Explora Journeys has announced its ambitious fleet expansion, beginning with the launch of Explora I in New York.
- Explora I’s naming ceremony in New York included the traditional champagne bottle ritual.
- The ship will embark on a diverse itinerary, visiting multiple continents over the coming year.
- Future vessels, Explora II, III, IV, V, and VI, have scheduled launch dates over the next five years.
- Innovative use of liquid hydrogen and fuel cells are planned for the later ships to reduce carbon emissions.
In a grand move that signifies its ambitious vision, Explora Journeys has laid out a comprehensive timetable for its upcoming fleet of six ships, commencing with the inauguration of Explora I in New York City. The ceremonial christening, performed by esteemed godmother Dr Sylvia Earle at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, followed the time-honoured maritime tradition of breaking a champagne bottle against the ship’s bow, symbolising good fortune for the maiden voyage.
Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chair of the cruise division of the MSC Group, described the event as pivotal, characterising Explora I as a ‘game-changer’. He remarked on the company’s objective of redefining luxury ocean travel, aiming to captivate a broader demographic of sophisticated travellers who value authenticity and deeper connections with the world, akin to their experiences at top-tier land-based resorts.
Commissioned by the renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Explora I is the first fruit of a €3.5 billion investment into crafting a new echelon of luxury vessels. Beginning its journey in July, the ship has navigated through Northern Europe before an Atlantic crossing to the vibrant metropolis of New York, with ports of call in Iceland, Greenland, and Canada along the way. Its itinerary is meticulously planned, with the vessel set to explore North America in the autumn, the Caribbean during winter, the US West Coast and Hawaii come spring, all before returning to Europe next summer for Mediterranean voyages.
Looking ahead, Explora II is set to commence operations in summer 2024, with a focus on the Mediterranean and the Middle East until April 2025. Following suit, Explora III and IV will join the fleet in 2026 and 2027 respectively, continuing to broaden the reach of the brand. Innovating in environmental stewardship, Explora V and VI, expected in 2027 and 2028, will incorporate cutting-edge technology, utilising liquid hydrogen and fuel cells to power hotel operations while stationary in port, thereby significantly minimising carbon emissions.
Explora Journeys’ strategic fleet expansion presents a transformative approach to luxury cruising and environmental responsibility.
