Michael Ungerer at the helm

The Austrian becomes CEO of the new MSC luxury brand "Explora Journeys"

With its new luxury cruise brand "Explora Journeys", MSC wants to redefine travel at sea. With a passenger-to-crew ratio of 1.25 to 1, beautifully designed public areas, floor-to-ceiling windows in the 461 suites measuring at least 30 square meters with private terraces, an outstanding culinary concept and a service that leaves nothing to be desired, this is to be achieved, among other things. One of the reasons for this is that an extraordinary routing will also contribute to the unforgettable Explora Journeys. In addition to well-known ports, the itinerary will also include smaller ports. And best of all: the latest environmentally friendly and maritime technologies will be used on the four planned ships.

The plans of MSC Cruises, the largest privately managed shipping company, have been known since 2018. However, the long-awaited steel cut has now taken place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy for the first of them, which will sail in 2023. The sister ships will follow annually until 2026.

Austrian-born Michael Ungerer will be responsible for all aspects of the design, development and implementation of Explora Journeys. As Chief Executive Officer, the 56-year-old will recruit and lead a highly talented international team with a broad range of experience in brand building and the luxury hospitality segment. Ungerer, who has held various leadership positions at Carnival Corporation in different regions and brands, including President of AIDA Cruises, senior positions at brands such as Norwegian Cruise Line, Sonesta Resorts and The Ritz-Carlton and most recently as COO of Carnival Asia, impresses with his guest-centric mindset and extensive knowledge of the travel industry. The economics graduate brings his extensive expertise in emerging markets and an understanding of family businesses to the brand development of Explora Journeys.

From 2013 to 2015, Michael Ungerer was the founding chairman of CLIA Germany, the industry association representing the interests of the German cruise industry, and is now an active member of the WTTC Sustainability Committee. Sustainability and CSR are very close to the Austrian's heart, as he believes that both business and travel should be a force for good. Ungerer will be based at the headquarters in Geneva and report to Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises.

Text: Claudia Hilmbauer
Further information: www.explorajourneys.com