Latest news with #ExploraJourneys
Telegraph
21 hours ago
- Business
- Telegraph
Five essential things to know before boarding an Explora Journeys ship
If you think cruising means corny entertainment, greasy buffets and lengthy bridge contests, then chances are you haven't experienced Explora Journeys yet. Inspired by the sleek design of private yachts, this new kid on the block wants to inspire those who 'don't do cruises' to give holidays-at-sea a try. This ethos is reflected in the line's choice of terminology, with 'guests' rather than 'passengers', and 'hosts' instead of 'crew'. Explora Journeys, the ultra-luxury arm of the MSC Group, sees its ships more as high-end hotels that just happen to be on water, as evidenced by the Buccellati boutiques, marble bathrooms and Emilio Isgrò artwork on board. The brand has also made a deliberate decision to hire staff from a luxury hospitality background wherever possible, so don't be surprised when intuitive employees (there's an impressive ratio of 1.25:1 guest-to-crew) remember your name or your favourite drink. What's more, Explora Journeys is truly all-inclusive, so you don't have to worry about forking out extra for drinks, food, fitness classes, tips or Wi-Fi. In short, the brand has attained its goal of offering all the trappings of the world's leading luxury hotels – a sophisticated aesthetic, first-class service and superlative restaurants and bars – on the high seas. 1. Where does Explora Journeys cruise? Explora I will sail the Mediterranean until November 2025, when she will then reposition to the Red Sea and Arabian Peninsula for winter 2025-2026. Sister ship, Explora II, will spend summer 2025 in the Mediterranean and winter 2025-2026 in the Eastern Caribbean. Explora III which, as the name suggests, is the third ship in the line's growing fleet, will debut in summer 2026 and offer itineraries throughout northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland before making its way to North America 's east coast. For the winter 2026/27 season, the ship will shift to Miami, where it will embark on a series of Caribbean itineraries. While the line emphasises longer itineraries that visit lesser-known ports, and then stay late/overnight, it has also introduced regular, shorter seven night journeys for those who have limited time. In addition, Explora offers what it terms 'experiences' as opposed to 'excursions'. These include a meeting with an astronaut from Nasa in Florida and a hike along the Tet Paul nature trail in St Lucia to see the island's icons – the Unesco-protected Pitons. 2. Who does Explora Journeys appeal to? New-to-cruise guests who are attracted to the brand for what it is not: blaring night clubs, blingy casinos and petty extra charges. That being said, while the line isn't looking to attract passengers from other cruise lines, it would nonetheless appeal to fans of small ship, luxury cruising offered by the likes of Seabourn, Silversea, and Crystal – as well as those who have stayed in ship-within-a-ship venues on mainstream lines and are looking to try something new. Explora Journeys – as its name alludes – is also a good choice for anyone looking for a little more from their annual leave than merely sitting by a pool all day. Itineraries blend well-known destinations, such as Athens, with lesser-travelled ports, and offer guests the opportunity to feel part of the place they are visiting. Small-group trips are led by local experts who know that the most memorable and magical experiences are often about meeting the community, rather than simply tickling off the blockbuster sights. 3. Explora Journey's fleet Explora Journeys currently has two ships in its fleet with four more – Exploras III, IV V, and VI – slated to follow over the next few years. Explora II (922 passengers) From a distance, the line's newest ship, Explora II, resembles a superyacht (perhaps not a surprise, given that its aquiline profile was crafted by veteran British yacht designer Martin Francis). Step on board, however, and it's like walking into a five-star resort. Expect a glittering white-and-gold, double-height lobby bar with a back-lit drinks wall; the open-air Sky Bar; bespoke artwork by Emilio Isgrò and Yves Dana dotted around the decks; four swimming pools – one with a retractable rooftop; numerous hot tubs; and upmarket shops in the shape of Piaget, Panerai, Cartier and Buccellati. Elsewhere, the cabins are all suites – starting at a spacious 35 square metres for an entry-level Ocean Terrace Suite. This comes equipped with a king size bed, Frette linens, Steiner binoculars, a walk-in dressing area featuring a Dyson hairdryer, marble bathroom with underfloor heating and bespoke Mandala Blue toiletries; plus a separate living area leading to a terrace with a supremely comfortable Manutti daybed. Explora I (922 passengers) The first ship from Explora Journeys is almost identical to its sibling. Four pools are complemented by numerous whirlpools, while extensive workout areas – indoor and out – have Technogym equipment. Spread over 14 decks, you'll find a spacious spa whose inviting thermal areas – including a salt cave, vitality pool and experiential showers – are free to access on port days, as well as extensive workout areas filled with swanky Technogym equipment. The ship has 12 bars and six restaurants: standouts include the pan-Asian Sakura where you can watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen, Marble & Co (a smart steakhouse) and Emporium Marketplace – Explora's upmarket take on the buffet. All dining venues are included in the fare, with the exception of Anthology – three Michelin star Italian chef Mauro Uliassi's first restaurant at sea. Entertainment is low-key with a pianist tinkling at a Steinway in the lobby bar, while West End and Broadway veterans perform songs from everyone's favourite musicals and movies in Journeys Lounge. 4. Loyalty scheme In April 2025, Explora Journeys revealed a new loyalty programme. The Explora Club has five tiers and allows guests to earn points that can then be converted into perks such as priority service and access to exclusive events, or used towards future sailings. 5. Access for guests with disabilities The line has fully-accessible suites and, in certain ports, offers accessible destination experiences. Explora Journeys asks that: 'Any guests in need of special services during their journey, or needing to travel with medical apparatus, including wheelchairs, motorised scooters or oxygen therapy [...] please notify us in writing prior to final payment becoming due.'
