Explora Journeys has outlined the launch schedule for its planned fleet of six ships after it officially named its first vessel, Explora I, in New York.

The maritime tradition of cutting a ribbon to break a bottle of champagne on the ship’s bow to officially name the ship and bring good luck was carried out by the vessel’s godmother Dr Sylvia Earle at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

Executive chair of the cruise division of the MSC Group Pierfrancesco Vago described the new ship as a “game-changer”.

“We are offering journeys that redefine the very essence of luxurious ocean travel,” he added. “We are looking to attract a wider group of discerning travellers who have experienced the finest luxury land-based resorts but seek more value, more authenticity, and a deeper connection to the world.”

Explora Journeys sets out plan for future vessels

Explora I, the first of six luxury ships constructed by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri in a deal valued at €3.5 billion, began sailing in July this year with a series of journeys in Northern Europe before crossing the Atlantic to New York with visits en route to Iceland, Greenland and Canada.

The vessel will spend the autumn in North America, the winter in the Caribbean and spring on the US West Coast and Hawaii before returning to Europe in summer 2024 for a series of sailings in the Mediterranean.

Explora II will enter service in summer 2024 and operate until April 2025 in the Mediterranean and the Middle East, with Explora III and Explora IV set to enter service in 2026 and 2027 respectively.

Explora V and Explora VI will enter service in 2027 and 2028 respectively and both will pursue the use of liquid hydrogen with fuel cells for their hotel operations while docked in ports to eliminate carbon emissions with the vessels’ engines switched off.