New Small-Ship Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line Launches 2nd Ship; Explora III and IV On the Way

During a spectacular naming ceremony in Civitavecchia – the port for Rome, Italy – Explora Journeys launched Explora II. The September, 2024 event marked the debut of the second of six ships by the lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group. Explora Journeys promises guests the opportunity to experience an “Ocean State of Mind,” connecting you with both the sea and the growing cruise line’s curated destinations. 

The traditional maritime ceremony featured the symbolic cutting of a ribbon to break a bottle on the ship’s bow by Explora II’s godmother, Rosalba Giugni, founder and president of the Marevivo Foundation, a non-partisan environmental conservation organization committed to the preservation of marine environments, founded in 1985.

Rosalba was chosen for this honor, as a friend and partner of the MSC Foundation, but also as a mark of respect for her 35-year commitment to the protection of the world’s oceans.

The event was hosted by Italian actress and TV personality Lorella Cuccarini and concluded with a traditional parade of ship officers. 

Following the formal proceedings, guests enjoyed a gala dinner and an evening of vibrant celebrations, including a captivating musical performance by English pop singer Tony Hadley, along with a breathtaking drone show that creatively narrated the story of Explora Journeys, featuring a stunning display of the Explora Journeys logo with its Mandala. 

With a vision to redefine luxury ocean travel for discerning travellers, Explora Journeys blends European hospitality and 300 years of the company’s maritime heritage.By 2028 the Explora Journeys fleet will comprise six ships offering a spirit of luxurious ocean adventure visiting sought-after destinations, where guests can expect the same high standards and quality service across our fleet, all over the globe, says the cruise line. 

Joining sister ship Explora I, Explora II introduces new features, including new retail options - the first Buccellati jewellery boutique at sea and special collaborations and limited editions by Borsalino, Kampos, and Massaba for Explora Journeys, exclusively available at the ship’s ‘The Journey’ boutique. 

The re-designed Ocean Wellness Spa offers a series of new treatment programs inspired by authentic Ayurvedic principles. And the Helios Pool & Bar has been refreshed with bespoke Unopiù outdoor furniture designed by Matteo Nunziati.

ExploraII features original artwork by Emilio Isgró and Prince Hussain Aga Khan’s ‘Marine Encounters’, an exhibition of his marine photographs showcasing diverse underwater species and ecosystems. The exquisite collection of marine photography was gifted to the MSC Foundation as part of the partnership between the MSC Foundation and ‘Focused on Nature’, reflecting a shared vision to educate and inspire action on the need to preserve marine life and biodiversity. 

Explora ships are home to fewer than 1000 guests, all in oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences designed to be ‘Homes at Sea’, all with sweeping ocean views, private terrace, a choice of eleven distinct culinary experiences across six vibrant restaurants plus in-suite dining, Chef’s Kitchen, twelve bars and lounges (eight indoor and four outdoor), four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks with 64 private cabanas, wellness facilities, and refined entertainment. Inspired by the company`s European heritage, Explora Journeys will provide guests with an immersive ocean experience and respectful and intuitive hospitality. 

Both Explora ships in service will reposition to the Caribbean for the winter season. Highlight destinations include Gustavia in St. Barts, Oranjestad in Aruba, and St. John’s in Antigua. In the summer of 2025, Explora II will sail in the Western Mediterranean visiting ports such as Barcelona in Spain, St. Tropez in France, Monte Carlo and Porto Cervo in Italy.

Just the Beginning of the Fleet

Explora Journeys has already celebrated the keel laying of Explora III and the steel cutting of Explora IV at their shipyard in Italy. Explora III, set for delivery in 2026, will be the first of four ships in the Explora Journeys fleet to be powered by the environmentally friendly liquefied natural gas.  

All ships feature modern environmental and marine technologies, including selective catalytic reduction systems, shore power plug-in connectivity, underwater noise management systems to protect marine life, and a comprehensive range of onboard energy-efficient equipment designed to optimize engine use and reduce emissions. The ship has been designated ‘Green Plus’ by RINA – the highest level that the certification body grants for environmental sustainability.

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Images courtesy of Explora Journeys.

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