Explora Journeys and Fincantieri today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOA) for the construction of two additional hydrogen-powered luxury cruise ships, increasing their fleet from four to six vessels. The two new ships will enter service in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
The EXPLORA V and VI will feature a new generation of liquefied natural gas (LNG) engines that will solve the problem of methane slippage. They will also be equipped with industry-leading environmental technologies and solutions, including a liquid hydrogen containment system that will allow them to use this promising low-carbon fuel.
Explora Journeys has also announced that the previously announced ships, the EXPLORA III and IV, will operate on LNG. The dimensions of both vessels will be increased by 19 meters to accommodate a new liquefied natural gas and hydrogen-based power generation system. This change has allowed for an improved suite offering, with a greater number of spacious and luxurious residences with ocean views and larger, more comfortable public areas designed to make travelers feel at home.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group's Cruise Division, stated: "Explora Journeys is building the ships of the future by using the latest technologies and is prepared to adapt to alternative energy solutions as they become available. Today's announcement marks another important step towards our company's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 across all our cruise operations for both brands."
The two additional vessels included in the MOA announced today will raise Explora Journeys' investment in its fleet to over €3.5 billion. This includes an additional €120 million in each case to equip the EXPLORA III and IV with LNG engines. The change has required a temporary halt to construction, and the ships will now be delivered in 2026 and 2027, respectively.
Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys, added: “These consistent decisions to modify our construction plans demonstrate our commitment to operating cruises that appeal to the next generation of luxury travelers. Sustainability is the new excellence, and we are proud to adopt this pioneering position within the industry and the broader travel sector.”
“These ships will allow us to implement cutting-edge technologies designed to significantly improve environmental performance, laying the foundation for future advancements,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri. “We are convinced that sustainability is a key factor in ensuring our medium- and long-term growth.”
The six ships in the Explora Journeys fleet will be equipped with the latest environmental and marine technologies. Among other features, they will have the latest selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology, which reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 90 percent. They will also have connectivity to the shore power grid to reduce emissions while in port, and underwater noise management systems to help protect marine life. To further reduce emissions, all six vessels will include a wide range of energy-efficient equipment to optimize engine use.
