Latest news about Explora Journeys

[happy cruzin]

1 hour ago, morpheusofthesea said:

Here is also some interesting news found on a FB Explora page. The TA that runs the site was told by Explora Journeys that when the ship docks at Ocean Cay it will be the only ship to visit and only the Residences will be allowed to use Ocean House and its beach. A different lunch menu will be provided. So there will be a pecking order after all ?

We’ve been to Ocean Cay and been to Ocean House - many times. There is no way that Ocean House could handle all the Explora guests. 
 

 

[Dr. Cocktail]

I was actually thinking earlier about this when I initially booked - I just hoped that a Penthouse would get me into Ocean House.

 

 Seashore has over 125 YC cabins and uses Ocean House whereas Explora inclusive of the OS, Residences and Penthouses would be only 89 cabins.

 

If you wanted to keep it very exclusive, OS and Residences would only be 23 cabins.

 

I think that the answer to many of our questions is "tbd".... I was  impressed by statements made by their CEO. He basically said that they're going to throw stuff at the wall and see what sticks!

 

[morpheusofthesea]

27 minutes ago, Dr. Cocktail said:

I was actually thinking earlier about this when I initially booked - I just hoped that a Penthouse would get me into Ocean House.

 

 Seashore has over 125 YC cabins and uses Ocean House whereas Explora inclusive of the OS, Residences and Penthouses would be only 89 cabins.

 

If you wanted to keep it very exclusive, OS and Residences would only be 23 cabins.

 

I think that the answer to many of our questions is "tbd".... I was  impressed by statements made by their CEO. He basically said that they're going to throw stuff at the wall and see what sticks!

 

Consider that only the Residences have Resident Hosts (butlers) who would not want to 'cater' to the other levels not in their charge on the ship would be extended to Ocean Cay/House.

Edited June 23, 2023 by morpheusofthesea

[morpheusofthesea]

I wrote this about one of our latest outings on Seascape Yacht Club.

   We recommend everyone try to have lunch at Ocean House, before it rains. It can get very crowded with only enough tables for 168 guests at one time if everyone shared a table. Lately the Yacht Club has been running full with 330 official paying guests. Then there are those with "ACCESS"; we had 44 of these friends and family of officers. And then those with friends and family of Yacht Club residing outside the YC. So it can get rather 'messy'. One might have to eat , bending over on their beach lounger, or wait for some fellow YCer to give up their table. Once it was cold and it poured. Everyone present tried to find standing space huddled inside Ocean House which only has 3 tables and the bar. Getting back to the ship waiting for one 7 passenger trolley, had the YC director commandeer a larger island trolley. It still took time to get back to the ship with not enough trolleys., at that time.

  So having 1(OS) x3, 10 (Cove) x 4, 6 (Retreats) x 4, 4(Serenity) x4, and 2 (Cocoon) x 4  = 91 maximum capacity. Add to this maybe those in the lower suites that have "ACCESS" (friends and family of officers), and perhaps friends and family residing outside the Residences traveling with those in the Residences (just like in the Yacht Club now that intimidate their way in) this would allow just this number to enjoy lunch on the veranda of Ocean House. There are 17 tables  on the veranda, 3 inside. So 20 tables without having to 'share', equals perhaps 40 guests. So limiting Ocean House to just the Residences is a smart move. It is much more enjoyable not having to fight/ wait for a table. Am sure those in the 14 available pergolas would also like to enjoy lunch seated on the veranda as well.

 

[Belgian cruiser1]

2 hours ago, Dr. Cocktail said:

I was actually thinking earlier about this when I initially booked - I just hoped that a Penthouse would get me into Ocean House.

 

 Seashore has over 125 YC cabins and uses Ocean House whereas Explora inclusive of the OS, Residences and Penthouses would be only 89 cabins.

 

If you wanted to keep it very exclusive, OS and Residences would only be 23 cabins.

 

I think that the answer to many of our questions is "tbd".... I was  impressed by statements made by their CEO. He basically said that they're going to throw stuff at the wall and see what sticks!

