Does Explora Journeys Include Alcohol? Your Complete Guide to Drinks at Sea
Does Explora Journeys Include Alcohol? Complete 2025 Guide
Luxury cruising is all about indulgence, comfort, and seamless experiences. For travelers considering Explora Journeys — the ultra-luxury line from MSC — one of the first questions is:
“Are drinks included in my fare?”
The answer is yes. Explora Journeys offers a fully inclusive beverage program that covers premium wines, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options. But there’s more to know if you want to fully enjoy the onboard beverage experience. This guide covers everything you need to know in 2025, from included drinks to specialty upgrades and insider tips.
Explora Journeys’ All-Inclusive Beverage Program
Explora Journeys is designed around the philosophy of effortless luxury. Its all-inclusive beverage program ensures that every sip matches the level of elegance found throughout the ships. Included in your fare are:
Premium spirits: Gin, whiskey, rum, vodka, tequila, cognac, and more
Cocktails & mocktails: Expertly crafted at each bar and lounge
Wine: Curated by sommeliers, including wines by the glass
Champagne: Served throughout the ship and for special celebrations
Non-alcoholic beverages: Fresh juices, smoothies, specialty teas, and coffee
In-suite minibar: Personalized and replenished daily
Whether you’re enjoying a sunrise espresso, a midday cocktail by the pool, or a glass of Champagne with dinner, your beverage needs are fully covered.
Wine & Champagne Selection
Explora Journeys’ wine program is a standout feature. Guests can enjoy:
Wines by the glass, available with every meal
Premium bottle options, available for special occasions (additional cost)
Champagne service throughout the day, including Bellinis and Kir Royales
The onboard sommelier team ensures that every pour enhances your dining and lounge experiences.
Signature Cocktails & Mixology
Each lounge has a unique cocktail menu, including:
Journeys Lounge: Modern takes on classic cocktails
The Explora Lounge: Mediterranean-inspired spritzes
Astern Bar: Tropical rum punches
Helios Pool Bar: Frozen cocktails and fresh fruit margaritas
Lobby Bar: Elegant martinis and digestifs
Mixologists focus on artisanal ingredients, house-made infusions, and creative presentations to make every drink memorable.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Non-drinkers or those seeking alternatives will not be disappointed:
Specialty coffee and tea selections
Freshly pressed juices and smoothies
Mocktails made with the same attention as cocktails
Still and sparkling water served throughout the ship
Even without alcohol, the beverage experience matches Explora Journeys’ high standards of luxury.
In-Suite Beverage Service
Every suite includes:
Daily replenished minibar, tailored to your preferences
Espresso machine with gourmet coffee pods
Premium teas and soft drinks
Your butler or host ensures that your in-suite bar is stocked exactly as you like, maintaining a private and personalized experience.
What’s Not Included
While the beverage program is extensive, a few items are charged separately:
Rare or ultra-premium spirits (e.g., Louis XIII Cognac)
Vintage or rare wines by the bottle
Private in-suite parties with additional bottles
Beverage-pairing dinners in specialty restaurants
For most guests, the included drinks cover every need, with the optional extras available for true connoisseurs.
Dining & Beverage Pairing
Explora Journeys has six dining venues, each paired with curated drinks:
Emporium Marketplace: Wine, beer, and cocktails
Marble & Co. Grill: Steakhouse wines and cocktails
Sakura: Sake and Asian-inspired drinks
Med Yacht Club: Mediterranean wines
Fil Rouge: French wines and digestifs
Anthology: Michelin-level tasting menus with optional premium beverage pairings
All venues integrate drinks seamlessly into the dining experience, so you never need to worry about extra costs for standard beverages.
Comparing Explora Journeys with Other Luxury Lines
| Cruise Line | Alcohol Included? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Explora Journeys | ✅ Yes | Unlimited cocktails, wine, spirits, and in-suite minibar |
| Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection | ✅ Yes | Fewer cocktail variations than Explora |
| Silversea Cruises | ✅ Yes | Exceptional wine list with sommelier guidance |
| Seabourn | ✅ Yes | Extensive Champagne offerings |
| Regent Seven Seas | ✅ Yes | More traditional bar setup |
Explora Journeys stands out for its modern mixology and variety, with drinks available in every lounge and dining space.
Why Explora Offers True All-Inclusive Drinks
Explora Journeys designed its beverage program to be:
Transparent: No tabs, no confusion over packages
Effortless: Drinks are included wherever and whenever you want
Luxurious: Premium spirits, cocktails, and wines served in style
The philosophy ensures that your journey remains uninterrupted and indulgent.
Tips for Enjoying Drinks on Explora Journeys
Explore all lounges — each has its own cocktail identity.
Ask the sommeliers for custom pairings.
Enjoy afternoon tea with Champagne or specialty teas.
Customize your minibar early in the voyage.
Reserve Anthology for a premium wine pairing dinner.
Traveler Insights
“The cocktails on Explora Journeys are incredible — each lounge offers something different, and the bartenders remember your favorite drinks.” – Miami guest
“Champagne service is continuous and high quality, pairing perfectly with meals.” – London guest
“Even as a non-drinker, the mocktails and fresh juices were amazing — really thoughtful service.” – Toronto guest
Final Thoughts
Yes, Explora Journeys includes alcohol in a generous all-inclusive program. From premium wines and cocktails to coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic drinks, every beverage is designed to elevate your luxury experience.
With no hidden tabs, a stocked in-suite minibar, and expert mixology at every bar, Explora ensures that every moment — morning, afternoon, or night — feels indulgent and effortless.
For personalized assistance and exclusive perks, start your journey with our Explora Journeys Booking Guide.
