As I spend more time on Explora Journeys’ Explora I during the 2024 Goldring Travel Culinary & Cultural Journey, I am becoming even more proud of this product, for which I was a consultant during its development. I know what follows will sound like a promotional advertisement. However, you know I call it like I see it, and this is how I honestly see it!
Being able to settle in, rather than focusing on analyzing it or having events to attend, the luxury resort nature of the ship, its numerous elegant – more hotel than ship – venues, its elevated levels of service (with staff that are enthusiastically engaging you and who have aspirational focus) and phenomenal and diverse cuisines, the extraordinary rise of Explora Journeys in only one year is – well something more than incredible. (And you know me: I don’t hype!)
Sitting in one of the restaurants, whether Marble & Co., Sakura, Med Yacht Club, or Anthology, you feel like you are in a land-based restaurant rather than a ship’s dining venue. The Malt Whisky Bar – I know I am repeating myself – is a warm, wonderful, space with amazing views.
And, of course, my Cove Residence, with its oversized sofa, hot tub, and daybed, certainly helps.
Another thing that is refreshing is that when Explora Journeys says its tenders and shuttles run constantly, they actually do! As one tender or bus departs another is right behind, so there are literally no long waits. (And, without getting too far ahead, when we were in Mykonos the tenders ran all night…though after midnight they ran once an hour until 5:00 a.m.) Impressive!
I also love the truly international feel of Explora Journeys. While the largest contingent of guests is North American, Italian, Spanish, German, Greek, etc. are ubiquitous.
The free-flowing champagne is Mercier. I know there has been some discussion about it; though I often wonder about those commenting who aren’t really into wines opining on its quality versus it being a brand name. Well, as you know, I am into wines, and for an everyday pour…and I do have it poured every day…it is a nice choice.
As far as guest services, Explora I’s staff has been exceptional. They are incredibly proactive. There is more polish now, so when you approach the staff stand up and, if it is comfortable for the guest, extend a hand for a warm greeting. I haven’t heard the word, “No” once.
One final point for the moment…which is probably the most important…is the feeling of genuine warmth and friendliness from all of the staff. There is no sense of merely delivering something, but rather making every contact a memorable experience.
All of these amenities most certainly help make one’s journey exceptional. And with that, back to the journey itself!
After a day at sea (known as a workday for me!) we arrived in Athens for the second Goldring Travel Culinary & Cultural Private Special Event. As many in our group had never been to Athens, I arranged sort of a whirlwind tour of Athens and Corinth, followed by a truly Greek lunch.
We were off the ship at 7:15 a.m. so we could beat the crowds and the heat at the Acropolis. I had pre-purchased Acropolis and Slopes tickets for 8:00-9:00 am – 30€ each) so we were ready to head up. However, even though we arrived early, the line was over 100 yards long (though some were staging for the 9:00 a.m. entrance). I did what any guy from New Jersey would do: I confidently guided my group right to the front of the line. (Fake it till you make it.) And with that we were the first people up and had the place almost to ourselves. It was special.
After an hour there, we headed down and stopped at the Temple of Zeus and Olympic Stadium
before watching the Changing of the Guard before heading to Corinth…with the temperature rising to 104 degrees…and it was not a “dry heat”!
I love Corinth. And after a quick stop at the Corinth Canal
It was off to Corinth’s small museum which is a favorite of mine, as is the ability to literally walk in the footsteps of the Corinthians as people going about their daily life.
And then it was time for lunch. I went ahead of the group to preorder some truly Greek cuisine; all to be served family style.
Anchovies, Sardines, Octopus, Whole Fried Squid, Prawns, Greek Salad, Tzatziki, and more. Oh, there was two types of Greek wine (Assyriko and Malagouzia) and, of course, Ouzo!
With enough wine, ouzo, and laughs I asked if anyone wanted something else and, of course, lamb and some amazing meatballs plus more was ordered. We then finished up with some thick, delicious Greek yogurt with honey…lots of honey!
After an hour’s nap, I mean drive back to Explora I in Athens, it was time to have a rest and then dinner at Med Yacht Club.
Next up: A cruise through famous and hidden ports in Greece: Mykonos, Volos, and Skopelos.
