Explora Journeys vs. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Which Is More Luxurious?
Explora Journeys vs. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Which Is More Luxurious?
In the ultra-luxury world of ocean travel, discerning travelers are increasingly faced with a question that isn’t just about destinations — it’s about the experience itself.
Two of the most talked-about names in private yacht cruising today are Explora Journeys and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Both promise unparalleled luxury, curated experiences, and the freedom of a private yacht. But how do they truly compare — and which one is right for your next voyage?
At StarsDesk, a top global producer and Explora Journeys & Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, we guide travelers to the yacht experience that aligns with their lifestyle, preferences, and expectations.
A First Look at the Yachts
Explora Journeys: The New Era of Ocean Luxury
Explora Journeys has positioned itself as the next generation of ultra-luxury cruising. The inaugural vessel, Explora 1, blends Scandinavian minimalism with understated elegance, focusing on wellness, discovery, and destination immersion.
Key features include:
547 suites, each with private terraces and expansive ocean views
Thoughtful wellness amenities: spa, fitness, yoga, and thermal experiences
All-inclusive pricing covering dining, beverages, gratuities, and select experiences
Scandinavian design philosophy emphasizing calm, neutral tones, and natural materials
Curated itineraries in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and beyond
Explora Journeys is all about slow luxury — staying longer at ports, connecting deeply with culture, and prioritizing personal well-being while at sea.
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Timeless Sophistication at Sea
Meanwhile, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (RCYC) brings the brand’s signature service excellence, attention to detail, and refined lifestyle to the yachting world. The fleet, beginning with ILMA, has quickly become synonymous with exclusive, small-ship luxury.
Key features include:
149 suites, all with private balconies and interiors inspired by Ritz-Carlton hotels worldwide
Michelin-inspired dining with a focus on locally sourced cuisine
Butler service, curated excursions, and personalized itinerary planning
Yacht itineraries spanning the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Asia-Pacific
Integration of Ritz-Carlton’s legendary loyalty and recognition programs
RCYC emphasizes personalized service, culinary excellence, and seamless luxury — it is designed for travelers who expect the same standard at sea as they would in a Ritz-Carlton hotel.
Comparing Suites and Accommodations
| Feature | Explora Journeys | Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Suites | 547 | 149 |
| Suite Size | 300–3,200 sq ft | 365–1,200 sq ft |
| Balcony / Terrace | Private terraces standard | Private balconies standard |
| Design Style | Scandinavian minimalist | Classic Ritz-Carlton elegance |
| Wellness Features in Suite | Yoga mats, large bathrooms, natural finishes | Standard Ritz-Carlton touches, luxury linens |
| Technology | Smart climate, lighting, and room controls | Tablet-based service requests, integrated systems |
Takeaway: Explora offers a larger variety of suites with a minimalist design focus, while RCYC maintains classic luxury interiors and brand familiarity. The choice comes down to whether you prefer modern wellness-focused design or timeless hotel-inspired elegance.
Dining Experiences
Luxury at sea isn’t just about a cabin — it’s about culinary experiences that match the level of service.
Explora Journeys
All-inclusive dining in multiple venues
Emphasis on regional flavors and wellness-focused cuisine
Casual and fine-dining options with immersive culinary workshops
Signature bars featuring crafted cocktails and wellness-inspired beverages
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Michelin-inspired menus with locally sourced ingredients
Specialty restaurants with chef-curated tasting menus
Personalized dining experiences in-suite or on deck
Wine and champagne pairings curated by sommeliers
Takeaway: Both yachts provide exceptional dining. Explora leans toward wellness, modern gastronomy, and variety, while RCYC emphasizes classic luxury dining with brand-level sophistication and Michelin touches.
Wellness and Recreation at Sea
Explora Journeys
Dedicated wellness deck with spa, sauna, thermal experiences, and yoga studios
Fitness centers with panoramic ocean views
Destination-led wellness programs like guided hikes or kayaking excursions
Onboard holistic treatments focusing on mindfulness and regeneration
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Spa with signature treatments inspired by Ritz-Carlton hotel properties
Fitness center, yoga classes, and water sports
Curated excursions with concierge-led cultural immersion
Focus on relaxation and personal service rather than structured wellness programs
Takeaway: Explora prioritizes wellness and active lifestyle, while RCYC blends luxury relaxation and immersive excursions. Travelers seeking a destination-connected wellness journey may prefer Explora, while those valuing pampered service and culinary luxury might lean toward RCYC.
