Luxury cruise line Explora Journeys has announced the inaugural itineraries for its third ship, Explora III, set to debut in the summer of 2026. This highly anticipated vessel will explore western and northern Europe, including scenic voyages to Iceland and Greenland, before heading to North America and the Caribbean for its fall and winter seasons.
The Explora III marks a milestone as the first in the fleet to be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG), underscoring the company’s commitment to sustainable travel. It will also have the capability to connect to shore power and plans to transition to bio-LNG or synthetic LNG as these fuels become commercially viable.
Explora III offers a refined guest experience with a slightly larger space-to-guest ratio than its predecessors. Each guest will enjoy 201 square feet per person, surpassing Explora I and II's 198 square feet. This enhancement reflects the brand’s dedication to luxury and comfort.
The ship's maiden voyage begins on August 10, 2026, with a seven-night journey from Lisbon, Portugal, to Southampton, U.K. Subsequent routes will showcase northern European destinations, including the Netherlands, Norway, Estonia, Sweden, and Germany. Among the highlights are stops at unique ports such as Rønne in Denmark, Seydisfjordur in Iceland, and Nanortalik and Paamiut in Greenland.
In the fall, Explora III will cross the Atlantic to North America, arriving in Quebec City on September 27. Its East Coast itinerary includes visits to the Magdalen Islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence and iconic cities such as New York City, culminating in Miami on October 25. The ship will then embark on a Caribbean season for the winter of 2026-27.
The Explora III is the third of six ships in the company's pipeline, promising a seamless blend of innovation and luxury for discerning travelers.
