Explora Journeys Marks Construction Milestone With Launch Of Bow Section For EXPLORA V

Explora Journeys today announced the successful launch of the bow section (Troncone) of EXPLORA V, the fifth of six luxury ships set to enter service by 2028.  This important milestone took place at Fincantieri’s Palermo shipyard in Sicily, where the section was transferred from land to water for the first time — a longstanding maritime tradition that signals the next phase of the ship’s construction.

 EXPLORA V, scheduled for delivery in 2027, continues the brand’s considered expansion and its vision for a more refined approach to ocean travel. Following initial outfitting in Palermo, the bow section will be transferred to Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, where construction will be completed.

 “We are pleased to mark the launch of the bow section of EXPLORA V, an important milestone in the continued development of our fleet,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “As we grow, we are introducing more guests to a new expression of ocean travel. We now look ahead to the delivery of EXPLORA III this July and her inaugural journeys, from the Mediterranean to Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland.”

Reaching this milestone further highlights the expertise and dedication of the Fincantieri team, whose craftsmanship is essential in ensuring that EXPLORA V, and all of the fleet, meets the highest standards of performance, innovation, and luxury. The ship will join Explora Journeys’ growing fleet, designed to offer space, time and a deeper connection to the Ocean State of Mind – connecting guests with the sea and the world around them.

Each vessel is an expression of Italian shipbuilding expertise, introducing design innovation and advanced technologies that push the boundaries of excellence at sea. All upcoming ships in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA III through VI, will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) as part of the brand’s long-term commitment to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions for its marine operations by 2050, alongside ongoing investment in advanced environmental technologies.

Over €3.5 billion has been invested by the Cruise Division of the MSC Group in Explora Journeys’ six ships, all constructed by Fincantieri – reflecting the Group’s broader commitment to the Italian maritime sector. When combined with the four MSC Cruises ships previously built by Fincantieri, the Group’s total investment reaches approximately €7 billion. The construction of each ship requires over seven million work hours and provides employment for an average of 2,500 people over two to three years.

EXPLORA I has been sailing since 1 August 2023, marking the debut of Explora Journeys’ luxury fleet. The second ship, EXPLORA II, was delivered on 12 September 2024. EXPLORA III will sail for the first time in July 2026, while EXPLORA IV and EXPLORA V will enter service in 2027, all powered by LNG. EXPLORA VI is set to join the fleet in 2028, continuing the brand’s ambitious growth and commitment to sustainable innovation.