Explora Journeys names LNG-powered EXPLORA III in Barcelona

Explora Journeys has officially named EXPLORA III in Barcelona, marking the arrival of the luxury cruise line’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ship and the halfway point in its plan to build a fleet of six ships dedicated to ultra-luxury ocean travel.

Following her early delivery in Genoa on July 23, EXPLORA III embarked on an exclusive Prelude Journey through the Mediterranean before arriving in Barcelona for her official Naming Ceremony on Aug. 1.

The voyage welcomed Explora’s Global Brand Ambassador Jannik Sinner as the ship's first guest.

The naming celebrations brought together senior leaders from Explora Journeys and MSC Group, along with invited guests, to commemorate the newest addition to the fleet.

The ceremony blended maritime tradition with the brand's European-inspired style and included remarks from MSC Group Cruise Division Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago, Explora Journeys President Anna Nash, Port of Barcelona President José Alberto Carbonell and the ship's Godmother, Cristina Ozores, a marine educator, founder of the conservation organization Vellmarí and National Geographic Educator, who officially blessed and named the vessel during the christening ceremony.

Guests later enjoyed a gala dinner across the ship's restaurants before evening entertainment featuring Sister Sledge feat. Kathy Sledge and a DJ set by Bob Sinclar. Tastemakers including

“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 Anna Nash in a statement. “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.”

More space & new design 

At 63 feet (19.2 metres) longer than EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, EXPLORA III expands on the brand's design concept with additional guest space, offering 64 square feet (19.5 square metres) of public space per guest—among the highest space ratios in the cruise industry and the most generous in the Explora Journeys fleet.

The redesigned lobby features a sculptural marble staircase beneath custom Murano glass chandeliers by Venini, while interiors throughout the ship incorporate marble, wood, leather and fine textiles with an emphasis on natural light and ocean views.

Accommodation has also been expanded, including additional Ocean Penthouses, Ocean Residences and two 3,391-square-foot (315-square-metre) Owner's Residences. A new Owner's Residence on Deck 7 was created in collaboration with architect and designer Patricia Urquiola and includes a private steam room and an ocean-facing terrace with a whirlpool.

The ship also features a curated collection of contemporary artwork presented in partnership with Clarendon Fine Art.

New dining, wellness & retail experiences

EXPLORA III introduces several new onboard concepts alongside returning venues such as Anthology and Fil Rouge.

New additions include The Cellar by Explora Journeys, featuring nearly 350 wine labels from established and emerging wine regions, The Chef's Table by Explora Journeys, a customized dining concept, and Shore Club on 11, serving Mediterranean cuisine, crêpes, gelato and zero-proof cocktails beside the expanded Conservatory Pool.

The ship's wellness offering has also been consolidated into a redesigned Ocean Wellness area, combining spa, fitness and movement experiences with new facilities including the Sava Sound Pod, Reform Pilates studio and Technogym equipment.

Retail offerings include the first at-sea boutiques for Swiss jeweller Chopard and Explora Journeys' own Mandala by Ocean Atelier jewellery brand, alongside Piaget, Cartier and Rolex.

First LNG-powered ship in the fleet

EXPLORA III is the first LNG-powered vessel in Explora’s fleet and has been designed to operate on liquefied natural gas while also being capable of using renewable alternatives such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as they become available.

The ship is also equipped with shore power capability, allowing it to connect to electrical infrastructure in ports where available and switch off its engines while docked.

Following the naming celebrations, EXPLORA III is scheduled to depart Barcelona on Aug. 3 for her seven-night maiden voyage to Lisbon.

Her inaugural season will include sailings across Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.

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