by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 1:40 PM ET, Wed January 28, 2026
Explora Journey is sharing more details about its new ship EXPLORA III.
The vessel is debuting ahead of schedule, setting sail for the first time in late July on an exclusive Mediterranean prelude journey. Then, the ship will be officially named in Barcelona at the MSC Group Cruise Division’s new terminal on August 1.
The ship will embark on her maiden voyage to Lisbon on August 3, followed by voyages in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland.
When EXPLORA III debuts later this year, the brand will have launched half of its planned six-ship fleet. At 63 feet, EXPLORA III offers more space than the brand’s first two ships. EXPLORA III will also introduce new culinary concepts, a second Owner’s Residence, reimagined wellness and fitness facilities and an exclusive Chopard boutique.
EXPLORA III will have 463 suites, a double-height lobby, three heated outdoor swimming pools, five indoor and outdoor heated whirlpools, spa and fitness facilities, boutiques, 12 bars and lounges and numerous restaurants—including three brand-new concepts. The ship, which is the first liquified natural gas-powered ship in the fleet, offers 210 square feet per guest.
“EXPLORA III represents a natural yet powerful evolution of our vision for ocean travel,” says Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys. “She has been conceived as a destination in her own right—a luxury floating hotel that offers even greater space, comfort and choice of amenities, while welcoming the same carefully balanced number of guests as EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II.”
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