By
Kasturi Datta |
Explora Journeys’ first LNG-powered ship, Explora III, was officially named at Port de Barcelona in Spain by marine conservationist, dive trainer and National Geographic Educator Cristina Ozores.
The naming ceremony brought together senior leaders of Explora Journey including Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division and Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, and followed a prelude journey through the Mediterranean where Jannik Sinner became the ship’s first guest.
“Naming Explora III is a momentous occasion that reflects both the trajectory of our fleet and our steadfast commitment to shaping the future of ultra-elegant ocean travel,” said Anna Nash. “Conceived as a destination in her own right, Explora III brings to life an even more generous expression of space, design, gastronomy and holistic wellbeing, with every detail encouraging the presence and connection that defines our unique ‘Ocean State of Mind’.”
The ship introduces an expanded range of wellness and culinary experiences and expanded public areas, making it the most spacious vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet.
“For me, being the Godmother of Explora III is about opening the door to a new kind of experience – one where people can truly discover the ocean in a deeper, more meaningful way,” said Ozores. “I hope each journey invites them to feel the beauty beneath the surface, to be amazed by its colours and life, and to reconnect with the sea with curiosity, joy, and a genuine desire to care for it.”
Cristina Ozores is the founder of Vellmari, a Spain-based diving centre and marine conservation project (Photo: Explora Journeys)
At 268 metres in length, Explora III is 19.2 metres longer than Explora I and Explora II. The ship offers 19.5 square metres of public space per guest – one of the highest ratios in the cruise industry.
The ship’s redefined design includes a redesigned lobby with a sculptural asymmetrical staircase beneath bespoke Venini chandeliers. The expanded collection of accommodation options featuring Ocean Penthouses, Ocean Residences and a second Owner’s Residences, designed by Patricia Urquiola. The ship’s gallery features contemporary works of art presented in partnership with Clarendon Fine Art, and new and enhanced venues include a brighter, more open The Conservatory Pool & Bar, the redesigned Crema Café and a new Outdoor Cigar Lounge alongside the Malt Whisky Bar.
New ‘culinary and lifestyle experiences’ include The Cellar by Explora Journeys, a wine bar featuring nearly 350 different labels, ‘co-created dining experience’ The Chef’s Table by Explra Journeys, Shore Club on 11, beside the expanded Conservatory Pool, and various wellness and retail offerings.
“The real evolution on Explora III is our idea of casual luxury, now even more mature and consistent throughout the ship,” said Antonio Di Nenno, director of architecture & design at MSC Cruises. “Luxury should be everywhere but never feel formal or intimidating. It should feel elegant, comfortable and familiar, like being at home.”
Designed to operate on liquefied natural gas (LNG), the ship also has pathways towards renewable alternatives such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG. Shore power capability means engines can be turned off at ports where infrastructure exists.
Explora III will commence its seven-night maiden journey on 3 August from Barcelona to Lisbon in Portugal. Its inaugural sailing season includes journeys through Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.