Explora Journeys Penthouse vs. Ocean Terrace Suites
Explora Journeys Penthouse vs. Ocean Terrace Suites: Which Is the Better Value?
Explora Journeys has quickly redefined modern ocean luxury with its refined European aesthetic, curated onboard experiences, and truly residential-style accommodations. But for travelers comparing suite categories—especially the highly popular Penthouse Suites and the Ocean Terrace Suites—one question comes up again and again: Which one is the better value?
In this in-depth guide, we break down everything you need to know before choosing between these two signature accommodations. From suite design and service inclusions to pricing dynamics, ideal traveler profiles, and upgrade strategies, this article will help you confidently select the best suite for your next Explora sailing.
Overview of Explora Journeys’ Suite Philosophy
Explora Journeys doesn’t offer traditional cruise cabins. Every accommodation onboard its ships is considered a suite, designed with spaciousness, European craftsmanship, and a boutique-hotel feel. Even the entry categories feel elevated compared to premium cruise lines.
Two of the most popular suite categories are:
Ocean Terrace Suites (OT1–OT3)
Penthouse Suites (PH)
Both categories deliver the brand’s hallmark experience: large outdoor terraces, generous walk-in wardrobes, high-end finishes, and access to all dining venues with no surcharges. But there are key differences in size, design, exclusivity, and service that influence value—especially for travelers booking during peak seasons.
1. Ocean Terrace Suites: The Heart of Explora’s Suite Collection
Size & Layout
Ocean Terrace Suites are Explora’s most numerous suite category, yet they feel far from “standard.” Ranging approximately from 377 to 420 sq. ft. including terrace, they are among the most spacious entry-level suites in the luxury cruise market.
Key highlights:
Expansive terrace with daybed, dining table, and sun loungers
True residential design with warm European finishes
Built-in workstation and reading nook
Oversized spa-like bathroom with walk-in rainfall shower
Large walk-in wardrobe and thoughtful storage
These suites are perfect for travelers who want space and comfort without jumping into higher-level pricing.
Service & Amenities
Ocean Terrace guests enjoy:
In-suite dining
Welcome bottle of champagne
Nespresso machine and tea kettle
Daily replenished minibar
Pillow menu
Butler-style housekeeping (though not a full butler service)
They also enjoy access to all dining venues—including specialty restaurants—without additional fees.
Ideal For
Couples who want a luxurious suite without stretching the budget
Younger travelers and multi-generational families
Repeat cruisers who prioritize the ship experience over suite exclusivity
Value-driven travelers
2. Penthouse Suites: Elevated Space, Service, and Exclusivity
Penthouse Suites represent Explora’s mid-luxury tier—significantly larger than the Ocean Terrace category and offering a more concierge-style experience.
Size & Layout
At approximately 463–527 sq. ft. including terrace, Penthouse Suites offer:
Larger indoor living area with expanded seating
More generously sized terrace for outdoor dining
Spacious bathroom with double sinks
Upgraded materials and décor
Preferential location on higher decks
If you enjoy entertaining in your suite, or if you want more breathing room on longer itineraries, the PH category provides a noticeably more open, comfortable environment.
Service Upgrades
Penthouse guests enjoy elevated privileges such as:
Priority embarkation and disembarkation
Enhanced minibar selection
Access to the Penthouse Concierge, offering tailored itinerary planning
Priority restaurant reservations
Complimentary pressing on embarkation
Higher-tier welcome amenities
While Explora does not use the term "butler" for PH guests, the service feels very close, with more personalized attention and faster response times.
Ideal For
Travelers who enjoy more premium service and space
Honeymooners and anniversary couples
Guests staying 10+ nights
Travelers wanting a quieter location and enhanced exclusivity
Those who value priority privileges and dedicated concierge support
3. Price Comparison: Which Suite Category Offers Better Value?
Explora Journeys pricing is dynamic, influenced by:
Season and itinerary
Suite availability
Booking window
Loyalty and early-booking promotions
However, a typical price gap between categories is as follows:
Ocean Terrace Suite: Baseline pricing
Penthouse Suite: Usually $900–$2,000 more per person, depending on itinerary length and demand
What You Get for the Price Difference
For many travelers, the question becomes:
Is the added cost of upgrading to a Penthouse Suite worth it?