Itineraries and Destinations
Explora Journeys
Longer stays at ports, emphasizing cultural immersion and unique experiences
Mediterranean, Caribbean, and select northern Europe routes
Adventure-oriented experiences like hiking, diving, or private local tours
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Premium routes in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Asia-Pacific, and upcoming Asia & Middle East sailings
Small-ship design allows access to exclusive ports unavailable to larger cruise ships
Concierge-curated excursions with personalized itineraries for every guest
Takeaway: Both offer exclusive itineraries, but RCYC shines in bespoke luxury experiences, while Explora emphasizes extended engagement with culture and wellness.
Service and Personalization
| Aspect | Explora Journeys | Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Crew-to-guest ratio | ~1:1 | ~1:1 (highly personalized) |
| Butler Service | Select suites | All suites |
| Concierge Service | Available | Fully personalized, leverages Ritz-Carlton network |
| Guest Recognition | Limited (brand new launch) | Integrated with Ritz-Carlton loyalty and recognition programs |
Takeaway: RCYC has a slight edge in personalized recognition, thanks to its integration with the Ritz-Carlton network and established brand loyalty. Explora, being newer, focuses on fresh luxury experiences with attentive but less brand-integrated service.
Pricing and Value
Explora Journeys: All-inclusive pricing ranges vary based on suite category and itinerary. Includes most meals, beverages, and wellness programs. Designed to appeal to travelers seeking transparent luxury pricing.
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Premium pricing aligns with the brand’s hotel-tier pricing. Many add-ons for curated excursions and dining experiences. Loyalty members may access exclusive perks via Preferred Partners like StarsDesk.
💡 Insider Tip: Booking through a luxury travel advisor like StarsDesk ensures access to VIP upgrades, resort credits, priority reservations, and curated experiences — often worth more than any direct-booking perks.
Which Yacht Is More Luxurious?
There’s no simple answer — it depends on your personal definition of luxury:
| Focus | Explora Journeys | Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection |
|---|---|---|
| Wellness & Active Lifestyle | ✅ Excellent | Good |
| Culinary Excellence | Excellent | ✅ Exceptional (Michelin-inspired) |
| Personalized Service & Recognition | Good | ✅ Excellent |
| Cabin & Suite Variety | ✅ Wide range | Limited but lavish |
| Destination Immersion | ✅ Strong focus | Excellent, curated excursions |
| Design & Aesthetic | Modern Scandinavian | Classic Ritz-Carlton elegance |
Summary:
Choose Explora if you value wellness, minimalist luxury, longer stays at ports, and a fresh take on ocean travel.
Choose Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection if you value timeless elegance, Michelin-level dining, integrated loyalty perks, and ultra-personalized service.
For the ultimate experience, both brands represent the pinnacle of small-ship luxury cruising — far above traditional luxury liners.
StarsDesk: Your Access to VIP Benefits on Both Yachts
Booking these yachts through StarsDesk as a preferred luxury travel advisor unlocks advantages you cannot get by booking directly:
Priority reservations for new openings or maiden voyages
VIP recognition, suite upgrades, and daily amenities
Curated shore excursions and wellness experiences
Insider knowledge on upcoming itineraries and pricing
Whether your choice is Explora Journeys or Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, StarsDesk ensures your voyage exceeds expectations — from cabin placement to curated onshore experiences.
Final Thoughts
Luxury cruising in 2025–2026 has evolved. It’s no longer just about the ship or the destination — it’s about the experience, the service, and the curated lifestyle.
Both Explora Journeys and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offer unparalleled opportunities for travelers seeking privacy, elegance, and exploration at sea. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize wellness and modern design (Explora) or timeless luxury and brand-recognized service (RCYC).
With StarsDesk as your trusted advisor, you’ll access the best suites, VIP benefits, and insider guidance, ensuring your ocean journey is nothing short of extraordinary.
