Booking an ultra-luxury cruise with Explora Journeys is a commitment to comfort, discovery, and elegant travel. But with any premium journey, it’s essential to understand the fine print before you place your deposit. Whether you’re selecting a suite category for a world-spanning destination experience or securing early savings, here’s what you should know about Explora’s booking terms and cancellation policy.
Want personalized help understanding your booking options? Reach out to a Scott & Thomas concierge to access exclusive rates not available to the public.
Booking Your Explora Journey: Deposits, Contracts & Early Booking Benefits
When you confirm a Journey with Explora Journeys, you enter into a Contract with Explora S.A., the Swiss company operating the cruise line. You’ll receive an Option Confirmation initially, followed by a Booking Confirmation once you pay your deposit.
- A 25% deposit of your total journey fare is required to confirm your reservation, unless a Reduced Deposit promotion is active.
- Full payment is due 90 days before departure for most suites or 150 days prior for Ocean Residences.
- If booking within those windows, full payment is required at the time of booking.
Explora also offers an Early Booking Benefit when you reserve a journey at least one year in advance, providing special savings based on the itinerary.
Understanding the Cancellation Policy by Suite Category
Explora’s cancellation policy is based on both the type of suite booked and how far in advance the cancellation occurs.
Ocean Terrace, Grand Terrace, and Ocean Penthouse Suites:
| Days Prior to Departure | Penalty |
| 151+ days | $200 admin fee per person, converted into a Future Journey Credit valid for 12 months |
| 150–121 days | 15% cancellation fee |
| 120–91 days | 25% cancellation fee |
| 90–61 days | 50% cancellation fee |
| 60–31 days | 75% cancellation fee |
| 30 days or less | 100% of fare is non-refundable |
Ocean Residences and Owner’s Residence:
| Days Prior to Departure | Penalty |
| 201+ days | $400 admin fee per person (becomes a Future Journey Credit) |
| 200–151 days | 25% cancellation fee |
| 150–121 days | 45% cancellation fee |
| 120–91 days | 65% cancellation fee |
| 90–61 days | 85% cancellation fee |
| 60 days or less | 100% cancellation fee |
Need help determining what cancellation window applies to your journey? Let your Scott & Thomas concierge guide you through it.
The 10-Day Grace Period and Booking Flexibility
If your booking is made more than 365 days before your departure, you have a 10-day grace period to cancel without any penalty. This flexibility gives early bookers time to confirm their plans risk-free.
You can make certain changes to your reservation, including:
- Replacing yourself with another traveler (with at least one original guest remaining).
- Swapping one journey for another once (with advance notice, based on suite availability and fare conditions).
Requests for changes must generally be made at least 14 days before departure, and any fare differences or upgrades must be paid by the guest. If changes are not possible, normal cancellation fees may apply.
Travel Insurance: Strongly Recommended
Explora Journeys recommends that all guests carry travel insurance covering:
- Journey cancellation.
- Medical treatment or evacuation.
- Baggage loss or damage.
From booking confirmation to your return home, insurance can protect your travel investment. Your Scott & Thomas concierge can help you find policies with Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) protection and appropriate coverage for luxury travel.
Crucial Pre-Travel Details and Documentation
To ensure a seamless boarding experience, several key details require your attention well before you leave home:
- Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months after your return date. Many countries, even those near the US, strictly enforce this rule.
- Visas: Obtaining necessary visas for your itinerary is the responsibility of each guest. Your Scott & Thomas concierge can provide guidance on specific country requirements.
- Health and Mobility: Pregnant guests may not travel if they will be over 23 weeks into pregnancy at any time during the journey. Guests with reduced mobility are encouraged to disclose needs early, as certain ports or tender boat operations may not be accessible.
- Medical Facilities: Medical facilities on board are limited. Serious medical needs may require evacuation or port disembarkation, which is why comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable for Explora Journeys.
The Consequences of Missing Your Cruise
“No-shows” and mid-cruise departures are treated as day-of cancellations, with 100% of the fare forfeited. Be sure to have your travel documents, arrive at the port early, and notify Explora or your Scott & Thomas concierge immediately of any delays or unexpected changes. Your concierge can be a crucial liaison in managing unforeseen circumstances.
Destination Experiences and Third-Party Providers
It is important to note that some excursions and destination experiences are operated by independent contractors and may have their own terms. Explora acts as an agent in these cases and is not liable for issues related to third-party services. Ask your concierge if you’re unsure whether your experience is provided directly by Explora or a partner, as they can clarify liability and policy details for you.
Why Book with Scott & Thomas?
Our luxury travel advisors don’t just book your cruise, we act as your personal guide through every stage:
- Clarify booking and cancellation terms.
- Assist with insurance, upgrades, and changes.
- Coordinate with the Explora Experience Centre.
- Offer exclusive, unpublished rates not available online.
Sail Confidently, Travel Beautifully
Understanding your cancellation rights and financial obligations is an essential part of planning a seamless, worry-free journey. With Explora Journeys, the policies are clear, structured, and designed to support flexible luxury travel, especially when paired with the expert assistance of Scott & Thomas. Protecting your substantial travel investment starts with awareness and proactive planning.
Let us help you plan your perfect journey. Contact a Scott & Thomas concierge today to lock in exclusive pricing and ensure your travel investment is protected from the very beginning.
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