The EXPLORA I sailing in the Mediterranean, redefining ocean luxury with European cosmopolitan elegance.

Launched by the MSC Group to redefine ultra-luxury ocean travel, Explora Journeys has established a new benchmark for nautical design with its concept of Homes at Sea. Every single stateroom on EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II is an oceanfront suite with floor-to-ceiling glass and a private terrace. However, for travelers seeking generous residential space, refined entertaining capabilities, and elevated hospitality, the decision narrows to two signature tier categories: the Ocean Penthouses and the Ocean Residences.

While an Ocean Penthouse offers an exceptionally spacious open-plan haven with refined dining and sunbathing areas, an Ocean Residence transitions into full-fledged luxury apartment living complete with an independent master bedroom, a private heated outdoor whirlpool spa on an expansive wraparound terrace, and dedicated round-the-clock butler service.

Ocean Penthouse vs. Ocean Residence: Technical Comparison

Inside the Ocean Penthouses: Sophisticated Open-Plan Serenity

Explora Journeys’ Ocean Penthouses (comprising Penthouse, Deluxe Penthouse, Premier Penthouse, and Grand Penthouse categories) provide an effortless blend of residential chic and maritime luxury. Designed by world-renowned interior architectural firms, these suites prioritize natural daylight, seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, and tactile materials like European oak, textured linens, and brass accents.

The open-plan living and dining salon of an Explora Grand Penthouse, featuring seating for four and floor-to-ceiling sea views.

The interior layout features a dedicated dining table accommodating four guests, an expansive lounge with plush sofas and bespoke coffee tables, and a custom king-size bed dressed in high-thread-count Frette linens. The walk-in wardrobe includes a seated vanity with illuminated Hollywood-style mirrors and a Dyson Supersonic™ hair dryer.

The private oceanfront terrace of an Ocean Penthouse, appointed with Manutti luxury daybeds and an alfresco dining table.

Step through sliding glass doors onto the private terrace, furnished with Manutti designer outdoor furniture, including plush daybeds and an alfresco dining table. Here, guests can savor continental breakfast delivered by their suite host while watching the coastline drift by.

Inside the Ocean Residences: True Apartment Living at Sea

For guests seeking absolute privacy, sweeping panoramic vistas, and personal space comparable to a penthouse flat in London or Milan, the Ocean Residences (Cove, Retreat, Serenity, and Cocoon Residences) represent the ship’s most prestigious accommodations outside the singular Owner's Residence.

The expansive living and entertaining salon of a Retreat Residence, opening onto a panoramic ocean terrace.

Unlike open-plan suites, an Ocean Residence provides distinct architectural separation. The expansive living salon features a formal dining area for up to six guests, a private bar stocked with your choice of premium spirits, and comfortable Molteni&C seating. A guest powder room allows you to entertain friends and traveling companions without intruding upon your private master quarters.

The separate master bedroom in an Ocean Residence, offering ultimate acoustic tranquility and private terrace access.

The separate master bedroom features floor-to-ceiling windows, an ultra-luxurious custom king mattress, and an oversized walk-in dressing room. The en-suite bathroom is clad in dramatic Calacatta marble, boasting radiant heated floors, double vanities, a glass-enclosed rainfall shower, and a freestanding oval soaking tub with ocean views.

The lavish primary bathroom adorned in polished Calacatta marble with an oversized soaking tub.

The Private Heated Outdoor Whirlpool

The defining exterior feature of every Ocean Residence is its private terrace whirlpool. Whether positioned at the bow overlooking the ship’s path or wrapped around the aft stern in a Serenity or Cocoon Residence, your private heated whirlpool offers secluded relaxation at any hour of the day or night.

The private heated whirlpool on the wraparound terrace of a Serenity Residence, overlooking the ship's wake.

The Butler Experience: Dedicated Residence Hosts

While Ocean Penthouse guests receive exemplary service from dedicated suite hosts, Ocean Residence guests enjoy the services of an elite Residence Host. Trained in partnership with the prestigious British Butler Institute, these seasoned professionals anticipate your every need with discreet elegance:

• Luggage Unpacking & Repacking: Arrive to find your entire wardrobe neatly organized, hung, and steamed in your dressing room.
• Course-by-Course In-Suite Dining: Host private dinners in your salon or on your terrace, with dishes served course-by-course from any of the ship’s signature restaurants.
• Customized Mixology: Enjoy freshly shaken martinis or bespoke aperitifs prepared right at your in-suite wet bar before evening shows.
• VIP Concierge Arrangements: Priority reservations for private tenders, bespoke shore adventures, and spa appointments at Ocean Wellness.

The All-Inclusive Explora Standard of Living

Both Penthouse and Residence guests enjoy Explora Journeys' all-inclusive luxury ethos:

The Conservatory Pool, offering all-weather relaxation under a grand retractable glass sky-roof.

• Inclusive Fine Dining Across 5 Venues: Relish world-class pan-Asian at Sakura, prime aged beef at Marble & Co. Grill, regional Mediterranean seafood at Med Yacht Club, refined French gastronomy at Fil Rouge, and artisan delicacies at Emporium Marketplace—all with zero cover charges.
• Michelin-Star Collaborations at Anthology: For guests seeking the pinnacle of gastronomic adventure, Anthology hosts rotating residencies by multi-Michelin-starred guest chefs.
• Complimentary Unlimited Beverages: Fine wines, champagnes, and premium spirits served throughout the ship at all lounges and poolside bars.
• Ocean Wellness Thermal Spa Access: Hydrotherapy pools, Finnish saunas, salt inhalation rooms, and relaxation loungers are open to all guests.
• High-Speed Starlink Connectivity: High-bandwidth satellite Wi-Fi included for all devices.
• All Gratuities Included: Complete peace of mind with no tipping expected or added to your onboard account.

Culinary artistry at Anthology, pairing exceptional cuisine with rare vintages selected by master sommeliers.