EXPLORA III: The Journey of a New Ship
In maritime tradition, the life of a ship begins long before she welcomes her first guests on board. Every stage of her creation is marked by ceremonies that honour centuries-old seafaring customs—moments that celebrate craftsmanship, signify progress, and bestow good fortune upon the vessel and all who will sail on her.
From the first steel cutting to her naming ceremony and Maiden Journey, each milestone carries profound significance, linking the future of the ship with the rich heritage of the maritime world. These milestones are especially meaningful to the Aponte family, with over 300 years of seafaring heritage.
For EXPLORA III, these moments tell the story of a vessel designed to redefine luxury ocean travel while remaining deeply connected to the traditions that have guided shipbuilding for generations.
The Steel-Cutting Ceremony: A Vision Takes Shape
Every ship's story begins with the cutting of the first steel plate. More than a technical milestone, the steel-cutting ceremony marks the official birth of the vessel. It is the moment when vision becomes reality and construction begins in earnest.
For EXPLORA III, this ceremony held on 6 September 2023 at Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente shipyard near Genoa, Italy, represented the start of a new chapter in the evolution of Explora Journeys. It signalled the transformation of months of design, innovation, and planning into a tangible creation that would eventually take her place among the fleet.
Keel Laying: The Ship's Ceremonial Foundation
Traditionally considered one of the most important milestones in shipbuilding, the keel laying marks the installation of the first major block of a vessel. Historically, the keel formed the backbone of a ship, and although modern construction techniques have evolved, the ceremony remains a powerful symbol of a ship’s strength and stability.
During the keel-laying ceremony, commemorative coins were placed within the ship’s hull by two Godmothers, chosen from within the teams at Explora Journeys and Fincantieri. Dating back centuries, this maritime tradition is believed to bring prosperity, protection, and good fortune throughout the vessel's lifetime.
For EXPLORA III, the keel laying on 12 September 2024 represented more than progress in construction—it symbolised the foundation upon which countless future journeys would be built.
Float-Out: Meeting the Water
One of the most emotional moments in a ship's creation is the float-out ceremony. As construction advances and the vessel first enters the water, she begins the transition from a structure built on land to a ship destined to explore the world's oceans.
For shipbuilders and maritime communities, this moment serves as a celebration of the expertise, dedication, and craftsmanship that have brought the ship to this point.
For EXPLORA III, 14 July 2025 was the moment when her elegant silhouette first reflected upon the waters she will sail.
Sea Trials: Testing Excellence
Before welcoming guests on board, every new vessel undergoes rigorous sea trials. While less ceremonial than other milestones, these trials are among the most important stages of a ship's journey.
Conducted in open waters, sea trials assess navigation systems, propulsion, manoeuvrability, safety features, and operational performance. Every aspect is tested to ensure the vessel meets the highest standards of safety, reliability, and comfort.
For EXPLORA III, the completion of her sea trials on 1 June 2026 represented the culmination of years of expertise, proving not only her technical capabilities but also her readiness to deliver the effortless experience that defines Explora Journeys.
Delivery Ceremony: From Shipyard to Sea
The delivery ceremony marks the official handover of a ship from shipbuilder to owner, celebrating the culmination of years of craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication. For EXPLORA III, on 23 July 2026 this milestone is especially significant as she becomes the first LNG-powered vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet, representing the next evolution of ultra-elegant ocean travel. It is the moment she officially joins the fleet and prepares to welcome her first guests on board.
The Naming Ceremony: Bestowing Identity and Blessing
Few maritime traditions are as cherished as the Naming Ceremony for a new ship. For centuries, ships have been formally christened before entering service, a ritual intended to bring protection and good fortune to the vessel, her crew, and her passengers.
Central to this ceremony is the ship's Godmother. For EXPLORA III, on August 1st 2026, this honour has been bestowed upon marine educator, conservationist, and co-founder of Vellmarí, Cristina Ozores. As with all ship Godmothers, Cristina is a symbolic guardian who bestows her blessing upon the vessel and remains forever connected to her story. Through the ceremonial naming and the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle against the hull, the Godmother marks the ship's official entry into service.
The Maiden Journey: A New Chapter Begins
The final milestone is perhaps the most anticipated of all: the Maiden Journey.
For generations of seafarers, a vessel's first voyage has symbolised adventure, discovery, and the fulfilment of a long-held ambition. It marks the moment when years of design, craftsmanship, and dedication finally come together at sea.
For EXPLORA III, the Maiden Journey represents far more than the start of a new itinerary. It is the beginning of a lifetime of extraordinary experiences, meaningful discoveries, and an enduring invitation to our Guests to discover the Ocean State of Mind across the world's most captivating destinations.
