At the historic Fincantieri shipyard in Genoa Sestri Ponente, where Italian maritime craftsmanship has flourished for generations, three simultaneous ceremonies recently marked a defining moment for the future of luxury ocean travel. The float-out of Explora III, the coin ceremony for Explora IV, and the steel cutting for Explora V represent far more than shipbuilding milestones – they signal the evolution of a brand that’s quietly transforming the way discerning voyagers experience the sea.
Since launching just two years ago with Explora I, Explora Journeys has emerged as the luxury cruise industry’s most compelling newcomer. Born from the maritime heritage of the Aponte family – whose seafaring legacy spans three centuries – this Swiss-based brand has captured the imagination of globetrotters seeking something beyond the conventional cruise experience. Operating at near-full capacity, the first two ships have proven that there’s substantial appetite for a more refined, culturally immersive approach to ocean travel.
A different kind of luxury at sea
What sets Explora Journeys apart isn’t just the obvious luxury touches, though those are certainly present. All accommodations are oceanfront suites with private terraces, and the ship-to-guest ratio ensures an intimacy rarely found on larger vessels. Rather, it’s the brand’s philosophical approach to travel that feels genuinely fresh. This isn’t about cliched onboard entertainment or cramming in as many activities as possible. Instead, the focus is on creating what the brand calls an “Ocean State of Mind” – a more contemplative, connected way of experiencing both the journey and the destinations.
The culinary program exemplifies this thoughtful approach. Eleven distinct dining experiences across six restaurants reflect the brand’s European heritage while celebrating the tastes of each destination. The Chef’s Kitchen concept allows guests to participate in cooking classes and intimate dining experiences, transforming meals from mere sustenance into cultural exploration.
Expansion with purpose
The upcoming additions to the fleet – Explora III arriving in 2026, followed by Explora IV and V in 2027, and Explora VI in 2028 – represent a €3.5 billion investment in reimagining luxury ocean travel. Explora III will offer even more space per guest, with 463 suites configured to emphasise the highest categories. Ocean Penthouses will comprise 24% of accommodations, while Ocean Residences will account for 9% of the inventory, ensuring that luxury isn’t just an add-on but the standard experience.
Perhaps most significantly, the newer ships will incorporate advanced environmental technologies that position Explora Journeys at the forefront of sustainable luxury travel. From Explora III onward, all vessels will be powered by liquefied natural gas, with the capability to utilize bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as these renewable alternatives become available. The two newest ships will push sustainability even further, with next-generation fuel cell technology that can convert LNG into hydrogen, dramatically reducing emissions while in port.
The art of conscious travel
In an era when luxury travel is increasingly scrutinized for its environmental impact, Explora Journeys has positioned itself as a brand that doesn’t ask travelers to choose between indulgence and responsibility. Advanced underwater noise management systems protect marine life, while shore power capabilities eliminate emissions entirely while docked. Energy-efficient systems throughout the ships drive performance while reducing fuel consumption.
The itineraries themselves reflect this conscious approach to travel. Rather than focusing solely on marquee destinations, Explora Journeys blends renowned ports with lesser-known locations, encouraging guests to discover places beyond the typical cruise circuit. It’s a strategy that appeals to passengers who’ve already seen the world’s greatest hits and are seeking more authentic, less crowded experiences.
Redefining the cruise experience
As the luxury cruise market continues to evolve, Explora Journeys represents a sophisticated response to changing passenger preferences. The brand’s success suggests that discerning cruise guests are ready for a more contemplative, culturally rich approach to ocean travel – one that places a priority on quality over quantity, sustainability over excess, and meaningful experiences over mere entertainment.
With its emphasis on spacious accommodations, exceptional service, and immersive cultural programing, Explora Journeys is creating a new category within luxury cruising. It’s not trying to compete with the mega-ships or the expedition vessels; instead, it’s carving out space for cruisers who want something more refined, more thoughtful, and more connected to both the sea and the destinations they visit.
As these new ships take shape in Genoa, they carry with them the promise of a different kind of luxury – one that respects both the maritime traditions of the past and the evolving expectations of tomorrow’s most discerning passengers. For those who’ve been waiting for cruise travel to evolve beyond its conventional boundaries, Explora Journeys offers something genuinely new: the opportunity to rediscover the romance of ocean travel without compromising on sophistication, sustainability, or style.
Visit the Explora Journeys website for more information.
About the Author: Jason Kerr
