Fincantieri delivers EXPLORA III, third of six Explora Journeys vessels

CruiseFincantieri delivered EXPLORA III to Explora Journeys at its Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa on 23 July 2026, marking the halfway point of the MSC Group luxury brand's six-ship newbuilding programme. Three vessels are now in service, with EXPLORA IV and EXPLORA V due in 2027 and EXPLORA VI in 2028.

EXPLORA III is the first vessel in the series powered by liquefied natural gas, with capability to operate on bio-LNG, synthetic LNG and biofuels. Fincantieri states LNG reduces sulphur oxide emissions by 99 per cent, nitrogen oxide by 85 per cent, particulate matter by 98 per cent and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20 per cent against conventional marine fuels. EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI will additionally carry fuel cells. All vessels in the class are fitted with shore power connectivity.

Designed and built under RINA supervision, the vessel holds Green Plus and Comfort Noise and Vibration notations, the Dolphin notation for underwater radiated noise, and Polar Code C certification.

Fincantieri puts the total investment in the six-ship series at more than EUR 3.5 billion, with an estimated economic impact for Italy exceeding EUR 15 billion. The Sestri Ponente yard has delivered 18 vessels since 2003 and holds an orderbook running to 2037.

jul 24 2026