Lyndsay's Voyage with Explora

Embark on a journey of luxury and adventure with Lyndsay as she recounts her recent cruise aboard the magnificent Explora ship.

Setting sail from Vancouver, she traversed the breathtaking landscapes of Astoria, San Francisco, and LA, each port offering its own unique charm and allure. From the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest to the iconic sights of California's coast, Lyndsay shares her experiences of indulgence, exploration, and relaxation against the backdrop of the open sea.

Journey there

Who did you fly with?
We flew out with Air Canada and back with United in Economy.

Did you get any connecting transport from the airport?
We had a mini bus transfer both on arrival and departure.

How was the journey?
The transfer in Vancouver was great, our driver used to be a tour guide so was giving a lot of information and history along the way.

Hotels

Where did you stay? 
We spent 1 night in the Fairmont Vancouver and then 6 nights on board the Explora Journeys, Explora 1 ship.

Were there any special features? 
The hotel in Vancouver was in a fab location for getting out and about to see the city and steps from Robson Street. The ship was stunning, it has lots of space for relaxing along with an infinity pool at the back of the ship that looks onto the ocean as well as infinity whirlpools on the side of the ship.

What was your stay like? Did you enjoy it?
It was great for both elements of the trip, definitely memorable.

Did you receive any special service/treatment? 
There was a lovely bottle of champagne in the cabin on arrival which was a lovely touch.

Activities

Where did you go? 
During the trip we took in Vancouver, Astoria and San Francisco.

What did you see/do?
In Vancouver we visited the Vancouver Lookout View deck which is worth a visit as it gives you a 360 view of the city and in San Francisco we did a tour of the city on the hop on hop off bus followed by a bay cruise which is a great way to get a feel for the city and where everything is.

Did you learn any fun facts or see anything exciting?
Astoria is where the film the Goonies was filmed. On arrival into San Francisco we sailed under the Golden Gate bridge which not alot of ships do so this was a great experience.

What was the weather like?
It was mixed, a bit wet and cloudy in Vancouver but lovely and warm in Astoria and San Francisco.

Any recommendations?
I would say doing the bus tour and bay cruise in San Fran is a must do.

Food/Drinks

Did you go to any local restaurants/cafes?
There was a great array of restaurants on board the ship and we dined in most of them. There was a Pan Asian, Med, French inspired and steak restaurant.

What did you enjoy eating/drinking?
The steak on board was beautiful, probably one of the nicest I have had.  

Did you go to any quirky places for food/drinks?
There were plenty bars on board to suit everyone's tastes. The Astern bar located at the back of the ship was a great place sundowners, post dinner drinks, and somewhere to spend the evening with a nice atmosphere and light entertainment.

Any recommendations?
Sail away drinks in either the Astern bar or Sky Bar on deck 14 are a must.

Conclusion

Would you recommend this holiday and who to?
I would highly recommend Explora, it is perfect for couples and honeymooners, who are looking for a perfect mix of luxury, and relaxation, along with seeing the world without having to unpack multiple times.

If you would like to learn more about Explora cruises and their destinations, please get in touch with Lyndsay at:- 

[email protected]
0808 169 8208