• 4 min de lectura
• 4 min de lectura
Explora Journeys has taken delivery of Explora III at Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa today, with the third ship in MSC Group's luxury cruise brand marking the halfway point in the company's growth.
The ship is the first in the fleet to be powered by LNG, and it is also the largest, as it is 19.2 meters (63 feet) longer than its sister ships, Explora I and Explora II.
The cruise line and the shipbuilding company held a delivery ceremony which included speeches from local dignitaries, a dance performance by Urban Theory, and the official handover of the ship.
There was also a presentation of an ampoule of water from when Explora III touched the water in its float-out to Captain Serena Melani, and as with tradition, a bottle of Lanson Champagne was smashed against the hull of the ship.
Speaking at the ceremony, MSC Group Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago said: "This delivery marks a very important step. Three years after the launch of Explora I, we are now halfway through our journey. The fourth and fifth ship are here in the shipyard now. By 2028, we will have launched six ships in five years."
Explora III will now sail a five-night Mediterranean prelude journey from Genoa ahead of its naming ceremony on 1 August in Barcelona. Following a voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon on 3 August, it will then spend its inaugural season cruising in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland before heading across to the US East Coast and Canada for the fall.
Explora III is an elegant ship with muted, warm tones and contemporary designs. While the ship is larger than its predecessors, Explora Journeys decided not to increase cabins, but add more options for passengers.
President Anna Nash explained: "When we launched Explora Journeys three years ago, we had a vision to create something genuinely different. "Welcoming our third ship into the fleet, it's wonderful to see that vision become reality. Explora III is not just another ship; she represents everything we have learnt since welcoming the first guests onboard Explora I three years ago. Every conversation, every piece of feedback and every sailing have shaped Explora III."
Here's a sneak peek from a quick ship tour:
The ship's Ocean Wellness spa and fitness facilities have now all been brought together on Deck 5, so guests can move between the two easily. The fitness area is spacious and has the latest Technogym equipment all in a sand color that blends perfectly with the ship's décor.
Its Sports Court has also been expanded, and guests can now play padel and pickleball onboard.
In addition to returning venues such as Sakura, Med Yacht Club and Fil Rouge, Explora III has three new dining concepts.
The Cellar, which sits on Deck 5 and offers a wine tasting experience. With space for eight around a table surrounded by bottles, there's a chance to taste wines from around the world. Small bites are served here.
Also on Deck 5 is The Chef's Table. Guests can book to taste a bespoke menu and listen in as the chef prepares the food in front of them.
Heading up to Deck 11, Explora III has an added poolside alfresco restaurant - Shore Club on 11.
While Explora I and II each had one Owner's Residence, Explora III features two, with one designed by architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. Situated aft on Decks 7 and 8, each span 3,014 square feet.
The ship has a total of 461 cabins, including 313 Ocean Terrace Suites (pictured) which are the entry-level category. They feature lounge areas, a mini bar, espresso machine, kettle and teapot, and a spacious walk-in wardrobes with a seated vanity area, complete with Dyson hairdryers.
Making its debut at sea on Explora III is Swiss luxury watch and jewelry maker Chopard. Other high-end retailers include Rolex and Cartier.
