Explora Journeys made an indelible mark on the FORMULA 1 LOUIS VUITTON GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2026 weekend, hosting the official opening party of the race aboard EXPLORA I on 4 June before unveiling Mandala, its debut fine jewellery collection, during an exclusive soirée on 6 June. Together, the two landmark moments positioned EXPLORA I as the undisputed epicentre of glamour and luxury during one of the world’s most iconic sporting weekends.
Returning to Port Hercule for the second consecutive year, Explora Journeys deepened its Formula 1 partnership in style. As twilight settled over the Côte d’Azur, EXPLORA I welcomed a prestigious gathering of international guests, cultural tastemakers and sporting icons for the official race opening party. The evening featured curated cocktails, panoramic Riviera views and a world-class entertainment lineup, headlined by global sensation Bob Sinclar and international supermodel Naomi Campbell, both of whom performed exclusive DJ sets. The night culminated in Europe’s largest-ever drone show, with 3,050 drones choreographing a breathtaking 10-minute visual journey through Formula 1’s present and future — recreating the Monaco cityscape, its iconic street circuit, and the Grand Prix trophy at 600ft high and 800ft wide. Among the prominent figures in attendance were Mika Häkkinen, Damon Hill and David Coulthard, alongside senior executives from both Formula 1 and Explora Journeys.
Two nights later, the celebratory momentum continued as Explora Journeys officially introduced Mandala Fine Jewellery to the world. Approximately 100 distinguished guests, including the Aponte-Vago family and President of Explora Journeys Anna Nash, gathered onboard EXPLORA I for an intimate cocktail dînatoire and curated model showcase, where each look was paired with pieces from the new collection.
Mandala translates the Ocean State of Mind philosophy into wearable luxury — timeless pieces inspired by the Explora Journeys emblem, itself a reinterpretation of the ancient mandala symbolising harmony, balance and connection. Developed in collaboration with jewellery designer Fanny Blanchelande, the debut collection unfolds across three distinct lines: Origin, centred on the brand’s signature geometric emblem; Horizon, capturing the interplay of sea and sky; and Odyssey, drawing from the Mediterranean spirit through colour, light and mosaic patterning.
“Saturday night was a truly special moment for Explora Journeys as we introduced Mandala Fine Jewellery to the world,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “Born of the sea and shaped by the Ocean State of Mind, each piece is imagined as a trace of light, a quiet protection and a reminder of balance and belonging — an intimate, permanent reminder of that feeling of calm, perspective and connection long after guests step ashore.”
The Mandala collection will be available exclusively onboard EXPLORA III from her inaugural journey on 24 July 2026, showcased within a dedicated space at Ocean Atelier, the ship’s jewellery boutique, before extending across the Explora Journeys fleet.
