In Conversation with Christopher Austin

Vanessa Lee asked Chris Austin, President, North America at Explora Journeys about their luxury fleet and growth plans as they launch more ships in the coming years.

Explora Journeys has earned rave reviews and an impressive level of repeat guests in just two years. Why do you think the brand has resonated so quickly with luxury travellers?
Explora Journeys was born from a family vision to reimagine what ocean travel could be. We are more than a cruise line. We are a boutique, ultra-luxury European resort whose home is the ocean. Our “Ocean State of Mind” philosophy was crafted by listening to thousands of guests and travel advisors to ensure we created something truly different. This guest centric approach has led to exceptional feedback, strong repeat rates, and industry
recognition, with multiple prestigious awards in just two years. Guests tell us they love the sense of space, choice, and connection that defines every journey and keeps them coming back for more.

With EXPLORA I and II now sailing and EXPLORA III arriving in 2026, what can guests expect as the fleet expands? 
With every new ship, we’re building on what guests already love and we listen carefully. Guest feedback and evolving travel trends play a big role in shaping each new vessel. With EXPLORA III we are optimizing the additional space created by LNG power, not maximizing guest count, which remains the same. This allows us to introduce larger suites, add a second uniquely designed Owner’s Residence on guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity
to experience Monte Carlo during one of its most glamorous events. Importantly, every partnership is chosen because it aligns with our values, and our shared commitment to excellence, artistry, and authenticity, ensuring that each Deck 7, and expand public spaces for collaboration feels like a natural extension greater comfort. With six ships planned by 2028, we are bringing even more destinations, overnights, and opportunities to linger longer, including Alaska and Asia starting in 2027, ensuring every ship feels fresh, modern, and relevant.

2027 marks the debut of Explora Journeys’ first Alaska and Asia journeys. How will Explora’s approach to these places differ from other luxury brands? 
Our itineraries are designed to be as immersive as they are luxurious. In Alaska, we’re offering journeys ranging from 7 to 12 nights, including smaller, harder-to-reach ports and scenic sailing days. In Asia, guests can expect overnights in iconic cities like Tokyo and Singapore, private and small-group experiences, and opportunities to explore hidden gems beyond the typical highlights. It’s about creating meaningful encounters with culture, cuisine, and community and not just checking off destinations.

Explora Journeys has partnerships with brands like Steinway & Sons, Rolex, and Jannik Sinner. How do these collaborations enrich the guest experience?
These partnerships help us position Explora Journeys as more than a ship. It is a floating resort that celebrates culture and craftsmanship, where guests can enjoy live performances from Steinway Artists, discover boutique shopping experiences with brands like Rolex and Buccellati, or take part in special on-board wellness activations inspired by our global ambassador, Jannik Sinner. In 2026, EXPLORA I will be docked in Port Hercule during the Monaco Grand Prix, offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Monte Carlo during one of its most glamorous events. Importantly, every partnership is chosen because it aligns with our values, and our shared commitment to excellence, artistry, and authenticity, ensuring that each collaboration feels like a natural extension of the Explora Journeys ethos.

The term “all-inclusive” can mean very different things across the cruise industry. How does Explora Journeys define its inclusions, and how does that elevate the experience for travellers?
At Explora Journeys, we believe true luxury should feel effortless and our inclusions are designed to deliver exceptional value. Guests enjoy unlimited fine beverages, including premium wines and spirits, nine culinary experiences, seamless, high-speed Wi-Fi, and gratuities, as well as access to our Ocean Wellness programming. These experiences are delivered by one of the highest guest-to-host ratios in the industry, with passionate hospitality
experts ensuring every detail feels effortless. There’s no second-guessing or tallying extras, just the freedom to fully immerse in the experience. This transparency not only simplifies planning but allows our guests to focus on what matters most: enjoying their journey, their way.

What should Canadian travellers know right now about Explora Journeys?
Canadian travellers value authenticity and connection, and that’s exactly what Explora delivers. As a family-owned brand headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, we bring a distinctly European sensibility to luxury ocean travel. With EXPLORA I and II already sailing, EXPLORA III arriving in 2026, and new destinations like Alaska and Asia coming in 2027, there’s never been a better time to join us and experience life at sea in a way that feels personal, elegant, and refreshingly different.