MSC Explora 1

Former name: Exploria I

MSC Explora 1 current position

MSC Explora 1 current location is at Aegean Sea (coordinates 37.73831 N / 25.61474 E) cruising en route to Marmaris. The AIS position was reported 1 minute ago.

All Itineraries Current Position

Current itinerary of MSC Explora 1

MSC Explora 1 current cruise is 17 days, round-trip An Extended Journey through Delightful Dalmatia to Aegean Dreams. Prices start from USD 9450 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 05 Oct, 2024 and ends on 22 Oct, 2024.

Date / TimePort
05 Oct 19:00    Departing from Piraeus-Athens, Greece hotels
07 Oct 08:00 - 18:00    Corfu Island, Kerkyra, Greece
08 Oct 10:00 - 19:00    Dubrovnik, Croatia, Port Gruz
09 Oct 10:00 - 20:00    Ancona, Italy
10 Oct 08:00 - 18:00    Venice, Marghera, Italy
11 Oct 10:00 - 20:00    Split, Croatia
12 Oct 09:00 - 18:00    Kotor, Montenegro
14 Oct 07:00 - 19:00    Piraeus-Athens, Greece
15 Oct 09:00 - 19:00    Volos, Meteora, Greece
17 Oct 08:00 - 22:00    Marmaris, Turkey
18 Oct 09:00 - 22:00    Santorini Island, Thira, Greece
19 Oct 08:00 - 23:30    Paros Island, Naoussa, Greece
20 Oct 09:00 - 19:00    Kos Island, Greece
21 Oct 08:00 - 18:00    Milos Island, Adamantas, Greece
22 Oct 08:00    Arriving in Piraeus-Athens, Greece hotels

Specifications of MSC Explora 1

Year of build2023  /  Age: 1
Flag state Malta
BuilderFincantieri (Monfalcone, Italy)
ClassMSC EXPLORA
Building costEUR 495 million (USD 600 million)
Engines (power)Wartsila (38.4 MW / 51495 hp)
Propulsion power20 MW / 26820 hp
Speed18 kn / 33 km/h / 21 mph
Length (LOA)248 m / 814 ft
Beam (width)32 m / 105 ft
Gross Tonnage63900 gt
Passengers922 - 1473
Crew640
Decks13
Cabins461
Decks with cabins5
Sister-shipsMSC Explora 2, MSC Explora 3, MSC Explora 4, MSC Explora 5, MSC Explora 6
Former namesExploria I
Christened bySylvia Alice Earle
OwnerMediterranean Shipping Company (MSC Group) via MSC Crociere SpA
OperatorMSC Cruises (via MSC Explora Journeys)

