Dining on Explora I: A 33-Day Culinary Journey at Sea

Two days after returning from my 33-day journey on Explora I, I've had time to reflect on the trip, its significance, and various aspects of the experience. Today, I'd like to share my observations regarding the dining scene on this remarkable ship.

First and foremost, Explora I is a masterpiece of elegance and luxury. Its soothing color palette and use of fine materials create an inviting atmosphere, especially with the soft suede chairs and couches in most public spaces, although the Whiskey bar boasts buttery leather sofas. This ambiance encourages socializing and the formation of new friendships.

The culinary offerings on the ship are a highlight. There are six restaurants and two specialty eateries, all curated by the renowned Franck Garanger, previously responsible for Oceania's outstanding cuisine. Over my 33 days on board, I can confidently say that I didn't have a single disappointing meal.

Let's start with the Emporium Market on deck 11, located next to the pool, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It's not a buffet; instead, it offers a diverse menu with made-to-order items. For breakfast, you can enjoy freshly pressed juices, smoothies, pancakes, waffles, bacon, sausage, eggs, cereals, and avocado toast. Lunch options range from daily themed salads to grilled burgers, fish, sushi, pizza, and pasta. Dinner choices include pasta with various sauces, risotto, grilled meats, lobster, oysters, and themed dishes from different countries. The dessert options are equally delightful, featuring chocolate and lemon mousse, cakes, pies, and fresh fruit.

Adjacent to the Emporium Market is the Creperie and Gelateria, where you can savor freshly made crepes, waffles with assorted toppings, a wide selection of fruits, ice cream smoothies, homemade sorbets, and ice creams. This sweet haven is conveniently located next to the main pool, offering a perfect spot to indulge.

Sakura, the Pan-Asian restaurant, is one of two specialty restaurants requiring dinner reservations. It also serves lunch and provides outdoor dining on deck 5. The lunch menu is more compact, while the dinner menu is extensive.

The other specialty restaurant is Marble & Co Grill, exclusively open for dinner and known for its sumptuous offerings. Signature dishes include Osetra Caviar with edible gold leaf served on a bed of smashed potatoes, as well as aged beef, veal, and pork racks.

FIL Rouge, a French-themed restaurant on deck 4, offers breakfast and lunch daily. Hot breakfast items are sourced from here, and the dinner menu features French cuisine with a subtle nod to Italy, all without the need for reservations.

Med Yacht Club, also on deck 4, presents a Mediterranean-themed dining experience, reminiscent of a club. The menu showcases grilled fish, local pastas, and grilled meats, among other Mediterranean delights.

For those seeking a quick pick-me-up, the Crema Cafe on deck 5 offers lattes, cappuccinos, coffee, teas, baked goods, cookies, and panini sandwiches throughout the day, along with a full bar.

Notably, the Anthology Restaurant boasts a 3-star Michelin chef, Mario Uliassi, as its featured chef. The featured chef will change every four months, with a supplement of 190 Euros without the wine pairing and 75 Euros for the wine pairing, for this exceptional dining experience. I had the privilege of dining here, and every course was a delight. The waitlist for Chef Uliassi's restaurant in Italy is typically six months long, making this onboard experience truly special.

Finally, afternoon tea is a daily treat in the Explora lounge on deck 11, offering specially crafted teas for Explora I, traditional scones, clotted cream, whipped cream, jam, tea sandwiches, sweets, and the option to pair it all with a glass of rosé champagne while enjoying the view from the bow of the ship.

Overall, my culinary journey on Explora I was nothing short of extraordinary, and I can't wait to share more reflections on this remarkable voyage in subsequent posts.