Cruise redefined

MSC Group launches new luxury cruise brand

1.25:1 - what at first glance looks like a strange soccer score is actually the planned future guest-crew ratio on MSC ships of the Explora Journeys brand. Doesn't mean anything to you? No wonder, as the first of the new luxury ships will not set sail until 2023. Breathtaking discoveries and the ship as a place of longing for discerning travelers - that is the brand promise.


461 suites on 14 decks

Not even the first of the four luxury ships built by Fincantieri is ready yet. But when the Explora I sets sail in 2023, it has big plans. She is set to kick off a new travel experience on the high seas and pave the way for her sister ships, which are expected to be completed in 2024, 2025 and 2026. In addition to the highest standards and unparalleled amenities, the ship's facilities and exceptional routing are designed to get passengers' hearts racing. The 461 suites offer their guests a fantastic view of the sea and the ports of call through floor-to-ceiling windows and private terraces. The smallest of them is 35 square meters in size, making it one of the most spacious in this cruise category. It goes without saying that no expense is spared when it comes to the interior. Each suite will be furnished to a high standard down to the smallest detail.

The luxurious experience continues in the public areas. Flexible dining times in nine different restaurants allow guests to plan their day according to their own rhythm. The menus are tailored to personal preferences and prepared using healthy ingredients. Products from sustainable and local partners are used. Indoor and outdoor lounges and bars invite you to unwind. There is also a wellness area with spa and fitness studio. Guests can both relax and work out in the spacious indoor and outdoor areas. Treatment rooms, individual programs and tailor-made wellness experiences round off the offer.

"Explora Journeys was developed for guests who want to stay longer, leave later and experience more," says Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys. "Guest centricity is at the heart of everything we do. We have commissioned studies, defined target groups and held intensive discussions with luxury specialists to design the perfect ship for our guests. Explora Journeys is creating a new perspective in the travel industry and reinventing the classic cruise experience for the next generation of luxury travelers." Unusual arrival and departure times combined with overnight stays and a mix of familiar ports and unusual itineraries as part of the program also ensure this.


Looking to the future

The ships for Explora Journeys are built in such a way that they already use the latest environmentally friendly technologies, but can be converted at any time as soon as alternative energy solutions are available. There is no single-use plastic on board, all ships are supplied with shore power in port and have a catalytic reduction system that enables a 90 percent reduction in nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions.
Bookings are possible from fall 2021.

Further information: www.explorajourneys.com


Text: Claudia Hilmbauer