MSC Explora 1 Itineraries

DateItineraryDeparture PortPrice from
2024 Sep 20 15 days, one-way from Istanbul to Piraeus-Athens Istanbul $8550
2024 Sep 27 8 days, round-trip A Journey Encircling the Cyclades and the Eternal Aegean Piraeus-Athens $4680
2024 Sep 27 17 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Sun-Drenched Aegean-Adriatic Jewels Piraeus-Athens $10000
2024 Oct 05 9 days, round-trip A Journey to UNESCO Treasures with an Opulent Edge Piraeus-Athens $5625
2024 Oct 05 17 days, round-trip An Extended Journey through Delightful Dalmatia to Aegean Dreams Piraeus-Athens $9450
2024 Oct 14 8 days, round-trip A Journey Blissed-out Beaches and Meteoric Marvels Piraeus-Athens $5265
2024 Oct 14 17 days, round-trip An Extended Journey from Aegean Bliss to Adriatic Splendour Piraeus-Athens $9100
2024 Oct 22 9 days, round-trip A Journey to UNESCO Treasures with an Opulent Edge Piraeus-Athens $4685
2024 Oct 22 19 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Barcelona Piraeus-Athens $8900
2024 Oct 31 10 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Barcelona Piraeus-Athens $3840
2024 Oct 31 20 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Barcelona Piraeus-Athens $7500
2024 Nov 10 10 days, round-trip A Journey of Spanish City Seduction and Intriguing Iberian Islands Barcelona $4340
2024 Nov 10 19 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Iberian Intrigue Moroccan Mystique Barcelona $7500
2024 Nov 20 9 days, round-trip A Journey through the Straits of Gibraltar to Tantalising Tangier Barcelona $3445
2024 Nov 20 26 days, one-way from Barcelona to Miami Barcelona $8000
2024 Nov 29 11 days, one-way from Barcelona to Bridgetown Barcelona $3445
2024 Nov 29 17 days, one-way from Barcelona to Miami Barcelona $5460
2024 Nov 29 24 days, one-way from Barcelona to Miami Barcelona $8100
2024 Dec 10 6 days, one-way from Bridgetown to Miami Bridgetown $2840
2024 Dec 10 13 days, one-way from Bridgetown to Miami Bridgetown $5000
2024 Dec 16 7 days, round-trip A Journey of Reggae, Reefs and Magical Mayan Ruins Miami $3280
2024 Dec 16 14 days, one-way from Miami to Bridgetown Miami $6800
2024 Dec 23 7 days, one-way from Miami to Bridgetown Miami $5250
2024 Dec 23 15 days, round-trip An Extended Journey to Spice-Soaked Shores Miami $8800
2024 Dec 30 8 days, one-way from Bridgetown to Miami Bridgetown $5760
2024 Dec 30 15 days, one-way from Bridgetown to Miami Bridgetown $7000
2025 Jan 07 7 days, round-trip A Journey of Reggae, Reefs and Magical Mayan Ruins Miami $3280
2025 Jan 07 14 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $6950
2025 Jan 14 7 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $4290
2025 Jan 14 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey from Miamis Shores to Caribbean Serenades Miami $7650
2025 Jan 21 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $3485
2025 Jan 21 15 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $5800
2025 Jan 28 8 days, round-trip A Journey to Temples, Blue Lagoons, and Marine Reserves Miami $3215
2025 Jan 28 17 days, round-trip An Extended Journey from Maya Mystique to Caribbean Enchantment Miami $5900
2025 Feb 05 9 days, round-trip A Journey to Pirate Lairs and Whale Sanctuaries Miami $4240
2025 Feb 05 16 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Caribbean Wonders, Waves Whales Miami $7950
2025 Feb 14 7 days, round-trip A Journey to the Playground of the Maya Miami $3485
2025 Feb 14 14 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $6900
2025 Feb 21 7 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $3485
2025 Feb 21 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Caribbean Castaways Legacies Miami $9000
2025 Feb 28 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $4590
2025 Feb 28 15 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $10050
2025 Mar 07 8 days, round-trip A Journey of Divine Dive Sites and Mayan Temples Miami $3525
2025 Mar 07 17 days, round-trip An Extended Journey from to Mayan Mysteries Islands of Desire Miami $9950
2025 Mar 15 9 days, round-trip A Journey to Waterfalls, Whales, and Tranquil Trade Winds Miami $5220
2025 Mar 15 18 days, round-trip An Extended Journey Of Underwater Gardens Floral Islands Miami $11000
2025 Mar 24 9 days, round-trip A Journey to Barrier Reefs of Mexico, Belize and Honduras Miami $4350
2025 Apr 02 16 days, one-way from Miami to Barcelona Miami $5985
2025 Apr 02 26 days, one-way from Miami to Piraeus-Athens Miami $10250
2025 Apr 18 10 days, one-way from Barcelona to Piraeus-Athens Barcelona $4865
2025 Apr 18 17 days, one-way from Barcelona to Istanbul Barcelona $8200
2025 Apr 28 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $3825
2025 Apr 28 17 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Venice Piraeus-Athens $9200
2025 May 05 10 days, one-way from Istanbul to Venice Istanbul $5905
2025 May 05 19 days, one-way from Istanbul to Piraeus-Athens Istanbul $10900
2025 May 15 9 days, one-way from Venice to Piraeus-Athens Venice $5625
2025 May 15 16 days, one-way from Venice to Istanbul Venice $9200
2025 May 24 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $4120
2025 May 24 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Aegean Shores and Ancient Vineyards Piraeus-Athens $7550
2025 May 31 7 days, one-way from Istanbul to Piraeus-Athens Istanbul $3880
2025 May 31 14 days, one-way from Istanbul to Venice Istanbul $8550
2025 Jun 07 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Venice Piraeus-Athens $4950
2025 Jun 07 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey from Venetian Canals to the Curves of Venus Piraeus-Athens $9050
2025 Jun 14 7 days, one-way from Venice to Piraeus-Athens Venice $4365
2025 Jun 14 14 days, one-way from Venice to Istanbul Venice $8000
2025 Jun 21 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $4120
2025 Jun 21 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Magical Greek Gifts and Turkish Treasures Piraeus-Athens $7850
2025 Jun 28 7 days, one-way from Istanbul to Piraeus-Athens Istanbul $4200
2025 Jun 28 14 days, one-way from Istanbul to Venice Istanbul $7900
2025 Jul 05 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Venice Piraeus-Athens $4200
2025 Jul 05 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey to Ancient Olympia and Eternal Seas Piraeus-Athens $7900
2025 Jul 12 7 days, one-way from Venice to Piraeus-Athens Venice $4200
2025 Jul 12 14 days, one-way from Venice to Istanbul Venice $7400
2025 Jul 19 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $3675
2025 Jul 19 14 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Genoa Piraeus-Athens $6900
2025 Jul 26 7 days, one-way from Istanbul to Genoa Istanbul $3675
2025 Jul 26 14 days, one-way from Istanbul to Venice Istanbul $6900
2025 Aug 02 7 days, one-way from Genoa to Venice Genoa $3675
2025 Aug 02 14 days, one-way from Genoa to Piraeus-Athens Genoa $6650
2025 Aug 09 7 days, one-way from Venice to Piraeus-Athens Venice $3410
2025 Aug 09 14 days, one-way from Venice to Istanbul Venice $6700
2025 Aug 16 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $3575
2025 Aug 16 13 days, round-trip An Extended Journey to Aegean Myths and Turkish Delights Piraeus-Athens $6250
2025 Aug 23 6 days, one-way from Istanbul to Piraeus-Athens Istanbul $2925
2025 Aug 23 13 days, one-way from Istanbul to Venice Istanbul $7050
2025 Aug 29 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey to Classical Antiquity and Adriatic Jewels Piraeus-Athens $8150
2025 Aug 29 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Venice Piraeus-Athens $4200
2025 Sep 05 7 days, one-way from Venice to Piraeus-Athens Venice $4725
2025 Sep 05 14 days, one-way from Venice to Istanbul Venice $9900
2025 Sep 12 7 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $4460
2025 Sep 12 14 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Forgotten Empires and Volcanic Visions Piraeus-Athens $10000
2025 Sep 19 7 days, one-way from Istanbul to Piraeus-Athens Istanbul $4590
2025 Sep 19 19 days, round-trip An Extended Journey of Greek Myths and Natural Wonders Istanbul $12450
2025 Sep 26 12 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Istanbul Piraeus-Athens $6930
2025 Sep 26 22 days, one-way from Piraeus-Athens to Venice Piraeus-Athens $14050
2025 Oct 08 10 days, one-way from Istanbul to Venice Istanbul $4480
2025 Oct 18 9 days, one-way from Venice to Barcelona Venice $4060
2025 Oct 27 16 days, one-way from Barcelona to Miami Barcelona $6160
2025 Nov 12 8 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $3290
2025 Nov 20 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $2870
2025 Nov 27 8 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $3290
2025 Dec 05 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $2870
2025 Dec 12 9 days, one-way from Miami to Bridgetown Miami $3710
2025 Dec 21 8 days, one-way from Bridgetown to Miami Bridgetown $4800
2025 Dec 29 8 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $5120
2026 Jan 06 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $3075
2026 Jan 13 8 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $3525
2026 Jan 21 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $3075
2026 Jan 28 8 days, one-way from Miami to San Juan Miami $3525
2026 Feb 05 7 days, one-way from San Juan to Miami San Juan $3280
2026 Feb 12 20 days, one-way from Miami to Valletta Miami $7720

