GENOA, Italy, 23 July 2026: Explora Journeys has taken delivery of EXPLORA III at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, marking the halfway milestone in its planned six-ship fleet, with three vessels now in service, according to an official press release from the MSC Group brand.
The vessel is the first LNG-capable ship in the Explora Journeys fleet and forms part of MSC Group’s investment of more than €3.5 billion in six ships designed and built by Fincantieri in Italy.
A traditional handover ceremony marked the transfer of EXPLORA III from the shipbuilder to its owner. Attendees included Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group; Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys; Biagio Mazzotta, President of Fincantieri; and Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fincantieri.
Italian television presenter Lorella Cuccarini hosted the ceremony, which featured a performance by dance group Urban Theory and a parade involving the ship’s officers and shipyard workforce. Captain Serena Melani joined Vago and Folgiero for the ceremonial change of flag.
EXPLORA III Expands Fleet and Onboard Spaces
Extended by 19.2 metres, EXPLORA III is the most spacious vessel in the brand’s fleet while accommodating a similar number of guests to EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II.
The ship introduces three new culinary concepts: The Cellar, The Chef’s Table and Shore Club on 11. Other additions include a second Owner’s Residence designed by architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, more Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences, and redesigned Ocean Wellness facilities combining spa and fitness areas.
EXPLORA III will also feature the first Chopard boutique aboard an Explora Journeys ship.
Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, said, “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. 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. 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.”
Mediterranean Prelude Precedes Barcelona Naming
Following delivery, EXPLORA III will depart Genoa on 24 July 2026 for a one-time, five-night Mediterranean Prelude Journey. The sailing will conclude in Civitavecchia on 29 July after calls at Marseille, Saint-Tropez, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Livorno.
Global sporting icon and brand ambassador Jannik Sinner will sail aboard the ship for the first two days. The programme will give guests opportunities to meet members of the leadership, design and officer teams and preview the vessel’s new venues, accommodation and wellness areas. EXPLORA III will then travel to Barcelona for her naming ceremony on 1 August.
Maiden Journey Launches Northern Programme
The ship’s seven-night Maiden Journey will depart Barcelona for Lisbon on 3 August 2026. This will begin an inaugural season covering Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.
The programme follows a continuous northbound route without repeated itineraries. Destinations include Baltic capitals, the Norwegian fjords and Iceland, followed by a transatlantic crossing through Greenland to the Canadian Maritimes and New England.
In 2027, EXPLORA III is scheduled to operate Explora Journeys’ first Alaska season.
LNG and Shore Power Capabilities Added
EXPLORA III’s LNG capability is designed to support the future use of renewable fuels, including bio-LNG and synthetic LNG, as availability develops.
The vessel is also equipped to connect to shoreside electricity where the required port infrastructure is available. This allows its engines to be switched off while berthed, reducing direct emissions in port.
Construction is continuing at Fincantieri on EXPLORA IV, EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI. The three vessels are scheduled to join the fleet during 2027 and 2028.
Source: Official Press Release published by Explora Journeys on 23 July 2026, Genoa.
