Luxury cruise line Explora Journeys has held the coin ceremony for its second ship.

The traditional maritime event, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente, Italy, saw commemorative coins placed inside the ship as a sign of blessing during construction.

Explora II is due to launch in 2024 and will be followed by four more luxury vessels, to join the Explora fleet by 2028.

Between August 2024 and April 2025, Explora II will sail in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean and Africa, calling at a total of 82 ports in 26 countries.

Cities such as Doha, Dubai and Abu Dhabi will be on the agenda, before Explora II reaches the coast of India.

Other destinations include the Seychelles, Maldives, Mozambique, Tanzania, Madagascar, Kenya, and Mauritius.

A ‘major step’ for Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys CEO Michael Ungerer said: “The event is another major step forward on our mission to redefine ocean travel for today’s discerning luxury travellers.

“Explora II – and her sister ship Explora I – will blend renowned destinations seen through a different lens and unique off-the-beaten-path ports, offering the next generation of luxury travellers highly curated, transformative and immersive experiences.”

Explora Journeys also confirmed that Explora I will be officially named on 8 July in Civitavecchia, Italy.

The ship will then transfer to Southampton for its inaugural cruise on 17 July, a 15-night sailing in Northern Europe to Copenhagen.

Ungerer added: “The announcement that Explora I will be named in just a few months from now in Civitavecchia is further proof that we are on track to get this exciting new lifestyle brand up and running and the first of our luxurious vessels at sea.”