34 closer to a luxury hotel” than traditional cruise vessels and set the foundation for the latest newbuild, Explora III, which was christened at the Port of Barcelona in Spain on 1 August 2026. “Explora III represents the natural evolution of our vision,” says Nash. “We listened carefully to our guests and travel advisor partners, took what we learned from Explora I and Explora II and used those insights to enhance the experience in thoughtful ways.” The 72,810gt newbuild is 19.2 metres longer than its 63,900gt sister ships, but only has two additional suites. Rather than increasing overall capacity, Explora Journeys maximised shared areas to offer 19.5 square metres of public space per guest – one of the highest ratios in the industry. “We made a very deliberate decision not to significantly increase guest numbers,” says Nash. “Instead, we invested the additional space back into the experience itself by creating more generous public areas, enhancing the retail offerings and introducing new culinary experiences and additional amenities. This gives our guests even greater choice in how they spend their time onboard.” Some public spaces have been refined or reconfigured to improve guest flow. For example, Explora Journeys has redesigned Crema Café, enlarged the Conservatory Pool and Bar, and consolidated all spa and fitness spaces into “one beautifully integrated destination”. This Ocean Wellness space now features a Sava Sound Pod, additional treatment rooms, Technogym Sand Stone fitness equipment, reformer Pilates, a larger sports court and a longer outdoor running track. Meanwhile, the lobby has been reimagined as a doubleheight atrium with more social spaces, bespoke hand-blown Venini chandeliers and a sculptural asymmetrical staircase crafted from Perlato di Sicilia and Sahara Noir marble. Notable new spaces include an Outdoor Cigar Lounge and the first at-sea boutiques for both Chopard and Mandala by Ocean Atelier. There are also three additional culinary concepts: The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys; Shore Club on 11, a poolside venue serving Mediterranean dishes; and The Cellar by Explora Journeys, which provides wineled experiences. Accommodation includes 311 Ocean Suites, 109 Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences, all with private terraces. At the aft, there are two 280-squaremetre Owner’s Residences, including one created by architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. “Guests will be most struck by how Explora III feels even more spacious while remaining wonderfully intimate,” says Nash. “The most memorable moments will come from the thoughtful touches and unexpected details that make guests feel instantly at home.” Nash is particularly excited to see how returning guests react. “They already have a real sense of curiosity about the thoughtful surprises and subtle changes they’ll discover,” she says. “Many of our guests have been part of our journey since the beginning and helped shape this next chapter. They’ll enjoy exploring what is new and what has evolved, and recognise that we listened carefully to their feedback.” Explora III is the first dual-fuel ship in the fleet. The vessel, which can connect COVER STORY “ Our ambition is not simply to build more ships – it’s to build one of the world’s most respected hospitality brands”
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