USA Today
5 days ago
- USA Today
Are cruises all-inclusive? These 7 brands are
Are cruises all-inclusive? These 7 brands are Show Caption Hide Caption How to find the best price, perks when booking a cruise Find the cruise that works for your budget with these tips. Problem Solved Many cruise lines offer food-and-beverage packages and other inclusive options, but only a few can accurately claim to be all-inclusive. That means everything onboard, from specialty restaurants and alcoholic beverages, to Wi-Fi and gratuities, is wrapped up into the fare. Some take it a step further, covering extras like airfare and shore excursions. All-inclusive cruises cost a pretty penny but offer ultra-pampering experiences, often on itineraries that visit lesser-traveled destinations. They also won't leave you with surprise charges on your bill. I've rounded up the best all-inclusive cruises, whether you're considering a family cruise line or a romantic getaway at sea. 1. Explora Journeys With some of the largest luxury ships at sea, Explora Journeys affords more space while upholding highly attentive, personalized service – a hallmark of all-inclusive cruises. Its all-suite ships also feel more relaxed, while three heated outdoor pools never seem to feel crowded. Explora Journeys embraces families and offers myriad kid-friendly amenities to make them feel comfortable. EXPAND YOUR OPTIONS: 12 best family cruise lines for all ages What's included: Nine dining experiences, unlimited drinks, use of the spa's thermal facilities, fitness programs, gratuities, port shuttles, Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry Family-friendly features: Nature-themed Nautilus Club for ages 5 to 17, kids' suite amenities like mini-bath robes and slippers, and excursions designed specifically for families 2. Regent Seven Seas When Regent's Seven Seas Explorer debuted in 2016, it made a splash with the 'world's most expensive suite.' The famed Regent Suite has since become even more lavish, and the line continues to expand on what it claims to be the most inclusive cruising experience, thanks to new dining venues and all-suite accommodation categories. What's included: Round-trip airfare (in business class for cruises that embark from an overseas departure port), airport-to-ship transfers, one night in a pre-cruise hotel, 24-hour room service, open bar, gratuities, Wi-Fi, laundry service, and unlimited shore excursions Family-friendly features: Supervised Club Mariner programming for age groups 5 to 8, 9 to 12, and 13 to 17, based on demand (no separate kids' club) 3. Crystal Everyone is treated like royalty on Crystal, which includes butler service as a standard for all suite categories. The all-inclusive cruise line and its two ships come with decades of stories – including ownership changes that most recently landed it in the hands of Abercrombie & Kent in 2023. Despite their older ages, the ships feel fresh and modern, with classic palatial touches. What's included: All dining (at least one complimentary reservation in each specialty restaurant), including a restaurant helmed by Michelin-Star Chef Nobu Matsuhisa; unlimited drinks; butler service; gratuities; Wi-Fi; and laundry services Family-friendly features: Waves and Fantasia kids' programming for ages 3 to 17, on select sailings, as well as babysitting services 4. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection You can use Marriott Bonvoy points to book your cruise on a Ritz-Carlton yacht (and earn them, too), where everything is included. There are still plenty of opportunities to spend more on fine wines, a dinner and wine-pairing venue, spa treatments, and other luxuries. With shorter itineraries and a casual vibe, the ships draw more families and younger couples than other all-inclusive lines. WANDERLUST: These magical destinations are even better when visited by cruise ship What's included: All meals (except for one restaurant), most drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, use of the marina and watersports equipment, select fitness classes Family-friendly features: Dedicated Ritz Kids club geared toward ages 4 to 12, as well as board games, craft supplies, toys, and other family-friendly activities in the lounge 5. Seabourn Cruises All-inclusive cruises on Seabourn have a distinct country club vibe. Carrying just a few hundred passengers per ship, each of Seabourn's all-suite vessels emphasize comfort, intimacy, and perhaps most of all, food. All onboard restaurants – plus caviar and Champagne on demand – are covered. This includes The Grill by renowned celebrity chef, Thomas Keller. Seabourn also covers some excursions on its expedition cruises. What's included: All meals, unlimited drinks (including premium wine and spirits), gratuities, laundry, use of watersports equipment, some shore excursions Family-friendly features: None, but kids are welcome as long as they are at least 6 months old (or 1 year on transatlantic crossings or itineraries with more than two consecutive sea days) 6. Ecoventura The only destination-specific cruise line on this list earns recognition for its intentional inclusions that add value to the onshore experience. Ecoventura sails the Galapagos exclusively, and