EXPLORA III has successfully completed her sea trials in the Mediterranean, representing another important milestone in the continued expansion of Explora Journeys’ ultra-elegant fleet. The successful sea trials validated the ship’s technical and operational performance ahead of her summer debut and marked the next chapter in the brand’s long-term vision to redefine luxury ocean travel.
EXPLORA III is the first LNG-powered ship in the fleet, and it provides the flexibility to utilize renewable fuels such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG, alongside continued innovation and energy efficiency.
With all six ships now in different phases of development — spanning operation, construction and future delivery — Explora Journeys has reached the halfway point of its planned six-ship fleet expansion, continuing to advance its long-term vision with responsible growth at its core.
“The completion of EXPLORA III’s sea trials marks another proud milestone for Explora Journeys as we continue to bring our long-term fleet vision to life,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “EXPLORA III represents the next phase in our growth and reflects our continued commitment to thoughtful innovation, exceptional guest experiences and a conscious approach to luxury ocean travel. As the first LNG-powered ship in our fleet, she also marks an important step in our transition towards lower-emission technologies, supporting our pathway to net zero greenhouse gas emissions for our maritime operations by 2050. This summer, Explora Journeys will have three ships sailing – a significant milestone that reflects the strength of our vision and the remarkable momentum behind the brand.”
Following her successful sea trials, the ship has returned to Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard near Genoa for interior outfitting and final finishing touches. On track for her delivery, ahead of schedule, EXPLORA III will begin her inaugural season with the Mediterranean Prelude Journey departing on July 24, 2026, arriving in Barcelona for her official naming ceremony on August 1, 2026. Two days later, her seven-night Maiden Journey will take her to Lisbon, marking the beginning of a refined Northern European season through culturally rich destinations and striking landscapes.
Across the remainder of her highly anticipated inaugural season, EXPLORA III will journey through the majestic fjords of Norway, Iceland and Greenland before crossing the Atlantic to explore the vibrant autumn landscapes of New England and Canada’s East Coast, with each itinerary designed to offer a distinctive perspective on luxury ocean travel.
