine, and a complimentary selection of teas and coffees ensure a luxurious stay.
Explora Journeys is best for luxury travellers seeking bespoke experiences, pampering, and exploration aboard intimate ships.
Explora Journeys may not suit budget-conscious travellers seeking economical options. It's tailored for luxury voyagers desiring premium experiences. Those preferring off-the-beaten-path exploration or minimalistic travel may find its offerings excessive.
Explora Journeys cruise ships attract discerning travellers seeking luxury experiences intertwined with cultural immersion. Their clientele typically comprises affluent individuals with a penchant for exploration, aged between 30 to 60, who appreciate fine dining, curated excursions, and personalised service. These voyagers value authenticity, preferring intimate settings over mass tourism, and are often well-travelled, seeking unique destinations and meaningful connections with local communities. Explora Journeys caters to those who crave adventure, comfort, and the opportunity to create lasting memories in elegant surroundings, making it a choice for those who seek refinement and discovery on the high seas.
On an Explora Journeys cruise, there's no formal dress code. While smart casual attire is recommended for dining and public areas, there's no strict requirement for formal wear. Feel comfortable in elegant yet relaxed clothing, suitable for both onboard activities and exploring destinations. Enjoy the freedom to express your style while maintaining a respectful atmosphere onboard.
Explora Journeys cruises offer a nearly all-inclusive experience, covering accommodation, dining, beverages, gratuities, and select shore excursions. However, some premium experiences, such as certain shore excursions, spa treatments, and exclusive dining options, may incur additional charges.
Explora Journeys, renowned for bespoke travel experiences, offers a plethora of captivating activities. Their most sought-after include immersive cultural excursions, where guests engage with local customs and traditions. Nature enthusiasts relish in guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes, discovering hidden gems and wildlife encounters. Culinary delights await with exclusive cooking classes, showcasing regional cuisines. Relaxation is paramount with luxurious spa treatments and wellness retreats, rejuvenating both body and mind. For the adventurous, thrilling water sports and adrenaline-fueled activities provide exhilarating experiences. With meticulous attention to detail, Explora Journeys ensures unforgettable adventures tailored to every traveller's desires.
Why do we love these cruise holiday? Start planning your dream getaway for 2027 today with this collection of cruise itineraries. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach escape, a cultural city adventure, or an unforgettable cruise experience, now is the perfect time to lock in your dream vacation. By booking well in advance, you’ll enjoy the flexibility of spreading the cost over time, making it easier to save for the holiday of a lifetime. Not only will you secure great prices, but you’ll also have first choice of your cruise accommodation. Plus, booking ahead means you’ll have more time to plan every detail to perfection, ensuring a stress-free and truly memorable trip.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to get a head start on your 2027 holiday. Book today and start looking forward to the adventure of a lifetime!
Our Ocean Terrace Suites are amongst the largest entry-level suites in the industry. Each one has floor-to-ceiling windows, and a private sun terrace featuring a dining table and a daybed, allowing guests to feel closer to the ocean as it carries them on their journey.
All Ocean Terrace Suites include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas, and feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.
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Our Ocean Grand Terrace Suites are situated on decks 6 and 7, offering a more spacious private sun terrace featuring a dining table and a daybed, allowing guests to savour the ocean from the comfort of their daybed.
All Ocean Grand Terrace Suites include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas, and feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.
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* Some suites with bathtubs and accessible features
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Maximum capacity: 2 adults and 1 child under 18 years old
*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Each of our Penthouses offers a spacious living area and a separate dining area for four, allowing guests to entertain others or retreat in style as they see fit. Floor-to ceiling doors lead onto an expansive private sun terrace with a dining table and a daybed for ultimate relaxation at sea.
All Penthouses include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas, and feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Flooded with light from the floor-to-ceiling oversized windows, the Deluxe Penthouses offer elegant accommodation and a stylish living area, a separate dining area for four, as well as a work space. The private sun terrace with a dining table and a daybed allows guests to feel closer to the ocean as it carries them on their journey.
All Deluxe Penthouses include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas, and feature spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area.
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*Some suites with bathtubs and accessible features
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The light-filled, luxurious Premier Penthouses are designed for withdrawing in style or entertaining other guests – at a dining table laid for four, in the stylish living area and on the private sun terrace featuring a dining table area and a daybed overlooking the ocean.
All Premier Penthouses include elegant lounge areas, a separate bedroom with spacious walk-in wardrobe and a seated vanity area, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
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*Some suites with bathtubs and accessible features
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The most spacious of our Ocean Penthouses, the Grand Penthouses offer elegant spaces with a separate stylish living area, a comfortable work space, a dining area for four, as well as a separate bedroom with sea views and a spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area. The private sun terrace allows guests to unwind and savour the ocean, in the company of friends or one another, featuring a dining table and a daybed.
All Grand Penthouses include elegant lounge areas, private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
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*Some suites with bathtubs and accessible features
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the effortlessly elegant spaces of the Cove Residences featuring a stylishly decorated living area, a calm work space, a comfortable dining area for four, as well as a separate bedroom with sea views and a spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area. Sofas and chairs are by Molteni & C and the sophisticated lighting solutions are designed by Astep. The private sun terrace allows guests to unwind and savour the ocean featuring a dining table and sun loungers.
