Explora Journeys Celebrates the Keel Laying of EXPLORA II

Explora Journeys, the new luxury lifestyle travel brand of the MSC Group, has marked the keel laying for the second of four luxury ships, EXPLORA II, at the Fincantieri shipyard in Castellammare di Stabia, Italy.

The GT 63,900 vessel will be delivered in summer 2024. The first ship, EXPLORA I, is currently being built at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy and is on schedule to set sail by the end of May 2023.

The event took place on May 5 at Castellammare di Stabia and was attended by senior executives of both shipowner and shipbuilder.

Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys, said, “We are thrilled to witness this key milestone for Explora Journeys, which signals our firm commitment to launch a luxury lifestyle brand that incorporates effective sustainability planning and maximises social and economic benefits for the communities that our ships will visit and leave a positive legacy for the next generation.”

EXPLORA II will be fitted with 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences and feature nine restaurants, 10 indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, four swimming pools, extensive outdoor decks with private cabanas, wellness facilities and refined entertainment.

All four ships in Explora Journeys’ fleet will be equipped with the latest environmental and marine technologies.