MSC Explora 1 Review

Review of MSC Explora 1

The 2023-built MSC Explora 1 cruise ship ("Explora I", currently under construction) is the first in a series of six MSC EXPLORA-class expedition ships, with fleetmates Explora 2 (2024/sistership), Explora 3 (2026), Explora 4 (2027), Explora 5 (2027), and Explora 6 (2028). These boats are owned by MSC Group and operated as a separate fleet under the company's new luxury brand MSC EXPLORA JOURNEYS.

The vessel (IMO number 9869875) is currently Malta-flagged (MMSI 256389000) and registered in Valletta. The delivery was delayed three times in 2023 - first from March to May and twice in July.

History - construction and ownership

MSC Cruises (MSC Crociere) is a passenger shipping company headquartered in Genoa and Naples. Established in 1960, MSC Crociere is a subsidiary of MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company) - the world's 2nd largest containership company. MSC is also the world's largest privately-owned cruise company.

By annual passenger shipping volumes, MSC is ranked the world's 3rd largest cruise shipowner - following only Carnival Corporation and RCG-Royal Caribbean.

MSC Explora 1 cruise ship (MSC Explora Journeys)

MSC's EXPLORA ships offer plenty of interior public spaces, 2500+ m2 (~27000 ft2) of exterior deck spaces, spacious Sundeck (with 64 private cabanas), 3x outdoor swimming pools (two aft, one forward), one midship swimming pool covered by a retractable glass roof (indoor pool with a 2-deck sunbathing area and a large LED screen for movies, Ultra-HD images and videos, real-time sea views), several Jacuzzies (indoor and outdoor spa pools/whirlpools, including 1x crew pool) and sundecks with poolside dining and lounging, 9x different dining options (restaurants and food bars) plus in-cabin dining (via 24-hour room service).

Explora I's ultra-modern wellness complex is sized 700+ m2 (7500+ ft2) and has an indoor-outdoor Spa (9x Treatment Rooms for massages, Thermal Suites, Beauty Salon) and Gym (sized 270+ m2 / 2900+ ft2, fitted with the latest fitness equipment) and with a separate Fitness Studio (for group classes and personal training sessions). A Running Track encircles the Sundeck's sunbathing area (Deck 12).

The passenger-to-crew ratio of 1,25 guarantees attentive services by a dedicated staff.

Of the total public space (~16600 m2 / 179000 ft2 of passenger-accessible areas), the outdoor space is ~6250 m2 (67300 ft2) which means ~6,5 m2 (70 ft2) per passenger.

For more information on MSC's EXPLORA-class vessels see the ship's Wiki section.

Decks and cabins

All MSC Explora I staterooms (461 total) are all outside/balconied and in Suite categories. Each cabin is fitted with floor-ceiling windows that open to a step-out terrace. Standard cabins are sized 35-39 m2 / 375-420 ft2 (OCEAN TERRACE SUITE), with 28 m2 (300 ft2) indoor space and 7-11 m2 (75-120 ft2) balcony. The largest accommodation is the OWNER'S RESIDENCE (280 m2 / 3015 ft2), with indoor space 155 m2 (1670 ft2) and aft-facing wraparound balcony sized 125 m2 (1345 ft2).

Cabin types include Owner's Residence (1), Ocean Residences (22), Ocean Penthouses (67), and Ocean Suites (371). The ship has a total of 82 interconnecting cabins (Family Suites) designed for families and small-group travelers.

"MSC Yacht Club" 24-hour butler services are provided complimentary to all Ocean Residences and Ocean Penthouses. Butler services packing and unpacking, pressing and laundering assistance, room service, itinerary and land transportation planning, special event planning, reservations assistance (onboard and ashore).

The boat has 13 decks, of which 11 are passenger-accessible and 5 with cabins.

MSC Explora 1 cruise ship (MSC Explora Journeys)

MSC Explora Journeys deals are inclusive of accommodation, shipboard food (dining at 9 venues plus room service), unlimited beverages (including fine wines, premium liquors, brand coffees and teas, soft drinks), complimentary cabin mini-bar drinks and snacks, access to the wellness facilities (Spa, Fitness, training programs), tips/onboard gratuities, free unlimited Wi-Fi (throughout), Welcome Aboard Gifts (flowers, mini chocolates, bottle of champagne), premium shuttle bus services (port to downtown), 24-hour concierge services, twice-daily housekeeping services (including evening turndown service), shoeshine service.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

All public facilities (restaurants, lounges, bars) are with floor-ceiling windows and unobstructed views. All sundecks are wind-protected (via a wraparound glass wall), furnished with premium patio furniture (3-seater sofas, padded loungers, double daybeds, deckchairs) and decorated with large living plants.

The onboard dining experience is all-inclusive and marked by flexible dining times and gourmet dishes prepared with sustainably and locally sourced ingredients.

The ship has a total of 18x food and beverage venues including 10x dining (6x restaurants, Chef`s Kitchen) and 12x bars and lounges (8x indoor + 4x outdoor). Wine selections are according to the current itinerary program/regions sailed, with a certified sommelier service for the boutique wine labels and wine pairing.

Next are listed the ship's restaurants.

