Explora Journeys Moves Up Explora III Debut to July 2026
By bringing its first liquefied natural gas-capable ship into service sooner, Explora Journeys underscores how luxury cruising is accelerating its shift toward cleaner propulsion and high-space design to stay competitive in Europe.
Explora Journeys said Explora III will enter service earlier than previously planned, with the luxury ship now scheduled to debut in July 2026. The LNG-capable vessel will open with a Mediterranean “Prelude Journey” from July 24 to July 29, followed by an official naming ceremony in Barcelona on August 1, 2026.
The naming event is set to take place at the MSC Cruise Division’s new terminal in Barcelona. After the ceremony, Explora III is scheduled to depart Barcelona on August 3 for a maiden voyage to Lisbon, before moving into Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland itineraries later in 2026.
Debut plans: Mediterranean opening, Barcelona naming, then Lisbon
Explora Journeys positioned the July 24 start date as an accelerated entry into service for its third ship. The line’s Mediterranean opening sequence includes the five-night Prelude Journey (July 24 to July 29), followed by the Barcelona naming on August 1 and the Barcelona-to-Lisbon sailing departing August 3.
First LNG-capable ship in the Explora Journeys fleet
Explora III is set to become the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet equipped with LNG capability. The ship will have dual-fuel engines designed to operate on LNG (liquefied natural gas) and low-carbon fuels, which the company linked to efforts to reduce emissions.
Explora Journeys also tied the LNG technology to a 19.2-meter increase in overall length and said that design translates to 19.5 square meters of total public space per guest. The line has also highlighted sustainability-related onboard features that include advanced waste management systems and energy-efficient design elements.
Suites and space: 463 accommodations, with more length and public areas
The ship will feature 463 suites in total, which Explora Journeys said is a two-suite increase compared with Explora I and Explora II. The accommodation mix includes 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences; the line said Ocean Penthouses represent 24% of the suite inventory and Ocean Residences account for 9%.
Explora Journeys has emphasized suite layouts with private outdoor space across categories, including private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Owner’s Residences: Patricia Urquiola’s aft suite concept
Explora III will include two Owner’s Residences located aft on Decks 7 and 8, each spanning 280 square meters, including a 125-square-meter terrace, and taking up the full width of the ship at the stern. The residences are designed by Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola and include features such as a private whirlpool and a steam room.
Urquiola said the maritime environment influenced the suite’s layout and material choices: “The space is always moving, so you really need to create a fluid transition between the different areas of the suite.” She added, “You’re much more likely to reach out and touch the walls, so we chose finishes that are warm and inviting, yet highly tactile.”
Explora Journeys said Urquiola selected furnishings from Cassina, where she has served as creative director since 2015, along with custom elements, including a 3D-printed chandelier made from recycled plastic that was conceived to echo a sail.
New venues on board: dining additions, wellness consolidation and retail
Explora III will introduce three new dining concepts: Shore Club on 11, described as a poolside venue at the Conservatory Pool; The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys; and The Cellar by Explora Journeys, focused on wine. In total, the ship will offer seven restaurants and 12 bars and lounges, including a malt whisky bar and a new cigar lounge.
Wellness facilities, including the Ocean Wellness spa and fitness areas, are set to be consolidated on Deck 5. The fitness space will add Technogym’s Sand Stone collection, Technogym Reform Pilates equipment and a private training studio; outdoor fitness spaces and pickleball courts are also planned, and the spa is set to include a Sound Pod intended for stress reduction.
Retail on board is set to include Cartier and Chopard boutiques.
How the ship fits into Explora Journeys’ growth plans
Explora Journeys launched in 2021 as a luxury cruise brand within MSC Group. The company has positioned its itineraries around multi-day and week-long sailings that emphasize culture, scenery and wellness across regions including the Mediterranean, Alaska and the Arabian Peninsula.
Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, said the new ship builds on the brand’s approach to onboard space and amenities. “Explora III represents a natural yet powerful evolution of our vision for ocean travel,” Nash said, adding that the ship “has been conceived as a destination in her own right … while welcoming the same carefully balanced number of guests as Explora I and Explora II.”
After the Barcelona naming on August 1 and the August 3 sailing to Lisbon, Explora Journeys is planning to deploy Explora III on itineraries in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland later in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does Explora III enter service, and what are its first sailings?
Explora III is scheduled to debut on July 24, 2026, with a Mediterranean Prelude Journey running through July 29. The ship is then set to be named in Barcelona on August 1, 2026, and to depart Barcelona on August 3 for a maiden voyage to Lisbon.
How many suites will Explora III have, and what is the suite mix?
Explora III will have 463 suites in total, which is two more than Explora I and Explora II. The mix includes 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences; Explora Journeys said Ocean Penthouses represent 24% of the suite inventory and Ocean Residences account for 9%.
What does LNG capability mean for Explora III?
Explora III will be the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet equipped with LNG capability. The ship will have dual-fuel engines designed to operate on LNG and low-carbon fuels, which the company linked to reducing emissions; it has also highlighted advanced waste management systems and energy-efficient design elements.
Who designed the Owner’s Residences, and what features stand out?
The two Owner’s Residences were designed by Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. Explora Journeys said each residence spans 280 square meters, including a 125-square-meter terrace, takes up the full width of the ship at the stern, and includes features such as a private whirlpool and a steam room; Urquiola also selected furnishings from Cassina and custom elements, including a 3D-printed chandelier made from recycled plastic.
