Insider's Review: Why Explora Journeys is the Only Way to Cruise Africa

In two decades of traversing the globe for the world’s most esteemed travel publications, I’ve learned to recognize the difference between a trip and a transformation. Africa, more than any other continent, promises the latter. It’s a land of profound contrasts—of thundering waterfalls and silent, star-strewn deserts; of ancient cultures and vibrant, modern cities. To truly experience it is to be humbled, thrilled, and irrevocably changed.

For years, the question has been how to embrace Africa’s raw majesty without sacrificing the comfort, elegance, and peace of mind that true luxury travel affords. How do you witness the untamed spectacle of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast, where colossal dunes crash into the Atlantic, and then retreat to a sanctuary of European refinement? The answer, I have discovered, is not just a ship, but a philosophy. The answer is Explora Journeys.

This isn’t a conventional cruise review. This is an argument for a new paradigm of exploration. After immersing myself in their unique approach, I can state with journalistic conviction: Explora Journeys is not simply *a* way to cruise Africa; it is the *only* way to experience the continent’s coastal wonders with the depth, grace, and soul they deserve.

The Explora Journeys Difference: Redefining the African Voyage

To understand Explora Journeys, you must first understand its founding principle: the “Ocean State of Mind.” This is more than a clever marketing slogan; it’s a commitment to a slower, more thoughtful pace of travel. Where mass-market lines cram itineraries with fleeting port visits, Explora Journeys curates voyages that allow for genuine discovery. They linger longer in ports, often overnight, giving you the gift of time—time to watch the sunset over Cape Town’s Table Mountain from your private terrace, time for an unhurried dinner at a celebrated local restaurant, time to simply *be*.

This philosophy is immediately apparent in the design of their ships, like the magnificent EXPLORA I. With a high guest-to-space ratio, the vessel never feels crowded. It is a floating boutique hotel, a haven of quiet corners, expansive decks, and thoughtful design that connects you to the sea, rather than insulating you from it. Forget the frantic energy of mega-ships; this is an atmosphere of calm, cosmopolitan elegance, where the journey itself is as enriching as the destinations.

You can begin to explore their unique African sailings right now using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page. But to truly grasp the profound difference, let’s step aboard.

Your Sanctuary at Sea: Aboard EXPLORA I

The ship is your home, your restaurant, your wellness retreat, and your front-row seat to the wonders of the African coast. Explora Journeys has meticulously crafted an environment that anticipates every need and indulges every sense, ensuring that your time at sea is one of complete rejuvenation.

The Art of Arrival: Suites, Penthouses, and Residences

There are no ‘cabins’ on Explora Journeys, only ‘homes at sea.’ Every single accommodation is a suite, and every suite has a private oceanfront terrace. This is a non-negotiable standard. From the moment you step into your Ocean Suite, the thoughtful luxury is palpable. The walk-in wardrobe, the heated marble floors in the bathroom, the Frette robes and linens, the Dyson Supersonic hairdryer, the personal pair of Swarovski Optik binoculars waiting for you—every detail has been considered.

The design is one of understated European elegance, creating a serene backdrop for the dramatic African landscapes scrolling past your floor-to-ceiling windows. This is your private sanctuary, a place to reflect on the day’s adventures or simply listen to the rhythm of the waves. It’s a level of personal space and privacy that is simply unheard of in mainstream cruising.

A Culinary Constellation: Dining Beyond Expectation

Explora Journeys has shattered the cruise dining mold. With nine distinct culinary experiences, the all-inclusive model here means you are free to dine where, when, and with whom you please, without ever seeing a bill or being asked for a gratuity. The quality is nothing short of exceptional.

• Anthology: A culinary stage showcasing menus crafted by the world’s most celebrated Michelin-starred chefs. This is a fine dining experience that would be a highlight in any major global city, let alone at sea.
• Sakura: An immersive journey into Pan-Asian cuisine, offering authentic flavors from Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The sushi is exquisitely fresh, and the sake sommelier is a delight.
• Marble & Co. Grill: A re-imagining of the classic European steakhouse, featuring personally sourced, sublime cuts of meat and an exceptional wine list.
• Med Yacht Club: A celebration of the Mediterranean, with breezy, flavourful dishes inspired by the coasts of Italy, Spain, Greece, and France.

This is just a taste. From the Emporium Marketplace for casual, all-day global cuisine to the Crema Café for an authentic Italian coffee, your palate will be on a journey of its own. Imagine returning from a thrilling 4x4 excursion across the Namib Desert to this world of culinary choice. Our travel advisors can help you navigate the options and even make pre-reservations for you. Simply click 'Chat with us' in the lower right corner to start the conversation.

Wellness and Rejuvenation: Ocean Wellness

The commitment to the “Ocean State of Mind” finds its physical manifestation in the Ocean Wellness facilities. The sprawling indoor/outdoor spa is a temple of tranquility, offering a thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool, and a menu of treatments designed to restore and relax. The state-of-the-art fitness center offers Technogym equipment, open-air workout spaces, and tailored classes. This isn't an afterthought; it's a core part of the experience, ensuring you return from your African adventure not just inspired, but truly revitalized.

The Soul of Africa: An Itinerary of Wonder

An exceptional ship is only half the equation. What sets Explora Journeys apart is how it engages with Africa. Their itineraries are masterfully paced, blending iconic ports with lesser-known gems, and offering experiences that go far beyond the typical tourist trail.

