Explora Journeys is giving a select group of travelers an early look at its next-generation luxury vessel. The luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group has announced A Mediterranean Prelude to Explora III—a one-time, invitation-only sailing set for July 24–29, 2026.
The exclusive prelude sailing will give guests a behind-the-scenes preview of Explora III, the brand’s third vessel, ahead of its official inaugural journey from Barcelona to Lisbon on August 3, 2026. The intimate five-night itinerary will sail from Genoa to Civitavecchia (Rome), tracing the French and Italian Rivieras with stops in Marseille, Saint-Tropez, Villefranche-sur-Mer and Livorno.
“This exclusive preview Journey is our way of honouring those who have grown with us and believed in our vision from the beginning,” Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, said in a statement. “It’s an intimate celebration of what’s to come—a chance to step aboard Explora III before her official debut, connect with the visionaries who brought her to life and discover how our Ocean State of Mind philosophy continues to evolve with every new chapter.”
The sailing will showcase not only the ship’s new design and amenities but also the individuals who helped bring it to life. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Explora Journeys’ leadership, designers and officers, offering rare insight into the creative process behind the brand’s distinctive take on modern ocean luxury.
Set to become the first LNG-powered ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, Explora III marks a significant milestone in MSC Group’s sustainability journey. The ship will feature 463 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences—all with private terraces—plus seven restaurants, 13 indoor and outdoor bars and lounges and newly reimagined Ocean Wellness spaces.
True to Explora Journeys’ European design sensibility, the ship promises an elevated, yacht-inspired atmosphere and a cosmopolitan onboard experience, with new culinary and lounge concepts expected to be revealed in the coming months.
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