EXPLORA II, the second vessel in the fleet of the luxury ocean travel brand Explora Journeys, part of the MSC Group, has been officially christened at Port Civitavecchia/Rome (Italy).
The naming ceremony marks a significant milestone for Explora Journeys, which seeks to redefine luxury ocean travel by blending European hospitality with the MSC’s 300 years of maritime heritage.
The new brand emphasizes a unique "Ocean State of Mind," connecting guests with the sea and curated destinations.
The maritime tradition of christening the ship involved the symbolic cutting of a ribbon, resulting in the ceremonial breaking of a bottle against the bow. This honor was performed by the ship’s godmother, Rosalba Giugni, founder and president of the Marevivo Foundation, an organization dedicated to marine conservation. Giugni was selected as a tribute to her 35-year commitment to protecting the world's oceans and her partnership with the MSC Foundation.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, Admiral Nicola Carlone, and other distinguished guests from the maritime industry and government. Hosted by Italian actress Lorella Cuccarini, the ceremony included a parade of ship officers, followed by a gala dinner and celebrations, including a performance by English singer Tony Hadley and a drone show narrating the story of Explora Journeys.
EXPLORA II is set to embark on her 7-night maiden voyage, with stops in Sorrento, Lipari, Trapani, Siracusa, Valletta, and concluding in Tarragona, Spain.