On September 12th, 2024, Explora Journeys marked a significant milestone at the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente (Genoa, Italy), with a triple ceremony as MSC Group's luxury travel brand continues its expansion toward a 6-ship fleet by 2028.
The first event was the delivery of EXPLORA II, the second vessel in MSC Group’s EUR 3.5 billion luxury fleet. The 63,900 GT ship is set to embark on her maiden voyage on September 16th from Civitavecchia (Rome, Italy) to Sicily, Malta, and Spain. The 13-deck EXPLORA II has 461 oceanview staterooms (suites, penthouses, and residences) and features 6 restaurants, 12 bars, 4 swimming pools, and extensive wellness facilities. The vessel will spend the winter in the Caribbean and return to the Mediterranean for summer 2025.
The traditional handover ceremony was attended by MSC executives, Fincantieri management, and workers from Sestri Ponente. VIP guest included Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC's Executive Chairman) and Stefania Vago.
The keel-laying for EXPLORA III, the 3rd ship in the series, also took place, with commemorative coins placed in the keel by the ship’s godmothers to symbolize good fortune. This LNG-powered vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2026, with its design focusing on sustainability through the use of alternative fuels like bio-LNG and synthetic LNG.
The final event celebrated the start of construction for EXPLORA IV with a steel-cutting ceremony. Set for completion in 2027, EXPLORA IV will also be powered by LNG. The fleet will continue expanding with EXPLORA V in 2027 and EXPLORA VI in 2028, both featuring advanced fuel cell technology capable of converting renewable LNG into hydrogen to further reduce emissions.
EXPLORA II, built to RINA Class standards, received additional voluntary notations for its environmental and comfort-focused design, including RINA’s “Green Plus” and “Dolphin” notations for minimizing ecological impact. The ship is also certified for Polar Code C, allowing safe navigation in polar regions.
This vessel reflects Explora Journeys’ commitment to offering a sophisticated luxury experience. Collaborating with top designers from the superyacht and hospitality sectors, EXPLORA II has been carefully crafted to provide a seamless blend of Swiss precision and European craftsmanship. Enhancements include refreshed interiors in the Journeys Lounge, casino, and Fil Rouge restaurant, as well as updated designs for the Crema Cafe, Atoll Pool, and Helios Pool & Bar. The Ocean Wellness Spa now features decor updates and Australian spa brand Subtle Energies, while Anthology restaurant has been redesigned to highlight exceptional Italian fine dining. A Buccellati jewelry boutique will be introduced onboard, complementing the ship’s luxurious shopping offerings.
In a nod to the brand’s environmental focus, EXPLORA II will feature original artwork by Emilio Isgro and an exhibition by Prince Hussein Aga Khan titled "Marine Encounters," showcasing underwater photography that highlights the importance of marine conservation. The exhibition is part of a collaboration between the MSC Foundation and the "Focused on Nature" initiative to promote biodiversity and marine preservation.