Explora Journeys’ first ship will be named near Rome in Civitavecchia, Italy, on July 8.
Then the Explora I will relocate to Southampton, U.K., after its naming for an inaugural sailing departing July 17. The ship will sail a 15-day voyage in Northern Europe ending in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Explora I was originally scheduled to sail in May but the line announced late last year that the date would be pushed back to July due to supply chain issues.
Explora I is the first of six ships the new luxury brand plans to annually release through 2028.
The ship will have 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences and offer six restaurants and in-suite dining, along with 12 bars and lounges. Explora I will include four swimming pools, outdoor decks with private cabanas and wellness facilities.
Coin ceremony for Explora II
The line’s second ship was part of a coin ceremony on Wednesday, done to bless the ship and bring it good fortune. The event was held in Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard near Genoa, Italy, marking a milestone in the ship’s construction which began in October 2021.
The Explora II is expected to enter service in August 2024.
Explora Journeys is owned by MSC Group.