Cape Town: The Mother City's Majestic Embrace

There are few arrivals in the world as breathtaking as sailing into Cape Town. The iconic silhouette of Table Mountain rises dramatically from the sea, welcoming you to one of the planet's most beautiful and dynamic cities. Explora Journeys often overnights here, granting you the freedom to explore its full spectrum.

• Ascend Table Mountain for panoramic views that will leave you speechless.
• Journey to the Cape of Good Hope, the dramatic meeting point of two great oceans.
• Spend a day tasting world-class vintages in the idyllic Cape Winelands of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
• Take a poignant ferry ride to Robben Island to understand the history of Nelson Mandela and the struggle for freedom.

Namibia's Ethereal Coast: Walvis Bay & Lüderitz

This is where an African cruise becomes a true expedition into the extraordinary. The coast of Namibia is a place of stark, surreal beauty. From the port of Walvis Bay, you can venture into the world’s oldest desert, the Namib.

• Experience the thrill of a 4x4 adventure across the towering dunes of Sandwich Harbour, where the desert spills directly into the Atlantic Ocean.
• Witness the incredible sight of thousands of pink flamingos wading in the Walvis Bay Lagoon.
• From Lüderitz, explore the hauntingly beautiful ghost town of Kolmanskop, where diamond-era mansions are slowly being reclaimed by the shifting sands of the desert—a photographer’s dream.

Beyond the Shore: Immersive Destination Experiences

This is the critical differentiator. Explora Journeys curates small-group, authentic encounters designed for discerning travelers. Forget crowded coaches and rigid schedules. Think more along the lines of:

• A private tour with a local conservationist to learn about the unique desert-adapted wildlife.
• A hands-on cooking class focused on the unique flavors of Cape Malay cuisine.
• A guided visit to a local artisan collective, supporting the community directly.

Crafting the perfect blend of sea days and shore excursions is an art. To see how these ports fit into a complete itinerary and to customize your own pre- or post-cruise safari, we invite you to Plan Your Africa Adventure with one of our specialists. They can transform a great trip into the journey of a lifetime.

The Intangible Allure: The Vibe Onboard

Beyond the hardware and the itinerary is the feeling, the atmosphere. The vibe aboard Explora Journeys is one of relaxed, cosmopolitan camaraderie. You are surrounded by curious, well-traveled individuals from around the world who, like you, appreciate discovery but also value comfort and elegance. There are no forced formal nights or rigid dining times. The dress code is resort casual. The energy is social but never intrusive.

The service is the final, perfect layer. The crew is intuitive, warm, and genuinely dedicated to creating a seamless experience. They remember your name, your preferred coffee order, and your favorite spot by the pool, all without being overbearing. It’s a level of personalized attention that makes a world of difference. If this sounds like your kind of travel community, let's talk. A quick call to our dedicated Explora Journeys line at 1 (888) 883-0460 can answer all your questions about life onboard.

Why Book With Us? The Value of Expert Guidance

An African voyage with Explora Journeys is an investment in a profound travel experience. But the cruise itself is often just one piece of a larger puzzle. Coordinating international flights, navigating visa requirements, and, most importantly, planning the perfect pre- or post-cruise extension—like a once-in-a-lifetime safari in Kruger National Park or a visit to the majestic Victoria Falls—requires deep expertise and logistical precision.

That is where we come in. Our relationship with Explora Journeys allows us to offer not just the best fares, but also unparalleled insight and service. We handle every detail, ensuring a seamless journey from your front door back home. We don’t just book trips; we design experiences.

This is more than just a cruise; it's a complex, multi-faceted expedition. Don't leave it to chance. Let our experts handle every detail, from your suite selection to your private safari guide. Get a Custom Quote today and discover the peace of mind that comes with professional planning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is included in an Explora Journeys cruise fare?

Explora Journeys offers a truly all-inclusive luxury experience. Your fare includes accommodation in an oceanfront suite, access to all nine culinary experiences (excluding the one-of-a-kind Anthology), unlimited premium beverages including fine wines and spirits, all onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi, and access to the Ocean Wellness thermal spa facilities.

Is a cruise a good way to see Africa?

For coastal Africa, it is an exceptional way. A luxury cruise with Explora Journeys allows you to access remote and dramatic coastlines like Namibia's with unparalleled comfort and ease. It eliminates the hassle of constant packing and unpacking, long overland drives, and arranging logistics in multiple locations, allowing you to focus purely on the experience. It serves as a perfect "base" for deeper inland exploration via pre- or post-cruise extensions.

What kind of traveler is Explora Journeys best for?

Explora Journeys is designed for discerning, curious, and independent-minded travelers. If you have outgrown mass-market cruising and value space, choice, and a slower, more immersive pace of travel, you will feel right at home. It is for those who seek authentic cultural engagement and refined luxury without stuffiness or formality.

Can I add a safari to my African cruise?

Absolutely, and we highly recommend it. It is the ultimate way to experience the full breadth of Africa's wonders. Our team specializes in creating seamless pre- and post-cruise safari extensions to iconic destinations like South Africa's Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Botswana's Okavango Delta, or Kenya's Maasai Mara. Inquire About This Sailing and let us show you how we can combine the best of land and sea.