Explora I In New York City Marks Explora Journeys’ Debut In The U.S.

Explora Journeys’ first ship calls at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal to begin her inaugural North American itinerary sailing to the U.S. and Canada’s East Coast

New York City, 26 September 2023 – The port of New York City has welcomed EXPLORA I for her maiden call to mark Explora Journeys’ debut in the U.S. The luxury ship is the first of a fleet of six ships of the luxury travel brand of the MSC Group.

The maritime tradition of a crest exchange to celebrate a ship’s first visit to a destination took place on board the vessel at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal between the ship’s master Captain Diego Michelozzi and Captain Zeita Merchant, Commanding Officer of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector New York.

Michael Ungerer, CEO, Explora Journeys, said, “We are very proud to bring our extraordinary new ship, EXPLORA I, to New York City. New York City is one of the most important destinations in the Northeastern U.S. and it is an honor to showcase our highly anticipated new ship and luxury experience in the North American market. Our team has worked tirelessly to push the boundaries of innovation and excellence to create a product that we are thrilled for guests to see when they embark in New York City.”

EXPLORA I set sail for her inaugural East Coast U.S. and Canada voyage following the maiden call in New York.  The itinerary will call Boston, Massachusetts in the U.S. and Saint John, Bay of Fundy and Quebec City in Canada. The luxury ship will then sail two additional 7-night journeys along the East Coast of the U.S. and Canada, before heading to Miami, Florida for the beginning of the Caribbean season.

Mr Ungerer added, “Throughout these journeys, our guests will experience the authentic and bespoke experiences offered by Explora Journeys. With best-in-class service, exquisite onboard offerings and immersive destination experiences, they will reach an ‘Ocean State of Mind’. A balanced blend of on- and off-the-beaten-path destinations will allow our guests on EXPLORA I to indulge in authentic cultural experiences and a slower pace of travel, leaving them rejuvenated and inspired.”

EXPLORA I is equipped with the latest environmental and marine technologies, including selective catalytic reduction technology, shore power plug-in connectivity, underwater noise management systems to protect marine life and a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimize engine use to further reduce emissions.

EXPLORA I first set sail in July 2023.  EXPLORA II will enter service in summer 2024 and operate until April 2025 in the Mediterranean Sea and the Middle East. EXPLORA III and EXPLORA IV will both be powered by liquefied natural gas and enter service in 2026 and 2027 respectively.  EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI will both be powered by hydrogen and enter service in 2027 and 2028 respectively.