Explora Journeys has revealed details of the Explora III, which will launch ahead of schedule in July 2026.

The ship will debut with an exclusive Mediterranean Prelude Journey from July 24 to 29.

The Explora III will be officially named in Barcelona on August 1, 2026, at the MSC Cruise Division’s new terminal.

“Explora III represents a natural yet powerful evolution of our vision for ocean travel,” said Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys.

“She has been conceived as a destination in her own right—a luxury floating hotel that offers even greater space, comfort and choice of amenities, while welcoming the same carefully balanced number of guests as Explora I and Explora II.”

With 463 suites, two more than on the Explora I and Explora II, the Explora III benefits from LNG technology, allowing for an increased length of 19.2 meters and resulting in 19.5 square meters of total public space per guest.

The ship offers 313 Ocean Suites, 109 Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences.

The Ocean Penthouses account for 24 percent of the suite inventory, and the Ocean Residences represent 9 percent of the total inventory.

The Explora III features two Owner’s Residences situated aft on Decks 7 and 8 and has been designed by Patricia Urquiola.

Encompassing 280 square meters, including a 125-square-meter terrace, the residences occupy the entire width of the ship at the stern.

Three new dining concepts will also debut aboard the Explora III: Shore Club on 11, a poolside experience at the Conservatory Pool; The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys; and The Cellar by Explora Journeys, a wine-focused venue.

Ocean Wellness spa and wellness facilities and the ship’s fitness areas have been brought together on Deck 5.

The fitness area introduces the Technogym Sand Stone collection, complemented by Technogym Reform Pilates equipment and a private training studio.

The ship will feature Cartier and Chopard boutiques.

Equipped with dual-fuel engines, the Explora III can use LNG and low-carbon fuels.

From Barcelona, the Explora III will start her maiden voyage to Lisbon on August 3 and offer journeys through Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland later in the year.