This cruise line is showcasing the best wonders of world cuisine
From intricate desserts to hearty mains, Explora Journeys is changing the face of find dining at sea.
| THIS ARTICLE WAS CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Explora Journeys |
Creating diverse dining flavoured by the best culinary cultures of the world, Explora Journeys is redefining the menu for luxury cruising.
An enduring sea-loving legacy forms the backstory of newly launched luxury brand Explora Journeys, allowing guests to experience cruises crafted to showcase the ocean’s beauty in supreme style. The Geneva-based, Swiss-Italian Aponte family has maritime roots stretching back 300 years, and today that heritage blends with a crystalised vision to redefine premium ocean travel.
Explora Journeys slips into the world’s most beautiful ports and glides across serene waterways for deeply immersive trips that ensure conscious travel that is not only elevated but inspiring. From a focus on journeys (rather than itineraries that simply serve as a checklist of destinations) to elegantly designed suites, intuitive hospitality and onboard wellness and relaxation experiences, the company is well equipped to provide a luxe escape to what it calls an ‘ocean state of mind’.
Enjoy a a refined menu of European steakhouse classics at Marble & Co Grill.
But perhaps most incredible of all is Explora Journeys’ dedication to curating a wildly innovative culinary offering. Encompassing a deep respect for provenance and the food heritage of the ports into which they sail, the gastronomic and wine experiences at sea rival any land-based restaurant. Explora Journeys has amassed a wealth of talent, from Michelin-starred chefs to astute sommeliers, to ensure this is an ocean experience that champions flavour and culinary excellence.
Explora Journeys’ international cuisine inspirations
As a nod to world travel and exploration, each of the culinary experiences on both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II take cues from traditional cultures to bring their cuisines to life.
Leaning on their own exceptional talent, collaborating with celebrated chefs and using seasonal, responsibly sourced produce, the culinary team aims to showcase the beauty of ingredients through skilful restraint that enhances true flavours. Making as much in-house as possible for the six onboard restaurants, from fresh pasta to bread, every mouthful is incredibly vibrant. This philosophy also extends to the wine lists, which feature a selection of the world’s best drops, from Napa Valley chardonnays to emerging Swiss examples.
For guests who are captivated enough to delve deeper, there are masterclasses and tastings to attend, as well as wine-themed experiences to discover onshore.
Climb aboard for some exception dining options.
Explora Journeys’ food offerings
With more than 11 perfectly polished culinary experiences to relish onboard both ships, as well as 12 bars and lounges, it’s near impossible to highlight a standout. No matter the length of the journey, guests will be captivated by the exceptional breadth of dining options.
Experience the delicate flavours and intricate plating of Asian fare at the beautiful Sakura. Here, bold compilations of spice and aroma from Vietnam, Japan and Malaysia – such as a wakame salad, smoked Madagascan pepper and beef tataki – are enjoyed alongside sake suggested by the sake sommelier.
Experience the delicate flavours at Sakura.
At Anthology, the world is reflected on the plate with precision and mastery; featuring inspiration by guest chefs of great renown from across the globe, this is destination dining afloat. Meanwhile, at Marble & Co. Grill, diners can settle in for a refined menu of European steakhouse classics carved from sustainably sourced and premium beef, such as a 30-day aged prime rib, enjoyed with the finest of wines.
For luxe but laidback all-day dining, Emporium Marketplace is a globally inspired food hall spanning everything from slow-cooked meats to freshly baked pizza and hand-rolled sushi. Emporium Marketplace also encompasses a fromagerie, boulangerie and charcuterie, and also serves a selection of Champagne and wine.
Guests can also meander to Med Yacht Club, where the crisp and crave-worthy flavours of the Mediterranean are served within a lively ambience. With dishes such as grilled octopus in San Marzano tomato sauce and a sweet caprese with cherry tomatoes, strawberries and burrata, it’s the place to settle in for long, lazy lunches.
Taste the best of the Mediterranean at Med Yacht Club.
World-class chefs
Dining at Anthology is a one-of-a-kind experience unique to Explora Journeys, as a rotating roster of incredible culinary talent inspires the menu of beautifully finessed fare. This began with the maiden voyage of EXPLORA I, which saw a partnership with Michelin-starred Italian chef Mauro Uliassi, whose imaginative expressions of his home country’s traditions have earned him worldwide acclaim. Revered for the seafood dishes at his long-adored seafood restaurant Senigallia in Marche, on Italy’s east coast, Uliassi’s Anthology menu honoured the ocean’s bounty and created a multisensory dining experience for guests.
This first collaboration between Explora Journeys and the world’s best chefs set the tone for an incomparable gastronomic journey – one that can only be experienced through travelling on this luxury cruise line that heroes sustainable produce and culinary craftsmanship.
World-class chefs prepare dishes, like Christophe Sapy at Sakura Restaurant.
Explora Journeys’ sailings
Travelling to the most dramatic and captivating corners of the globe, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Northern Europe and the Arabian Peninsula, Explora Journeys opens up the world with flexible all-inclusive journeys that unlock the authenticity of place and culture.
Choosing a journey that stirs wanderlust is just the beginning of an unforgettable trip, with a range of onshore experiences that allow for a deeper understanding of each destination. From hiking fjords in Greenland’s wilderness to a private yoga class in a castle in Bruges, or snorkelling with sea turtles in the Caribbean, Explora Journeys ensures profound interactions and uplifting escapes from port to port.
Enjoy luxe but laidback all-day dining at Emporium Marketplace.
Sounds good, keep me posted!