Delivery of Explora I, the first ship of Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys has officially taken delivery of Explora I, marking the official launch of MSC Group’s new luxury brand.
The handover ceremony, which took place at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, was attended by the top management of the MSC Group, including Gianluigi Aponte, Founder and Chairman of the MSC Group, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of the MSC Group, Fincantieri‘s CEO Pierroberto Folgiero, and the future godmother of the new unit, Zoe Africa Vago.
Consegna Explora I
Consegna Explora I
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Group Cruise Division, said: “Today is a historic day and a decisive step in our growth path, as it marks MSC Group’s entry into the luxury cruise sector. This is a segment in which we believe strongly and whose standards we intend to redefine, always focusing on excellence and luxury. Explora I will be one of the most beautiful and iconic ambassadors of ‘Made in Italy’ at sea, a testimony to Italian craftsmanship around the world. The four Explora Journeys ships will represent an investment of 2.3 billion euros, with a potential impact on the Italian economy of more than 10 billion euros, making a significant contribution to the country’s development prospects. In terms of employment, the construction of each ship will require more than seven million man-hours and will employ an average of 2,500 people for two to three years.”
Pierfrancesco Vago
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, added: “The Explora class clearly and unmistakably marks the direction of Fincantieri’s development. In fact, in terms of entering the luxury cruise market, this ship represents a project that brings us several steps closer to the ship of the future.”
Explora I Delivery
Delivery Explora I
Explora I will embark on its maiden voyage from Copenhagen, Denmark, on August 1. The luxury ship will spend several weeks in northern Europe offering a variety of itineraries, then cross the Atlantic Ocean to spend the winter in North America and the Caribbean before returning to Europe for some Mediterranean cruises in the summer of 2024.
With a gross tonnage of approximately 64,000 tons, the ship is equipped with the latest technologies available for environmental protection and sustainability, including the latest Selective Catalytic Reduction systems, plug-in shore power connections to reduce emissions in ports, and underwater noise reduction equipment to protect marine life. Its 461 suites also feature a highly innovative design that pays special attention to passenger comfort and relaxation.
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