First look at Explora Journeys’ €3.5bn cruise ship expansion

Explora Journeys is making waves in the luxury cruise industry with the recent float-out ceremony of its third ship, Explora III. This milestone is part of a significant €3.5 billion investment aimed at expanding the cruise line’s upscale fleet. Scheduled to launch in 2026, Explora III will join its sister ships, Explora I and Explora II, enhancing travel options for discerning passengers.

Float-Out Ceremony Marks New Era

The float-out ceremony for Explora III took place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa, Italy, where the vessel touched water for the first time. This event signifies a crucial step in the ship’s construction process, showcasing the progress of Explora Journeys’ ambitious expansion plans. The ship is set to embark on its inaugural seven-night voyage on August 3, 2026, departing from Barcelona and arriving in Lisbon. Prices for this journey start at £5,300 per person.

After its maiden voyage, Explora III will explore the Mediterranean and venture to the Norwegian fjords from Southampton during August and September 2026. The ship’s design will accommodate around 900 guests, featuring 463 suites, five heated pools, six restaurants, and 12 bars and lounges, all while maintaining a guest-to-host ratio of 1.25 to 1. This luxurious experience is set to elevate the standards of cruising.

Asuka III, Japan’s ‘biggest’ cruise ship ever, edges toward delivery

Future Ships and Expanding Fleet

In addition to Explora III, two more ships are under construction at the Fincantieri shipyard. Explora IV recently celebrated its coin ceremony, a traditional event where coins are placed under the keel for good luck, while Explora V commenced construction with a steel-cutting ceremony. Both vessels are expected to join the fleet in 2027, with Explora IV set to launch on April 15, 2027, offering an eight-night journey from Genoa to Portugal, starting at £4,450 per person.

Similar to its predecessors, Explora IV and Explora V will feature enhanced amenities, including a higher gross tonnage of 72,810. Further details about these new ships are forthcoming, but they are anticipated to mirror the luxurious offerings of the existing fleet. Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, emphasized the significance of this expansion, stating, “This triple celebration reflects the strength of our vision and the power of collaboration between our team and partners.” With this ambitious growth, Explora Journeys aims to create a legacy of transformative travel experiences for generations to come.