On 06SEP, Explora Journeys celebrated two maritime milestones at the Fincantieri shipyard near Genoa - the float out of the EXPLORA II, the start of its final construction phase, and the traditional steel cutting ceremony for the next ship in the fleet: EXPLORA III.
Explora II and III are the subsequent additions to a series of four luxury vessels commissioned by Explora Journeys. The celebration comes on the heels of the delivery of the small-ship cruise line's inaugural vessel, EXPLORA I, two months ago.
Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys, said, “The double event today marks another major step forward on our mission to redefine ocean travel for today’s discerning luxury travelers. Following the successful launch of EXPLORA I and the incredibly positive feedback from the first guests, travel advisors and media, who had a chance to experience the Ocean State of Mind, the story continues, and we are now beyond thrilled to witness the next important construction milestones for both EXPLORA II and our first LNG powered ship EXPLORA III.”
EXPLORA II will enter service in the Summer of 2024.
The float out is a traditional maritime event that represents a significant moment in the construction of a new ship as it is the first time that the ship will touch the water and will then enter the final phases of construction to complete interiors, fixtures and fittings.
With its maiden voyage planned for the summer of 2024, EXPLORA II will navigate the waters of the Mediterranean, exploring Italian destinations like Portofino, Sorrento, Rome, and the Emerald Coast.
Highlighting the brand's commitment to eco-friendly maritime solutions, EXPLORA III, set to sail in summer 2026, will be the fleet's first in using liquefied natural gas (LNG). As noted by Explora, LNG reduces emissions, including up to 99% sulphur and 85% nitrogen oxides. It's also curbing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 20%.
All Explora Journeys ships will showcase environmental and marine technologies, from efficient engine optimization systems to noise management to safeguard marine life.
The construction of EXPLORA IV, another LNG-fueled vessel, will commence in JAN 2024, with its launch set for early 2027.
For more information on Explora Journeys, visit its website.
