Explora Journeys Celebrates Significant Milestones for EXPLORA IV, EXPLORA V, and EXPLORA VI at Fincantieri Shipyard

MSC Explora Journeys recently celebrated significant construction milestones for its fleet at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Sestri Ponente, Genoa. The event, which took place on March 9, 2026, included the technical launch and float-out of EXPLORA IV, as well as the coin-laying ceremony for EXPLORA V and the steel-cutting ceremony for EXPLORA VI.

This marks the third occasion within 18 months that the cruise line has celebrated multiple milestones in shipbuilding, emphasizing the rapid progress of its six-ship expansion plan. Key figures from the cruise line and shipbuilders attended the event, which showcased traditional maritime ceremonies including the role of godmothers, filled by Captain Serena Melani and Alice Gallo.

Explora Journeys currently has two operational vessels and expects to receive EXPLORA III in July 2026. With four new ships in construction, the company aims to have a total of six in service by 2028. This ambitious fleet expansion represents a substantial investment of approximately EUR 3.5 billion in Italian shipbuilding.

Environmental technologies are a crucial aspect of the new vessels. With a commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, starting with EXPLORA III, the ships will be capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and be equipped with shore-power connectivity to minimize emissions during port stays. Further innovations, such as fuel-cell systems for converting LNG to hydrogen, are also planned for future vessels.

Following the delivery of EXPLORA III, a Mediterranean introductory voyage is scheduled, along with a naming ceremony at MSC’s new cruise terminal in Barcelona set for August 1. The subsequent ships, EXPLORA IV and EXPLORA V, are slated for delivery in 2027 and 2028, respectively.

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