 

That last phrase you quoted from their CEO doesn't inspire much confidence. They made such a big deal that they hired so many experienced top people from other luxury cruise companies, so those people should know what sticks and what doesn't. I don't like the idea of paying 10.000+ € to be their lab rat or guinea pig while they "discover what sticks" - for these prices, one chance is what they get and if they botch it up ...

[Belgian cruiser1]

on another note - Yacht Club is getting too big to be exclusive, which is why I didn't even bother booking YC on the World Europa two weeks ago. Even the butlers from the YC we talked to on that voyage, said that their guests are "escaping" the cramped pools and the one jacuzzi on the YC sundeck. 

[happy cruzin]

4 hours ago, morpheusofthesea said:

Here is also some interesting news found on a FB Explora page. The TA that runs the site was told by Explora Journeys that when the ship docks at Ocean Cay it will be the only ship to visit and only the Residences will be allowed to use Ocean House and its beach. A different lunch menu will be provided. So there will be a pecking order after all ?

As I said before - we have been to OC many times, but have never not been YC with access to Ocean House. 

 

But, honestly, I am not concerned about it at all. With only about 1000 guests on the Explora, the island is going to feel empty. Space at the beaches, seats at the bars, etc will be readily available because there are so few guests on the Explora compared to other ships that stop there.

The answer Explora Journeys provided to that TA about the lunch options - with their own menus -  that they intend to offer outside of the Ocean House at various locations around the island does not sound to me to be the typical hamburger/hot dog buffet items that are common on many of the cruise line private island stops.

But....time will tell!

[bitob]

On 6/7/2023 at 10:09 AM, uktog said:

Latest news about their plans. An email just received indicating there will be a Rolex shop onboard 

And just announced

Cartier

Piaget

 

Save that on board credit!

[Dr. Cocktail]

3 hours ago, morpheusofthesea said:

 

  So having 1(OS) x3, 10 (Cove) x 4, 6 (Retreats) x 4, 4(Serenity) x4, and 2 (Cocoon) x 4  = 91 maximum capacity. Add to this maybe those in the lower suites that have "ACCESS" (friends and family of officers), and perhaps friends and family residing outside the Residences traveling with those in the Residences (just like in the Yacht Club now that intimidate their way in) this would allow just this number to enjoy lunch on the veranda of Ocean House. There are 17 tables  on the veranda, 3 inside. So 20 tables without having to 'share', equals perhaps 40 guests. So limiting Ocean House to just the Residences is a smart move. It is much more enjoyable not having to fight/ wait for a table. Am sure those in the 14 available pergolas would also like to enjoy lunch seated on the veranda as well.

 

I can't disagree with your numbers but you're assuming full capacity of all cabins. I don't think that will happen too often - in fact, they're hoping for 80% double occupancy in the near future.

 

I think that the 23 chi-chi, foofiest cabins would allow a very exclusive experience as you stated.

 

But .... if only 80% of those are booked and not everyone gets off at the Ocean Cay, it's not really a lot of people for a whole lotta' effort!  

 

An empty venue can be almost as bad as an overcrowded one .... again, we'll have to see!

[Dr. Cocktail]

1 hour ago, Belgian cruiser1 said:

That last phrase you quoted from their CEO doesn't inspire much confidence. They made such a big deal that they hired so many experienced top people from other luxury cruise companies, so those people should know what sticks and what doesn't. I don't like the idea of paying 10.000+ € to be their lab rat or guinea pig while they "discover what sticks" - for these prices, one chance is what they get and if they botch it up ...

I'm going to respectfully disagree with you on this one!

 

I was recently on Regent and while most things were excellent, it really was very "old school" and unexciting.  The staff were VERY aware of Explora and one of the senior staff referred to it as "sexy"!

 

As a company, unless you try new things that carry some risk, you'll just be like everyone else.

The lack of fixed show times (and shows for that matter!), the expectation that people can just go to the restaurant of their choice without reservations and the design of the ship have obviously been carefully considered by very experienced people. 

 

But - things don't always work out. They may need to institute reservations for some venues or experiences or change their entertainment offerings.

