Two New Explora Journeys Ships Reach Construction Milestones

Luxury operator Explora Journeys has announced that upcoming ships EXPLORA II and EXPLORA III have reached two significant maritime construction milestones. The brand, which is part of the MSC Group, celebrated the progress of the ships with a double event at the Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard near Genoa. 

During the ceremony, the brand celebrated both the float out of EXPLORA II and the steel cutting of EXPLORA III. 

“The double event today marks another major step forward on our mission to redefine ocean travel for today’s discerning luxury travelers. Following the successful launch of EXPLORA I and the incredibly positive feedback from the first guests, travel advisors and media, who had a chance to experience the Ocean State of Mind, the story continues, and we are now beyond thrilled to witness the next important construction milestones for both EXPLORA II and our first LNG powered ship EXPLORA III. We are proud that our four ships are built by Fincantieri, further underlining our commitment to Italy,” said Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer of  Explora Journeys. 

EXPLORA II successfully completed its float out, a traditional maritime event held as a new ship touch water touches water for the first time. The ship will next enter its final phases of construction to complete interiors, fixtures, and fittings.

This ship is currently slated to go into service come Summer 2024. Construction on EXPLORA II is being done at Fincantieri’s Castellammare di Stabia yard in Naples. The ship’s keel was laid in May 2022. EXPLORA II will embark on her maiden journey in the summer of 2024, with a first season in the Mediterranean. 

In addition, Explora Journeys celebrated the steel cutting of EXPLORA III. This ship is slated to begin operations in Summer 2026 and will be the first of the Explora Journeys fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). 

These two milestones are taking place just two months following the delivery of EXPLORA I, Explora Journey’s first ship. In January 2024, construction will begin on EXPLORA IV which will be completed in early 2027.

All Explora Journeys vessels are being built equipped with the latest environmental and marine technologies, including selective catalytic reduction technology, shore power plug-in connectivity, underwater noise management systems to help protect marine life, and a comprehensive range of onboard energy-efficient equipment.  

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