Explora Journeys taps Julie Golding to drive growth in Quebec & Atlantic Canada

Explora Journeys has officially established its Canadian sales team with the appointment of seasoned travel industry pro Julie Golding.

Golding, who is based in Montreal, will oversee Explora’s sales in Quebec and Atlantic Canada as a business relationship lead, PAX has learned.

In her role, she will lead Explora’s business development initiatives, strengthen relationships with travel advisors and key industry partners, deliver sales training and educational programs, and support the continued growth of the luxury cruise brand across the region.

She will also work closely with advisors to help them confidently position Explora Journeys while identifying new opportunities to grow their luxury travel business.

Speaking with PAX, Golding, who officially started at the company on Aug. 4 after leaving her role as business development manager at CroisiEurope, said she was drawn to Explora’s modern approach to luxury travel.

READ MORE: "Canada is breaking through": Explora's Anna Nash on a fast-growing fleet & fresher kind of luxury

“I chose to join Explora Journeys because it represents the most modern and forward‑thinking vision of luxury travel today,” she said. “Throughout my career, I’ve gravitated toward companies that offer niche, elevated experiences – and Explora stands out as a brand that is redefining what luxury at sea can be.”

“The philosophy of creating journeys that feel personal, spacious, and deeply human resonated with me immediately. It felt like the natural next chapter in my professional path.”

What impresses her about the brand is “how intentional every aspect of the experience is, from the residential‑style suites to the culinary program, the design, and the service culture.”

VIDEO: “We needed something like this”: Agents unpack EXPLORA I's "homes at sea" with Explora Journeys

“Explora isn’t trying to replicate traditional luxury,” she added. “It’s creating a new standard.”

“The brand’s commitment to authenticity, European elegance, and guest autonomy truly sets it apart. It’s rare to see a company so young already shaping the future of its category.”

Luxurious “homes at sea”

Golding joins at a pivotal time for yacht-inspired Explora Journeys, MSC Group’s upscale cruise line that first set sail in August 2023.

The brand’s newest ship, EXPLORA III, officially launched this month on the Mediterranean.

This summer, EXPLORA III will offer voyages through Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland.

Then next year, she will sail Alaska, roundtrip from Vancouver, before continuing on to Asia, including Japan during cherry blossom season.

READ MORE: Explora Journeys names LNG-powered EXPLORA III in Barcelona

Since its inception, Explora Journeys has introduced luxury travellers to spacious “homes at sea.”

The cruise line’s sprawling suites, all of which have ocean-facing balconies, range from 377 sq. ft. in the Ocean Terrace category to up to 3,014 sq. ft. in the eye-popping Owners Residence.

READ MORE: Explora Journeys takes delivery of EXPLORA III, unveils largest ship in fleet

As PAX experienced aboard the company’s inaugural ship, EXPLORA I, the sailings are a hassle-free, all-inclusive retreat – without complex food and beverage packages – in a 24-hour, butler service-oriented environment.

A common thread

Golding has only recently turned her focus to the cruise industry, but says a common thread connects every company she's worked for throughout her career.

“My background has always been in niche, premium travel – from Rocky Mountaineer to Palace Resorts & Le Blanc Spa Resorts, where I spent nine years,” she said. “What I’ve learned across all these roles is that luxury isn’t about formality. It’s about intention.”

“It’s about understanding what matters to each guest and creating moments that feel effortless, meaningful, and memorable.”

What excites her most about the role?

“Building strong relationships across Quebec and Atlantic Canada and helping partners discover a brand that truly elevates the luxury cruise experience,” she said. “Explora Journeys has a unique story to tell, and I’m thrilled to be part of shaping how our market understands and embraces it.”

And Golding is wasting no time getting started. Next week, she'll step aboard EXPLORA I for the first time – an opportunity she says she "couldn't be more excited" about.

“Experiencing the product firsthand will allow me to speak with authenticity, passion, and a deeper understanding of what makes Explora so exceptional,” she said.

Explora grows Canadian team

The new hire comes as Explora builds an experienced sales force across Canada.

"We are so excited to welcome Julie to the Explora Journeys team,” said Explora’s Patricia Di Benedetto, director of sales for Canada, in a statement to PAX. “Her extensive industry experience, deep relationships across Quebec and Atlantic Canada, and passion for supporting travel advisors make her an outstanding addition to our growing Canadian team.”

“As we continue to invest in our advisor partnerships, Julie's expertise will play an important role in driving our long-term growth and strengthening our presence in these key markets."

Explora's Canadian team also includes Andrea (Andi) Bacho, based in Ontario (who joined the company just recently), and B.C.-based Lisa Willey, who oversees Western Canada.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.