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Join us on the Explora I as we set sail from Bridgetown, Barbados on an extraordinary journey November 27 - December 6, 2023.
Ship Information EXPLORA I, the first ship on the Explore Journeys fleet, sets sail in summer 2023. Set to redefine the possibilities of luxury ocean travel, EXPLORA I will elegantly carry guests both on and off the beaten path, offering the perfect blend of celebrated and lesser-known destinations. The ocean and its influence sit at the heart of the onboard guest experience — inspired by the very thing that carries us, the sea — a transformative natural force that helps us deliver the unique Ocean State of Mind for our guests. On board, guests can expect vibrant, cosmopolitan relaxed European luxury at sea. EXPLORA I offers 461 ocean-front suites, penthouses and residences designed to be 'Homes at Sea' for our guests with private terraces and sweeping ocean views; an unparalleled choice of 18 restaurants, bars and lounges, each its own celebration of global talents and cultures; four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks with private cabanas, and refined onboard entertainment and enrichment. For a true sense of rejuvenation, Ocean Wellness offers the gift of physical and spiritual renewal, from a deeply calming spa inspired by the ocean's natural forces, to a modern fitness space full of cutting-edge equipment.
Itinerary - UNESCO Treasures Below and Above the Caribbean Sea
Day 1 - Embark at Bridgetown, Barbados
Gently breeze into the vibrant capital of Barbados. Steeped in fascinating history, with architecture to match, uncover the wonderfully laid-back West Indian ambiance. Embrace the slow Bajan rhythm of this welcoming island; surf, snorkel and try spotting turtles in balmy azure waters. Explore subterranean Harrison's Cave, Jacobean ST Nicholas Abbey and zipline high above bountiful tropical flora. Then return to restore on pastel pink sands at palm-studded beaches, where you will discover cocktail hour is endless, and measures of rum are copious.
Day 2 - Roseau, Dominica
Roseau is the capital and largest city on Dominica, a small Caribbean island off the coast of Venezuela. This island getaway is renowned for its verdant rainforest landscape and natural wonders, including gorges, waterfalls, and geysers.
Day 3 - Sea Day
Enjoy this day at sea as you travel to your next port of call. This is an opportunity to swim, catch some sun on deck or take advantage of the many activities that are onboard your ship. Eat heartily, take a nap and get ready for the next port of call ! This is what makes cruising so great.
Day 4 - Kralendijk, Bonaire
Just off the coast of Venezuela, Kralendijk is the capital of Bonaire, an island in the Netherland Antilles. There's plenty to explore and savor in this vibrant paradise on the Caribbean Sea, including numerous beaches, an assortment of water sports, and plenty of delicious eats and cocktails.
Day 5 - Willemstad, Curaçao
One of the busiest ports in the Caribbean, Willemstad is the capital city of Curaçao. The city center, brimming with colorful Dutch colonial buildings that nearly touch the water's edge, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Venture to this vibrant paradise lined with palm trees, and you'll discover plenty to see and do. Cross the Queen Emma Pedestrian Bridge to gaze upon stunning views of St. Anna Bay and the Caribbean Sea, or hit the city's many beaches to sample fresh seafood and tasty cocktails. At nearby Curaçao Sea Aquarium, activities include scuba diving and swimming with the dolphins. Head north of Willemstad's city center to explore the Hato Caves, whose limestones deposits are a favorite haunt for local iguanas.
Day 6 - Sea Day
Enjoy this day at sea as you travel to your next port of call. This is an opportunity to swim, catch some sun on deck or take advantage of the many activities that are onboard your ship. Eat heartily, take a nap and get ready for the next port of call ! This is what makes cruising so great.
Day 7 - Saint-Pierre, Martinique
Embrace Martinique's natural joie de vivre. Volcanic in origin, Gallic in heritage and Creole at heart; explore old sugar plantations, premium rum distilleries, cocoa farms and St. Pierre ruins at the foothills of the still smouldering Mount Pelée. Chase the Saut Du Gendarme waterfall, explore the 10-million year old Caravelle peninsula, roam northern beach dusky sands and visit Le Carbet made famous by the artist Gauguin. And as you slow down to contemplate the sweet concoction of the national punch, you will understand why the Creole and French blend makes Martinique so magical.
Day 8 - Kingstown, Grenadines
Kingstown is the Grenadines' capital and biggest city. Wander into the quiet laid back charm of historical St. Vincent. Explore Fort Charlotte, the ancient Botanic Gardens - sanctuary to the endangered Amazon parrot - and hike the lush Vermont Valley for views of banana farms and rainforests. Feel the wind in your sails aboard a schooner or dip in to race seahorses, spot barracuda and admire leaping sea frogs. Watch welcoming Vincentians gently fry jackfruit and lace fruit punch with rum in this sultry tropical wonderland. And with such a backdrop, it is easy to understand why The Pirates of the Caribbean movie was shot here.
Day 9 - Bridgetown, Barbados
A former English colonial stronghold, Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados, will entice you with its unique Bajan flair and centuries-old English style architecture. This Caribbean haven, a favorite for Caribbean cruise-goers, offers plenty of adventurous and tropical excursions that will surely entertain you! Beachside attractions are a must – hop on a catamaran to go snorkleing offshore, plunge the ocean depths in a local submarine, or unwind on the sands of Carlisle Bay. Explore the historical remnants of Bridgetown’s English occupation, including St. Michael’s Cathedral, the Morgan Lewis Sugar Mill, Arlington House Museum, and Chamberlain Bridge. Better yet, sample the island’s best rums made from local sugarcane at St. Nicholas Abbey or Mount Gay Rum. Delight in Barbados’s natural wonders at Harrison’s Cave, the cavernous limestone grotto concealing striking calcite deposits and warm waters. Stroll the verdant walkways replete with hundreds of blooming flowers at Hunte’s Gardens or the Andromeda Botanic Gardens.
Travel to Bridgetown and immerse yourself in this Bajan paradise!
Day 10 - Disembark at Bridgetown, Barbados
Are you ready to experience Explora Journey on an incredible journey of UNESCO Treasures Above and Below the Caribbean?
Travel medical and trip cancellation/interruption insurance is recommended.
Are you ready to go beyond? Book your Explora Journey Cruise today. Click here to set up a consultation or to book today.
departuresXdean - an independent agent with Personal Travel Mgmt BC Tour registration #2806, TICO #50025786 proud members of the IGLTA and the Ensemble Travel Group.
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