Explora Journeys officially named EXPLORA III in Barcelona on August 1st, 2026, marking the introduction of the brand's first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered vessel and the third ship in a planned fleet of six. The ceremony also represented the halfway point in the company's long-term fleet expansion programme. Following her early delivery in Genoa on July 23rd, EXPLORA III completed an exclusive Mediterranean Prelude Journey before arriving in Barcelona for her official christening.
The inaugural voyage welcomed Explora Journeys Global Brand Ambassador Jannik Sinner as the vessel's first guest. The naming ceremony brought together senior executives from Explora Journeys and MSC Group, together with invited guests, to celebrate the fleet's latest addition. Addresses were delivered by MSC Group Cruise Division Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago, Explora Journeys President Anna Nash, Port of Barcelona President José Alberto Carbonell and godmother Cristina Ozores, founder of the marine conservation organisation Vellmarí and a National Geographic educator, who officially named and blessed the ship.
The maritime ceremony was followed by celebrations across the vessel, including a gala dinner hosted in the ship's culinary venues. Entertainment featured a live performance by Sister Sledge featuring Kathy Sledge, followed by a DJ set from Bob Sinclar. Guests attending the event also included Alex Rivière, The Gstaad Guy and Alison Toby.
Anna Nash said the naming of EXPLORA III represented a significant milestone in the expansion of the fleet and reaffirmed the brand's commitment to the future of ultra-luxury ocean travel. She noted that the vessel had been conceived as a destination in its own right, with expanded space, refined design, enhanced gastronomy and comprehensive wellness facilities intended to embody Explora Journeys' "Ocean State of Mind" philosophy.
Cristina Ozores said her role as godmother symbolised an opportunity to encourage guests to experience the ocean in a deeper and more meaningful way. She expressed the hope that every voyage aboard EXPLORA III would inspire greater appreciation of the marine environment while fostering curiosity and a stronger commitment to its preservation.