being Ecuadorian-founded, it brings expertise and local connections that mainstream cruise lines don't. Three 20-passenger expedition ships underpinned by Relais & Chateaux brand standards offer an intimate adventure for any age. What's included: All meals, open bar, guided shore excursions twice a day, Wi-Fi, access to two Zodiacs and a glass-bottom boat, kayaks and paddleboards, in-port transfers Family-friendly features: Onboard enrichment for families and special shore excursions designed for kids as young as 5 TODDLER TRAVEL: Calling all babies and toddlers, these are the best cruise lines and ships for kids under 5 7. Silversea Cruises If you're looking for an all-inclusive cruise that will take care of every detail from the moment you leave home until your return, then consider Silversea. Features like privately chauffeured door-to-door transfers to and from your home and butler service in every suite make for a truly effortless experience. Choose from slower-paced, luxury oceangoing ships and more adventurous expedition cruises. What's included: All meals, unlimited drinks, butler service, shore excursions, international roundtrip airfare, in-country flights (if necessary), pre- and post-cruise hotels, private chauffeur service, gratuities, and standard Wi-Fi Family-friendly features: None, though children at least 6 months old (1 year old for Silversea Expeditions) are welcome 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world originally appeared on More from FamilyVacationist: The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author's and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. and are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology, we review and select family vacation ideas, family vacation spots, all-inclusive family resorts, and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators, tour operator reviews, tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations. If you buy an item through a link in our content, we may earn a commission.
Times
25-05-2025
- Times
12 of the best cruise lines for families
Cruises can be a brilliant option for families. You're all in one place, with no worries about accommodation, cooking or eating out, and every need is catered for: food, drink, activities, nightlife, entertainment and even kids' activities. The facilities on the best ships are fantastic, with loads to keep little ones occupied while their parents get to enjoy some precious child-free time. Most vessels give you the option of doing some onshore exploring too, allowing you to visit several places without having to worry about car hire, buses, traffic or unscrupulous tour operators. Onboard facilities can vary by ship, so do check details — and what's included in the price — before you book. These are 12 of the best, for every kind of family. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue An all-inclusive voyage with Tui's cruise arm, Marella Cruises, is a hassle-free option for any family. The standard fare includes everything from transfers to the ship to selected alcoholic drinks and mocktails, plus a choice of at least four different restaurants serving child-friendly food. There are kids' clubs for those between 3 and 11 offering pirate hunts, mini-discos and chocolate parties, a teen-hangout area and family-friendly facilities galore, including climbing walls and cinemas. Children even get their own plush toy and activity booklet to help keep them busy on board. Travelling as a family doesn't have to mean scrimping on luxury. Explora Journeys aims to replicate the experience of a five-star hotel at sea on its two ships, yet children over six months are welcome (under twos sail free, and there is up to 50 per cent off for the third and fourth passengers in the same suite, aged up to 17). There are interconnecting suites for extra space, special kids' activities and a poolside ice-cream gelateria, while the Nautilus Club room features games consoles, a pool table and a digital library. Best of all? The standard fare includes food, drinks, room service, gratuities and the all-important wi-fi to keep any travelling teens happy. Toddlers, teens and all ages in between have been considered by Celebrity. Their Camp at Sea programme features slumber parties, Xbox stations for reclusive teens, and sports courts for older kids. And, in the unlikely event that your brood are missing school, there's a chance to bone up on subjects such as marine wildlife and ecological conservation with Stem (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) on selected ships, offering activities and events around these topics. Cruises include meals (bar speciality dining), shows and activities. With the All Included option, drinks and wi-fi are also covered. Kids' clubs are mostly complimentary. • Best cruises with fewer than 200 passengers• Best cruise lines with their own private island You'll be entertained from dawn to dusk on MSC ships, which feature award-winning facilities designed to keep the whole brood happy. Zoom across deck on a zip line, score a lucky strike at the bowling alley and enjoy Broadway-style shows in the evenings. MSC Virtuosa features the Teens Lab, an immersive, tech-filled room created