  • Anthology (midship on Deck 4/international cuisine). Anthology Restaurant is the venue where celebrity chefs (who attend select voyages as guests) create special menus in collaboration with Franck Garanger (Explora Journeys’ Head Chef).
  • Sakura (aft-portside on Deck 5/Pan-Asian cuisine - Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian; Sake sommelier service; Asian beverages; modern Asian music)
  • Marble & Co. Grill (midship on Deck 5/steakhouse with a wine cellar; personally sourced and sustainably farmed beef)
  • Med Yacht Club (midship-portside on Deck 4/varied Mediterranean cuisine specialties from France, Spain, Italy, Greece; premium wines from regional vineyards; cocktails made with regional ingredients; fresh-squeezed juices)
  • Emporium Marketplace (aft on Deck 11/all-day opened buffet restaurant with food themed on the visited destinations; has 18x cooking stations - sushi, seafood, daily rotisserie, homemade sandwiches, cooked-to-order pasta, fresh-baked pizzas & breads, charcuterie/cured meats station, fromagerie/cheese station, boulangerie/bakery; beverages station/soft drinks, brand teas & coffees, fresh juices, wines & champagne)
  • Fil Rouge (concept restaurant midship-portside on Deck 5/traditional French cuisine and French-inspired international dishes; with a dessert cart/tableside service; wine selection)
  • Chef's Kitchen & Private Dining Room (forward-starboard on Deck 11/capacity 12 seats; at a fee per person)

In-cabin dining is available 24 hours.

Next are listed the ship's lounges and bars.

  • Lobby Bar (midship on Deck 4)
  • Malt Whiskey Bar (forward-portside on Deck 11/has a smoking-allowed terrace, walk-in humidor/cigar expert, an extensive collection that includes even rarest whiskies)
  • Journeys Lounge (forward on Deck 4/serves the company's onboard enrichment and entertainment program)
  • Explora Lounge (forward on Deck 11/with 270-degree seaviews; Afternoon Tea service, also serves light meals and snacks)
  • Gelateria & Creperie (midship-starboard on Deck 11 - within The Conservatory/gourmet ice creams and crepes, brand coffees)
  • Crema Cafe (midship-starboard on Deck5/serves premium coffees prepared by certified baristas, fresh-pressed juices, gourmet pastries, cakes, desserts)
  • Astern Lounge (aft on Deck 5/live music entertainment daily, doubles as nightclub with a DJ programming)
  • Astern Pool & Bar (aft on Deck 5/poolside bar lounge with nightly live music/acoustic musicians and DJs)
  • Sky Bar on 14 (aft on Deck 14/outdoor lounge)
  • Atoll Pool & Bar (aft on Deck 10)
  • Helios Pool & Bar (forward on Deck 12/adults-only poolside outdoor lounge)

On Deck 11 (adjacent to the Chef's Kitchen) is the Children's Area (indoor playground) a spacious room designed for kids' entertainment and supervised activities.

The Conservatory Pool & Bar (glass roof-protected poolside lounge midship on Deck 11; in the evenings transforms into Cinema for movies under the stars).

MSC Explora Journeys cruise ship pool deck

Deck 3 houses an Aft Marina Deck (for launching watersports activities) with an adjacent Marina Lounge & Bar and two fore-located Tender Areas (portside and starboard) for ferrying passengers (transportation via tender boats) between the ship and the shore. Forward-starboard is the Infirmary/Medical Centre.

Deck 4 houses the Forward Lounge (with a large stage and amphitheatrical seating), the Casino (gaming lounge fitted with table games and slot machines), the Lobby Hall (24-hour Guest Services/Reception Desk for assistance, Destination Experiences for information on and organizing of land tours and excursions), Boutiques (duty-free shops), as well as two restaurants - Mediterranean-style (portside) and International-style (starboard), with an adjacent Galley (kitchen and storage rooms for food and beverages).

The onboard shops include the first at-sea Rolex Boutique, via an exclusive partnership (signed in June 2023) between Explora Journeys and Rolex SA (1905-founded, Geneva-based watch designer and manufacturer). The shop is dedicated to the ultra-luxury Swiss watch brand and offers for purchasing an extensive selection of models including from the renowned Rolex Oyster Perpetual series.

Another signature retail store is the "Watch and Jewelry Shop" (introduced in July 2023) selling the Swiss ultra-premium watch brands Cartier, Panerai, and Piaget.

Deck 5 houses an indoor-outdoor Spa (9x Treatment Rooms for massages, Thermal Suites, Beauty Salon), Concept Restaurant, Coffee Lounge (patisserie), Steakhouse, Art Gallery (displaying original artworks and also hosting art auctions), MSC Foundation (a venue dedicated to the established by the Aponte family independent not-for-profit organization that manages MSC Group's conservation and humanitarian activities). Aft are the Pan-Asian Restaurant, Aft Lounge & Bar, and the Lower Aft Plunge Pool & Lounge (outdoor swimming pool with a sundeck area).

The forward section of Deck 6 is a crew-only zone with staff and crew cabins, Messhall (crew dining room and bar lounge) and the crew sundeck (bow-facing sunbathing area with a large Jacuzzi/spa pool).

Besides passenger staterooms, Deck 11 (Lido Deck) houses also the Fitness complex consisting of a Gym Room (fitted with the latest training equipment) and a separate Fitness Studio (for group classes and personal training sessions). Midship on Lido Deck is the main swimming pool (indoor pool covered with a retractable glass roof) and its sunbathing area. The pool deck is served by the poolside bar Gelateria & Creperie (snacks and beverages) and the All-Day Dining Restaurant (indoor Lido buffet with an aft terrace/outdoor seating). At the stern is the Upper Aft Pool & Lounge (sundeck with open-air bar, 4-seat tables, a swimming pool and sunbathing area with daybeds and padded loungers).

