Sunday, February 8, 2026
Many amenities in this luxurious ship are included, making them easy to enjoy at your own pace. -TINA CALLAHAN / COURTESY PHOTO
Luxury travel has a certain rhythm to it. When it is done well, everything flows so smoothly that you almost forget how many moving parts are involved
That was my immediate impression upon arriving at Port of Miami to board Explora II. From the moment we arrived, the experience felt calm, organized and refreshingly unhurried. There was no scrambling, no confusion and no waiting around wondering what came next.
Staff clearly guided guests through check-in, luggage tags were already prepared, and bags were promptly taken care of. It sets the tone instantly. This was going to be an easy kind of luxury, one where you could relax and let the details be handled for you.
Once onboard, that feeling continued into the accommodation. The Terrace staterooms are beautifully appointed and thoughtfully designed, offering generous space and a private terrace with two lounge chairs and a table. Every room category includes this outdoor living element, which truly elevates the experience.
The author enjoyed dining and beverages being included, leaving very little to think about once onboard. -TINA CALLAHAN / COURTESY PHOTO
The author enjoyed dining and beverages being included, leaving very little to think about once onboard. -TINA CALLAHAN / COURTESY PHOTO
Inside, a small lounge sofa adds to the sense of comfort, creating a layout that feels more like a boutique hotel suite than a traditional cruise cabin. Every detail reflects careful planning, balancing style with function.
One of the most memorable moments of the voyage happened on the first evening. We departed the port just after 5 p.m. and headed to the Sky Lounge with drinks in hand, surrounded by great music and an energetic yet relaxed atmosphere. As the ship slowly pulled away, the city’s skyline came alive, glowing against the darkening sky. I had sailed from Miami before, but never at that time of day. Watching the city fade into the evening felt cinematic and unforgettable.
This nine-night Southern Caribbean sailing departed from Miami and explored a beautifully curated mix of islands, including St. Thomas, St. Lucia, Grenada, Martinique, Gustavia in St. Barthélemy, and the St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Rather than returning to Miami, the voyage concluded in Barbados, making the journey feel expansive and intentional.
Disembarkation was seamless, and flying home from Barbados was surprisingly easy, with a modern, efficient airport that made the transition home smooth and stress-free.
Throughout the ship, transitions felt effortless. Moving from stateroom to dining venues to lounges never felt crowded or chaotic. The flow of the ship was intuitive, and the crew seemed to anticipate needs before they were ever voiced. That attention to detail made it easy to stay present and fully enjoy each moment without distraction.
The dining onboard was equally impressive. Guests can choose from five complimentary dining venues, along with one upscale specialty restaurant available for an additional charge.
What stood out most was the intimate atmosphere. Rather than large, bustling dining rooms, each venue felt refined and personal. The culinary variety was excellent, offering something for every palate, from steak and seafood to Asian, French and Mediterranean cuisine.
One unexpected favorite was the Emporium Marketplace, which struck a perfect balance between relaxed dining and elevated cuisine. -TINA CALLAHAN / COURTESY PHOTO
One unexpected favorite was the Emporium Marketplace, which struck a perfect balance between relaxed dining and elevated cuisine. -TINA CALLAHAN / COURTESY PHOTO
One unexpected favorite was the Emporium Marketplace. Unlike traditional cruise buffets, everything here is made to order and cooked exactly to your preference. While the atmosphere is casual, the quality and presentation rival that of the ship’s sit-down restaurants. It struck a perfect balance between relaxed dining and elevated cuisine.
Wellness offerings added another layer of indulgence. Many amenities are included, making them easy to enjoy at your own pace. The salt room, hydrotherapy pool, heated loungers and steam facilities quickly became favorites. There is also a full-service spa and salon offering massages and facials, though our days were filled with excursions and onboard activities, leaving little downtime.
It was often the small touches that made the biggest impression. One evening while waiting to be seated for dinner, a waiter appeared with glasses of champagne. At other venues, staff carried drinks on a platter and escorted guests to their seats. These moments felt thoughtful and genuine, adding an extra layer of care.
The onboard host played an important role in enhancing the experience. She checked in regularly, shared helpful insights, and made herself available for questions or special requests. Onboard sessions offered opportunities to learn more about the ship and brand, adding depth and personal connection.
What became clear over the course of the journey was how much value was built into the experience. Dining, beverages including spirits and a curated global whisky bar, gratuities, and most onboard offerings were included, leaving very little to think about once onboard.
Excursions were the main additional expense, allowing guests to choose how they wanted to explore each destination.
By the end of the voyage, it was clear that Explora II is less about grand statements and more about how everything quietly comes together. The details are thoughtful, the service feels intuitive, and the pace invites you to slow down and settle into the journey.
It is the kind of experience that stays with you, not because it demands attention, but because it allows you the rare luxury of simply being present at sea.
Tina Callahan is a Luxury Travel Specialist with Preferred Travel & Company, bringing more than 30 years of industry experience to create unforgettable journeys. Tina specializes in luxury cruising and land tours all over the world. Tina is known for designing thoughtful, well-planned itineraries that blend meaningful experiences, natural beauty, and personalized service.
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