especially for older kids, a silent disco and a waterpark. Full board meals (bar speciality dining), entertainment, most activities and kids' clubs are included. Excursions, some drinks, wi-fi and spa visits are typically extra. • Discover more of the world's best family holidays Norwegian offers families that all-important flexibility with no set dining slots. And, while every ship in the fleet has activities for children aged six months to 17 years, Norwegian Encore goes above and beyond. Race towards the chequered flag on the Speedway track, brave the waterslides, or head to Galaxy Pavilion, where virtual reality experiences include simulated hang-gliding. Included are meals (bar speciality dining), coffee bar, kids' clubs, most entertainment and poolside activities. You'll pay extra for most drinks, shore excursions, babysitting, and popular activities such as the race track. Look out for the occasional Kids Sail Free promotion, offering third and fourth guests complimentary cruise fares. P&O is pushing the boat out with their Excel class ship, Arvia. There's a chance to test your balance on the Altitude Skywalk high-ropes experience and practise your swing at mini-golf. Or, if you'd rather keep your feet on the ground, there's a four-screen cinema and a retro-style diner serving all-American dishes. Dance classes, use of the sports deck and most of the kids' activities, entertainment and food are included (bar speciality dining). It's usually mainly Brits on board. Gone are the days of hunting down stray kids. Thanks to smart wearable devices in Princess MedallionClass you'll be able to track down exactly where family members are at the touch of a button — as well as order food and drink to anywhere on the ship. Standout features to impress the kids include top-deck stargazing, an indoor planetarium and, depending on where you're sailing, the chance to meet guest puppies or parrots on board. Over on Caribbean Princess, the Reef Family Splash Zone provides hours of watery fun for little ones, washed down with mocktails for the kids and cocktails for the adults. What's included? Onboard activities, kids' clubs, main dining (most drinks are extra), and entertainment. Royal Caribbean has a fair few trump cards when it comes to family fun: rock climbing, ice skating and zip lining being among the highlights. Anthem of the Seas is one of the most impressive ships in the fleet with a RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator, FlowRider surf simulator, bumper cars, and cocktails shaken by robot bartenders. Cruises include full board (speciality dining is extra), some drinks, most entertainment and onboard activities. You'll pay extra for beverage packages, the spa, shore excursions and wi-fi. • The best cruise lines in the world Uniworld is known for being a favourite among luxe lovers, so it's a pleasant surprise that this river cruise line is also family friendly. The Generations programme, operating on a handful of departures during the UK school holidays, features itineraries and onshore activities aimed at children, with paddleboarding, treasure hunts and bike rides among the mix. On board there's a lounge with PlayStation, regular cooking classes and craft workshops, as well as ship tours with the captain. Trips are all-inclusive, including premium wines and spirits, activities, bike hire and gratuities — and usually return flights. • Best river cruises in the world All A-Rosa river cruises are designed with families in mind — they're less formal than your average sailing — but E-Motion takes things one step further: expect spacious cabins with bunk beds and an age-appropriate toy box. Adults can unwind in the spa, kitted out with a sauna and whirlpool, while kids can meet the captain and splash about in their own separate pool. Top up on family time with mini-golf, pizza-making and mocktail workshops. Meals and selected drinks are included with its Premium All-Inclusive offering, and children aged 15 and under can sail free on some ships. During school holidays there are free kids' clubs for children aged four to 15. Shore excursions cost extra. Carnival majors on family fun. Kids can squeal at the twists and turns on Bolt, the first rollercoaster at sea (extra cost), get arty in the craft studio and be suspended 150ft in the air on SkyRide — a recumbent bike suspended beneath a metal track. Cabin fever is kept at bay with extra roomy staterooms and a family lounge, and the huge projectors on the top deck are perfect for getting together to watch movies under the stars. The innovative ship Mardi Gras has lots to keep children entertained, including waterslides, mini-golf and a ropes course. Meals (bar speciality dining), entertainment, kids' programmes and many activities are included. Most drinks, spa treatments, shore excursions and gratuities are not. This line will have you dancing from the moment you board. Disney cruises deliver on the pizzazz the parks are known for. Little ones can be pampered in the kids' beauty salon, meet their favourite characters and settle in for theatre shows based on Disney classics. If you're lucky, you'll cruise into Castaway Cay — the line's family-orientated private island in the Bahamas, with a