Explora Journeys is preparing to enter the river cruise sector, with the MSC Group’s luxury ocean brand signing a letter of intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of its first river vessels.
The agreement represents an expansion of Explora Journeys beyond ocean cruising and is intended to extend the brand’s Ocean State of Mind concept to European inland waterways. The company plans to apply its approach to hospitality, design and onboard experiences to river itineraries, with sales expected to open in 2027. Details concerning the vessels’ design, capacity, onboard facilities, delivery schedule and initial itineraries have not yet been disclosed.
Explora Journeys has not specified how many ships are covered by the letter of intent or their expected passenger capacity. The partnership nevertheless indicates that the company intends to develop a river product positioned within the luxury segment and aligned with the standards of its existing ocean fleet.
The move comes as Explora Journeys continues to expand its ocean operation. EXPLORA III, the line’s most spacious vessel to date and its first LNG-capable ship, has recently joined the fleet. EXPLORA IV is scheduled to enter service in early 2027, with additional vessels planned through 2028.
Den Breejen Shipyard, located in Hardinxveld-Giessendam in the Netherlands, specialises in the construction of inland and river vessels. Its previous projects include ships for Emerald Cruises, among them the 135-metre Emerald Luna, which operates on the Rhine, Main and Danube, as well as vessels for other luxury and premium river cruise operators.
Explora Journeys’ planned entry comes as several ocean cruise companies expand their presence in the European river market. Celebrity Cruises is preparing to launch its own river cruise operation in 2027, while established operators including Viking, AmaWaterways, Uniworld, Scenic and Avalon maintain significant positions in the sector.
For Explora Journeys, the river programme is expected to focus on smaller-scale experiences and access to historic cities and cultural destinations along Europe’s major waterways, complementing the company’s existing ocean itineraries.
Further details are expected as the letter of intent progresses toward firm shipbuilding agreements and the development of the first river itineraries.