Explora II Luxury Liner in Palma: A Look Inside the New Premium Cruise Ship

When a luxury liner docks in Palma, the city briefly comes to a halt

Late Monday afternoon, around 5:00 p.m., the Explora II lay in Palma Bay like a quiet guest. I stood on the Passeig and thought: this is no ordinary arrival. The ship feels like a small, floating hotel district – and that is intentional.

Less cabins, more space

The Explora II measures just under 250 meters and offers far fewer than a thousand accommodations: about 461 suites and residences spread across the decks. Important for travelers who crave space: Every accommodation has sea view, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an outdoor terrace. In the upscale categories there is a separate living room, whirlpools and generous dressing rooms. On deck eight is the so-called Owner’s Residence – a kind of presidential suite with its own terrace and a private infinity pool of about 250 square meters.

Food, drink, relaxation

Who on board gets hungry, it’s hard to choose: six restaurants and about a dozen bars and lounges offer everything from Mediterranean dishes to Asian specialties. There are show kitchens, a steakhouse with an open grill area and even a small cigar room for those who like it. On the day of the tour, small tastings were served in the French-inspired restaurant — caviar-like bites, shrimp and slowly cooked beef, paired with selected wines.

Spa, pools and culture

Wellness offerings are extensive: steam rooms, quiet rooms with sea views, and ayurvedic-inspired treatments are central parts of the Ocean Wellness Spa. On the outdoor deck there are several pools, including a glassy infinity pool at the stern, which becomes the favorite spot especially at sunset. Art hangs in public areas — including works by an Italian conceptual artist and photographs dealing with marine conservation.

Who is it for?

Such journeys are not for bargain hunters: A small exterior residence of about 35 square meters begins at around 500 euros per person per night. Larger penthouses run around 1,000 euros per person per night, the most exclusive suite is well above that. Worth noting: many services, including meals in several restaurants as well as snacks and coffees, are already included in the tariff — that somewhat offsets the bill.

The Explora II left Palma in the evening heading to Valencia, then to Barcelona. In winter Florida and the Caribbean are on the plan; long-term even world cruises are announced. Should you want to join? If you have space, peace and money: yes. For the rest of us, it remains an impressive sight in the harbor and a reminder of how differently travel can be today.