MSC Explora 2

The 2024-built MSC Explora 2 cruise ship (officially “Explora II”) is the second in a series of six MSC EXPLORA-class expedition vessels, with sisters Explora 1 (2023), Explora 3 (2026), Explora 4 (2027), Explora 5 (2027), and Explora 6 (2028). These ships are owned by the MSC Group and operated as a separate fleet under MSC’s luxury travel brand EXPLORA JOURNEYS.

The vessel (IMO number 9869887) is Malta-flagged (MMSI 256798000) and registered in Valletta.

History – construction and ownership

MSC Cruises (MSC Crociere) is headquartered in Genoa and Naples. Established in 1960, the company is a subsidiary of MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company), the world’s second-largest container shipping operator and the largest privately owned cruise company.

By annual passenger volumes, MSC ranks as the world’s third-largest cruise shipowner, following Carnival Corporation and Royal Caribbean Group.

MSC’s EXPLORA ships offer extensive interior public areas, more than 2500 m2 (~27,000 ft2) of outdoor deck space, a spacious Sundeck with 64 private cabanas, 3 outdoor swimming pools (two aft and one forward), and a midship indoor pool beneath a retractable glass roof (featuring a two-deck sunbathing area and a large LED screen for movies, Ultra-HD visuals, and real-time sea views). Additional amenities include multiple Jacuzzies (indoor and outdoor spa pools, plus one for crew), poolside dining areas, and nine dining venues (restaurants and food bars) plus 24-hour in-suite dining.

Explora II’s modern wellness complex covers 700+ m2 (7500+ ft2) and includes an indoor-outdoor Spa (9 treatment rooms, Thermal Suites, Beauty Salon) and a Gym (270+ m2 / 2900+ ft2, fitted with state-of-the-art equipment) with a dedicated Fitness Studio for group classes and personal training. A Running Track encircles the Deck 12 sunbathing area.

The passenger-to-crew ratio of 1.25 ensures highly attentive, personalized service.

Of the total public space (~16,600 m2 / 179,000 ft2), outdoor areas account for ~6,250 m2 (67,300 ft2), equating to ~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 II staterooms (461 total) are outside, balconied, and categorized as Suites. Each cabin features floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto a step-out terrace. Standard accommodations measure 35–39 m2 (375–420 ft2), including 28 m2 (300 ft2) of indoor space and a 7–11 m2 (75–120 ft2) balcony.

The largest accommodation is the OWNER’S RESIDENCE (280 m2 / 3015 ft2), comprising 155 m2 (1670 ft2) of indoor space and an aft-facing wraparound terrace (125 m2 / 1345 ft2) with an infinity whirlpool.

Cabin types include the Owner’s Residence (1), Ocean Residences (22), Ocean Penthouses (67), and Ocean Suites (371). The ship has 82 interconnecting cabins (Family Suites) suitable for families and small groups.

Complimentary “MSC Yacht Club” butler service is provided to all Ocean Residences and Ocean Penthouses. Butler support includes packing and unpacking, pressing and laundry assistance, room service coordination, itinerary and transportation planning, special event arrangements, and onboard/shore reservations.

The ship has 13 decks, of which 11 are accessible to passengers and 5 contain cabins.

Explora Journeys fares include accommodation, dining at nine venues (plus room service), unlimited beverages (fine wines, premium liquors, branded coffees and teas, soft drinks), complimentary mini-bar drinks and snacks, access to Spa and Fitness facilities and training programs, onboard gratuities, free unlimited Wi-Fi, Welcome Aboard Gifts (flowers, chocolates, Champagne), premium shuttle bus service (port to downtown), 24-hour concierge, twice-daily housekeeping (including turndown), and shoeshine service.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

All public venues (restaurants, lounges, bars) feature floor-to-ceiling windows and unobstructed sea views. Sundecks are wind-protected by wraparound glass barriers, furnished with premium outdoor furniture (3-seater sofas, padded loungers, double daybeds, deckchairs), and accentuated with live plants.

