Explora Journeys has reached another milestone in the continued development of its fleet. EXPLORA III has successfully completed her sea trials in the Mediterranean and remains on schedule for her debut in summer 2026.
During the trials, the ship’s technical systems and operational performance were tested and validated. With the addition of EXPLORA III, Explora Journeys reaches the halfway point in its planned expansion towards a six-ship fleet by 2028.
With a gross tonnage of 72,810 GT, EXPLORA III also becomes the first LNG-powered vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet. The technology offers future flexibility to utilise renewable alternatives such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG and forms part of the company’s broader ambition to reduce emissions across its maritime operations.
“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 the successful sea trials, EXPLORA III returned to Fincantieri’s shipyard in Sestri Ponente, near Genoa, where interior outfitting and final finishing works are now underway ahead of delivery.
The ship will begin her inaugural season on 24 July 2026 with the Mediterranean Prelude Journey. On 1 August, EXPLORA III will arrive in Barcelona for her official naming ceremony before departing two days later on her seven-night Maiden Journey to Lisbon.
Following her introduction in the Mediterranean, EXPLORA III will continue to Northern Europe. Her inaugural season includes itineraries through the Norwegian fjords, Iceland and Greenland, followed by a crossing to New England and Canada’s East Coast.
With three ships soon in operation and all six vessels currently in different stages of development, Explora Journeys continues to advance its long-term fleet expansion plans.
Pictures Explora Journeys.
Contact us for more information or visit explorajourneys.com.
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