Explora Journeys’ newest ultra-luxury ship, Explora III, is set to launch ahead of schedule in July 2026, marking the third vessel in the fast-growing fleet of the MSC Group’s luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand.
Explora III will begin with an exclusive Mediterranean Prelude Journey from 24–29 July 2026, welcoming a limited number of guests on a sailing from Genoa to Civitavecchia.
Her naming ceremony will follow in Barcelona on 1 August at the city’s new cruise terminal, before the ship embarks on her maiden voyage to Lisbon on 3 August. Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland will round out the inaugural season later in the year.
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Luxury elevated
Explora Journeys has described Explora III as a redefinition of what it means to indulge in ultra-elegant ocean travel.
The ship is anchored by one of the industry’s highest host-to-guest ratios, at almost one host per guest. Running on LNG technology also allows a longer ship, allowing for more public spaces and accommodation on board.
Explora III offers two more suites than on EXPLORA I and II, coming in at 313 ocean suites, 109 penthouses (24%) and 39 ocean residences (9%). All accommodations feature floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, double vanities and with most ocean residences inclusive of bathtubs as well.
Unlike her predecessors, Explora III will house two Owner’s Residences, located on decks seven and eight, each designed for indoor-outdoor living with private wellness and lounging spaces.
Dining builds on familiar favourites from the first two ships – including Anthology, Sakura, Med Yacht Club, Fil Rouge and Marble & Co. Grill – while introducing new concepts such as the Shore Club poolside restaurant, Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys, and The Cellar for wine-led experiences.
There are dedicated Nautilus Club spaces for juniors and teens, and all spa and fitness facilities located on deck five within Ocean Wellness – The Spa. Retail will include returning partner Cartier alongside a new collaboration with Swiss luxury house Chopard.