EXPLORA III: A Luxury Destination on the Open Sea
With its early launch in July 2026, Explora III will debut with an exclusive Mediterranean Prelude Journey from 24 to 29 July, ahead of its naming ceremony scheduled in Barcelona on 1 August 2026 at the new Cruise Division terminal.
Explora III
EXPLORA III is not just a ship—it is a 360-degree experience that combines spacious design, refined gastronomy, ocean-inspired wellness, and curated shopping, offering guests unprecedented freedom and choice. Stretching 19.2 metres in beam, EXPLORA III provides more space than ever, featuring 463 suites, including 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Ocean Penthouses, and 39 Ocean Residences, all with ocean views and designed to ensure maximum comfort and privacy. The ship introduces two exclusive Owner’s Residences, each 280 square metres with 125-square-metre terraces, designed by architect Patricia Urquiola and furnished with warm materials, artwork, and luxury amenities, offering the ultimate living experience at sea. The suites and residences feature floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces with breathtaking ocean views, and bathrooms with double vanities, while many Ocean Residences include bathtubs for moments of absolute relaxation.
EXPLORA III is designed to evoke the feeling of being aboard a private yacht, with expansive common areas, generous outdoor spaces, and an almost one-to-one ratio of host to guest. The Lobby Atrium, reimagined as a sculptural double-height space, combines elegance and hospitality with Perlato di Sicilia and Sahara Noir marble finishes, Venini chandeliers, furniture by Paolo Castelli and Molteni, contemporary artworks, and a Steinway piano, creating a perfect environment for relaxation, socializing, and aperitifs. The Conservatory Pool & Bar and three heated outdoor pools offer ample space for leisure, while 60 private cabanas, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, and shaded areas make the aquatic experience even more comfortable.
Explora iii_Lobby_
THe Cellar Explora Journeys_Explora iii
The culinary offering on EXPLORA III expands on that of the previous ships, featuring the return of Anthology, Sakura, Med Yacht Club, Fil Rouge, Emporium Marketplace, and Marble & Co. Grill, alongside three new concepts: Shore Club, for an all-day poolside experience; The Chef’s Table, with live preparations and multisensory presentations; and The Cellar, dedicated to enthusiasts of rare and indigenous wines. Twelve bars and lounges, including the Lobby Bar, Conservatory Pool & Bar, and a new Outdoor Cigar Lounge, complete the offering, providing varied atmospheres for every moment of the day.
EXPLORA III completely redefines Ocean Wellness, unifying spa, wellness, and fitness on deck 5 to create an immersive and functional experience. The spa introduces new signature treatments, ocean-inspired rituals, and innovations such as the Sava Sound Pod, while the fitness area integrates indoor and outdoor Technogym equipment, Pilates classes, extended running tracks, and sports courts for padel, pickleball, and basketball, giving guests the freedom to stay active while connecting with the ocean.
Onboard shopping includes luxury boutiques such as Cartier and the debut of Chopard, alongside more than 30 artisanal brands and an EXPLORA Journeys jewelry collection. Art is an integral part of the experience, with temporary exhibitions curated in collaboration with Clarendon Fine Art. Families are also accommodated, with dedicated spaces for younger guests, including the Nautilus Club Juniors (ages 3–5) and Teens (ages 6–17), while the limited number of younger guests ensures tranquility throughout the ship.
The conservatory pool and bar_EJ
Owner Residence by Patricia Urquiola_EJ
For those wishing to stay connected, the ship offers excellent Wi-Fi and three modular rooms on deck 11 for work, meetings, and conferences, equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Ahead of the naming ceremony, select guests will embark on the Mediterranean Prelude Journey, an exclusive experience from Genoa to Civitavecchia, offering a first look at the ship’s suites, restaurants, design, and wellness areas, while meeting the creative team and officers.
EXPLORA III, the fleet’s first LNG-powered ship, highlights Explora Journeys’ commitment to reducing environmental impact while delivering refined, sustainable luxury. From the sun-soaked waters of the Mediterranean to the horizons of Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland, its inaugural voyages mark the beginning of a new era in ocean travel, defined by space, discovery, and a deep connection with the sea.
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