snorkelling lagoon, boat rentals and a teen hideout. Packages include entertainment, various dining options (including 24-hour room service), kids' and youth clubs, and Castaway Cay (on most Bahamian and Caribbean cruises). You'll pay extra for alcoholic drinks, adult-exclusive dining and tips. This themed cruise is all about the Disney brand and ideal for those who want to mingle with Mickey. You'll find family suites on many ships, including Royal Caribbean (which offers perks such as an in-room slide, table tennis and cinema), Celebrity Cruises, Carnival, Princess, MSC, Disney and Norwegian Cruise Line (which also has the Haven Family Villas on selected ships). This depends on what cabin grade you opt for and where you want to go. For a seven-night sailing in the Mediterranean for a family of four, you can expect to pay upwards of £1,500. Look out for Kids Sail Free promotional offers on some ships, which could offer worthwhile savings. Again, this depends on the itinerary and where in the world you are sailing. For Caribbean cruises, the best time to bag a bargain is during school term or hurricane season (which is the UK's summer to autumn); for Mediterranean sailings, try the typically cooler months of March, April or November. Additional reporting by Oliver Berry • Best cruise destinations• How to save money on a cruise
Miami Herald
20-05-2025
- Miami Herald
Delta Air CEO blasts outdated air traffic control
Fear of flying is very common. In fact, it affects about 25 million adults in the U.S., according to Cleveland Clinic. Notably, research suggests it is possible for someone to fly without any unease for years, and then develop aerophobia. The number of worldwide airline flights increased continuously since the early 2000s to reach 38.9 million in 2019. The Covid pandemic slowed things down in 2020. Related: Explora Journeys gives guests a front-row seat to the ultimate Formula 1 race The industry has been quickly recovering since, and it is projected to reach 40 million flights in 2025, according to Statista. When it comes to fear of flying, to people who suffer from it, statistics don't matter. According to the Civil Aviation Organization, chances of dying in a plane crash are one in 11 million. This compares to the odds of being in a car crash, which are one in 5,000. In other words, flying is safe. And it is one of the most convenient ways of traveling, especially long distances. However, recent delays and chaos at Newark Liberty International Airport have not only inconvenienced passengers, but also raised safety concerns among some travelers. One of the busiest airports in the U.S., Newark Liberty International Airport has been experiencing significant delays and cancelations due to a combination of issues including staffing shortages, an outdated air traffic control system, runway closure, and technical disruptions, writes The New York Times. Two recent radar outages raised frequent travelers' concerns, especially because they followed two big U.S. airline crashes earlier in this year. A recent poll reveals that 65% of Americans feel more anxious about flying now. Are their concerns justified? Is traveling from and to Newark airport safe? According to Delta Air Lines (DAL) CEO Ed Bastian, it is completely safe. In a recent interview with Today, Bastian said, "It is absolutely safe. It's the safest form of transportation in the world. The most skilled aviation professionals in the world work and operate the United States airspace." More on travel: American Airlines reverses unpopular policy, angers workersDelta Air Lines makes a baggage change that travelers will likeMajor airline debuts holiday platform for North Americans However, he further highlighted that even though flying is safe, these current conditions are unacceptable. According to Bastian, outdated equipment slows everything down. Bastian illustrated the extent of the problem with the following shocking example: "Today, it takes longer in our schedule to fly from Atlanta to La Guardia than it did in the 1950s, when we opened that route." Bastian suggested that the congestion could be resolved with modernization of the skies, "bringing greater efficiency." He said modernization should involve using satellite technologies and GPS, in addition to updating the radar and radio systems from the 1960s that air traffic controllers are still using. Meanwhile, Delta's financials reflect broader industry concerns. The company recently reported first-quarter 2025 earnings results with non-GAAP operating revenue of $12.98 billion, compared to $12.56 billion in the same period of 2024. However, the company's updated outlook for the year draws the most focus from investors. Just a quarter ago, Delta Air Lines had anticipated unprecedented profits, but those projections have since been revised. In an interview with CNBC, Bastian pointed to a decline in overall consumer and business confidence. Softer-than-anticipated bookings led the airline to scrap its planned 3% to 4% increase in flights for the latter half of 2025. Instead, flight capacity will remain steady through the end of the year. Related: Iconic Disney World attraction enters its final days More recently, the company announced a $330 million investment to acquire a 15% stake in Canadian WestJet. Year-to-date, Delta Air Lines stock price is down 13.24%, trading at $51.25. The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Miami Herald
