Meet EXPLORA III: Inside the Explora Journeys' Newest Luxury Ship

• Unrivalled Space & Comfort: Built with a longer footprint (+19.2 metres) and an increased public space ratio of 19.5 square metres per guest, while maintaining the same intimate passenger capacity as her sister ships.

• Elevated Accommodations: Highlights include a second Owner's Residence styled by world-renowned architect Patricia Urquiola, alongside an expanded selection of Ocean Residences and Penthouses.

• Exclusive Amenities: Features the debut of the first Technogym Pilates studio at sea, brand-new culinary venues, and luxury boutiques from Rolex and Chopard.

Explora Journeys has reached a major milestone with the official arrival of EXPLORA III. Joining the fleet as the third of six planned luxury vessels, her debut coincides with the cruise line celebrating three award-winning years at sea.

Combining the refined atmosphere of a boutique luxury hotel with the freedom of ocean travel, EXPLORA III sets a captivating new standard for high-end cruising.

Designed to offer even more space, privacy, and choice, this stunning new vessel takes everything guests love about her sister ships, EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, and elevates the experience to impressive new heights.

More Space, More Freedom: A Reimagined Design

Luxury today is defined by space, and EXPLORA III delivers it in abundance. The ship features an extended hull, measuring 19.2 metres longer than her predecessors.

Despite this expanded footprint, the vessel welcomes the same number of guests, providing an incredible public space ratio of 19.5 square metres per passenger.

This layout creates an effortless sense of freedom and openness throughout the ship, overcoming one of the most common reservations held by travellers who are new to cruising.

Key architectural updates throughout the ship include:

• Redesigned Lobby: A dramatic double-height central lobby that creates an impressive sense of arrival.

• Expanded Conservatory Pool & Bar: A grander open-air layout designed for all-weather relaxation under the sun or stars.

• Enhanced Crema Café: A beautifully refreshed social hub for artisanal coffees, light bites, and everyday leisure.

Luxury Accommodations: Suites Designed for Living

For travellers seeking a true home at sea, the accommodation aboard EXPLORA III has been expanded with refined new suite categories and elevated interior designs.

At the pinnacle of luxury sits a second Owner's Residence, designed by acclaimed architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. This grand sanctuary combines bespoke Italian craftsmanship with sweeping private terrace views.

Alongside this flagship suite, the ship introduces an expanded selection of Ocean Residences and Ocean Penthouses, providing hotel-style comfort, private butler service, and generous outdoor living areas.

World-Class Dining & High-End Retail

Culinary exploration remains a core highlight of the Explora Journeys experience. EXPLORA III introduces several new dining and lounge concepts designed to delight returning guests and food connoisseurs alike:

• Shore Club on 11: A vibrant new venue offering relaxed daytime lounging and sophisticated evening dining.

• The Chef's Table: An intimate, highly exclusive culinary experience focusing on multi-course tasting menus paired with rare vintages.

• The Cellar: An expanded wine-tasting haven showcasing expert sommelier masterclasses and premier global labels.

Beyond dining, EXPLORA III boasts an elevated luxury shopping promenade. The ship features the second Rolex boutique in the Explora Journeys fleet, alongside the brand's very first Chopard boutique at sea.

Ocean Wellness & Industry-First Fitness

Wellness aboard EXPLORA III has been completely reimagined to offer holistic health, physical recovery, and mindful relaxation.

The onboard spa facilities have been significantly expanded to feature innovative thermal circuits and custom recovery treatments.

In an industry first, the ship debuts the very first Technogym Pilates studio at sea. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of state-of-the-art reformer equipment, targeted core conditioning classes, and personalised instruction while sailing to breathtaking destinations around the world.

Where Will EXPLORA III Sail? Inaugural Destinations & Itineraries

EXPLORA III sets sail on an impressive inaugural schedule packed with immersive, non-repeating itineraries designed for deep destination discovery.

Maiden Voyage & Mediterranean Prelude

Her official Maiden Journey departs Barcelona on 3 August 2026, cruising through the Western Mediterranean toward Lisbon via Palma de Mallorca, Puerto Banús, and Tangier.

Northern Europe, Baltic Capitals & Solar Eclipse Voyage

Late summer sees EXPLORA III head north into Northern Europe, operating sailings out of Southampton, Copenhagen, and Hamburg.

Highlights include maiden calls to Bergen, Flåm, Riga, and Tallinn, alongside scenic cruises through the Norwegian Fjords.

A standout moment of her debut season is a solar eclipse voyage on 12 August 2026, offering guests optimal viewing conditions alongside expert guest speakers including British astronaut Helen Sharman.

Atlantic Crossings, Canada & New England

In September 2026, the ship embarks on a grand transatlantic route via Iceland (Reykjavík and Akureyri) and Greenland's Prince Christian Sound.

She then explores the Canadian Maritimes, Québec City, and the autumn scenery of New England before arriving in New York.

Winter Sun in the Caribbean

From late autumn through winter 2026 and 2027, EXPLORA III repositions south to Miami and San Juan. Her winter itineraries offer sun-drenched escapes across the Eastern Caribbean, taking in tropical calls at St Thomas, Dominica, Curaçao, Aruba, and Virgin Gorda.

About Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys is the luxury lifestyle travel brand of the MSC Group, created to redefine high-end ocean travel for discerning modern cruisers.

Designed to evoke a tranquil "Ocean State of Mind", the brand combines European elegance with relaxed, unhurried itineraries that allow guests to connect deeply with each destination.

With a strong focus on spatial design, all-inclusive luxury, and intuitive hospitality, Explora Journeys offers:

• Boutique Hotel Ambience: Intimate ships that blend cosmopolitan interior design with highly attentive, personalised service.

• Inclusive Ocean Travel: All-suite accommodations paired with unlimited fine dining, premium beverages, thermal spa access, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

• Destination Immersion: Curated, off-the-beaten-track itineraries featuring longer port stays and overnight stops in breathtaking coastal destinations worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does EXPLORA III sail on her inaugural voyages?

EXPLORA III begins her inaugural season in the Mediterranean in August 2026 before sailing to Northern Europe, the Baltic, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, New England, and the Caribbean.

How many guests does EXPLORA III accommodate?

EXPLORA III maintains the same intimate guest capacity as her sister ships, EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, despite having a longer ship design and larger public spaces.

What new dining experiences are on EXPLORA III?

The ship introduces exciting new culinary venues including Shore Club on 11, The Chef's Table, and an expanded wine-tasting venue at The Cellar.

What luxury shopping options are available on board?

EXPLORA III features high-end retail options including a dedicated Rolex boutique and the fleet's very first standalone Chopard boutique.

What is included in the fare on an Explora Journeys cruise?

Explora Journeys operates on an all-inclusive basis. Your fare includes all-suite oceanfront accommodation, unlimited dining across fine-dining venues, fine wines, premium spirits, onboard gratuities, high-speed Wi-Fi, thermal spa access, and wellness classes.

What is the dress code on board EXPLORA III?

Explora Journeys advocates an elegant resort casual style. There are no formal nights or black-tie dress codes. Guests can enjoy a relaxed luxury hotel vibe throughout the ship, with smart casual attire expected across evening dining venues.