 

I've said this before - I like enough of what I see to give them a chance. I wouldn't go back on Regent and recent reviews of Silversea and Seabourn are not confidence inspiring.

[morpheusofthesea]

10 minutes ago, Dr. Cocktail said:

I can't disagree with your numbers but you're assuming full capacity of all cabins. I don't think that will happen too often - in fact, they're hoping for 80% double occupancy in the near future.

 

I think that the 23 chi-chi, foofiest cabins would allow a very exclusive experience as you stated.

 

But .... if only 80% of those are booked and not everyone gets off at the Ocean Cay, it's not really a lot of people for a whole lotta' effort!  

 

An empty venue can be almost as bad as an overcrowded one .... again, we'll have to see!

Eighty percent of 23 cabins is 18. With the prime tables being those on the veranda (17) we all have a shot at them. Am sure Explora will have move up offers to exploit the Residences to the max. Do not even want to consider to know that for the price of a Penthouse one can get a Cove or higher cabin by waiting. Chit-chatting with concierge on Seascape was told a guest was able to upgrade to a Royal Suite for $5000 total (not in addition to what they paid for whatever category they came from), having booked ourselves years in advance for $10,000 total for the Royal Suite every time.(Sometimes $9000)

[Dr. Cocktail]

20 minutes ago, morpheusofthesea said:

 Chit-chatting with concierge on Seascape was told a guest was able to upgrade to a Royal Suite for $5000 total (not in addition to what they paid for whatever category they came from), having booked ourselves years in advance for $10,000 total for the Royal Suite every time.(Sometimes $9000)

Perhaps but there were a LOT of deals just as cruises were starting back up again. I don’t talk prices onboard anymore because it’s impolite to the paramedics who then have to revive me!

 

Aside from various obc and loyalty offers, prices haven’t fallen below the initial offerings. I think that they’re going to try and maintain some price integrity unless the ship(s) are going out empty. I’m sure they have some occupancy minimums at which point they start to politely panic!

[Dr. Cocktail]

.... what's funny about all is this is that I've been SUCH a cheerleader on these boards and I can see myself boarding and going: " Big NO!"

 

I'll actually have made final payment on the second before going on the first ....🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

 

 

[Cruiseswithfamilyornot]

I had a very similar experience as @Dr. Cocktailon a very recent Regent cruise.  In fact, based on feedback I received from crew and some fellow passengers, I booked an Explora cruise while I was still on the Regent cruise.   My butler on Regent had been with them for 15 years and said he couldn't wait to go to Explora.   There is a general feeling among the crew that there is more financial stability with Explora based on their owners, and there are some changes that are new exciting.  Personally, there are a few things I question how it will work, but am very willing to give them a try.  I like how they try to spend more time in ports and will be glued to read initial reviews, while recognizing there will be some kinks to work out.

6 hours ago, Dr. Cocktail said:

I'm going to respectfully disagree with you on this one!

 

I was recently on Regent and while most things were excellent, it really was very "old school" and unexciting.  The staff were VERY aware of Explora and one of the senior staff referred to it as "sexy"!

 

As a company, unless you try new things that carry some risk, you'll just be like everyone else.

The lack of fixed show times (and shows for that matter!), the expectation that people can just go to the restaurant of their choice without reservations and the design of the ship have obviously been carefully considered by very experienced people. 

 

But - things don't always work out. They may need to institute reservations for some venues or experiences or change their entertainment offerings.

 

I've said this before - I like enough of what I see to give them a chance. I wouldn't go back on Regent and recent reviews of Silversea and Seabourn are not confidence inspiring.

 

[uktog]

13 hours ago, Dr. Cocktail said:

.... what's funny about all is this is that I've been SUCH a cheerleader on these boards and I can see myself boarding and going: " Big NO!"

 

I'll actually have made final payment on the second before going on the first ....🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

 

 

We are similar paid for three before doing one - in three weeks time all will be revealed to us, really looking forward to seeing how it is.  I was getting a little tired of the more traditional dining and entertainment models but was still only wanting a sub 1000 guests experience. I will post back how it is, being on the inaugural we will be the real sharp end guinea pigs. Buckle up for the ride!

