Explora Journeys is on track to complete its plan for a six-ship fleet and is looking to expand into the river cruise market. The luxury cruise line intends to enhance its global itineraries following recent shipbuilding ceremonies held at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, Italy. Explora Journeys President Anna Nash emphasized the brand’s commitment to increasing capacity while maintaining a focus on customer preferences.
“Our approach to destination planning starts with listening,” Nash stated, highlighting that guest interest influences decision-making on new locations. The company is preparing for its Asian debut, with Explora III set to sail in September 2027. The ship will offer 28 itineraries through May 2028, visiting 47 destinations across nine countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Thailand.
Nash noted that expansion is not solely driven by customer interest but also hinges on the company’s ability to provide a consistent luxury experience that aligns with the Explora brand. She indicated that destinations are evaluated for their potential to create something unique for guests. “We look at destinations where we are not yet present and ask ourselves where there is genuine white space,” she explained.
This week, the float-out of Explora V and the coin ceremony for Explora VI marked significant milestones in the company’s €3.5 billion fleet investment program. These ships will join the fleet alongside Explora IV, which is slated for spring 2027. Explora V is expected to launch later that year, followed by Explora VI in summer 2028, completing the initial six-ship fleet.
“These ceremonies demonstrate the ability of Fincantieri and the MSC Group to maintain the pace of an ambitious shipbuilding program,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division. The new ships will expand the geographic coverage of Explora Journeys, which currently operates three vessels.
The Summer 2028 Journeys Collection will feature itineraries across 178 destinations in 27 countries, including routes in the Mediterranean and North America. Streets and infrastructure in new destinations present challenges for expansion, according to Nash. The company must work closely with local authorities to ensure adequate resources and commercial viability.
In addition to ocean expansion, Explora is preparing to enter the luxury river cruise market. The company has signed a letter of intent with Den Breejen Shipyard for its first river vessels. Nash acknowledged guest demand for river cruising and described it as a natural complement to their ocean offerings, allowing guests to explore destinations more deeply. Specific details about the river fleet are yet to be announced.
Explora Journeys is also focused on strengthening relationships with travel advisors, offering more destinations and increased earning potential. Nash noted that more capacity would provide advisors with greater flexibility to match clients with suitable journeys. Resources available through the Explora Travel Advisor Center will include training and marketing tools to assist advisors in maximizing their business.
As Explora Journeys prepares for significant growth, Nash emphasized the importance of maintaining the brand’s identity, with a focus on personalized service and distinctive luxury experiences. “A big part of that is the art of listening,” she said, underlining the company’s commitment to understanding guest needs and adapting accordingly.
