This was my third cruise with my family (wife and 8 year old daughter). My thoughts are that overall, Explorer provides a solid cruise experience. While some of the bells and whistles are absent, all of us had a great holiday.
The dining experiences in particular, were consistently of a high quality. On realising that I liked Indian food, my waiter at the Sapphire dining room ordered me an Indian main every night, off the menu. Little touches like this were consistent. Having tried all the specialty dining with the 3 night package, I think Giovanni's table probably had the best experience but my daughter thought Sapphire was where it was at.
The entertainment staff did well too. Trivia, live music and poolside activities provided us plenty to do. We did find that trivia was very popular and we arrived about 15 minutes prior to get a seat. Evening entertainment showed signs of brilliance with excellent singers, dancers and a booked out ice-skating show. Some of the tribute bands were less great though.
Our stateroom was well positioned. Mid ship, mid deck. Not too far from the lifts but far enough for peace. There was a bunk above the standard bed for a child. A balcony is worth it on this cruise.
It's worth taking the Tchou Tchou train. The same guides from the more expensive tours are there. Good stops, well timed and well priced.
Snorkelling at the Lagoon was fantastic. Equipment provided (but take your own mask and rash suit). We saw lots of fish, turtles and some (small, nonthreatening) sharks.
Good snorkelling at the beach. We saw some fish. Our dining companion paid some locals to take him snorkelling futher out and he found that great.
Yejele is a antastic beach. Cheap coconuts, hair braiding and great water for swimming. The bus transfer is a must but is overpriced. Prepare for sporadic rain.
My home and favourite place of all time.