Explora Journeys has announced the successful launch of the bow section (Troncone) of EXPLORA V, the fifth of six luxury ships set to enter service by 2028. The milestone took place at Fincantieri’s Palermo shipyard in Sicily, where the section was transferred from land to water for the first time.
With EXPLORA V scheduled for delivery in 2027, and following initial outfitting in Palermo, the bow section will be transferred to Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, where construction will be completed.
“We are pleased to mark the launch of the bow section of EXPLORA V, an important milestone in the continued development of our fleet,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “As we grow, we are introducing more guests to a new expression of ocean travel. We now look ahead to the delivery of EXPLORA III this July and her inaugural journeys, from the Mediterranean to Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland.”
Over €3.5 billion has been invested by the Cruise Division of the MSC Group in Explora Journey’’ six ships, all constructed by Fincantieri . When combined with the four MSC Cruises ships previously built by Fincantieri, the Group’s total investment reaches approximately €7 billion.
EXPLORA I has been sailing since 1 August 2023, marking the debut of Explora Journeys’ luxury fleet. The second ship, EXPLORA II, was delivered on 12 September 2024. EXPLORA III will sail for the first time in July 2026, while EXPLORA IV and EXPLORA V will enter service in 2027, all powered by LNG. EXPLORA VI is set to join the fleet in 2028.
