Details of Explora III’s first sailings revealedDetails of Explora III’s first sailings revealed

Explora Journeys shared more information on Explora III – the third of its six luxury ships and the first to be powered by LNG. 

Destinations

In summer 2026, the ship will start sailing in Western Europe with a visit to Bordeaux in France, before heading to Northern Europe. Explora III will depart Southampton, UK on August 17, 2026 and visit destinations in the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Estonia, Sweden and Germany before making its way to Iceland and Greenland. 

The ship will arrive on September 27 in Quebec City before continuing its journey along the East Coast of Canada and North America, including a visit to New York City.  

Explora III will arrive in Miami on October 25, before setting sail for a winter season in the Caribbean Sea. 

Reached halfway point

Anna Nash, president, Explora Journeys, said, ‘With Explora III, we are thrilled to reach the halfway point in the launch of our fleet of six luxury ships, each designed to redefine the standards of ocean travel. 

‘This milestone represents more than just growth; it underscores our dedication to offering guests unparalleled access to some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.

‘By expanding our fleet, we are able to offer a greater variety of itineraries, immersing travellers in diverse cultures, landscapes, and unique moments across the globe.’ 

Related:Explora II floated out and steel cut for LNG-powered Explora III

Cabins

Explora III will have 463 suites, slightly more than Explora I and II, including 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Ocean Penthouses, 39 Ocean Residences and two Owner’s Residences.

There will be 18.7 sq m of public space per passenger.

Ocean Penthouses will account for 24% of the suite inventory and Ocean Residences have increased to 9% of the total inventory. Explora III will also have an additional Owner’s Residence on deck 7.  

Food and beverage

Explora Journeys' signature dining concepts return on Explora III, including Anthology, Sakura, Fil Rouge, Med Yacht Club, Marble & Co. Grill and Emporium Marketplace. 

Wellness 

Ocean Wellness and Fitness has been reimagined to offer a unified space dedicated to wellbeing. The enhanced area includes Ocean Wellness – The Spa and a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre and Fitness Studio, created in partnership with Technogym. An open-air fitness area will feature on deck 14 and an extended running track along deck 12. An expanded Sports Court will offer pickleball, paddle and basketball. 

Kids clubs 

The Nautilus Club has been enhanced with dedicated spaces for children and teenagers. Nautilus Club Juniors is tailored for children aged three to five years and will include six hours of daily baby care services. Nautilus Club Teens is an area for children aged six to 17 with activities and experiences designed for older children and teenagers.

Private functions

In addition, Explora III will have three meeting rooms for corporate gatherings or private functions on deck 11 which can be altered into one larger area. 

Sustainability

Explora III will be equipped with shore power capability, advanced energy efficiency features, and as the first LNG-powered vessel in the Explora Journeys’ fleet, will be enabled for the direct transition to drop-in bio-LNG and synthetic LNG.