Explora I: a Western Mediterranean week for three generations
Barcelona to Rome with connecting suites, a real kids' program and nobody dressing for dinner.
AdviceWhat we would do in your position
Ask Blackbury Travel
Is Explora good for families?
Yes. It is the luxury line we recommend most often to families and three-generation groups: large suites that connect in pairs, a real children's program, nine venues with no fixed seating and ships that are happy to see children.
Our answer
In our words.
Most luxury lines tolerate children. Explora welcomes them, and that is the difference you feel on board. The suites are large for the fare, the Ocean Terrace suites connect in pairs, and an Ocean Residence next door gives grandparents their own living room and a terrace the whole family can use.
Dining is the other reason. Nine places to eat and no fixed seating means a party of ten can sit together one night and split three ways the next without a plan. For families, that matters more than any single restaurant.
It is not the right ship for a couple who want a quiet, traditional small ship; the ships are modern, large for the category and lively in the school vacations. For that couple we would suggest Silversea or Seabourn.
Our promise
We will say no.
We do not recommend a cruise because it is expensive, and we do not put people on the wrong ship. If the ship you have in mind is not right for your party, we will tell you and suggest the one that is, even if it costs less or is sold by someone else. We are an advisor, not a booking engine.
Speak to a specialistThe sailings we name
Where this answer points.
Planning figures per person, not quotes.
Explora II: a Caribbean Christmas for the whole family
Barbados round trip over Christmas with the Grenadines, connecting suites and someone else cooking.
The lines
Who we would book it with.
Explora Journeys
Modern, relaxed, generous with space, and genuinely happy to see children.
- Best for: Three-generation groups who want modern comfort and plenty of room
- Not for: You want a traditional, intimate ship
- Included: dining across most venues; drinks and minibar
Comparison
Read the comparison behind it.
Want us to make the recommendation for your family?
Tell us who is traveling, when and what matters most, and a specialist will name the ships we would book for you, and the ones we would not.