Fincantieri delivered EXPLORA III, the third ship in Explora Journeys’ fleet under MSC Group, earlier than scheduled in July 2026. This vessel is the cruise line’s largest and its first powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Naming Ceremony in Barcelona on August 3, 2026
EXPLORA III was officially welcomed into the fleet during a naming ceremony held in Barcelona, Spain on August 3, 2026. The ship’s godmother is Cristina Ozores, a marine educator affiliated with National Geographic. The event featured speeches from Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division; Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys; and José Alberto Carbonell, president of the Port of Barcelona. Ozores
performed the traditional blessing and naming of the ship. Disco group Sister Sledge, with Kathy Sledge, provided a live performance at the ceremony.
Exclusive Five-Night Preview Cruise Preceded Inauguration
Before relocating to Barcelona for the inaugural events, EXPLORA III conducted a five-night preview cruise from Genoa, Italy to Civitavecchia, Italy. This early sailing took place in July 2026 following the ship’s ahead-of-schedule delivery.
Larger Ship with Expanded Amenities and Space
At 63 feet longer than its predecessors EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, EXPLORA III offers the highest public space-to-guest ratio currently in the Explora Journeys fleet. The ship contains an expanded selection of Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences, along with two Owner’s Residences
each measuring 3,391 square feet.
The enlarged deck plan includes upgraded venues such as a brighter Conservatory Pool & Bar, a redesigned Crema Café, as well as new additions like an Outdoor Cigar Lounge and a Malt Whisky Bar to enhance the onboard lifestyle experience.
Future Fleet Expansion and Brand Evolution
EXPLORA IV, V, and VI are underway at various shipyards, signaling continued growth of the Explora Journeys fleet. EXPLORA III’s debut reflects the brand’s progression with an emphasis on space, design, gastronomy, and holistic wellbeing.
Travel Impact and Official Statements
With the early delivery and subsequent ceremonies, guests gain early access to Explora Journeys’ largest ship incorporating LNG propulsion technology
for environmental consideration. Anna Nash described naming EXPLORA III as a significant milestone reflecting the fleet’s direction and dedication to luxury ocean travel. Nash added that the ship was “conceived as a destination in her own right” and exemplifies “a more generous expression of space, design, gastronomy and holistic wellbeing.”