The dining experience is all-inclusive, with flexible dining hours and gourmet, sustainably sourced cuisine.

The vessel offers 18 food and beverage venues, including 10 dining options (6 restaurants and the Chef’s Kitchen) and 12 bars and lounges (8 indoor and 4 outdoor). Wine selections reflect the current itinerary, complemented by certified sommeliers specializing in boutique labels and pairing recommendations.

Below are the ship’s restaurants.

• Anthology (Deck 4, midship) – international cuisine; features guest celebrity chefs collaborating with Franck Garanger (Explora Journeys’ Head Chef).
• Sakura (Deck 5, aft-portside) – Pan-Asian cuisine (Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian); Sake sommelier service; Asian beverages; contemporary Asian music.
• Marble & Co. Grill (Deck 5, midship) – steakhouse with a wine cellar; sustainably sourced beef selections.
• Med Yacht Club (Deck 4, midship-portside) – Mediterranean cuisine inspired by France, Spain, Italy, and Greece; regional wines; cocktails using local ingredients; fresh juices.
• Emporium Marketplace (Deck 11, aft) – all-day buffet with destination-themed foods; 18 cooking stations (sushi, seafood, rotisserie, sandwiches, pasta-to-order, pizzas, breads, charcuterie, cheese, bakery); beverage stations offering soft drinks, branded teas and coffees, fresh juices, wines, and Champagne.
• Fil Rouge – French and French-inspired cuisine; dessert cart/tableside service; curated wine selections.
• Chef’s Kitchen & Private Dining Room (Deck 11, forward-starboard; capacity 12; surcharge applies).

Twenty-four-hour in-suite dining is available.

Below are the ship’s lounges and bars.

• Lobby Bar (Deck 4, midship).
• Malt Whiskey Bar (Deck 11, forward-portside) – includes a smoking terrace, walk-in humidor, cigar expert, and rare whiskey selections.
• Journeys Lounge (Deck 4, forward) – venue for enrichment programs and entertainment.
• Explora Lounge (Deck 11, forward) – 270-degree views; Afternoon Tea; light meals and snacks.
• Gelateria & Creperie (Deck 11, midship-starboard; part of The Conservatory) – gourmet ice creams, crepes, brand coffees.
• Crema Café (Deck 5, midship-starboard) – premium barista coffees, fresh juices, pastries, cakes, desserts.
• Astern Lounge (Deck 5, aft) – daily live music; doubles as nighttime DJ venue.
• Astern Pool & Bar (Deck 5, aft) – poolside bar/lounge with nightly acoustic and DJ performances.
• Sky Bar on 14 (Deck 14, aft) – outdoor lounge.
• Atoll Pool & Bar (Deck 10, aft).
• Helios Pool & Bar (Deck 12, forward) – adults-only outdoor lounge.

The Conservatory Pool & Bar (Deck 11, midship) features a retractable glass roof and transforms into an open-air cinema at night.

Deck 3 includes the Aft Marina Deck for watersports operations, with an adjacent Marina Lounge & Bar, and two Tender Areas (port and starboard) for shore-to-ship transfers. Forward-starboard is the Infirmary/Medical Centre.

Deck 4 features the Forward Lounge (large stage, amphitheater-style seating), the Casino (table games, slots), the Lobby Hall (24-hour Guest Services, Reception, Destination Experiences desk), duty-free Boutiques, and two restaurants (Mediterranean-style on portside, International-style on starboard), served by an adjacent Galley.

Onboard shops include the first-at-sea Rolex Boutique, introduced through a partnership with Rolex SA (signed June 2023). The store offers an extensive selection of models, including the Rolex Oyster Perpetual series.

Another signature retail venue is the “Watch and Jewelry Shop” (introduced July 2023), selling luxury Swiss brands Cartier, Panerai, and Piaget.

