Explora Journeys today celebrated the launch of its ship EXPLORA I, a key milestone in its construction, with a ceremony at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. The first of the luxury cruise brand's four ships will be completed within 12 months, at the end of May 2023. EXPLORA II, whose keel-laying ceremony was held in early May, is also under construction and will be ready in the summer of 2024.
The launching is a critical moment for a ship, as it marks its first contact with the water. Following the traditional ceremony, the final stages of construction begin, completing the interior fittings and decoration. The event was attended by executives from the MSC Group's cruise division, Explora Journeys, and Fincantieri, as well as travel agents and media representatives from around the world.
A firm commitment to the environment
For Explora Journeys, it is important to have a positive impact on the destinations and communities where they take travelers. The four ships in their fleet will be equipped with the latest maritime and environmental technologies and will feature state-of-the-art selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology to reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 90%. They will also have ship-to-shore power capabilities to prevent emissions while docked and underwater noise management systems to help protect marine life. Furthermore, the ships will be fitted with a wide range of energy-efficient equipment to optimize engine use and minimize emissions.
During the ceremony, the company also announced that it will study the option of using liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines in its EXPLORA III and IV cruise ships.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group's Cruise Division, stated: “At Explora Journeys, we leverage the latest technological advancements to build the ships of the future, while adapting to alternative energy solutions as they become available. Likewise, our commitment to offering sustainable sea travel extends beyond maritime and environmental technologies: it is also present in the onboard experience.”
Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys, commented: “The launch of EXPLORA I is a significant moment in our roadmap to redefine ocean travel with a new luxury cruise brand, designed to connect travelers with the sea and with themselves. This event is a great opportunity for our valued partners to see firsthand the progress in the ship’s construction, but also to build excitement for the launch of EXPLORA I in 12 months.”
EXPLORA I will feature 461 waterfront suites, residences and penthouses, ten unique culinary experiences, ten indoor and outdoor bars and lounges with entertainment options, four pools with bars and restaurants, ample deck space, spas and gyms, among other facilities.
The EXPLORA I will make its maiden voyage through the Mediterranean at the end of May 2023, crossing from Barcelona to Athens. During its first year, the ship will call at 132 ports in 40 countries, including two destinations that will see a cruise ship arrive in their waters for the first time: Kastellorizo (Greece) and Saint Pierre (Martinique).