On Deck 12 are the Forward Pool & Lounge (adults-only sundeck with a large swimming pool and sunbathing area) and the 2-lane Running Track (making a full circle/looping nearly the entire deck with lined up sun loungers for relaxation).

Aft on Deck 14 is the Panorama Lounge & Bar (an outdoor venue with a Whirlpool/Jacuzzi and sunbathing areas with loungers) and the Sports Court (outdoor facility for playing basketball, volleyball, football, tennis). Midship are the Funnels (smokestacks) adjacent to the Retractable Glass-Roof that covers the main swimming pool (on Deck 11 below).

 

Journey Together Gatherings (shipboard family program)

In May 2023 Explora Journeys introduced the shipboard program "Journey Together Gatherings".

The program targets multi-generational families and features a dedicated children's lounge (Nautilus Club/ for both kids and teenagers), various destination-themed family experiences, complimentary land-to-ship transfers.

The Nautilus Club hosts age-appropriate supervised activities (for children aged 6-17) including interactive gaming (on PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2, Nintendo Switch, Xbox), sports contests, fun workshops and games. Nautilus Club has its own heated swimming pools and a Sports Court.

Each Explora ship has a total of 82 interconnecting staterooms (designed for families with children) in three categories - Ocean Suite, Ocean Penthouse, and Ocean Residence. In each of the family cabins, one minor passenger (under-18) cruises for free.

All infants and toddlers (6-23-month-old kids) sail free while 2-17 years-old kids sail at 50% off.

Itineraries

Explora I's itinerary program is based on 7-night voyages in Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic, Iceland) featuring less-traveled ports with longer stays (unconventional in-port times of arrival/departure) and many overnights to allow the MSC tourists access to unique ashore experiences.

The inaugural season's signature destinations include Bordeaux France, Saint Tropez (French Riviera), Reykjavik Iceland, Lofoten Islands (Norway), Eastern Mediterranean's Kastellorizo island (Greece) and Bozcaada Island (Turkey).

Explora 1's "Inaugural Journeys Collection" (itinerary program 2023) was announced in late-February 2022. The boat's deployment is in Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic, UK, Iceland, Greenland), North America (Canada, East Coast USA, Hawaii), Caribbean, South America.

Itineraries vary between 6-night and 44-night (Grand Voyage), visiting 132 ports/islands in 40 countries.

  • MEDITERRANEAN (May-June 2023), call ports Barcelona, St Tropez, Calvi-Corsica, Chivitavechia-Rome, Fiskardo (Kefalonia Island), Istanbul, Piraeus-Athens, Patmos Island, Bodrum, Kastellorizo, Santorini Island, Mykonos Island, Gozo-Malta, Ibiza, Malaga, Cadiz-Sevilla, Portimao, Lisbon, Oporto, St Jean-de-Luz, Bordeaux, Saint-Malo, Honfleur
  • NORTHERN EUROPE/BALTIC (July-August 2023), call ports Southampton, Lofoten Islands and Norwegian Fjords (Kristiansand, Hellesylt, Alesund, Molde, Trondheim, Narvik, Honningsvag, Tromso, Leknes-Gravdal, Bronnoysund, Flam, Bergen, Stavanger), Skagen, Copenhagen, Ronne, Helsinki, Sankt-Petersburg, Stockholm, Visby, Riga, Klaipeda, Gdansk, Copenhagen, Goteborg, Oslo, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge-Bruges
  • UK-ENGLAND AND SCOTLAND (August 2023), call ports Southampton, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Invergordon, Stornoway, Oban, Liverpool, Glasgow, Fort William, Portree, Kirkwall, Lerwick, Faroes (Thorshavn), Iceland (Reykjavik)
  • Transatlantic/ICELAND AND GREENLAND (September 2023), call ports Reykjavik, Akureyri, Isafjordur, Paamiut, Nuuk, Qaqortoq, Canada (Sydney NS, St John NB), USA (NYC New York)
  • USA AND CANADA (September-October 2023), roundtrip from New York City to, Newport RI, Boston MA, St John NB, Quebec City, La Baie, Baie-Comeau, Havre-Saint-Pierre, Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Halifax NS
  • CARIBBEAN (November 2023), call ports Miami, Key West FL, Virgon Gorda BVI, Deshaies (Guadeloupe), Falmouth (Jamaica), San Juan (Puerto Rico), Gustavia (St Barths), Basseterre (St Kitts), Samana (Dominicana), Ocean Cay (Bahamas), St John`s (Antigua), Castries (St Lucia), Bridgetown (Barbados), Roseau, Kralendijk, Willemstad, Saint-Pierre, Kingstown, Grand Turk Island, Santa Marta, Cartagena, Colon, Soufriere, Bequia (St Vincent), Oranjestad, Cartagena, Puerto Limon, Panama Canal transit to Panama City
  • SOUTH AMERICA, USA WEST COAST, HAWAII, ALASKA (January-April 2024)

In June 2022, MSC announced Explora Journeys' Alaska 2024 program (May 6 thru August 28) of Explora I, consisting of 3x voyages departing roundtrip from Vancouver, BC Canada.

  • 11-night "The Remote Wrangell and Spectacular Sitka Inaugural Alaskan Journey" (departure May 6th) sails in Alaska (Inside Passage, Wrangell, Tracy Arm Fjord, Juneau, Sitka, Skagway, Ketchikan, Misty Fjord) and Canada (Victoria BC).
  • 11-night "Sailing the Whale's Highway" itinerary (departure May 17th) visits Ketchikan, Hoonah-Icy Strait Point, Valdez, Juneau, Sitka, Hubbard Glacier.
  • 10-night "Journey of the Glaciers" itinerary (departures May thru July 2024) sails the Alaskan Inside Passage.

