Cruising offers a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury, but for travelers with mobility challenges, finding the right cruise line that prioritizes accessibility can be daunting. Enter Explora Journeys, a luxury cruise line that seamlessly combines elegance with inclusivity, ensuring that every guest enjoys a comfortable and enriching voyage.
Exploring Accessible Luxury at Sea: A Guide to Explora Journeys for Travelers with Mobility Needs
A Commitment to Accessibility
Explora Journeys, part of the MSC Group, has designed its ships with accessibility at the forefront. Both Explora I and the upcoming Explora III feature 10 fully accessible suites, including one Grand Penthouse Suite and nine Ocean Terrace Suites. These suites are thoughtfully equipped with wider doorways, roll-in showers with built-in grab bars, fold-down seats, and hand-held shower wands. Additional amenities such as toilet seat risers (upon request), lowered towel racks, wardrobe bars, shelves, and personal safes ensure a comfortable stay for guests with mobility needs.
The ships are also equipped with elevators and pathways that ensure smooth navigation throughout, making it easy for guests to access various decks and amenities.
Thoughtful Design for Comfort
Explora Journeys’ commitment to accessibility extends beyond the cabins. Common areas and doorways meet ADA accessibility standards, and the ships are designed to be fully handicapped-accessible, offering barrier-free suites with wide doorways and step-free bathrooms. Elevators and pathways ensure smooth navigation throughout the ship.
The suites themselves are designed with comfort in mind, featuring spacious layouts, walk-in closets, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and thoughtful design elements. Guests can enjoy amenities like espresso machines, large bathrooms with premium toiletries and heated floors, robes, and slippers.
Personalized Assistance and Services
For guests requiring additional assistance, Explora Journeys offers personalized services. Guests are encouraged to notify the cruise line in writing prior to final payment if they need special services, including the use of medical apparatus such as wheelchairs, motorized scooters, or oxygen therapy. The ships also offer ALS and TTY devices for the hearing-impaired upon request, ensuring that all guests have access to necessary communication tools.
Accessible Shore Excursions
Explora Journeys recognizes the importance of inclusive shore experiences. Certain “Accessible Destination Experiences” are available, and the line can also organize customized accessible tours. Accessible transfers and hotels can be booked through Explora’s “Journey Enrichments” program, ensuring a seamless experience from ship to shore.
Upcoming Accessible Options
Looking ahead, Explora Journeys plans to expand its accessible offerings. In August 2026, Explora III is set to debut with 463 suites, 11 of which will be ADA-accessible. This expansion underscores the brand’s commitment to providing luxury experiences for all travelers.
Accessible Spa Facilities
Explora I’s Ocean Wellness Spa features a comprehensive wellness area that is accessible to all guests, including those with mobility challenges. Key accessible amenities include:
- Hydrotherapy Pool: Designed for relaxation and therapeutic benefits.
- Finnish Sauna and Steam Room: Traditional heat therapies to promote relaxation.
- Himalayan Salt Room: Offers a unique environment for respiratory benefits.
- Heated Marble Loungers: Provide comfort and warmth for relaxation.
- Icefall: A feature for invigorating cold exposure after heat treatments.
Accessible Pool Features
Explora I boasts several pool areas, each thoughtfully designed to ensure accessibility:
- Astern Pool: Located at the aft of the ship on Deck 5, this infinity pool offers stunning wake views and is complemented by comfortable sunbeds and loungers.
- Conservatory Pool: Situated on Deck 11, this indoor-outdoor pool features a retractable glass roof, allowing guests to enjoy swimming in various weather conditions.
- Helios Pool: An adults-only pool located on Deck 12, providing a serene environment for relaxation.
These pools are designed with wide entryways and ample space around the pool areas to facilitate easy access for guests with mobility challenges.
Ready to Set Sail?
Embarking on a luxury cruise should be an experience of relaxation and discovery, not one of compromise. With Explora Journeys’ commitment to accessibility, travelers with mobility needs can enjoy the same level of luxury and adventure as all guests. Whether you’re exploring the Mediterranean’s ancient cities, the Caribbean’s sun-kissed shores, or Northern Europe’s dramatic coastlines, Explora Journeys ensures that every journey is inclusive, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Discover accessible luxury with a personal touch. Call us now at 888 717 5074 —our expert team is ready to tailor every detail of your bespoke journey.
Book Your Explora Journeys Cruise
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are service animals allowed on Explora Journeys ships?
A: Yes, service animals are permitted on board Explora Journeys ships, provided they meet the necessary health and safety requirements.
Q: Can guests with mobility issues participate in shore excursions?
A: Explora Journeys offers a selection of accessible shore excursions tailored for guests with mobility challenges, ensuring an inclusive experience.
Q: Are there elevators on Explora Journeys ships?
A: Yes, all Explora Journeys ships are equipped with elevators to ensure easy access to all decks for guests with mobility needs.
Q: Does Explora Journeys offer accessible cabins for guests with mobility issues?
A: Yes, Explora Journeys provides accessible cabins equipped with features such as wider doorways, roll-in showers, and grab bars to accommodate guests with mobility challenges.