The Buccellati Jewelry Boutique showcases Buccellati’s Opera Tulle, Macri, Blossoms, and Blossoms Colour collections.

Deck 5 houses the indoor-outdoor Spa (9 treatment rooms, Thermal Suites, Beauty Salon), the Concept Restaurant, Coffee Lounge (patisserie), Steakhouse, Art Gallery (displaying original works and hosting auctions), and the MSC Foundation venue. Aft are the Pan-Asian Restaurant, Aft Lounge & Bar, and the Lower Aft Plunge Pool & Lounge.

Deck 6 forward is reserved for crew, including cabins, Messhall (dining room and lounge), and a crew sundeck with a Jacuzzi.

Deck 11 (Lido Deck) contains passenger cabins and the Fitness complex (Gym Room and Fitness Studio). Midship is the main swimming pool (under a retractable glass roof) with a sunbathing area. The pool deck is served by the Gelateria & Creperie and the All-Day Dining Restaurant (Lido buffet with aft terrace). At the stern is the Upper Aft Pool & Lounge (pool, bar, tables, loungers, daybeds).

Deck 12 includes the Forward Pool & Lounge (adults-only), a large swimming pool, sunbathing areas, and the 2-lane Running Track encircling most of the deck.

Deck 14 aft features the Panorama Lounge & Bar (with Whirlpool/Jacuzzi, sunbathing areas) and the Sports Court (basketball, volleyball, football, tennis). Midship are the Funnels adjoining the Retractable Glass Roof above Deck 11.

All public areas are designed with floor-to-ceiling windows, wind-protected sundecks, premium outdoor furniture, and live greenery.

Journey Together Gatherings (family program)

In May 2023, Explora Journeys launched “Journey Together Gatherings,” a program tailored to multi-generational families. It includes a dedicated children’s lounge (Nautilus Club for ages 6–17), destination-themed family activities, and complimentary land-to-ship transfers.

The Nautilus Club offers supervised activities such as interactive gaming (PlayStation 5, PlayStation VR2, Nintendo Switch, Xbox), sports competitions, creative workshops, and games. It also features heated swimming pools and a Sports Court.

Each Explora ship has 82 interconnecting family staterooms in three categories: Ocean Suite, Ocean Penthouse, and Ocean Residence. One minor (under 18) sails free in each family suite.

Infants and toddlers (ages 6–23 months) sail free, while children ages 2–17 sail at 50% off.

Itineraries

Explora Journeys’ itineraries focus on 7-night voyages in Europe (Mediterranean, Baltic, Iceland), featuring lesser-traveled ports, extended port stays, and numerous overnights to enhance destination immersion.

Explora II’s inaugural cruise season (August 2024–April 2025) was announced in December 2022, when bookings opened on December 6. The maiden season comprised 39 itineraries (14 extended) visiting 82 destinations in 26 countries.

The program began in the Mediterranean (Italy, Croatia, Spain, Greece, Cyprus, Israel), continued through a Suez Canal transit into the Red Sea (Egypt, Saudi Arabia), the Arabian Gulf (UAE, Qatar), followed by sailings in the Indian Ocean (India, Seychelles, Maldives, Mauritius) and Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, South Africa).

However, due to the delayed delivery (to September), the summer program was canceled. Explora II’s inaugural voyage is now scheduled for September 16, 2024— a 7-night itinerary from Civitavecchia-Rome to Tarragona via Sorrento, Lipari, Trapani, Siracusa, and Valletta.

The table below shows the canceled 21-day Maiden Voyage (Barcelona to Venice/Marghera), originally scheduled for 2024. Fares started from EUR 13,640 / USD 14,850 per person (double occupancy).

The voyage was also offered as a shorter 11-day Barcelona–Athens segment, with fares from EUR 7,715 / USD 8,400 per person.

