Explora Journeys, the luxury brand of the MSC Group, today unveils a new interpretation of its Owner's Residence through an exclusive collaboration with Patricia Urquiola, one of the world's most renowned architects and designers. This collaboration, which will debut aboard EXPLORA III in the summer of 2026 and EXPLORA IV in 2027, incorporates a second Owner's Residence on each of these ships and reflects a shared vision of the art of experiencing the ocean in a contemporary way: an emotional and sensory journey through design, light, and movement.
Renowned for her distinctive vision, people-centered approach, and mastery of materials, Patricia Urquiola brings her unique perspective to EXPLORA III for the first time. The ship will make its Mediterranean debut on July 24, before embarking on its maiden voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon on August 3, and will later continue with voyages to new destinations in Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland. EXPLORA III will be the first Explora Journeys ship to offer two Owner's Residences.
Located aft on decks 7 and 8, the Owner's Residences are the most exclusive and spacious living areas aboard EXPLORA III. Each boasts 280 meticulously designed square meters , 125 of which comprise a spectacular terrace spanning the width of the ship. The Owner's Residence designed by Patricia Urquiola is situated on deck 7 and offers uninterrupted views of the ship's wake, establishing a constant connection with the ocean. With expansive windows that transform the sea into a living work of art, the 155-square-meter interior features an elegant living and dining area and a spacious bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.
“Patricia’s work reflects a sensibility that fits naturally with Explora Journeys,” says Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “She understands how thoughtful design can evoke emotions and how the right balance of light, texture, and form immediately creates a sense of well-being. This is key to our Ocean State of Mind concept, which invites guests to slow down and feel fully connected to their surroundings. In the Owner’s Residence, Patricia has translated this philosophy into generous, serene spaces that are deeply connected to the sea.
“I conceived the Owner’s Residence as a space that is inhabited both physically and visually, where textures and materials create a sense of protection without losing the openness to the movement of the sea. For me, it’s about generating a true sense of belonging on the water. The project has grown from a long-standing relationship of trust and constant dialogue with the Aponte family, and that is precisely what it reflects, explains Patricia Urquiola.
Inspired by a Mediterranean sensibility—earthy tones, warm, sun-drenched neutrals, and natural textures—the Owner's Residence, designed by Patricia Urquiola, is conceived as an intimate sanctuary that moves to the rhythm of the sea. A space defined by light, proportions, and materiality, it is designed to invite calm and presence, and to redefine what it means to feel at home on the high seas. A reflection of exceptional craftsmanship, it features a carefully curated selection of iconic Cassina—many designed by Urquiola herself—along with creations by Kettal and Moroso, blending the heritage of Italian design with contemporary style. Every element has been precisely chosen to convey tranquility, comfort, and a genuine emotional connection.
Urquiola's palette celebrates bronze-toned metals that capture the ever-changing light, while Cipollino and Travertine lend a mineral warmth. Fluted woods introduce soft, undulating textures, complemented by oak parquet flooring, terracotta modules, and enveloping fabrics that create a tactile and serene harmony. The materials are delicately layered, selected for their interaction with light. Their fluid composition allows each space to blend seamlessly into the next, imbuing the entire residence with a sense of tranquility and unhurried comfort.
The bedroom, complemented by a spacious dressing room, features a custom-designed king-size bed dressed in high-quality linens, the Liquefy by Urquiola for Glas Italia , and a Ruff by Moroso. The marble bathroom includes a double vanity, a generous bathtub, a separate rain shower, and a steam room.
In the living area, Patricia Urquiola's design is expressed through her Sengu table for eight , paired with Dudety chairs and her Sengu sofa system . Oru stools by Andreu World provide seating at the bar. A powder room and a private pantry complete the space, while soft, diffused lighting—with pieces like the Nocta II lamp by Denis Castaing for Kolkhoze and the AM1N by Franco Albini for Nemo Lighting —adds depth and artistic character to the entire residence.
The transition between the interior and the terrace is enhanced by an elegant, custom-sculpted marble architectural paneling—a continuous boiserie—that extends for nearly 90 linear meters. On the terrace, guests can enjoy uninterrupted ocean views from the spacious jacuzzi, gather around the outdoor dining table, or relax in the comfortable outdoor lounge areas.
The residence can accommodate up to four adults when connected to an Ocean Terrace Suite, and offers the personalized service of a Residence Manager and his team of private butlers, who ensure that every detail is perfectly taken care of.
With this collaboration, Explora Journeys reaffirms its commitment to partnering with visionary minds that are redefining life at sea. Owner's Residence stands as a symbol of this philosophy, offering a residential space that elevates the experience of every new horizon.
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