During my cruise in Scandinavia, I unexpectedly delved into the world of wine. While exploring ashore, I indulged in herring on a Swedish island, toured the impressive Munch Museum in Oslo, and explored the charming old town of Stavanger in southern Norway. It was during my dining experiences in the six restaurants aboard the Explora I that I stumbled upon their exceptional wine program. From the indulgent Marble & Co. Grill to the Asian-fusion delights at Sakura, each restaurant concept offered unique culinary experiences. My dining highlight came at Anthology, where renowned chef Mauro Uliassi led an unforgettable Italian fine-dining experience. Uliassi, known for his three Michelin-starred restaurant in Senigallia, presented dishes like grilled squid skewers and fig-infused pasta, paired with wines from Le Marche, a lesser-known region in Italy. The meal opened my eyes to the quality and diversity of wines from this region.
As my cruise continued, I discovered that wine was a prominent feature on the Explora I. Master of Wine Rod Smith conducted informative classes on Italian wines and the versatility of Chardonnay. The ship’s food and beverage expert, Thibaut Briançon, curated a selection of exciting and unique wines, including older vintages and lesser-known varieties. The abundance of wine offerings, from free-flowing Champagne on deck to the impressive wine list featuring gems like Nick Farr’s Australian wines, showcased the commitment to providing a memorable wine experience onboard. Overall, my journey through Scandinavia on the Explora I not only offered breathtaking views of the Kattegat but also a newfound appreciation for wine and culinary delights.
Upon boarding the luxurious vessel, guests were treated to an impressive array of fine wines, including a Château Margaux Bordeaux and an Antinori Solaia, a notable Super-Tuscan selection. However, concerns arose about the storage of these sought-after wines for the duration of the journey. One guest was particularly enthralled by the discovery of Ulysse Collin’s exceptional Champagne, produced in limited quantities. Despite his earnest attempts, he was unable to persuade the staff to part with bottles for him to take home. The narrative continued into the late hours at the Malt Whisky Bar, where an extensive collection of over a dozen exceptional whiskeys was available. The offerings included a delightful assortment of reasonably priced single malts, as well as a tantalizing private reserve featuring 30-year-old Bowmore and premium Cognacs for those with discerning palates.
Former CEO of Explora Journeys, Michael Ungerer, shared insights into the vision behind the 461-suite vessel, the first of a planned series of six ships. The aim was to create an ambiance reminiscent of a European boutique resort at sea, an ambitious undertaking considering the competitive landscape where guests always have dining alternatives. Explora I has successfully curated a sense of variety, particularly evident in the expansive Emporium Marketplace. This culinary haven boasted a sushi station, an oyster bar, a pizza parlor, and a patisserie showcasing delectable creations crafted by a skilled pastry chef recruited from the prestigious Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong. An industrious chef skillfully kneaded fresh dough for the domed pizza oven, while a rotisserie elegantly rotated behind one counter, and a diligent pasta maker expertly sealed ravioli nearby. The Marketplace, with its diverse offerings, evoked comparisons to the famed Harrods Food Halls in London, creating a culinary experience that rivaled even the most esteemed luxury properties.
The question lingered: does Explora I truly embody the essence of a European boutique resort? The answer is nuanced, for the sheer opulence and variety of cuisines and wines on board elevate the ship’s offering to a level beyond traditional luxury properties, broadening the scope of what a sophisticated traveler can expect from a maritime experience.
