Explora Journeys’ New Ship EXPLORA III to Debut Summer 2026

MSC Group’s luxury cruise operator Explora Journeys has announced the details of EXPLORA III, set to debut in the summer of 2026. The third vessel for the brand will offer spacious accommodations, award-winning culinary offerings, and ocean-inspired wellness experiences.  

In EXPLORA III’s inaugural season, the vessel will sail through Northern Europe, Iceland/ Greenland, North America’s East Coast, and finally positioning to the Caribbean for the winter of 2026-2027. 

“With EXPLORA III, we are thrilled to reach the halfway point in the launch of our fleet of six luxury ships, each designed to redefine the standards of ocean travel. This milestone represents more than just growth; it underscores our dedication to offering guests unparalleled access to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. By expanding our fleet, we are able to offer a greater variety of itineraries, immersing travelers in diverse cultures, landscapes, and unique moments across the globe,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys.  

EXPLORA III will offer more space than many other luxury vessels, with one of the highest ratios of total public space per guest, and expanded outdoor public spaces. The ship will offer 18.7 sqm total of public space per guest, one of the highest ratios in the industry. 

Accommodations 

With 463 spacious suites (slightly more than EXPLORA I and II), the new EXPLORA III will ensure a relaxed and airy atmosphere for all guests. The ship’s layout includes more suite categories. Among these are the Ocean Penthouses, which now account for 24% of the suite inventory, and the Ocean Residences, which have increased to 9% of the total inventory. EXPLORA III will also introduce an additional Owner’s Residence on Deck 7 and redefined Cove Residences. In total, EXPLORA III will feature 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Ocean Penthouses, 39 Ocean Residences, and 2 Owner’s Residences. 

Dining

Explora Journeys' signature dining concepts return on EXPLORA III and several additional new concepts. Guests can indulge in gourmet dining options, including Anthology, Sakura, Fil Rouge, Med Yacht Club, Marble & Co. Grill, and the Emporium Marketplace. 

Wellness and Fitness

Ocean Wellness and Fitness, Explora Journeys’ ocean-inspired wellbeing concept, has been reimagined on EXPLORA III to offer a unified space dedicated to wellbeing. 

The enhanced area includes Ocean Wellness – The Spa, a sanctuary offering a state-of-the-art Fitness Center and Fitness Studio, created in partnership with Technogym. The space features the latest cutting-edge training equipment. 

Also on EXPLORA III is an open-air fitness area on Deck 14, where guests can train outdoors while enjoying ocean views. It includes an extended running track on Deck 12, and a Sports Court offering pickleball, paddle, and basketball. 

Family Programs 

The Nautilus Club on EXPLORA III has been enhanced with new spaces and curated experiences for children and teens. A dedicated team of expert hosts ensures unforgettable moments for younger guests, fostering creativity, fun, and engagement. 

Its Nautilus Club Juniors program is for children ages 3 to 5 and provides six hours of daily baby care services. For children under 3 years old, parents can enjoy time together at Nautilus Club Juniors or take advantage of supervised care. 

Nautilus Club Teens is for children ages 6 to 17. This space offers activities and experiences to inspire and entertain older children and teenagers. 

Meeting and Event Spaces 

EXPLORA III will offer sophisticated meeting rooms on Deck 11. These spaces are ideal for business events, functions, and video conferences. Versatile areas can be divided into three separate rooms, making them perfect for corporate gatherings or private functions.

Sustainability Features  

EXPLORA III is the first LNG-powered ship in the Explora Journeys’ fleet. It reflects the brand’s efforts to decarbonize its marine operations to reduce the environmental impact. 

Explora Journeys’ continues its efforts to decarbonize marine operations and minimize their impact on air quality, through the development of new and improved technologies, innovative ship designs, the implementation of energy efficiency practices, and the transition to renewable fuels. EXPLORA III is equipped with shore power capabilities and advanced energy efficiency features.

Ship Launch & Itineraries 

EXPLORA III will begin sailing in the summer of 2026 through Western Europe, with a visit to  Bordeaux, before heading to Northern Europe. On August 17, 2026, the ship will begin sailing from Southampton to destinations in the Netherlands, Norway, Estonia, Sweden, and Germany, before sailing to Iceland and Greenland. 

Come September 27, EXPLORA III will arrive in Quebec City, Canada, before continuing its journey to New York City, USA, and the Magdalen Islands, Canada. 

The ship will arrive in Miami on October 25, 2026, to begin its first winter season offering Caribbean cruises to a variety of tropical destinations. 

Explore All Cruises from Explora Journeys

Related:

Explora Journeys Celebrates Milestones for Three New Ships 

Explora Journeys Announces Itineraries Through 2026 

EXPLORA II Coming to FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX DE MONACO 2025