Caribbean
January 2024

I just had to share my recent experience in the Caribbean aboard Explora Journeys, a new luxury cruise line. We sailed from Barbados to San Juan with stops at St. Barts, St. Lucia, Dominica, and Guadalupe.

First off, let me say, the ship is absolutely stunning! Less than a year old and it's a marvel. The cabins are spacious, with sizes exceeding 300 square feet, featuring a lovely balcony, walk-in closet, and a luxurious bathroom with a large walk-in shower. Not to mention the ship's amenities – three pools, a pickleball court, and indoor/outdoor workout areas.

Now, let's talk about the service and food – they truly set Explora Journeys apart. The service went above and beyond my expectations, and the food was some of the best I've ever had. I had an incredible meal at the Marble Steakhouse – the steak was perfection! And don't even get me started on Sakura Japanese restaurant – we ended up dining there four times! The sushi was incredibly fresh and mouthwatering. I made it a point to try something different each time and I was never disappointed. Even the main restaurants offered a wide array of delicious choices.

We made the most of our shipboard credits and treated ourselves to some fantastic experiences. One day, we indulged in the spa – it was so relaxing and rejuvenating. Another day, we had an absolute blast participating in a cooking class with the chef onboard! It was such a fun and memorable experience, learning some new culinary skills while enjoying the company of fellow passengers.

St. Barts was a highlight for me – Shell Beach was simply stunning, and wandering the streets and admiring the yachts along the waterfront was an unforgettable experience. St. Lucia was another fantastic port, although our sailing excursion unfortunately got canceled last minute. As for Dominica and Guadalupe, despite the bad weather, I could still see the charm of these small islands, though we weren't able to enjoy them fully.

Overall, I cannot recommend Explora Journeys enough. It's luxury you absolutely won't want to miss out on!