Explora I's 2024-2025 winter program (September thru April) was opened for booking in late-February 2023 and included 23 voyages visiting a total of 73 ports/destinations (including Brazillian Amazon) in 24 countries. The program features two longer itineraries.

  • The 28-night "A Grand Journey to Amazonia & Tropical Isles Cruise" (departure November 15, 2024, roundtrip from Miami) visits Key West Florida, Spanish Town/Virgin Gorda BVI), Basseterre St Kitts, Saint-Pierre Martinique, Bridgetown Barbados, Iles du Salut Macapa, Brail Amazon (Alter Do Chao, Manaus), Admiralty Bay Bequia, Barbados, Kingstown St Vincent and the Grenadines, Castries St Lucia, Basseterre, MSC Ocean Cay Bahamas.
  • (Caribbean-Europe relocation) The 32-night "Grand Transatlantic Odyssey Cruise" (departure March 27, 2025, from Miami to Lisbon) visits San Juan Puerto Rico, Spanish Town/Virgin Gorda BVI, St John's Antigua, St-Pierre Martinique, Barbados, Cape Verde (Praia, Sao Vicente), Canary Islands (Arrecife Lanzarote, Santa Cruz de Tenerife), Santo Antonio/Madeira, Ponta Delgada/Azores, Leixoes-Oporto, Lisbon.

Maiden Voyage (2023)

MSC opened bookings for Explora Journeys (Explora 1's inaugural cruise season/2023) in January 2022.

In October 2022, the brand's inauguration/ship's Maiden Voyage was rescheduled from May 31st (11-night "Maiden Journey into Mare Nostrum" from Barcelona to Piraeus-Athens) to July 17th, 2023 (out of Southampton England UK).

Citing delayed delivery (due to supply chain issues affecting the Fincantieri shipyard), MSC canceled 12x voyages (including 10x Mediterranean). In July 2023, the ship's delivery was delayed (CruiseMinus) and the Maiden Voyage was rescheduled for August 1st.

The brand "Explora Journeys" debuts with the 14-night "Extended Journey of Scottish Isles, Danish Cities, and Icelandic Fjords" itinerary (roundtrip from Copenhagen, Denmark) leaving on August 1st (2023).

EXPLORA I's canceled inaugural sailing (Southampton to Copenhagen/Jul 17 thru Aug 1) can be seen in the ship's Wiki section. The 15-night "A Maiden Journey into Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle" itinerary included visits to 12x Northern European ports in 4 countries.

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MSC Explora 1 ship related cruise news

MSC Explora 1 Wiki

The vessel (Fincantieri Monfalcone yard/hull number 6319) has volume 63900 GT-tons, DWT-deadweight tonnage 7500 tons, max draught 7 m. The powerplant is based on 4x Wartsila marine diesel engines (model 8L46F) with combined output 38,4 MW (51500 hp). The propulsion is PEM fuel-cell-battery hybrid (based on 2x motors) with combined output 20 MW (26820 hp). The registered shipowner is MSC CROCIERE SPA, while the registered manager is MSC MEDITERRANEAN SHIPPING CO.

In January 2018 strong rumors started to circulate about MSC considering the establishment of a new (all-inclusive luxury) cruise brand. There was also the possibility (instead of creating a new brand) MSC to just create a parallel "expedition" fleet, but in 2020 was confirmed that this would be a new brand.

On October 18, 2018, MSC Group and Fincantieri signed the MoA (memorandum of agreement) for building 4x ultra-luxury ships, with contract value EUR 2,0 billion (~USD 2,3B / ~GBP 1,75B). The announcement mentioned that the first unit will be delivered in 2023-Q2, and that the design is based on GT tonnage/volume ~64,000 tons and capacity 500 staterooms.

  • The MSC-Fincantieri final shipbuilding contract for the four luxury expedition ships was signed on March 14, 2019.
  • Both deals were signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC's Executive Chairman) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO).
  • With this order, MSC's Fincantieri-built ships reached 17 units (total investment EUR 14,96 billion / ~USD 17,27B / ~GBP 13,6B), all to be completed/delivered by the year 2027. By 2027, the MSC's cruise fleet will consist of 29 vessels.

The collective investment for the 4 units (~EUR 2.3 billion) had the potential to generate a substantial economic impact of EUR 10+ billion on the Italian economy, including employment, as each unit's construction requires 7+ million manhours of work and an average workforce of 2500 individuals for a span of 2+ years.

MSC Explora-Class cruise ship (Explora Journeys)

The rumors were officially confirmed in March 2021 when was announced the new brand's senior management team.

  • Michael Ungerer (CEO), Chris Austin (CSO-Chief Sales Officer)
  • Sarah Doyle (CMO-Chief Marketing Officer)
  • Thatcher Brown (Commercial and Strategic Advisor), John Stoll (Destination Experience Advisor)
  • Sacha Rougier (Itinerary Planning, Shore Experience)
  • Previous to their MSC employments, Chris Austin worked for Seabourn (SVP Global Sales and Marketing), Sarah Doyle for Bacardi Europe (Vice President Marketing), Thatcher Brown for GHK Dream Cruises (President) and Crystal Cruises Asia (Managing Director), Sacha Rougier for Cruise Gate Hamburg/Center Steinwerder (Managing Director), John Stoll for Crystal Cruises and Silversea (as Director Land Programs).

MSC Explora I vessel's construction (yard/hull number 6319) officially started on June 10, 2021, with the steel-cutting ceremony held at the Naval Service Center in San Giorgio di Nogaro (Udine). The special event was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC's Executive Chairman), Michael Ungerer (Explora Journeys' CEO) and Fabio Gallia (Fincantieri's General Manager).

