Explora I is the first of six ships from Explora Journeys, the privately-owned luxury lifestyle brand of the MSC Group. It will make its inaugural journey in May 2023, promising to take travellers on a unique culinary journey as part of the line’s mission to redefine ocean travel.

Luxury clients can choose from six restaurants, a cooking masterclass kitchen and in-suite dining. Each option celebrates a range of culinary talents and the diverse offering makes it ideal for couples, multigenerational groups and solo travellers. 

A bold new vision 

Franck Garanger, head of culinary at Explora Journeys, says a cruise with the line offers much more than the opportunity to travel the world. He explains: "We also see it as a way for our guests to taste it too, actively discovering new cuisines and experiences. Set to deliver refined dining experiences that embrace authenticity and sustainability, we ensure each guest leaves with memories of their culinary journey onboard, being the finest at sea.” 

Discover more about Explora Journeys’ culinary and beverage philosophy in this video: 

To inspire your clients, here are seven dining venues where they can enjoy dishes created by global cooking talents, using the finest ingredients sourced by local partners: 

1. Anthology

True to its name, Anthology curates menus that showcase a collection of cuisines. Guest chefs from across the world are invited to use the restaurant as a stage to display their talents and top culinary masterpieces, and wine pairings are also available.   

2. Marble & Co. Grill 

Head to Marble & Co. Grill for the ultimate European steakhouse experience. The restaurant serves a range of exceptional cuts, all of which have been carefully sourced and sustainably farmed. It also boasts an in-house dry ager and a wine cellar.

3. Med Yacht Club 

The Med Yacht Club is inspired by sophisticated, beachside Mediterranean restaurants, offering flavours from Italy, Spain, Greece and France. The wine list is sourced from Mediterranean vineyards, and fresh juices and cocktails are created using regional ingredients.

4. Sakura 

Expect an immersive dining experience at Sakura, which represents Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese and Malaysian cuisine. The restaurant boasts expansive ocean views and a bold design with Japanese cues, including modern Asian music. Look out for the Asian-influenced beverages, with a sake sommelier on hand to suggest the perfect drink. 

5. Emporium Marketplace 

Enjoy all-day dining from 18 separate cooking stations in Emporium Marketplace. They offer cuisine from across the globe, including sushi, fresh seafood and a daily rotisserie with grilled, roasted and slow-cooked meats. Pasta is cooked to order, and guests can enjoy sandwiches and freshly baked pizzas and bread, while also choosing items from the charcuterie, fromagerie, boulangerie and patisserie stations.  

6. Fil Rouge

Fil Rouge means “red thread”, and it promises a global tasting tour of French-inspired international cuisine. Designed as a sophisticated and intimate restaurant, it features an elegant dessert cart and expansive wine selection. 

7. The Chef’s Kitchen

Alongside savouring fine cuisine in the ship’s dining venues, guests can also learn how to create dishes themselves by joining a cooking class at the Chef’s Kitchen. The ocean-front private kitchen caters to just 12 guests, who are led by expert culinary guides as they learn about new ingredients, flavours, textures and cultures. 

Unlimited luxury

Dining in the majority of the ship’s elegant restaurants is included, however an experience fee is charged for Anthology and the Chef’s Kitchen.