Explora Journeys will bring its yacht-inspired luxury back to Port Hercule for the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco in 2026. From June 3 to June 8, the 922-guest EXPLORA I will transform into a floating sanctuary just 150 yards from the circuit. Guests booked in the ship's spacious terrace suites will enjoy front-row views, unlimited premium beverages, and bespoke race-week events. The return follows Explora II's much-praised 2025 debut and extends the MSC Group's Formula 1 partnership through 2030.
Key Points
- Why it matters: Luxury lodging in Monaco is scarce during race week, so berth-side suites add coveted inventory.
- EXPLORA I will dock June 3-8, 2026, only 150 yards from the start-finish straight.
- All guests receive fine-dining access, high-speed Wi-Fi, spa privileges, and premium beverages.
- Optional packages bundle grandstand seats or VIP paddock hospitality with suite reservations.
- Onboard programming will feature driver meet-and-greets, racing simulators, and late-night Riviera-style soirées.
Snapshot
EXPLORA I will serve as an exclusive, all-inclusive Hotel during the Monaco Grand Prix, pairing oceanfront suites with curated motorsport experiences. Six restaurants, four pools, and an ocean-inspired spa anchor the lifestyle offering, while a dedicated concierge secures track tickets and VIP transfers. Guests board in Monaco on June 3 and disembark June 8, letting them enjoy every practice, qualifying session, and the Sunday race without leaving the harbor.
Background
Explora Journeys debuted in 2023 as the MSC Group's ultra-luxury brand, promising immersion over itineraries. Its 2025 Monaco program aboard Explora II reset race-week expectations with a Vanity Fair Club party, VR simulators, and cameos by F1 legends Sir Jackie Stewart and David Coulthard. The 2026 edition builds on that template, adding a larger vessel and expanded VIP access. Travelers loyal to the line can also leverage perks through the recently enhanced Explora Club.
Latest Developments
Overall Return Announce
On July 17, 2025, Explora Journeys confirmed EXPLORA I's five-night Monaco deployment, aligning with practice through post-racae celebrations. Suite sales opened immediately, with travel advisors able to bundle flights and transfers.
Elevated Onboard Experience
Race simulators, jewelry showcases, and F1 trivia return, joined by live chef collaborations and mixology labs themed to historic Monaco winners. A limited-capacity Bridge-Wing cocktail hour will place guests 12 stories above Port Hercule for panoramic circuit views.
Partnership Momentum
MSC's Formula 1 alliance, first inked in 2022 and renewed to 2030, now includes Explora Journeys. The Cruise group gains branding at multiple tracks, while passengers receive priority access to select paddock experiences across the season.
Analysis
For affluent travelers who crave exclusivity yet dislike Monaco's Hotel scramble, EXPLORA I delivers a turnkey solution. Berth proximity eliminates race-day gridlock, and the ship's six-to-one guest-to-crew ratio promises attentive service. Pricing, expected to match top Riviera suites, becomes more compelling when one considers that accommodations, dining, premium drinks, and Wi-Fi are bundled. Travel advisors should secure suites early, especially Ocean Residences with wrap-around terraces ideal for private Grand Prix parties. Given the line's youthful fleet, this marquee event also elevates brand awareness among motorsport enthusiasts who may convert to longer Mediterranean sailings.
Final Thoughts
Explora Journeys combines super-yacht elegance with the electric atmosphere of Formula 1, crafting a Monaco experience unattainable on land. Secure race tickets early, pack resort-chic attire for starlit soirées, and prepare for five unforgettable nights where the ship, the sea, and the circuit converge under Riviera skies. Explora Journeys Monaco Grand Prix 2026.