This week the luxury boutique line Explora Journeys unveiled some enticing “new ship intel” about Explora III, a slightly larger sister to Explora I and Explora II. Launching in 2026, this intimate new ship will offer one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry.
With more than 200 square feet of public space per guest, travelers will relax and socialize in comfort. They’ll have plenty of room to spread out.
(Shown above is a rendering of Explora III. Photo by Explora Journeys.)
Residential, Yacht-Like Feel
Guests will discover a residential, yacht-like feel with multiple activity options. They will find everything from culinary experiences to enrichment programming, pampering spa treatments, pool play and wellness activities.
In addition, outdoor spaces will be expanded, compared with what’s on Explora Journeys’ first two ships.
As for the luxurious accommodations, guests will stay in 463 spacious, well-appointed Ocean Suites, Penthouses and Residences. That’s slightly more in quantity than offered by sisters Explora I and Explora II, which are now sailing the world’s oceans.
A Sustainable Focus
Another highlight? Explora III will stand out environmentally. It will become the first ship in the Explora Journeys fleet powered by clean-burning, liquid natural gas (LNG).
And it will have shore power capabilities. So, if ports are properly equipped, the ship can “plug into” shore power — eliminating the need to run engines in port.
Inaugural Season 2026
“With Explora III, we are thrilled to reach the halfway point in the launch of our fleet of six luxury ships, each designed to redefine the standards of ocean travel,” says Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys.
But she emphasizes this important point: “This milestone represents more than just growth. By expanding our fleet, we are able to offer a greater variety of itineraries.”
New Ship Intel: 2026 Debut!
So, where will Explora III sail? Here’s the scoop!
During the ship’s 2026 inaugural season, the ship will begin sailing through Western Europe with a visit to Bordeaux, France, before heading to Northern Europe.
In one option, the new ship will sail a “Journey of Buzzing Beachside Vibes & Timeless Lyrical Charm.” Departing August 3, 2026, this seven-night cruise will explore the western Mediterranean. See the route with the map below.
The ship will sail from Barcelona, Spain, to Lisbon, Portugal. At press time, pricing started at $6,160 per person, double occupancy, and that pricing includes a promotion (to receive that, travelers must book by December 18, 2024, and the deposit will be just 10 percent).
Starting in Southampton on August 17, 2026, the ship will then call at destinations in the Netherlands, Norway, Estonia, Sweden, and Germany. Next up are calls in Iceland and Greenland.
New Ship Intel: More about Itineraries
For cruise guests who love to “collect” destinations, the new itineraries will take guests to such off-the-beaten-path spots as Ronne, Denmark; Nanortalik and Paamiut, both in Greenland; and Seydisfjordour, Iceland.
We particularly suggest checking out the new Explora III voyage that calls at both of those remote Greenland destinations. An 11-night “Journey through Rugged Landscapes & Remote Coastal Scenery” itinerary will depart Reykjavik, Iceland, for Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. It departs September 17, 2026.
With only a few residents, Paamiut is often considered a “best-kept secret” by those who visit. Travelers can sip from a mug of kaffemik coffee, listen to Arctic tales and gaze at colorful Arctic buildings.
They might also tour a museum or enjoy the great outdoors. Hiking on trails can deliver scenic views of untouched landscapes and possibly white-tailed eagles.
At press time, pricing started at $7,760 per person, double occupancy. Guests must book prior to December 18, 2024, though, to take advantage of that deal — which represents a savings of 20 percent. Only a 5 percent deposit is required.
“Then start anticipating a luxurious cruise that allows you to feel you’re on your own private yacht,” says Shelby Steudle, president, Pavlus Travel. “You’ll also receive an array of inclusive experiences, so talk with your personal travel planner today about this great deal.”
North America and the Caribbean
On September 27, 2026, Explora III will arrive in Quebec City, Canada, before continuing toward the Canadian and U.S. East Coast. The ship will call at such spots as New York City and the Magdalen Islands, Canada.
Later the following month, the ship will arrive in Miami, FL. Then it will head to the Caribbean for a 2026-2027 winter season of voyages.
A Spacious Haven at Sea
Now, we’d like to give a bit more detail about Explora III’s enhancements, and we’ve provided as much as possible, given that not everything has yet been revealed.
Designed to elevate the guest experience, the new ship’s layout includes a focus on higher suite categories. So, it can provide even more luxurious, inclusive and spacious accommodations.
Among these are the Ocean Penthouses. They will account for 24 percent of all suite inventory.
In addition, the sumptuous Ocean Residences have increased to 9 percent of the total suite inventory. Another change? Explora III will introduce an additional Owner’s Residence on Deck 7.
Plus, the vessel will offer redefined Cove Residences. In total, guests can choose their ideal suite from a selection of 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Ocean Penthouses, 39 Ocean Residences and two Owner’s Residences. Chat with your personal travel planner about the full range of luxurious options.
New Ship Intel: Cuisine
Past guests who loved the dining on Explora Journeys will be happy to know that the line’s signature dining concepts will indeed return on Explora III. We’ve heard good reports back from many guests in that regard.
So, yes, Explora III will offer both fine dining and casual eateries. Plus, there will be additional new dining options.
Guests will indulge in a wide variety of gourmet dining experiences. They can head to such favorites as Anthology, Sakura, Fil Rouge, Med Yacht Club, Marble & Co. Grill, and Emporium Marketplace.
Redefined Wellness and Fitness
Ocean Wellness and Fitness, the luxury line’s wellness concept, is being thoughtfully reimagined. Now, the concept will provide a unified space dedicated to wellbeing. So, guests will find the following:
- Ocean Wellness – The Spa, a serene sanctuary offering experiences inspired by the power of the sea.
- A state-of-the-art Fitness Center and Fitness Studio, created in partnership with Technogym. The space features the latest cutting-edge training equipment.
- An Open-Air Fitness area on Deck 14, where guests can train outdoors while enjoying breathtaking ocean views.
Plus, there’s an extended running track along Deck 12. And the ship will offer an expanded Sports Court with pickleball, paddle and basketball activities.
New Ship Intel: Multigen Perks
Sometimes mature travelers, Boomers and Generation Xers desire to head out on a multigenerational family vacation. Those trips typically might include adults, their siblings, parents, aunts/uncles, cousins, adult children and perhaps a few younger travelers.
Thus, it’s good to know that Explora III‘s Nautilus Club for children and teens will be enhanced on the new ship. It will offer younger travelers both dedicated spaces and curated experiences.
Plus, a dedicated team of expert hosts will supervise younger guests and foster their creativity, fun, and engagement. For instance, the “Nautilus Club Juniors” program will serve kids 3 to 5 years of age.
That area will also include six hours of daily baby care services. That will give parents of even younger children under 3 years old the opportunity to spend time together with someone carefully watching their little one.
In turn, the “Nautilus Club Teens” program will be focused on activities and experiences for those 6 to 17 years of age.
New Ship Intel: Parting Thoughts
For those seeking a luxury boutique cruise experience, Explora Journeys offers modern vessels and a pampering service experience. In a previous Meandering Traveler blog, we covered some aspects about the brand’s launch and cruise offerings.
With the growth of its fleet, the top benefit is a much wider range of itineraries for guests. Plus, Explora III‘s enhancements include the addition of more top suites, new dining concepts, enhanced wellness and spa areas, eco-friendly propulsion and more.
For information on Explora Journeys, visit this official website page. If you’re seeking an experienced travel agency that sells many vacations on the boutique luxury line and can assist any questions or getting you the best deal, then follow the instructions below to get in touch.
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