Explora Journeys, the MSC Group's new luxury travel brand, today celebrated the Coin Ceremony for its first ship, EXPLORA I, which will embark on its maiden voyage in May 2023. This ancient tradition takes place when the first block or section of the ship is lowered onto the construction dock, where two veteran employees place two newly minted coins beneath the keel, symbolizing a blessing and good luck for the ship's future. At today's ceremony, the godmothers were Alessandra Fontana, Marketing Director of Explora Journeys, and Ester Fugazzi, Head of General Services at Fincantieri.
Explora Journeys was born from the vision of Pierfrancesco Vago, his wife Alexa, and the Aponte Vago family. Their nautical heritage, spanning over 300 years, fueled their desire to create a new category in travel and offer a unique ocean escape. EXPLORA I is being built in Monfalcone, Italy, by Fincantieri, one of the world's leading shipbuilding groups, in recognition of the family's Italian roots.
The event was attended by important figures, including Mr. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the MSC Group's Cruise Division, Mr. Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys, and Mr. Giuseppe Bono, CEO and Mr. Luigi Matarazzo, Managing Director, Director of Commercial Ships, Fincantieri.
Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys, commented , “Today marks another important milestone in our journey towards developing a truly defined and highly desirable luxury brand.”
Construction of EXPLORA II, the second ship in the fleet, began in November 2021 and it is scheduled to welcome its first guests in spring 2024. Two more new ships will join the fleet in 2025 and 2026, as part of the MSC Group's commitment to strengthening the Explora Journeys brand, created for the next generation of discerning luxury travelers.
