Explora Journeys has officially welcomed EXPLORA III into its growing fleet, with the luxury cruise ship departing on her maiden voyage after a naming ceremony in Barcelona on 4th August 2026.
The new vessel represents a major milestone for the MSC Group’s luxury cruise brand, becoming the third ship in the fleet and marking the halfway point in its planned expansion to six ships. EXPLORA III also becomes the line’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered ship, reflecting the company’s continued investment in lower-emission technology.
Following her departure from Barcelona, EXPLORA III is sailing to Lisbon before continuing a programme of inaugural voyages across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland.
The cruise line describes the vessel as a floating luxury hotel, combining spacious accommodation, expanded public areas, new dining venues and enhanced wellness facilities with ocean-focused itineraries.
Larger Ship Brings More Suites And Public Space
EXPLORA III has been built 19.2 metres longer than her two sister ships, allowing for additional accommodation and more guest space throughout the vessel.
The ship features 461 oceanfront suites, made up of 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Ocean Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences. There are also 104 connecting suites for families and groups, alongside 11 accessible suites.
Among the biggest additions is a second Owner’s Residence, following the single residence found on EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. The new 315-square-metre accommodation has been designed by internationally acclaimed architect and designer Patricia Urquiola and features premium furnishings, curated artwork, a private steam room, marble bathroom, outdoor whirlpool and expansive private terrace.
Public spaces have also been redesigned, including a new double-height Lobby featuring marble finishes, cascading Venini chandeliers and a sculptural staircase.
The Conservatory Pool & Bar has been expanded around a 14.7-metre swimming pool beneath a retractable glass roof, while guests can also enjoy three heated outdoor pools, including the adults-only Helios Pool & Bar. Elsewhere on board are five indoor and outdoor whirlpools, 60 private cabanas and additional shaded relaxation areas.
The cruise line says EXPLORA III offers one of the highest public space-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry at 19.5 square metres per guest, supported by what it describes as almost one host for every guest on board.
New Dining, Wellness And Retail Experiences Debut
EXPLORA III introduces several new dining concepts alongside the restaurants already available across the fleet.
Returning venues include Anthology, Sakura, Med Yacht Club, Fil Rouge, Emporium Marketplace and Marble & Co. Grill, all refreshed with updated design features.
Three completely new venues also make their debut. Shore Club on 11 offers Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a poolside setting, while The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys provides an interactive dining experience combining live preparation and storytelling. The Cellar by Explora Journeys gives guests the opportunity to sample rare wines and indigenous grape varieties with guidance from onboard experts.
The ship also features 12 bars and lounges, including a new Outdoor Cigar Lounge where guests can pair premium cigars with rare whiskies and other spirits.
Wellness facilities have been consolidated into a 726-square-metre Ocean Wellness area on Deck 5, bringing together the spa and fitness facilities in one location. Highlights include a hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, steam room, salt cave, ice fall, heated marble loungers and dedicated relaxation spaces.
New treatments have also been introduced, alongside the Sava Sound Pod, which uses low-frequency sound waves to promote relaxation and recovery. Fitness facilities include Technogym Sand Stone equipment, Reform Pilates machines, a private training studio and expanded outdoor sports facilities featuring a full-size padel court, pickleball, basketball and an extended running track.
Families travelling aboard EXPLORA III will also find two dedicated Nautilus Club areas. One space caters for children aged three to five, while another is designed for guests aged six to 17. Explora Journeys said it will continue limiting the number of younger guests on each sailing to preserve the quiet, luxury atmosphere that defines the brand.
As the first LNG-powered vessel in the fleet, EXPLORA III is also equipped to use lower-carbon fuels as they become more widely available, forming part of Explora Journeys’ wider strategy to reduce emissions while continuing its fleet expansion. The brand currently has three ships in service, with another three vessels still to be delivered over the coming years.
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