What’s New on EXPLORA III?
With the long-awaited Explora III due to debut in July many are asking what will be new about Explora III and how will she be different to her sisters I and II. As an Explora Journeys expert advisor, I am glad to bring my insider knowledge to you and reveal the major updates coming to Explora with the III.
SHORE CLUB
The biggest news is the new dining venue, the Shore Club on 11, which will be located next to the Conservatory Pool on Deck 11. Exclusive to Explora III and IV the Shore Club is a new ‘relaxed beach-club-style restaurant inspired by carefree summer days by the sea’.
I will be onboard for the launching of Explora III in July and will be interested to see how this casual poolside venue compares to the existing offerings
The Shore Club on 11
BIGGER AND BETTER (FOR THE PLANET)
Explora III (and Explora IV) will be powered by LNG (Liquid Natural Gas). This will improve the environmental friendliness of the ship by reducing well-to-wake greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80%. To accommodate the larger fuel system the ship will be around 65ft (20m) longer than the Explora I and II. Explora uses this additional length on the guest decks for more residence suites. There will overall only be 2 more suites total on the new ships (463 vs. 461). Some of the public spaces are also being expanded. The ship will also feature 2 owners residences, as opposed to the previous one.
OWNER’S DELIGHT
Speaking of the two owners suites, one will be styled similarly to the existing suites on Explora I and II, however one of them will feature an entirely new design. Patricia Urquiola, the Spanish Architect and Designer is the curator of the fresh look for the second Owner’s Residences on both Explora III and IV.
The Fine Dining trio
There is going to be some movement of venues and spaces. The Future Journeys office (previously on Deck 5) is being relocated and will share space in the Lobby with Guest Services. Moving into the gap is the Chef’s Kitchen (which is on Deck 11 on Explora I and II) meaning it will now be next door to a redesigned Anthology. Also joining these venues on Deck 5 is The Wine Cellar, which itself is a unique new space for wine connoisseurs. Uniting these three venues all adjacent to each other makes sense thematically - bringing all three of Explora’s premium gastronomic experiences together.
the Family approach
Explora III will bring an expansion to their kids program, Nautilus. In recognition of the diverse wants of different age groups Nautilus will expand into the space where Chef’s kitchen is on the I and II in order to host two separate clubhouses; Nautilus Club Juniors, and Nautilus Club Teens.
At the center of it all
At the heart of Explora I and II is the iconic Lobby Bar with its iconic staircase. While the concept remains true, the design is completely new, with a sweeping curved staircase now dominating the space. As mentioned previously guest services will now be joined by the Future Journeys team. Either side of this hub are the boutiques which see the return of Rolex and Cartier the introduction of Chopard.
The new Lobby Bar on Explora III
Overlooking from Deck 5 is the redesigned Crema Cafe, maintaining its name and classic service, but with a new elevated look. The overall feel of Explora III’s aesthetic leans more into the brooding sophisticated and moody atmosphere than the previous light, bright and airy designs. Also part of the updated aesthetic will be Fil Rouge with a black and white look, and the Conservatory pool which will lean into the ‘outdoor’ feel that the space brings.
And one final new space being added, which is an outdoor extension of the Cigar Lounge.
See below for the rest of the concept imagery that has been released for Explora III.
As an Explora Journeys expert advisor I am regularly onboard the fleet and am glad to say I will be onboard for the Naming Ceremony this July and Inauguration of Explora III.
Explora III launches July 24th with a Prelude Journey, followed by an Inaugural on August 3rd.
