Explora Journeys’ fleet is forging ahead with construction as MSC Group and shipbuilder Fincantieri marked three significant milestones at the Sestri Ponente shipyard on July 14.
The shipyard played host to a triple celebration: the float-out of Explora III, the coin ceremony for Explora IV, and the steel-cutting for Explora V. These events underline MSC’s commitment to building a luxury fleet that’s not only elegant and modern, but also powered by cutting-edge sustainability technologies.
With Explora I and Explora II already in service, MSC’s luxury brand will see all six of its planned vessels fully operational by 2028. Explora III is slated for delivery next year, Explora IV and Explora V in 2027, and Explora VI in 2028. Additionally, the €3.5 billion investment in the fleet is expected to generate an economic impact of more than €15 billion across Italy.
”We are very pleased with the results Explora Journeys has already achieved globally, and with the positive feedback from our guests. Sustainability remains a top priority for our company,” stated Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group Passenger Division.
”The Explora Journeys fleet is a concrete example of how collaboration with the shipowner can translate into outstanding results, combining innovation, sustainability, and quality,” commented Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager, Fincantieri Merchant Ships Division.
Environmental advancements are a cornerstone of the project. Additionally, the ships include cold ironing capability to eliminate emissions in port, LNG propulsion for the last four vessels, selective catalytic reduction systems, and technology to reduce underwater noise. Explora V and VI will also feature fuel cells capable of converting LNG into hydrogen.
