On Location: EXPLORA III sails Into New York City, Heads for Canada

She’s longer, she’s luxurious, and she’s turning heads along the Eastern Seaboard.

Travel Market Report Canada is on board Explora Journeys’ newest luxury ship, EXPLORA III, sailing from New York City to Quebec City on an autumn voyage along the East Coast, with coastal ports and a new level of oceanfront luxury on the itinerary.

The journey, which includes stops in Portland, Maine, Saint John, New Brunswick, the Magdalen Islands, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Baie-Comeau and Quebec City, comes as EXPLORA III celebrates her maiden call in New York City, marking another milestone in the ship’s inaugural season and the continued expansion of the luxury cruise brand.

As the third vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA III represents the halfway point in the company’s ambitious plan to operate six ships by 2028.

But while the newest addition shares much of the DNA of her sister ships, EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, there are some notable differences.

For starters, she’s bigger. But that doesn’t necessarily mean more passengers.

At 879 feet (268 metres) long, EXPLORA III is approximately 63 feet (19.2 metres) longer than her predecessors, yet still accommodates just 922 guests, maintaining the brand’s emphasis on space, privacy and an intimate atmosphere.

The additional length also makes room for the ship’s new liquefied natural gas (LNG) dual-fuel engines, making EXPLORA III the first LNG-powered vessel in the fleet.

More space, new experiences

Beyond her larger footprint, EXPLORA III introduces a series of enhancements across her public spaces, dining venues and wellness facilities.

The ship’s lobby and bar has been reimagined as a brighter, more open gathering space, while the all-weather Conservatory Pool features more space, enhancing the indoor pool experience.

Outside, guests have access to three swimming pools, including an updated Helios Pool, alongside an adults-only sanctuary featuring more than 60 private cabanas.

Accommodations (which are best described as spacious “homes at sea”) have also evolved, with the introduction of a second Owner’s Residence designed by acclaimed architect and designer Patricia Urquiola.

The residence incorporates natural materials, contemporary design and a private terrace, with a total area of 280 square metres.

New dining concepts

Culinary experiences remain a central part of the Explora Journeys offering, and EXPLORA III expands the lineup with several new venues.

Among them is Shore Club on 11, a Mediterranean-inspired poolside dining concept, while The Cellar, a wine tasting room, offers a curated collection of 350 wine labels.

Another addition, The Chef’s Table, introduces a more intimate culinary experience centred around personalized menu creation.

Returning favourites include Sakura, the ship’s pan-Asian restaurant; Med Yacht Club, offering Mediterranean-inspired cuisine; Fil Rouge, with its French-influenced menu; and Marble & Co. Grill, the brand’s signature steakhouse.

Together, the venues offer guests a range of dining experiences, from relaxed poolside meals to more elaborate evenings at sea.

Wellness gets a bigger footprint

EXPLORA III also introduces an expanded approach to wellness, with fitness and spa facilities brought together in a redesigned complex.

The fitness centre has relocated to Deck 5, where guests will find Technogym Artis equipment, dedicated Pilates spaces and additional outdoor exercise areas.

The ship also features an extended running track, a dedicated sound-wellness facility, home to a cocoon-shaped sound pod, and spa treatments by Sisley.

The enhancements reflect the brand’s focus on wellness as an integral part of the cruise experience, rather than simply an activity between port calls.

A milestone in New York City

EXPLORA III’s first visit to New York City was marked by a traditional Crest Exchange Ceremony, a maritime custom celebrating a ship’s inaugural call at a destination.

The ceremony brought together the ship’s leadership team and local port representatives.

Travel advisors from across the region were also invited aboard to explore the vessel and learn more about Explora Journeys’ approach to luxury ocean travel.

“EXPLORA III represents the next evolution of Explora Journeys, building on the success of EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II while introducing new experiences that further elevate our approach to ultra-elegant ocean travel. As the third ship in our fleet and the halfway point toward our vision of six ships by 2028, she marks an important milestone for the brand, and we are delighted to celebrate her first visit to New York City,” said Chris Austin, president, North America, Explora Journeys, in a statement.

Next stop: Canada

For Travel Market Report Canada, the timing of EXPLORA III’s North American debut offers an opportunity to experience the vessel against one of the most scenic backdrops of the season.

The voyage from New York City to Quebec City follows the northeastern coastline during autumn.

Along the way, ports such as Portland, Maine, and Saint John, New Brunswick, and more, offer a mix of historic waterfronts, maritime culture and seasonal scenery.

The itinerary (which has, so far, been blessed with warm sunshine) also provides an opportunity to unpack how Explora Journeys combines its onboard luxury offering with destination-focused experiences — an increasingly important consideration for travel advisors matching clients with the right cruise product.

Following her East Coast sailings, EXPLORA III will head south to Miami for her inaugural Caribbean season.

Follow us for more updates, firsthand impressions, ship highlights and insights for Canadian travel advisors as we explore the newest addition to the Explora Journeys fleet!