[happy cruzin]

32 minutes ago, uktog said:

We are similar paid for three before doing one - in three weeks time all will be revealed to us, really looking forward to seeing how it is.  I was getting a little tired of the more traditional dining and entertainment models but was still only wanting a sub 1000 guests experience. I will post back how it is, being on the inaugural we will be the real sharp end guinea pigs. Buckle up for the ride!

Looking forward to hearing what you think!  We sail in November. 

[Dr. Cocktail]

1 hour ago, uktog said:

We are similar paid for three before doing one - in three weeks time all will be revealed to us, really looking forward to seeing how it is.  I was getting a little tired of the more traditional dining and entertainment models but was still only wanting a sub 1000 guests experience. I will post back how it is, being on the inaugural we will be the real sharp end guinea pigs. Buckle up for the ride!

Ooooooooohhhhhhhhhhh,,,,,,,,, the inaugural!   TOTAL new ship smell!

Will be extremely eager to hear your thoughts!

 

Extremely excited for you!

[travelberlin]

18 hours ago, bitob said:

And just announced

Cartier

Piaget

 

Save that on board credit!

Not where I would like to spend any money. 
Ivi

Edited June 24, 2023 by travelberlin

[travelberlin]

2 hours ago, uktog said:

We are similar paid for three before doing one - in three weeks time all will be revealed to us, really looking forward to seeing how it is.  I was getting a little tired of the more traditional dining and entertainment models but was still only wanting a sub 1000 guests experience. I will post back how it is, being on the inaugural we will be the real sharp end guinea pigs. Buckle up for the ride!

Looking forward to your report. From your posts in Cruise Critic, I trust you will give us honest reviews.

Ivi

[bitob]

2 minutes ago, travelberlin said:

Looking forward to your report. From your posts in Cruise Critic, I trust you will give us honest reviews.

Ivi

Agree. 

[bitob]

6 minutes ago, travelberlin said:

Not where I would like to spend any money. 
Ivi

Who would?  On a ship?  But I guess it’s just another way of defining  explora as a luxury cruise line. 

[InsGuy3]

6 hours ago, uktog said:

We are similar paid for three before doing one - in three weeks time all will be revealed to us, really looking forward to seeing how it is.  I was getting a little tired of the more traditional dining and entertainment models but was still only wanting a sub 1000 guests experience. I will post back how it is, being on the inaugural we will be the real sharp end guinea pigs. Buckle up for the ride!

Same here. We sail in November and will live vicariously through your inaugural cruise. 

[daleandrews]

We will be watching as well!  We sail Glasgow to NYC, 23 days, departing on September 2.  Optimistically expecting a great trip. 

 

Hope they have most of the kinks out by the inaugural -- I note that they cancelled the formal christening and shake down cruise for media that was supposed to take place the week before the inaugural cruise but they are still planning for a media open house of the ship the two days before the inaugural.  Hoping for some videos of the actual ship interior!

[Host Jazzbeau]

I'm used to the software world where experienced beta testers get the test software for free.  Someone like @uktog should have gotten the inaugural cruise free because their comments will be worth more than the fare (if the cruise line plans to use them to improve the product...)

[Dr. Cocktail]

29 minutes ago, Host Jazzbeau said:

I'm used to the software world where experienced beta testers get the test software for free.  Someone like @uktog should have gotten the inaugural cruise free because their comments will be worth more than the fare (if the cruise line plans to use them to improve the product...)

How the cruising world has changed!

 

A friend who was very high up in the travel business invited me as his guest for a shakedown Transatlantic cruise on Disney Magic (!) sailing from Fincantieri to the States. EXACTLY same scenario - new cruise line designed and planned by many people with years of experience.

 

My long gone parents  parents were not in the greatest of health and even though my partner said "go and have a good time", I couldn't do it....

 

I still carry some moderate regrets!

 

There was absolutely no way that Disney was letting paid passengers onboard until they had done some dry (wet?) runs ....