• 4 min de lectura
• 4 min de lectura
Explora Journeys officially named Explora III in Barcelona on Saturday welcoming the brand's first LNG-powered ship to the fleet and marking the halfway point in its vision of six ships.
Following its delivery in Genoa on July 23, Explora III embarked on a Mediterranean journey before arriving in Barcelona for the official naming ceremony. The journey welcomed Explora Journeys' global brand ambassador Jannik Sinner, a professional tennis player, as the ship's first passenger.
The ceremony featured addresses by executive chairman of the MSC Group's cruise division, Pierfrancesco Vago; president of Explora Journeys, Anna Nash; president of the Port of Barcelona, José Alberto Carbonell; and godmother Cristina Ozores.
"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, a marine educator and founder of conservation organisation Vellmarí and National Geographic Educator, added: "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.
"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."
The ceremony was followed by celebrations across the ship. Guests gathered throughout Explora III's culinary venues for a gala dinner before entertainment from Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge and DJ Bob Sinclar.
Attendees included fashion influencer Alex Rivière, satirical social media personality The Gstaad Guy, and Paris-based style influencer Alison Toby.
"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. "Luxury should be everywhere but never feel formal or intimidating. It should feel elegant, comfortable and familiar, like being at home."
The ship features a redesigned lobby with a sculptural asymmetrical staircase in Perlato di Sicilia and Sahara Noir marble beneath bespoke Venini chandeliers, hand-blown in Murano. The ship includes an expanded collection of ocean penthouses and ocean residences, and two 315 sqm owner's residences.
The additional owner's residence, located on deck 7, was designed in collaboration with architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. Its interiors feature bronze, Cipollino and Travertino marble, complemented by ribbed wood detailing, with a private steam room and ocean-facing terrace with whirlpool.
The ship's expanded footprint introduces new venues including a redesigned The Conservatory Pool & Bar, redesigned Crema Café and new Outdoor Cigar Lounge alongside the Malt Whisky Bar. Ocean Wellness has been reimagined as a unified sanctuary, bringing together spa and fitness facilities.
Explora III introduces new culinary experiences alongside returning venues including 'Anthology' and 'Fil Rouge.' New additions include 'The Cellar,' featuring nearly 350 wine labels including three exclusive labels from Sting's Il Palagio winery, each limited to 100 signed bottles onboard.
'The Chef's Table' offers bespoke dining experiences where menus, pairings and themes are tailored around guest preferences, travel memories and regional ingredients.
'Shore Club on 11' is positioned beside the expanded Conservatory Pool with retractable glass ceiling, serving Mediterranean cuisine, artisanal crêpes, handcrafted gelato and zero-proof mixology.
Reimagined ocean wellness operates as a single sanctuary on deck 5 featuring the Sava Sound Pod, Technogym Sandstone collection, Reform Pilates, outdoor sports court and extended running track.
Curated retail includes the debut of Swiss Maison Chopard at sea, alongside Piaget, Cartier and a dedicated Rolex boutique. The first Mandala by Ocean Atelier boutique at sea introduces Explora Journeys' jewellery collection.
Explora III departs Barcelona today to commence its seven-night maiden voyage to Lisbon. The vessel's inaugural season will subsequently navigate Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.
