18 Explora Journeys’ first LNGpowered ship, Explora III, was officially named at Port of Barcelona in Spain on 1 August 2026 by the ship’s godmother: marine conservationist, dive trainer and National Geographic Educator Cristina Ozores. The naming ceremony brought together senior leaders of Explora Journeys 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 tennis star Jannik Sinner (pictured inset with Captain Serena Melani, opening the onboard padel court) 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 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’.” Ozores said: “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. MARKETWATCH Explora III begins inaugural season following naming ceremony in Barcelona The first LNG-powered ship in the Explora Journeys fleet also completed a ‘prelude journey’ through the Mediterranean with tennis star Jannik Sinner as its first guest From left, Daniela Picco, director at MSC Foundation, José Alberto Carbonell, president of Port of Barcelona, Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, marine conservationist Cristina Ozores, Captain Serena Melani and Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division Photos: Explora Journeys
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