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Miami Herald
Explora Journeys gives guests a front-row seat to the ultimate F1 race
Explora Journeys is shifting into overdrive with a Formula 1 Grand Prix experience that redefines luxury at sea. As the only ship docked in Monaco's legendary Port Hercule during the upcoming Formula 1 Tag Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco 2025, the Explora II is offering guests a front-row seat to the race, and throwing a glamorous, trackside yacht party for everyone onboard. From mingling with racing icons like Sir Jackie Stewart and Mika Häkkinen to checking out high-octane VR simulators up close, experiencing curated wellness retreats, and champagne-fueled soirées under the stars, horsepower will meet high style on this unique excursion. Want the latest cruise news and deals? Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, today announced the exclusive program of onboard experiences on Explora II during the Formula 1 Tag Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco 2025. As the only ship docked in Monaco's iconic Port Hercule during race week, EXPLORA II will offer guests a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the glamour and adrenaline of Formula 1 from an unparalleled vantage point. Explora II, the latest addition to Explora Journeys' luxury fleet, will serve as an elegant, private-yacht-inspired sanctuary throughout the race weekend. Guests will enjoy sweeping views, seamless access to the action, and a curated series of extraordinary events designed to complement the excitement of the race. In a rare convergence of sport and storytelling, Explora II will welcome Formula 1 legends onboard throughout the weekend. Guests will hear personal insights and behind-the-scenes stories from some of the sport's most iconic figures, including David Coulthard, Sir Jackie Stewart, and Mika Häkkinen. The celebrity appearances will be complemented by perspectives from representatives of the BWT Alpine Formula One Team, offering a deeper understanding of the sport's future. Related: Oceania Cruises holiday voyages are a gift for luxury-minded travelers The onboard atmosphere will come alive for guests who can take the driver's seat in a race simulator, featuring both VR and non-VR time trials, and compete for top rankings on a live leaderboard. Additional highlights include racing trivia competitions, themed entertainment venues, and a miniature onboard track that celebrates the spirit of competition. Explora II will elevate the glamorous experience of the race weekend with a series of exclusive onboard retail exhibitions running from May 14 to May 30, featuring Buccellati, Panerai, and Piaget. Guests will be invited to explore rare and limited-edition collections in an intimate setting. Highlights include Buccellati's Snake Collection and a pink sapphire parure valued at €988,000, available for private viewings; Panerai's haute horlogerie complications, including a tourbillon and two perpetual calendars, paired with an immersive masterclass where guests can open and reassemble a Panerai movement; and Piaget's limited-edition timepieces, alongside a live engraving experience. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. Between high-octane events and the sporting action of the race, guests will find balance on board the ship through a carefully curated Ocean Wellness program, which includes tailored massages, aromatherapy rituals, and mindfulness sessions that offer tranquility amidst the energy of the Grand Prix. Technogym-led assessments and training options will also be available for those seeking performance optimization. Culinary exploration will be another highlight, with exclusive tasting events showcasing bold flavors and sensory experiences designed to spark curiosity and connection. As night falls over Monaco's sparkling harbour, Explora II will transform into the social epicenter of the race weekend. Guests will enjoy elegant cocktail parties, starlit gatherings, and celebratory moments crafted to foster genuine connections in a luxurious setting. The series of glamorous onboard parties is designed to reflect the style and spirit of Monaco's most prestigious event. Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. From sunset champagne receptions on the pool deck to elegant soirées in the refined lounges and bars of the ship, each celebration will offer guests the chance to socialize, unwind, and revel in the vibrant atmosphere of the Formula 1 Tag Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco 2025. Exclusive themed events will infuse every evening with sophistication and energy. With curated menus, signature cocktails, and stunning views of Monaco, these moments will become highlights of a truly unforgettable weekend at sea. The Formula 1 Tag Heuer Grand Prix de Monaco 2025 will take place May 23-25, 2025. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@ or call or text her at 386-383-2472. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
