Explora Journeys Celebrates Naming Ceremony of EXPLORA 1
New luxury operator Explora Journeys celebrated the naming of its first ship EXPLORA I with a ceremony in New York City.
The cruise operator, which is part of the MSC Group, hosted a traditional christening event as well as a gala to celebrate EXPLORA I at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. The new vessel went into service this past July, with a maiden voyage sailing from Copenhagen to Reykjavik. The ship spent the end of the summer season sailing a range of cruises in Northern Europe, Greenland, and Iceland.
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“In the world of luxury travel, EXPLORA I is a game-changer. We are offering journeys that redefine the very essence of luxurious ocean travel. We are looking to attract a wider group of discerning travelers who have experienced the finest luxury land-based resorts but seek more value, more authenticity, and a deeper connection to the world. Explora Journeys is the answer by giving you a way to discover off the beaten track destinations by sea, all whilst enjoying some of the best real estate in the world. With a further five ships joining the fleet in the next five years, we are committed to delivering the same unique experience on board, wherever you are in the world,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group.
EXPLORA I’s Godmother Dr. Sylvia Earle, renowned marine biologist and oceanographer, was on hand at the NYC event for the ceremonial ribbon cutting to break a bottle of champagne on the bow to officially name the ship.
“I am honored to be the Godmother for EXPLORA I and look forward to a meaningful relationship between Mission Blue, Explora Journeys and the MSC Foundation towards making a very positive contribution to protect and restore the world’s seas and oceans,” said Dr. Earle, Founder and Chairman of Mission Blue.
EXPLORA I is the first of six luxury ships being built by Explora Journeys. All vessels are being constructed in Italy by shipbuilder Fincantieri in a deal valued at €3.5 billion. On EXPLORA 1, guests can choose from any of the 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences, as well as enjoy onboard offerings including six restaurants, twelve bars and lounges, four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks, and 1,000 square meters of wellness and fitness facilities.
This fall, the ship will sail a series of journeys in North America, and will head to the Caribbean for the winter 2023-2024 season. Next summer, the ship will reposition to Europe for Mediterranean cruises.
Explora Journey’s next ship EXPLORA II will enter service in summer 2024, and operate until April 2025 in the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East. Next up for the luxury operator are the launch of EXPLORA III in 2026, EXPLORA IV in 2027, EXPLORA V in 2027, and EXPLORA VI in 2028. All Explora Journeys vessels are being constructed with the latest environmental and marine technologies, including selective catalytic reduction technology, shore power plug-in connectivity, underwater noise management systems, and other energy efficient equipment technologies.
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