The vessel (Fincantieri Monfalcone yard/hull number 6320) has a volume of 63,900 GT, a deadweight tonnage (DWT) of 7,500 tons, and a maximum draught of 7 m. The power plant consists of four Wartsila marine diesel engines (model 8L46F) with a combined output of 38.4 MW (51,500 hp). Propulsion is provided by a PEM fuel-cell–battery hybrid system (two motors) with a combined output of 20 MW (26,820 hp). The registered shipowner is MSC CROCIERE SPA, and the registered manager is MSC MEDITERRANEAN SHIPPING CO.

In January 2018, strong rumors emerged that MSC was considering launching a new all-inclusive luxury cruise brand. An alternative under consideration was the creation of a parallel “expedition” fleet. In 2020, MSC confirmed the launch of an entirely new luxury brand.

On October 18, 2018, the MSC Group and Fincantieri signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for four ultra-luxury ships, with a total contract value of EUR 2.0 billion (~USD 2.3B / ~GBP 1.75B). The announcement stated that the first vessel would be delivered in Q2 2023, designed at approximately 64,000 GT and with a capacity of 500 staterooms.

• The final MSC–Fincantieri shipbuilding contract for four luxury expedition ships was signed on March 14, 2019.
• Both agreements were signed by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Executive Chairman) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri CEO).
• With this order, MSC’s total number of Fincantieri-built vessels reached 17, representing an overall investment of EUR 14.96 billion (~USD 17.27B / ~GBP 13.6B), all scheduled for completion by 2027. By that year, MSC’s cruise fleet will comprise 29 ships.

The collective investment for these four ships (~EUR 2.3 billion) was projected to have a significant economic impact of more than EUR 10 billion on the Italian economy, including job creation. Each ship requires over 7 million work hours and an average workforce of 2,500 people for more than two years of construction.

MSC Explora 2’s construction officially began on October 6, 2021, with the steel-cutting ceremony held at the Royal Dockyard of Castellammare di Stabia (near Naples). The ship is being built at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente Shipyard (in Genoa). The ceremony was attended by Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Executive Chairman), Michael Ungerer (Explora Journeys CEO), and Luigi Matarazzo (Fincantieri General Manager Merchant Ships).

Explora 2’s physical assembly began with the keel-laying ceremony held on May 5, 2022, in Castellammare di Stabia, attended by Michael Ungerer. Two newly minted coins were placed beneath the first keel block.

The coin ceremony took place on February 8, 2023, at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente yard. It was led by two godmothers: Feliciana Maresca (Executive Assistant to the Explora Journeys CEO) and Martina Mosca (Fincantieri Hull Fabrication Department Supervisor). Attendees included Pierfrancesco Vago, Michael Ungerer, and Pierroberto Folgiero (Fincantieri CEO and Managing Director).

Explora II was launched/floated out on September 6, 2023, at Cantieri Navali di Sestri, coinciding with the steel-cutting ceremony for Explora 3. The dual event was attended by senior executives and regional dignitaries, including Giovanni Toti (President of Liguria), Marco Bucci (Mayor of Genoa), Renato Franceschelli (Prefect of Genoa), and Orazio D’Anna (Police Commissioner).

The vessel successfully completed three days of sea trials from June 4–7, 2024.

On June 20, 2024, Explora Journeys and Fincantieri jointly announced the decision to postpone Explora II’s delivery from August 10 to September 12, 2024. The inaugural cruise (Maiden Voyage) was scheduled to depart Rome on September 16.

EXPLORA 2 was officially delivered on September 12, 2024, at Cantieri Navali di Sestri. On the same day, Fincantieri held the keel-laying ceremony for EXPLORA 3 and the steel-cutting ceremony for EXPLORA 4. Executives in attendance included Pierfrancesco and Stefania Vago (MSC) and Biagio Mazzotta and Pierroberto Folgiero (Fincantieri).

