By
Alex Smith |
Explora Journeys has revealed details of Explora III, the third ship in its fleet, which is scheduled to enter service in July 2026 ahead of its original timetable.
Explora III is longer than its two predecessors, with an increase in overall length of 19.2 metres, allowing for a revised internal layout and expanded public spaces while maintaining a similar guest capacity. The ship will feature 463 oceanfront suites, including a higher proportion of Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences, as well as the addition of a second Owner’s Residence.
“Explora III represents a natural evolution of our vision for ocean travel,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. “She has been conceived as a destination in her own right, offering greater space, comfort and choice of amenities, while welcoming the same carefully balanced number of guests as Explora I and Explora II. This continuity allows for a more generous experience throughout the ship, with expanded residences, redesigned suites and public areas that support a feeling of being at home at sea.”
Explora III is equipped with the latest generation dual-fuel engines, enabling the use of LNG and lower-carbon fuels. The ship is the first in the fleet to operate on LNG, reflecting the brand’s stated commitment to reducing environmental impact through available maritime technologies.
Public areas have been redesigned to take advantage of the increased hull length, resulting in one of the highest ratios of public space per guest in the segment, at approximately 19.5 square metres per guest. Outdoor deck areas have also been expanded, with three heated outdoor swimming pools, including an adults-only pool, five indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and additional private cabanas.
The ship’s central lobby has been reconfigured as a double-height atrium, incorporating a redesigned bar, lounge seating and social spaces. Additional features include an enlarged Conservatory Pool and Bar with a retractable glass roof, offering an all-weather indoor-outdoor venue.
Accommodation includes 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences, all with private terraces. Two Owner’s Residences will be located aft on decks seven and eight, each spanning 280 square metres including outdoor space. One of these residences has been designed in collaboration with architect and designer Patricia Urquiola.
Dining venues aboard Explora III will expand on those introduced on Explora I and II, with returning restaurants including Anthology, Sakura, Fil Rouge, Med Yacht Club and Marble & Co. Grill. Three new concepts will also be introduced: Shore Club on 11, a poolside dining venue; The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys; and The Cellar by Explora Journeys, focused on wine-led experiences.
Wellness and fitness facilities have been consolidated into a single zone on deck five, bringing together the Ocean Wellness spa, relaxation areas and fitness spaces. New features include a sound therapy pod, additional treatment rooms, Technogym fitness equipment, an expanded sports court and an extended outdoor running track.
Retail space onboard will include the return of Cartier, alongside the debut of Chopard on an Explora Journeys ship. Additional curated retail and art spaces will be offered through partnerships with selected luxury and fine art brands.
Explora III will also introduce expanded family facilities, including separate spaces for younger children and teenagers, while maintaining limits on the number of younger guests per sailing. New modular meeting rooms will support private meetings and remote working.
“As the third ship in our fleet, Explora III marks an important milestone, bringing us halfway through our six-ship vision,” said Nash. “It reinforces our long-term commitment to shaping a more refined future for ocean travel.”
The LNG-powered vessel will debut with a short Mediterranean programme in late July before being officially named in Barcelona on 1 August 2026, while alongside the Cruise Division’s new terminal. Explora III will then commence its maiden voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon on 3 August, before operating itineraries in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland later in the year.