To evaluate value, consider the following:
Space-per-Dollar Value
If your itinerary includes many sea days, the added indoor and outdoor space is likely worth the upgrade. PH terraces are significantly larger, making mornings, sunsets, and in-suite dining more enjoyable.
Service-per-Dollar Value
Priority concierge access, preferred restaurant times, and early embarkation are especially meaningful on busy itineraries with full ships.
Location-per-Dollar Value
PH suites are typically located higher and more centrally—reducing noise and offering better views.
If these factors matter to you, the PH upgrade delivers strong value.
4. Comparing Suite Features Side by Side
Here’s a clear, traveler-focused comparison:
FeatureOcean Terrace SuitePenthouse SuiteSize~377–420 sq. ft.~463–527 sq. ft.TerraceLargeExtra-largeBathroomRainfall showerRainfall shower + double vanityServiceButler-style housekeepingConcierge privilegesLocationLower/mid decksHigher decks, premium positionsDining AccessAll venuesPriority reservationsEmbarkation/DisembarkationStandardPriorityMinibarStandardPremium selectionBest ForValue seekers, couples, familiesLonger sailings, luxury seekers
5. Who Should Choose the Ocean Terrace Suite?
The Ocean Terrace Suite is an outstanding value for most travelers. Choose OT if:
Your itinerary is port-intensive
You don’t plan to spend long hours relaxing in your suite
You’re traveling with family and want to allocate budget to excursions
You want a high-quality suite at an excellent per-night rate
You prefer to spend extra budget on spa, specialty experiences, or upgrades
Explora’s “entry level” suites outperform many luxury competitors’ mid-tier categories, making OT a no-brainer for value travelers.
6. Who Should Choose the Penthouse Suite?
The PH suite is ideal if:
You appreciate expanded living space for relaxation or entertaining
You enjoy in-suite private dining and larger outdoor areas
You have mobility considerations and benefit from additional bathroom space
You want quieter surroundings and prime ship locations
Priority services (embarkation, concierge, reservations) elevate your travel experience
You’re booking a longer voyage—12+ nights is where PH really shines
Penthouse Suites deliver a more private, elevated, hotel-suite experience that can dramatically enhance comfort on longer or more sea-day-heavy itineraries.
7. The Upgrade Question: Should You Attempt to Uplift from Ocean Terrace to Penthouse?
Because many guests book Ocean Terrace Suites early and later wish to upgrade, availability can be tight—especially on summer Mediterranean and fall transatlantic sailings.
Upgrade Tips
Book early, ideally 12–18 months in advance.
Ask your advisor to place a waitlist request for a PH.
Monitor pricing during Explora’s promotional periods.
If you’re flexible, consider repositioning voyages.
Explora tends to release additional suite inventory occasionally as itineraries near final payment—another strategic moment to check for upgrades.
Is the Upgrade Worth It?
If the price gap is under $800 per person, it's generally an excellent value.
If the gap exceeds $1,800–$2,000 per person, the decision becomes more subjective.
8. Value Calculation: Ocean Terrace vs. Penthouse
When the Ocean Terrace Suite Wins
Best rate-per-square-foot value
Same access to dining and onboard experiences
Generous terrace and spa-like bathroom already included
Ideal for port-heavy itineraries where you’re off the ship during the day
When the Penthouse Suite Wins
Larger suite + terrace that materially enhance comfort
Higher-touch service and concierge access
Premium location and priority privileges
Better suited for long voyages, honeymoon trips, or travelers who spend more time onboard
Verdict
If your goal is best value, the Ocean Terrace Suite offers exceptional luxury at an efficient price point.
If your goal is best experience, especially on longer voyages, the Penthouse Suite is worth every extra dollar.
9. Our Final Recommendation
Both suite categories deliver the refined comfort and curated luxury that define Explora Journeys. Your choice comes down to your priorities:
If you want access to Explora’s world-class dining, contemporary design, and beautifully crafted suites without overextending your budget, the Ocean Terrace Suite is the clear winner.
If you treat your suite as part of the journey—your private retreat for relaxing, reading, dining, and stargazing—the Penthouse Suite is absolutely the better investment.
Either way, you’ll enjoy a refined, boutique-style cruise experience that genuinely sets Explora apart from its competitors.
