EXPLORA III Officially Joins Explora Journeys Cruise Fleet
by Dori Saltzman
EXPLORA III is named in Barcelona. Photo: Explora Journeys / Ivan Sarfatti
Explora Journeys officially welcomed its newest ship – EXPLORA III – to the fleet during a naming ceremony in Barcelona. The ship – the cruise line’s first LNG-powered ship and its largest – was named by godmother Cristina Ozores, a marine educator and National Geographic Educator.
EXPLORA III was delivered earlier in July, ahead of schedule, giving Explora the opportunity to offer an exclusive five-night preview cruise from Genoa to Civitavecchia, before it relocated to Barcelona for the inaugural celebration.
The ceremony featured addresses by the executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, Pierfrancesco Vago, Explora Journeys president Anna Nash, president of the Port of Barcelona José Alberto Carbonell, and Ozores, who also blessed and named the ship. Legendary disco icons Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge delivered a high-energy performance later that night.
“Naming EXPLORA III is a momentous occasion that reflects both the trajectory of our fleet and our steadfast commitment to shaping the future of ultra-elegant ocean travel,” said Nash. “Conceived as a destination in her own right, EXPLORA III brings to life an even more generous expression of space, design, gastronomy and holistic wellbeing, with every detail encouraging the presence and connection that defines our unique Ocean State of Mind.”
The debut of EXPLORA III marks the halfway point of Explora’s fleet development. EXPLORA IV, V, and VI are all in some stage of development at various shipyards. With EXPLORA III, the line introduces an sight evolution of the brand, shaped by an even greater commitment to space. Measuring 63 feet longer than EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, the ship has the highest public space-per-guest ratio in the fleet.
The ship also offers an expanded collection of Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences, and the ship’s two 3,391-square-foot Owner’s Residences.
The ship’s expanded footprint also introduces new and enhanced venues. A brighter, more open The Conservatory Pool & Bar, a redesigned Crema Café and a new Outdoor Cigar Lounge alongside the Malt Whisky Bar further enrich onboard life.
