Explora Journeys vs Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Two of the newest luxury brands at sea, both designed not to feel like a cruise — and in CruiseLens’ data they are among the least cruise-like of all 30 groups. Where they part: Explora is bigger, more welcoming to children, more inclusive and more value-led; Ritz-Carlton is the more yacht-like.
We compare Explora Journeys (Explora I and II) with Ritz-Carlton’s Ilma class (Ilma and Luminara), the closer of its two designs to Explora.
Where CruiseLens separates them
The characteristics on which the two ships are two points or more apart on our 1–10 scales, largest gap first. Scores are an advisor’s judgement held to a written methodology, not a measurement.
Where they are alike
Within a point of each other on 22 of 28 characteristics: formality, sociability, fellow guests, buzz, privacy, solo travel, design, outdoor living, suite space, culinary ambition, local food, service style, in-suite service, remoteness, included touring, activity, enrichment, pool and sun, evening shows, late nights, being sold to and unlike a cruise.
So which is for you?
Lean Explora for more choice of restaurants, more in the fare, a ship that welcomes children, and a fare that leans more towards value.
Lean Ritz-Carlton if the yacht feeling is the point — and if it is the whole point, look at Evrima, which our data rates as far more yacht-like and intimate than either.
Both dress down: neither has formal nights.
Your answers, not ours. CruiseLens weighs all 28 characteristics against how you travel and names the ship that fits you — Explora Journeys or Ritz-Carlton Ilma class, or one of the other 28 ship groups. Twenty-three questions, about four minutes.
Find my ship → Ask MarcThe published facts
From each operator’s own published pages. Explora Journeys: EXPLORA I (ship-specific; EXPLORA II differs), checked 23 August 2026. Ritz-Carlton Ilma class: Ilma (representative; Luminara sister), checked 23 August 2026.
| Explora Journeys | Ritz-Carlton Ilma class | |
|---|---|---|
| Guests (double occupancy) | 922 | 448 |
| Crew | 640 | 374 |
| Guests per crew member | 1.44 | 1.20 |
| Gross tonnage | 63,900 | 46,750 |
| Space ratio (gross tonnage per guest) | 69 | 104 |
| Year built | 2023 | 2024 |
| Entry-level veranda accommodation, incl. veranda | 377 sq ft | 294 sq ft interior + up to 108 sq ft terrace (up to ~400 sq ft total) |
| Butler service | Host service for all suites; dedicated butler service in Residences | Personal Concierge for every suite; dedicated butler-style service in higher suites |
| Restaurants | 6 restaurants | 5 principal restaurants plus in-suite dining |
| Dress code | Elegant resort casual; no formal nights | Yacht casual; no formal nights |
| Drinks | Fine wines, premium spirits and beverages included; rare vintages excluded | Beverages included; premium reserve wines/spirits excluded |
| Gratuities included | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-fi | High-speed Wi-Fi included | Wi-Fi included |
| Shore excursions | Destination experiences generally additional charge | Generally additional charge |
| Flights, transfers, hotel | Not generally included; package dependent | Not generally included |
| Minimum guest age | 6 months | 6 months (12 months on extended sea-day voyages) |
Expeditioner Travel is paid commission by the cruise line on bookings, by every line here; no line pays for placement or for a score. How we’re paid.