To coincide with World Oceans Day, Explora Journeys has announced the appointment of renowned marine educator, diving instructor, and National Geographic educator Cristina Ozores as godmother of EXPLORA III. A staunch advocate for marine conservation, Cristina will bring a leading voice from the ocean world to the launch of EXPLORA III, the first LNG-powered vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet.
Recognized for her work in ocean outreach and marine conservation, Cristina has developed innovative programs that connect people to the sea through direct experiences, fostering environmental responsibility and a lasting commitment to protecting the Mediterranean and the world's oceans for future generations. Since 2024, Vellmarí has collaborated with the MSC Foundation on Posidonia seagrass restoration projects and educational initiatives, underscoring a shared commitment to ocean literacy and community engagement—both essential for promoting genuine and lasting protection of marine ecosystems.
“Naming Cristina Ozores as the godmother of EXPLORA III on World Oceans Day has a very special meaning for us,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “Her commitment to ocean education and protection reflects values deeply rooted in our brand and the Ocean State of Mind philosophy that guides everything we do. Her inspiring journey and close connection to the sea make her the ideal person to fill this role.
“Being named godmother of EXPLORA III is not only an honor, but also a very exciting moment for me, especially on World Oceans Day,” said Cristina Ozores. “I have dedicated much of my life to working beneath the sea: studying marine biology, restoring seabeds, and helping new generations better understand the fragility of ocean ecosystems. Seeing that work symbolically linked to a ship that will travel the world has a very special meaning. I hope that EXPLORA III will become a space where people can discover the ocean from a deeper and more meaningful perspective, reconnecting with the beauty hidden beneath the surface.”
Following a centuries-old maritime tradition, the godmother serves as a symbolic figure of protection, bestowing her blessing and wishing good fortune upon the ship, its crew, and its guests. Cristina will officially assume this honor during the naming ceremony to be held in Barcelona on August 1, 2026, before the ship embarks on its maiden voyage two days later.
Following its naming ceremony in Barcelona, EXPLORA III will set sail for Lisbon on a seven-night inaugural voyage, marking the start of its Northern European season. During this first season, the ship will visit some of the continent's most spectacular destinations, including the fjords of Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland, before crossing the Atlantic to explore the autumnal landscapes of New England and the east coast of Canada.
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