Explora Journeys has taken delivery of Explora III, marking the halfway point in the development of its six-ship luxury fleet.
The vessel, handed over by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at its Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, is the third ship to enter service for the MSC Group-owned luxury cruise brand and the first in its fleet capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG).
The delivery also represents the latest milestone in MSC Group’s investment of more than €3.5 billion in Explora Journeys, with all six ships being constructed by Fincantieri in Italy.
The handover ceremony was attended by senior executives from MSC Group and Fincantieri, together with regional and local Italian government representatives, before the vessel officially transferred from the shipbuilder to the cruise line.
“Today marks another proud milestone for Explora Journeys as we officially welcome Explora III into our growing fleet,” said Anna Nash, President, Explora Journeys. “With every new ship, we have the opportunity to listen, learn and refine, building on what our guests value most while remaining true to the vision that defines our brand.”
“Explora III represents the next step in our journey as we continue to redefine ocean travel through thoughtful innovation, exceptional design, and the intuitive hospitality that sits at the heart of the Explora Journeys experience,” she added. “As a privately owned, family-led business with deep maritime heritage, we remain committed to investing for the long term, always with our guests at the centre of every decision.”
At 19.2 metres longer than her sister ships, Explora III is the largest vessel in the fleet while carrying a similar number of guests, providing additional public space and larger accommodation areas.
The ship introduces several new concepts that will subsequently be incorporated into future vessels, including three new dining venues: The Cellar, The Chef’s Table, and Shore Club on 11.
Other additions include a second Owner’s Residence designed by Patricia Urquiola, expanded Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences, a redesigned wellness complex combining spa and fitness facilities, and Chopard’s first onboard boutique.
Environmentally, Explora III marks a significant step for the brand as its first LNG-capable ship.
The vessel has been designed to operate on LNG while remaining compatible with future renewable alternatives, including bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as they become commercially available. It is also equipped with shore power connectivity, allowing the ship to switch off its engines while alongside in ports that provide the necessary infrastructure.
Following delivery, Explora III will undertake a five-night Mediterranean preview voyage from Genoa to Civitavecchia before her official naming ceremony in Barcelona on August 1st.
The ship’s maiden voyage departs Barcelona on August 3rd, beginning a seven-night sailing to Lisbon ahead of an inaugural season in Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, and North America.
In 2027, Explora III will become the first ship in the fleet to operate an Alaska season, extending the brand’s geographical reach into another new destination.
Construction is continuing on Explora IV, Explora V, and Explora VI, which are scheduled to enter service between 2027 and 2028.
The expansion includes Explora Journeys’ planned debut in Asia in 2028, when Explora V is scheduled to begin operating itineraries across the region, further broadening the brand’s global deployment.
The continued fleet growth supports MSC Group’s wider objective of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions across its cruise operations by 2050 through the introduction of progressively more efficient ships and alternative fuel technologies.
Explora III at a glance
- Largest ship in the fleet, extended by 19.2 metres
- 3 new dining concepts introduced
- Enhanced wellness facilities and additional luxury accommodation
Categories: Cruise News