On September 5, 2024, it was announced that the ship’s godmother would be Rosalba Giugni (President of the Marevivo Foundation). The naming ceremony took place on September 15 in Port Civitavecchia. Marevivo (founded 1985) is part of the MSC Group and supports marine conservation initiatives across the Mediterranean.

The christening ceremony, led by godmother Rosalba Giugni, was attended by Antonio Tajani (Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister), Admiral Nicola Carlone (General Commander of the Italian Coast Guard), Pierfrancesco Vago, film director Giuseppe Tornatore, and numerous VIP guests. The event, hosted by actress and presenter Lorella Cuccarini, featured a live performance by Anthony Patrick Hadley, a Gala Dinner, and a drone show.

The table below shows the inaugural 7-day cruise itinerary.

Godspeed!

MSC EXPLORA ship technology

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

With Explora I’s steel-cutting on June 10, 2021, MSC officially launched its new expedition-style luxury brand “Explora Journeys.” The brand’s mandala-inspired logo was created by Alexa Aponte-Vago (MSC Group CFO, daughter of MSC founder Gianluigi Aponte, and wife of Pierfrancesco Vago).

Explora Journeys ships incorporate the maritime industry’s latest environmental technologies and are designed to accommodate future alternative energy solutions (hybrid power plants).

The MSC EXPLORA-class ship design integrates systems for battery storage (supporting hybrid power generation) and the latest SCR Systems (Selective Catalytic Reduction) that reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 90%. Additional environmental and energy-saving technologies include optimized hull shape (with anti-fouling coating), refined hydrodynamics, smart HVAC systems, a USCG-approved ballast water treatment plant, an advanced wastewater treatment system, LED lighting, and CII Trim Optimization software (reducing fuel consumption up to 3%).

The ships are equipped with shoreside power connectivity to eliminate CO emissions while berthed, and advanced underwater noise-mitigation systems to protect marine life. All vessels feature extensive energy-efficient technologies to optimize engine performance and reduce emissions.

Explora 1 and Explora 2 operate on marine diesel engines using LSFO (low-sulfur fuel oil), while Explora 3 and 4 are LNG-powered. Explora 5 and 6 are equipped with LNG engines and hydrogen fuel-cell systems. All vessels are RINA-certified under the DOLPHIN program for reduced underwater noise and vibration. In accordance with MSC’s sustainability policies, single-use plastics are eliminated both onboard and ashore.

In late September 2020, Versonix Seaware announced that MSC’s new luxury brand would use the Versonix booking system. Versonix supports more than 20 million passengers and over 100 ships annually. Founded in 1986 and headquartered in San Jose, California, the company specializes in hospitality and resort reservation technology. It is led by President Victor Velton and CEO Yuri Polissky.

In July 2022, MSC signed a contract with SES SA (Luxembourg-based operator of satellite and terrestrial communication networks) to supply “O3b mPower” satellite connectivity to the Explora Journeys fleet. The O3b mPower system combines SES’s second-generation MEO satellites (~8,000 km / ~5,000 mi altitude) with GEO satellites (~35,800 km / ~22,300 mi altitude).

On July 6, 2022, MSC signed an MoA for two additional EXPLORA-class ships (Explora 5 and Explora 6), both LNG- and hydrogen-powered. These ships are equipped with LNG-fueled engines and a containment system for liquid hydrogen, which powers a 6-MW fuel cell providing electricity for all onboard hotel operations. With Explora 5 (2027) and Explora 6 (2028), MSC’s Explora Journeys investment reached EUR 3.5 billion.

The initial construction cost of EXPLORA-class ships was EUR 495 million (USD 600M) per unit. However, unlike the first pair of sisterships (Explora 1 and Explora 2), the second pair (Explora 3 and Explora 4) has a higher construction cost—EUR 615 million (USD 730M, +EUR 120M each)—due to the adoption of LNG propulsion and the required design modifications. These changes also delayed the deliveries of Explora 3 and 4 to 2026 (from 2025) and 2027 (from 2026), respectively.