Explora III Makes North American Debut After Atlantic Crossing

Explora Journeys’ newest ship, Explora III, made its North American debut in late September 2026 during a 30-night sailing from Hamburg to New York City. Its initial regional deployment covers Canada and New England before a winter move to the Caribbean.

Fincantieri delivered the ship in July, bringing the MSC Group-owned luxury brand’s fleet to three vessels. Explora III began its inaugural season with Mediterranean and Northern European cruises before crossing the Atlantic.

The extended voyage was sold under the name “Grand Journey of Stunning Boreal Scenery and Northern Cultural Heritage.” It takes in 20 destinations across Canada, Iceland, Ireland, England, Germany and the United States.

The first regional itinerary was an 11-night sailing between Reykjavik and Quebec City, also available as part of the longer combination cruise. Its calls included Corner Brook, Havre Saint Pierre, Saguenay and Newport. Halifax, Charlottetown and Portland are also on the schedule during the ship’s Canada and New England deployment.

The Caribbean program begins with an arrival at PortMiami on October 25, 2026. Running until early April 2027, the winter schedule includes departures from Florida, Puerto Rico and Barbados. The deployment update did not include an executive statement from Explora Journeys.

The 72,810-gross-ton ship accommodates approximately 922 passengers and is the line’s first LNG-powered vessel. It can also connect to shore electricity at ports with the necessary infrastructure, and its fuel system is designed to accommodate future bio-LNG and synthetic LNG alternatives.

Three further newbuilds are due to join the fleet through 2028, taking the planned total to six. Explora IV is next, due in April 2027.

After its Caribbean season, Explora III will reposition to the West Coast for Explora Journeys’ first Alaska cruise program. Sailings from Vancouver and Seward are scheduled from May through September 2027.