Each Cove Residence includes butler services provided by our Residence Hosts, a private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
Features
Oversized floor-to-ceiling windows with views of the sea
Spacious lounge area
Dining table for 4 guests
In-suite welcome bottle of champagne
Private refrigerated minibar, replenished according to the guests’ preferences from a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
Espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas
Complimentary personal refillable water bottle for each guest
Pair of binoculars for guests’ use during their journey
Technogym Case Kit with a smart range of fitness gear
Safe accommodating most tablets and laptops
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Spacious bathroom with walk-in shower and heated floors
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For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the effortlessly elegant spaces of the Cove Residences featuring a stylishly decorated living area, a calm work space, a comfortable dining area for four, as well as a separate bedroom with sea views and a spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area. Sofas and chairs are by Molteni & C and the sophisticated lighting solutions are designed by Astep. The private sun terrace allows guests to unwind and savour the ocean featuring a private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers.
Each Cove Residence includes butler services provided by our Residence Hosts, a private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
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Spacious oceanfront terrace with private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table and sun loungers or a daybed
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Bathroom
*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
Our luxurious Retreat Residences offer oversized floor-to-ceiling windows leading onto a spacious sun terrace with a private whirlpool, as well as full spectacular views of the ship's forward part, featuring a privileged view of her navigation to celebrated and off-the-beaten path destinations.
For a true sense of being at home at sea, experience the effortlessly elegant spaces of the Retreat Residences include a stylishly decorated living area, a calm work space, a comfortable dining area for four, as well as a separate spacious bedroom with sea views and a spacious walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area. Sofas and chairs are by Molteni & C and the sophisticated lighting solutions are designed by Astep.
Each Retreat Residence includes butler services provided by our Residence Hosts, a private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
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Abundant in space and light, the elegant Serenity Residences feature oversized floor-to-ceiling windows leading onto the expansive panoramic terrace on the ship's aft, including magnificent ocean views, a private outdoor whirlpool, a dining table, relaxing sun beds and a comfortable outdoor lounge designed by Molteni & C.
The Serenity Residences feature a large stylishly decorated living area, a comfortable dining area for four, with sofas and chairs by Molteni & C and sophisticated lighting solutions designed by Astep, as well as a comfortable working space. The separate spacious bedroom with sea views includes a walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area and an en-suite luxurious marble bathroom sculpted of precious Calacatta marble, with a bathtub and separate shower.
Each Serenity Residence includes butler services provided by our Residence Hosts, a private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
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Luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub, a separate walk-in shower room and heated floors
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Our Cocoon Residences are amongst the most spacious of our Ocean Residences, featuring oversized floor-to-ceiling windows leading onto the expansive panoramic terrace on the ship's coveted aft deck. Here, guests can drink in the spectacular views from their private whirlpool, relax in sun beds or the comfortable outdoor lounge designed by Molteni & C, or enjoy dinner overlooking the ocean.
The Cocoon Residences feature a large stylishly decorated living area, a comfortable dining area for four, with sofas and chairs by Molteni & C and sophisticated lighting solutions designed by Astep, as well as a comfortable working space. The separate spacious bedroom with sea views includes a walk-in wardrobe with a seated vanity area and an en-suite luxurious marble bathroom sculpted of precious Calacatta marble, with a bathtub and separate shower. The suite also features an additional guest powder room.
Each Cocoon Residence includes butler services provided by our Residence Hosts, a private refrigerated mini bar – replenished according to the guests’ preferences, espresso machine, kettle and tea pot with a complimentary selection of coffee and teas.
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Luxurious marble bathroom with a bathtub, a separate walk-in shower room and heated floors
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The iconic Owner’s Residence creates the largest living space on-board, with multiple harmonious indoor and outdoor spaces in which to relax, entertain and unwind, including dedicated private butler services by the Residence Manager.
Stand in awe of the panoramic ocean views from your expansive private terrace – extending over the full ship's aft width – with a spacious infinity whirlpool and elegant outdoor dining and lounging areas exquisitely designed by Manutti.
Every aspect of the ambiance of the Owner’s Residence reflects the meticulous curation of all details, conscious at all times of our commitment to sustainability; curated and handpicked decorative elements, sofas and chairs are by Knoll and Molteni & C, and sophisticated lighting solutions designed by Astep.
The Owner's Residence features an expansive stylishly decorated living area, a comfortable dining area for eight guests, a separate spacious bedroom with sea views, including a comfortable working space, an en-suite luxurious marble bathroom sculpted of precious Calacatta marble, with a bathtub a separate shower, a private steam room, and a walk-in wardrobe. The suite also features an additional guest powder room.
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Dedicated private butler services by the Residence Manager
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Luxurious marble double vanity bathroom
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*All images are a combination of photography and artist renderings.
The artist representations and interior decorations, finishes, and furnishings are provided for illustrative purposes only.
