Explora Journeys, the luxury brand of MSC Cruises, is making significant progress on its fleet expansion at the Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa, Italy. The company is developing three new vessels—Explora IV, Explora V, and Explora VI—as part of its growth strategy.
Explora IV recently underwent a float-out ceremony, where the dry dock was filled with millions of gallons of water over nine hours. The ship, which features a distinctive red hull and royal blue accents, is scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage from Genoa to Lisbon in April 2027. Chairman Anna Nash participated in the symbolic tap-turning event to mark the occasion.
Explora V, due to launch in December 2027, is at an earlier stage of construction. A traditional coin ceremony was held, where godmothers Serena Melani, the first female Italian cruise ship captain, and Alice Gallo of Fincantieri welded a coin into the keel for good luck. Explora VI, set for 2028, had its keel laying ceremony to commence construction.
The existing fleet includes Explora I (launched 2023), Explora II (2024), and Explora III (set for summer 2025). Each ship offers a luxury all-suite experience with five heated pools, six restaurants, and 12 bars and lounges, maintaining a guest-to-staff ratio of 1.25:1. Itineraries cover the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Alaska.
Anna Nash expressed enthusiasm for the fleet's development, stating, 'As our fleet grows, we are introducing more discerning guests to a new expression of luxury ocean travel. One that stands in a category of its own and challenges the idea that luxury must always be anchored to land, instead finding its home on the horizon.'
