Explora III luxury cruise ship delivered to Explora Journeys

Fincantieri handed over Explora III to MSC Group’s luxury cruise brand Explora Journeys at its Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa. The vessel is the third of six ships planned for the fleet and marks the halfway point of a €3.5 billion investment by MSC.

Explora III is the first ship in the series capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG), projected to cut sulphur‑oxide emissions by 99 %, nitrogen‑oxide emissions by 85 % and greenhouse‑gas emissions by up to 20 % versus conventional marine fuels. It is 19.2 m longer than its sisters, carries a similar guest count, and adds expanded public spaces, new dining venues (The Cellar, The Chef’s Table, Shore Club on 11), a second Owner’s Residence and enhanced wellness facilities.

The delivery ceremony was attended by senior MSC and Fincantieri executives, regional and local Italian officials, and the vessel’s godmother Maya Aponte. Italian tennis star Jannik Sinner joined the ship for a two‑day guest experience, promoting his foundation’s charitable programme. Explora III will undertake a five‑day Mediterranean prelude journey from Genoa to Civitavecchia before its baptism in Barcelona on 1 August 2026 and an inaugural seven‑night cruise from Barcelona to Lisbon.