EXPLORA III: Setting Sail in 2026
Explora Journeys has shared new details about the upcoming EXPLORA III, which will embark on its first voyages in the summer of 2026. This luxurious cruise ship is designed to be a sophisticated and comfortable retreat at sea, featuring 463 expansive Ocean Suites, Penthouses, and Residences, alongside acclaimed dining and wellness experiences inspired by the ocean.
Exploring Scenic Routes
In its inaugural season, EXPLORA III will offer passengers breathtaking journeys along Northern Europe’s rugged coastlines, the enchanting landscapes of Iceland and Greenland, and the lively vistas of North America’s East Coast. The ship will then head to the Caribbean for the winter of 2026/2027, delivering a refreshed concept of luxury ocean travel.
“With EXPLORA III, we are thrilled to reach the halfway point in the launch of our fleet of six luxury ships, each designed to redefine the standards of ocean travel. This milestone represents more than just growth; it underscores our dedication to offering guests unparalleled access to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. By expanding our fleet, we are able to offer a greater variety of itineraries, immersing travelers in diverse cultures, landscapes, and unique moments across the globe.”
Anna Nash
President, Explora Journeys
A Spacious Retreat on the Ocean
EXPLORA III has been crafted with guests’ comfort in mind, boasting more space than ever before. It offers an impressive amount of public space per guest, with 18.7 square meters per person, making it one of the highest in the industry. The ship includes 463 roomy suites, slightly more than its predecessors, EXPLORA I and II, ensuring a relaxed environment for everyone on board.
Luxurious Accommodations
The ship’s design prioritizes high-end suite categories, providing more luxurious and spacious accommodation options. The Ocean Penthouses make up 24% of the suites, and Ocean Residences account for 9% of the total. EXPLORA III also includes an additional Owner’s Residence on Deck 7 and revamped Cove Residences, allowing guests to choose their preferred suite layout.
Exquisite Dining Options
EXPLORA III continues Explora Journeys’ tradition of outstanding dining experiences, introducing new culinary concepts along with beloved favorites. Guests can savor gourmet meals at diverse venues, including Anthology, Sakura, Fil Rouge, Med Yacht Club, Marble & Co. Grill, and Emporium Marketplace, offering both casual and fine dining options.
Revamped Wellness and Fitness
The Ocean Wellness and Fitness area has been thoughtfully redesigned to provide a holistic wellbeing space. It features Ocean Wellness – The Spa, offering sea-inspired treatments, a top-notch Fitness Centre and Studio with advanced training equipment from Technogym, and an Open-Air Fitness area on Deck 14 with stunning ocean views. The Sports Court has been expanded to include Pickleball, Paddle, and Basketball.
Family-Friendly Features
The Nautilus Club on EXPLORA III offers enriched spaces and curated experiences for children and teens. A dedicated team of expert hosts ensures unforgettable experiences for younger guests, promoting creativity and fun. The Nautilus Club Juniors caters to children aged 3 to 5, providing six hours of daily baby care services. The Nautilus Club Teens, for ages 6 to 17, offers activities to inspire and entertain older kids and teenagers.
Flexible Meeting Spaces
EXPLORA III provides elegant meeting rooms on Deck 11, perfect for business events, functions, and video conferences. These adaptable spaces can be divided into three separate rooms, making them ideal for corporate gatherings or private events, all in the luxurious setting of the ship.
Spectacular Itineraries
EXPLORA III is set to take travelers on remarkable journeys to some of the world’s most beautiful and dramatic locations. In summer 2026, the ship will cruise through Western Europe, starting in Bordeaux, France, before venturing to Northern Europe. Beginning in Southampton on August 17, 2026, it will visit the Netherlands, Norway, Estonia, Sweden, and Germany, then continue to Iceland and Greenland. Guests can explore unique ports like Rønne in Denmark, Nanortalik and Paamiut in Greenland, and Seyðisfjörður in Iceland.
On September 27, EXPLORA III will arrive in Quebec City, Canada, before traveling to the East Coast of the United States and Canada, including New York City and the Magdalen Islands. The ship will reach Miami on October 25, 2026, before heading to the Caribbean for the winter season, offering a luxurious escape to tropical destinations.
Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
EXPLORA III is the first ship in the fleet to be powered by LNG, reflecting the brand’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. Explora Journeys views LNG as a bridge towards using bio-LNG and synthetic LNG, which can potentially cut greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80% from production to usage. The brand continues to work on decarbonizing its marine operations, focusing on developing new technologies, energy-efficient practices, and transitioning to renewable fuels. EXPLORA III aligns with this strategy, featuring shore power capabilities and advanced energy efficiency features.
YOU ASKED…
What is the launch date for EXPLORA III?
EXPLORA III is scheduled to set sail in the summer of 2026.
What are some of the destinations EXPLORA III will visit?
The ship will explore Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, North America’s East Coast, and the Caribbean.
What sustainable features does EXPLORA III have?
EXPLORA III is the first LNG-powered ship in the fleet, with advanced energy efficiency features and shore power capabilities.
What amenities are available for families on EXPLORA III?
The Nautilus Club offers tailored experiences for children and teens, with dedicated spaces and expert hosts to ensure a fun and engaging journey.
Editor’s Note: All listed prices were correct at the time of publication. This article contains editorial selections and paid partnerships. Please note that this article may contain some affiliate links to products and we may receive a commission for selected purchases.
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