Explora I's keel-laying (aka coin) ceremony at Fincantieri Monfalcone was held on February 24, 2022. During the special event, two newly minted coins were placed under the hull's first keel block. The ceremony was attended by two godmothers/madrinas - Alessandra Fontana (Explora Journeys' Chief Marketing Officer) and Ester Fugazzi (Fincantieri's Head of General Services), as well as by Pierfrancesco Vago and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri's CEO).

Explora I's launch/float out from drydock was on May 30, 2022. The special event was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago, Claudio Graziano (Fincantieri's Chairman) and Pierroberto Folgiero (Fincantieri's CEO).

On June 7, 2022, MSC announced the name of Explora 1's Master - Serena Melani (Captain since 2016). On October 12th, MSC announced that the boat's alternating Captain is Diego Michelozzi (former Italian Navy officer).

In April 2023, Michael Ungerer announced that the ship's godmother would be Sylvia Alice Earle (1935-born American marine biologist, oceanographer, author, lecturer, and also the founder of Mission Blue/global network of protected marine areas).

Explora I's christening ceremony was initially scheduled for July 8, 2023, to be held at Port Civitavecchia-Rome. Following the naming, the vessel had to relocate to Southampton to start the 15-night Maiden Voyage (on July 17th) ending in Copenhagen. However, the ship's completion/commissioning was delayed several times due to issues with suppliers and subcontractors. Explora I's delivery date was last pushed back from July 6th to July 24th (2023). The vessel was officially delivered from Fincantieri Monfalcone to MSC on July 20th. The ceremony was attended by Gianluigi Aponte (MSC Group's Founder and Chairman), Pierfrancesco Vago, Zoe Africa Vago (ship's godmother), Michael Ungerer (Explora Journeys), Pierroberto Folgiero (Fincantieri).

On September 25, 2023, Explora 1 arrived in Port NYC (New York USA) for an overnight stay (Sep 25-26) at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal. The call was also Explora Journeys' debut in North America.

However, the naming ceremony was postponed and held on October 12th (2023) at NYC's Manhattan Cruise Terminal. The special event was led by Sylvia Earle and was attended by international media representatives as well as by VIP guests including senior officers from MSC Group (Pierfrancesco Vago) and Explora Journeys (Michael Ungerer) as well as the new company's principal travel partners.

Inaugural cruise 2023

The next table shows Explora I's MAIDEN VOYAGE itinerary (2023).

(CANCELED) 25-night/26-day "Inaugural Grand Journey into History Cruise" - priced from EUR 15770 / USD 16555 / GBP 13540 (per person with double occupancy).

Date / TimePort
31 May 21:00Departing from Barcelona, Spain
02 Jun 07:00 - 22:00Saint-Tropez, France
03 Jun 07:00 - 19:00Calvi, Corsica France
04 Jun 08:00 - 19:00Civitavecchia-Rome, Italy
06 Jun 08:00 - 18:00Argostoli, Kefalonia Island Greece
08 Jun 12:00 - 09 Jun 23:00 (overnight)Istanbul, Turkey
11 Jun 07:00 - 20:00Piraeus-Athens, Greece
12 Jun 07:00 - 18:00Patmos Island Greece
13 Jun 08:00 - 23:00Bodrum, Turkey
14 Jun 09:00 - 17:00Kastellorizo Island Greece
15 Jun 15:00 - 16 Jun 17:00 (overnight)Thira, Santorini Island Greece
17 Jun 07:00 - 18:00Piraeus-Athens, Greece
18 Jun 07:00 - 19 Jun 17:00 (overnight)Mykonos Island Greece
21 Jun 07:00 - 17:00Mgarr Harbour, Gozo Island Malta
23 Jun 09:00 - 24 Jun 17:00 (overnight)Ibiza Town, Ibiza Island, Balearic Spain
25 Jun 07:00Arriving in Barcelona

However, due to construction delays, this voyage was canceled in October 2022 and the Inaugural Cruise was rescheduled for July 17th.

(CANCELED/2023) 15-night/16-day "A Maiden Journey into Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle Cruise"

Date / TimePort
17 Jul 17:00Departing from Southampton, England UK
18 Jul 10:00 - 23:00Zeebrugge-Bruges, Belgium
21 Jul 07:00 - 08:30Hellesylt, Norway
21 Jul 10:30 - 19:00Geiranger, Norway
22 Jul 10:00 - 20:00Trondheim, Norway
23 Jul 10:00 - 23:00Molde, Norway
25 Jul 08:00 - 18:00Leknes-Gravdal, Vestvagoy Island, Lofoten Norway
26 Jul 08:00 - 17:00Bronnoysund, Norway
28 Jul 08:00 - 18:00Flam, Norway
29 Jul 07:00 - 18:00Bergen, Norway
30 Jul 08:00 - 16:00Stavanger, Norway
31 Jul 10:00 - 18:00Skagen, Denmark
01 Aug 06:00Arriving in Copenhagen, Denmark

The sailing was priced from EUR 8780 / USD 9250 / GBP 7520 pp.

(MAIDEN VOYAGE/2023) 13-night/14-day "Extended Journey of Scottish Isles, Danish Cities, and Icelandic Fjords"

Date / TimePort
01 Aug 18:00Departing from Copenhagen, Denmark
03 Aug 07:00 - 17:00Lerwick, Mainland Shetland Scotland
04 Aug 08:00 - 20:00Kirkwall, Orkney Island Scotland
07 Aug 08:00 - 09 Aug 07:00 (overnight)Reykjavik, Iceland
10 Aug 07:00 - 18:00Isafjordur, Westfjords Iceland
11 Aug 07:00 - 19:00Akureyri, Iceland
14 Aug 10:00 - 18:00Skagen, Denmark
15 Aug 06:00Arriving in Copenhagen

