Explora III is the third ship operated by Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean-travel brand of MSC Group. Fincantieri delivered the vessel at its Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa on 22 July 2026, taking the cruise line halfway towards its planned six-ship fleet.
The ship welcomed its first guests on a five-night Mediterranean Prelude Journey departing Genoa on 24 July. It was officially named in Barcelona on 1 August before beginning its formal maiden journey from Barcelona to Lisbon on 3 August 2026.
At 72,810 gross tons, Explora III is larger than Explora I and Explora II. It measures approximately 268 metres long and 33 metres wide, with 14 total decks. The ship has 463 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences—only two more than its predecessors—and is designed for approximately 900 guests with around 690 hosts.
The extra length is primarily used to provide additional public and outdoor space rather than substantially increasing guest numbers. Accommodation comprises 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Ocean Penthouses, 39 Ocean Residences and two Owner's Residences. Every suite faces the sea and includes a private terrace.
New onboard concepts include Shore Club on 11, The Chef's Table and The Cellar, alongside established Explora Journeys venues such as Fil Rouge, Sakura, Med Yacht Club, Marble & Co. Grill, Emporium Marketplace, the Explora Lounge and Ocean Wellness facilities. The ship also carries boutiques from Chopard, Cartier and Rolex.
Explora III is the first LNG-capable ship in the Explora Journeys fleet. Its dual-fuel machinery can use liquefied natural gas and supports a future transition to renewable bio-LNG or synthetic LNG if those fuels become available. The vessel is also fitted for shore-power connection, allowing its engines to be switched off while alongside at ports with compatible infrastructure.
The inaugural season takes Explora III through the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, Canada and the United States. It is scheduled to operate Explora Journeys' first Alaska season in 2027. Deployment changes by season, so current itineraries should be checked directly with the cruise line.