THE SUSTAINABLE “PALACE” OF THE SEA
The 248-metre Explora II commands attention for representing an entirely new paradigm in ocean travel.Like Monaco itself – a destination that holds a particular place in world’s luxury sphere – this floating marvel embodies the Aponte-Vago family’s vision to achieve something unprecedented: the maritime equivalent of a “Palace.”
As President Anna Nash observes, each arrival in Monaco is “imbued with glamour, elegance and timeless tradition that aligns perfectly with Explora Journeys’ values.“
“Palace is a category that exists uniquely in France, beyond five stars,” explains Patrick Pourbaix, Explora Journeys’ General Manager for France. “We genuinely tick every criterion of a floating palace. There are only thirty such establishments in France-half in Paris, the remainder throughout the country-and we are establishing ourselves as the first floating iteration.“
This distinction transcends marketing hyperbole. Where conventional vessels of Explora II’s dimensions might accommodate nearly 3,000 passengers, this ship limits capacity to just 922 guests. The mathematics of luxury become apparent: every soul aboard enjoys unprecedented space with a remarkable crew-to-guest ratio with 750 dedicated team members ensuring flawless service.
Traditional cabins don’t exist; instead, 461 ocean-front suites comprise the entire inventory. Entry-level Ocean Terrace Suites begin at 35 square metres with private terraces, while the Owner’s Residence spans 280 square metres across the ship’s full width, featuring panoramic terraces and dedicated butler service.
Martin Francis, the British designer renowned for superyachts, collaborated on the exterior profile to ensure Explora II’s aesthetic aligns with luxury yachting rather than conventional cruise architecture. This philosophy permeates every detail, from eleven distinctive culinary experiences to the 1,000-square-metre spa and curated art and photography gallery that elevates the onboard cultural experience. Yet most remarkably, this floating palace achieves luxury whilst maintaining an almost negligible environmental footprint-previously impossible.
Anna Nash, Explora Journeys’ President, emphasises that environmental consciousness is fundamental to the brand’s DNA. “The family are incredibly passionate about the ocean,” she explains. “They want to give back and protect the ocean because they thrive professionally and personally on the seas.“
This commitment manifests through cutting-edge technology. Explora I and II, whilst operating on light fuel oil, incorporate advanced environmental systems including Selective Catalytic Reduction technology, which reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 per cent. The ships have earned RINA Dolphin certification for reduced underwater noise, protecting marine life corridors.
However, the environmental revolution truly accelerates with future vessels. Explora III and IV will utilise LNG, reducing CO₂ emissions by 20-25 per cent whilst maintaining identical performance. These engines can also burn biofuels or synthetic fuels when available, potentially achieving net-zero emissions. The technological pinnacle arrives with Explora V and VI, featuring hybrid propulsion combining LNG with hydrogen fuel cells generating six megawatts of electricity. “When these ships dock at ports like Monaco, they’ll operate on hydrogen fuel cells with engines completely shut down, achieving zero emissions,” Pourbaix proudly explains. “They’ll be cleaner than any land-based hotel.”
This environmental leadership extends beyond propulsion. No single-use plastics appear aboard or during shore excursions. Advanced wastewater treatment systems exceed Baltic Sea standards-among the world’s most stringent. Shore-to-ship power capabilities allow connection to local electrical grids, whilst France’s 99 per cent clean electricity makes this particularly advantageous.
The ship’s sustainable credentials complement rather than compromise the luxury experience. The 64 private cabanas surrounding four heated pools (including an innovative indoor pool with retractable glass roof) create intimate spaces for relaxation. Meanwhile, over 700 square metres of indoor and outdoor wellness facilities, including nine treatment rooms and state-of-the-art fitness equipment, ensure guests’ physical wellbeing matches their environmental consciousness.
Explora Journeys deliberately challenges the industry’s approach to destinations as well. Rather than brief port calls, itineraries emphasise longer stays and smaller groups for authentic cultural immersion. The company’s Destination Experiences programme supports local artisans, gastronomy, and traditions, ensuring tourism benefits rather than burdens visited communities.
As Nash observes, “We’re taking the helm and redefining the category of ocean travel.” With four additional ships entering service by 2028, Explora Journeys is pioneering
a sustainable luxury future.
This is a new travel philosophy: authentic luxury and environmental responsibility aren’t competing priorities, but complementary elements of truly exceptional experiences. In an era where conscious consumption increasingly defines genuine luxury, Explora II represents not just what premium ocean travel can become, but what it must become.
Standing aboard this floating palace, surrounded by the Mediterranean’s azure waters, one glimpses the future of luxury travel-where environmental stewardship and uncompromising elegance exist in perfect harmony.