(inaugural Transatlantic crossing/2023) 23-day UK to USA

Date / TimePort
02 Sep 18:00Departing from Clydeport/Greenock-Glasgow, Scotland
03 Sep 08:00 - 18:00Fort William, Scotland
04 Sep 07:00 - 17:00Stornoway, Isle of Lewis and Harris, Scotland
05 Sep 07:00 - 17:00Kirkwall, Orkney Island Scotland
06 Sep 08:00 - 17:00Lerwick, Mainland Shetland Scotland
07 Sep 09:30 - 18:00Torshavn, Streymoy Faroes
09 Sep 08:00 - 10 Sep 11:00Reykjavik, Iceland
11 Sep 09:00 - 18:00Akureyri, Iceland
12 Sep 08:00 - 17:00Isafjordur, Westfjords Iceland
15 Sep 10:00 - 19:00Paamiut, Greenland
16 Sep 08:00 - 17:00Nuuk, Greenland
18 Sep 07:00 - 16:00Qaqortoq, Greenland
21 Sep 09:00 - 20:00Sydney, Nova Scotia Canada
23 Sep 08:00 - 20:00Saint John, New Brunswick Canada
25 Sep 07:00Arriving in NYC New York/Manhattan

(inaugural Caribbean cruise/2023) 14-day "Extended Escapes into a Yachtsman's Caribbean" itinerary

Date / TimePort
03 Nov 18:00Departing from Miami, Florida
04 Nov 08:00 - 16:00Key West, Florida
07 Nov 10:00 - 18:00Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda Island BVI
08 Nov 09:00 - 20:00Deshaies, Basse-Terre Island Guadeloupe
09 Nov 07:00 - 15:00St Johns, Antigua
10 Nov 07:00 - 19:00San Juan, Puerto Rico
11 Nov 09:00 - 23:00Gustavia, Saint-Barthelemy Island France
12 Nov 08:00 - 18:00Port Zante/Basseterre St Kitts
14 Nov 07:00 - 16:00Samana, Dominicana
16 Nov 11:00 - 23:00MSC Ocean Cay, Bahamas
17 Nov 07:00Arriving in Miami

Godspeed!

MSC EXPLORA ship technology

All boats for the MSC brand Explora Journeys are constructed at Fincantieri's Monfalcone Shipyard (near Trieste Italy).

WIth Explora I's steel-cutting (June 10, 2021) was also officially launched MSC's expedition travel brand "Explora Journeys". The brand's mandala-inspired logo was designed by Alexa Aponte-Vago (MSC Group's CFO, MSC founder Gianluigi Aponte's daughter and Pierfrancesco Vago's wife).

MSC Explora Journeys logo

Explora Journeys' boats are fitted with the maritime industry's latest technologies for protecting the environment and also prepared to adopt alternative energy sources (hybrid powerplant) when they become widely available in the near future.

MSC EXPLORA-class ship design incorporates provisions for battery storage (allowing energy generation by a hybrid powerplant) as well as the latest SCR Systems (Selective Catalytic Reduction/aka wet scrubbers) technology for reducing nitrogen oxide/NOx emissions by 90%. Other environmental-supporting and energy-saving technologies implemented in all EXPLORA boats include optimized hull (covered with anti-fouling paint) and hydrodynamics, smart HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) system, USCD-approved ballastwater treatment plant, advanced wastewater treatment system, LED lighting (throughout), CII Trim Optimization software (optimizing the trim and draft to reduce main engines fuel consumption up to 3%).

The ships are fitted with shoreside power capabilities (for eliminating CO emissions while port-berthed) and advanced underwater noise management systems (for protecting marine life). All MSC EXPLORA ships also have a comprehensive range of onboard energy-efficient/power-saving equipment to optimize engine use and further reduce emissions.

Explora 1 and 2 are fitted with marine diesel engines running on LSFO (low sulfur fuel oil), Explora 3 and 4 are with LNG engines while Explora 5 and 6 are with LNG engines and hydrogen powerplants (fuel cell technology). All boats are RINA-certified (by RINA DOLPHIN) for reducing underwater noise and vibrations. By MSC's sustainable policies, single-use plastics are not used both on the ships and ashore.

In late-September 2020, Versonix Seaware announced that MSC's new brand will use the Versonix system for online cruise booking. Annually, Versonix serves 20+ million passengers and 100+ ships. Versonix (1986-founded) is a Silicon Valley company (headquartered in San Jose CA USA) specializing in hotel and resort reservation technologies. The company is run by Victor Velton (President) and Yuri Polissky (CEO).

In July 2022, MSC signed a contract with SES SA (Luxembourg-based owner and operator of satellites and terrestrial telecommunications networks) to provide "O3b mPower" (satellite connectivity) to Explora Journeys' fleet. SES' O3b mPower combines the company's second-generation MEO satellites (medium Earth orbit/ positioned ~8000 km / ~5000 mi above the earth) and GEO satellites (geosynchronous equatorial orbit/positioned at altitude~35800 km / 22300 mi).

On July 6, 2022, was signed the MoA for building two more MSC EXPLORA ships (Explora 5 and Explora 6), which are both LNG and hydrogen-powered - with engines running on LNG/liquefied natural gas and also fitted with a containment system for liquid hydrogen. The hydrogen powers a 6-MW/megawatt fuel cell to produce all the electricity needed for the onboard hotel operations. With Explora 5 (2027) and Explora 6 (2028), MSC's Explora Journeys investment totaled EUR 3,5 billion.

MSC EXPLORA-class vessels' initial cost was EUR 495 million (USD 600M) per unit. However, unlike the first pair of sisterships (Explora 1 and Explora 2), the second pair of sisterships (Explora 3 and Explora 4) have a higher building cost (EUR 615 million (USD 730 million, or +EUR 120M each) because of the LNG engines and the related design changes. This also delayed Explora Journeys' boats 3 and 4 deliveries that were rescheduled for 2026 (from 2025) and 2027 (from 2026), respectively.