EXPLORA III Officially Joins Explora Journeys' Fleet

As the sun rose over the Italian port city of Genoa this weekend, it signified an incredibly exciting milestone for Explora Journeys. 

Yes, after much anticipation, Explora’s third ship – the aptly named EXPLORA III – was delivered at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard, representing the next step in MSC’s €3.5 billion investment in Explora’s fleet.

Despite being third in line, EXPLORA III is a ship of firsts. She may accommodate the same number of guests as her two big sisters but is larger by just under 20 metres, so the chances of any area on board feeling crowded are slim to none. Her spacious design allows for a real sense of openness and freedom as well as an abundance of intimate nooks and holes-in-the-wall for privacy-oriented guests.

Indeed, it’s safe to say that Explora Journeys have really made the most of the extra space with not one, not two, but THREE new dining venues to discover. 

First up is The Cellar, a.k.a. every oenophile’s dream. With an array of sought-after vintages and new favourites, wine lovers are expected to flock to The Cellar’s tasting and pairing programme like moths to a flame. 

Those in search of an exclusive epicurean experience will be excited to learn of The Chef’s Table, where guests are invited to collaborate with chefs on tailor made menus, whilst casual fare presides at Shore Club on 11, a poolside eatery inspired by the high-end beach clubs of the Mediterranean.

If you can tear yourself away from the food, you’ll find further enhancements in the form of both the accommodation and the wellness amenities. An additional Owner’s Residence, expanded collection of Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences and all-encompassing spa and gym facility are all perfectly placed to help guests find their ‘Ocean State of Mind’. 

On a more serious note, EXPLORA III also marks an important step towards more sustainable cruising, as the first LNG-capable (liquified natural gas) ship in the fleet. Not only is she equipped to operate on renewable fuel alternatives, she is also fitted with shore power capabilities, meaning her engines can be switched off in ports where she can connect to the onshore electric system. All of this emphasises Explora Journeys’ commitment to their target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

“Today marks another proud milestone for Explora Journeys as we officially welcome EXPLORA III into our growing fleet. 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,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “EXPLORA III represents the next step in our journey as we continue to define ocean travel through thoughtful innovation, exceptional design and the intuitive hospitality that sits at the heart of the Explora Journeys experience. 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.”

Following her delivery, EXPLORA III has embarked upon a five-night Mediterranean Prelude Journey, which will wrap up in Rome on 29 July. With stops at glitzy ports like St Tropez, Marseille, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Livorno, this voyage is a truly unforgettable glimpse behind the curtain for a select handful of guests. Among their number are several Explora team members and designers, as well as brand ambassador Jannik Sinner, fresh off the back of his Wimbledon victory.

With the Prelude Journey behind her, EXPLORA III will then set sail on her maiden voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon, opening the door to a truly incredible inaugural season. From Iceland’s rugged landscape and the mirror-like fjords of Norway to the fiery autumnal tones of New England and Canada, this northward journey boasts no repeated stays and extended time spent in port.

Beyond 2026, things get even more exciting. Next year, EXPLORA III will mark Explora Journeys’ much-awaited entry into Alaska, whilst 2028 is the year the line expands into Asia. With the fleet now totalling three, there are just three more to go until the six-ship dream Explora have long pursued becomes reality. Construction of EXPLORA IV, EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI is ongoing, with all of them due to be sailing within the next two years. Each one represents a momentous union of boutique-style luxury and world-renowned Italian craftsmanship, supporting Explora’s core values whilst keeping up with modern cruising and sustainability standards. 

Put simply: there’s a lot to look forward to.

You can find out more about Explora Journeys here.