Explora II Becomes the Ultimate Luxury Destination During Monaco’s Legendary Grand Prix Weekend

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, made a landmark appearance at the FORMULA 1 TAG HEUER GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2025, offering a weekend of glamour, adrenaline, and unparalleled hospitality aboard EXPLORA II.

Kicking off the iconic race weekend, Explora Journeys partnered with Vanity Fair to host an exclusive edition of the Vanity Fair Club aboard EXPLORA II. Set against the glittering backdrop of Port Hercule, the event was co-hosted by Simone Marchetti, European Editorial Director of Vanity Fair and Editor-in-Chief of Vanity Fair Italia, and Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. The evening welcomed an illustrious guest list, including Prince Alexandre Grimaldi, Flavio Briatore, Pierfrancesco Vago (Executive Chairman MSC Group Cruise Division), Luca de Meo (CEO of Renault), Princess Alexandra de Hanovre, and entrepreneur Kevin Lütolf.

Anna Nash, President Explora Journeys said “This weekend in Monaco has been nothing short of extraordinary. Hosting our guests aboard EXPLORA II during one of the world’s most iconic sporting events was a true celebration of elegance, energy, and modern luxury. From the pulse of the Grand Prix to the serenity of our ocean-inspired sanctuary, every moment was thoughtfully crafted to spark connection and a sense of wonder. It was a perfect reflection of what Explora Journeys stands for—transformative experiences, impeccable style, and unforgettable memories.”

Throughout the Grand Prix weekend, EXPLORA II—the newest addition to the Explora Journeys fleet—served as an ultra-luxurious, private-yacht-inspired sanctuary in the heart of Monaco. Docked in Port Hercule, the ship offered guests exclusive proximity to the race, panoramic views of the Riviera, and a curated onboard program that seamlessly blended high-octane excitement with refined serenity.

The ship’s onboard program featured appearances by Formula 1 legends including David Coulthard, Sir Jackie Stewart, and Mika Häkkinen, alongside rising stars Pierre Gasly and Franco Colapinto from the BWT Alpine Formula One™ Team.

Guests immersed themselves in interactive, racing-inspired experiences, from a VR race simulator and Formula 1 trivia challenges to a miniature onboard track — bringing the adrenaline of the circuit to life at sea.

Between race events, the spirit of luxury unfolded through curated retail showcases from Buccellati, Panerai, and Piaget. Highlights included private viewings of Buccellati’s Snake Collection, featuring a €988,000 pink sapphire parure, Panerai masterclasses exploring haute horlogerie complications, and live engraving demonstrations by Piaget — each moment crafted to inspire curiosity and appreciation for fine craftsmanship.

As night fell over Monaco’s luminous coastline, EXPLORA II transformed into the social heart of the weekend. Guests gathered for starlit celebrations, champagne receptions, and themed cocktail evenings across the ship’s lounges and decks — each designed to reflect the elegance and energy of Monaco’s most prestigious weekend.

The FORMULA 1® TAG HEUER GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2025 aboard EXPLORA II was nothing short of extraordinary. With a world-class guest list, a front-row location in Port Hercule, and a program that seamlessly blended glamour, access, and artistry, Explora Journeys delivered an F1 experience unlike any other. It was a defining moment in the brand’s journey — one that continues to reimagine ocean travel through a lens of sophistication, innovation, and purpose.