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Explora Journeys celebrates key milestone for first ship

Explora Journeys celebrates key milestone for first ship

Explora Journeys has held the float out ceremony for its first ship, Explora I.

The event took place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, with senior representatives from the MSC Group, Explora Journeys, Fincantieri, and travel agent partners in attendance.

Explora I – the first of four ships in the Explora Journeys fleet – is set to be delivered at the end of May 2023.

Its inaugural cruise will be an 11-night voyage from Barcelona to Athens. Explora I will visit 132 ports in 40 different countries in its first year at sea.

The second vessel, Explora II, will launch in summer 2024 and is under construction, with the keel being laid earlier in May.

Explora Journeys CEO Michael Ungerer said: “The float out of Explora I is a hugely significant milestone in the realisation of our vision to redefine the ocean travel experience with a new luxury travel brand that we have designed to connect travellers with the ocean and themselves.

“Today’s event is great opportunity for our valued travel partners to see how the ship is taking shape and build even more excitement for Explora I’s launch in just 12 months.”

MSC Group's Pierfrancesco Vago, Explora Journeys
MSC Group’s Pierfrancesco Vago at the float out ceremony

Explora Journeys ‘building ships for tomorrow’

MSC Group cruise division executive chairman Pierfrancesco Vago added: “At Explora Journeys we are building ships for tomorrow, utilising today’s latest technologies and while being ready to adapt to alternative energy solutions as they become available.

“At the same time, the brand’s commitment to sustainable ocean travel extends beyond just the environmental and maritime technologies but is also embedded in our on-board guest experience.

“Destination experiences will be designed to leave a positive impression and footprint on the places and people visited by placing a spotlight on local talents, craftsmanship, culture, gastronomy, [and] traditions.

“This is all part of the brand’s commitment to its guests and the destinations we visit with them.”

Explora said that its fleet will be equipped with the “latest environmental and marine technologies”, as well as selective catalytic reduction technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 per cent.

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