The first ship in the Explora Journeys’, a luxury lifestyles brand from MSC Group, fleet, EXPLORA I, set sail on its maiden voyage Aug. 1 on a seven-night sailing through Lerwick, Shetland Islands; and Kirkwall, Orkney; before heading to Reykjavik, Iceland.
“It is our absolute honor to welcome the very first guests onboard our extraordinary ship and share this special moment with them as we embark on the maiden voyage of EXPLORA I from Copenhagen,” said Michael Ungerer, CEO, Explora Journeys. “Our guests will be able to experience the very best European hospitality at sea and our vibrant, cosmopolitan sense of luxury, while discovering some of the world’s most remarkable destinations. A new era of transformative luxury ocean travel begins now with the first sailing of EXPLORA I.”

© Explora Journeys
The brand’s Ocean State of Mind philosophy means immersive experiences that reward cruisers physically, intellectually and spiritually. EXPLORA I called on the port of Copenhagen, Denmark, on Aug. 15 before a sailing to Hamburg, Germany. After several weeks in Northern Europe, the ship crosses the Atlantic to winter in North America and the Caribbean Sea before returning to Europe in summer 2024 for Mediterranean Sea voyages.
EXPLORA II is currently being built in Italy, expected to come into service in August 2024. The first of two liquefied natural gas-powered vessels to join the line’s fleet, EXPLORA III, is expected in 2026, with EXPLORA IV in 2027.
Read This Next

Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
May 27, 2025Plan a Legendary Gathering in Honolulu
Myths and origin stories form a powerful framework for the history of Hawai‘i. Marking the horizon behind Honolulu, the ancient volcanic formation of Lē‘ahi — technically a volcanic tuff cone more commonly known to the world as Diamond Head — provides a constant physical reminder of the tales that shaped the history of this location. While researching legends for my Hawai‘i-based Dark Paradise Mysteries series (Kensington Books), I learned the tale of the demigod Maui, who used his enchanted fishing hook to reach into the sea to heave the Hawaiian islands, including Diamond Head, above the surface of the water.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Marks Five Years with oneworld: Strengthening Connectivity Between USA and Africa and Expanding Global Reach
Royal Air Maroc proudly enters its fifth year as a member of the prestigious oneworld alliance. Since joining in April 2020, RAM has demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging as a dynamic airline that enhanced its digital services and expanded its network. The airline plans to grow its fleet to 200 aircraft by 2037, reinforcing its global presence.
Slideshow
May 27, 20256 Reasons to Put Wellington, New Zealand, on Your Travel List
It’s time to start dreaming of your next trip. Here’s some destination inspiration for you. Take a visual journey through Wellington, New Zealand, with us.
Airlines
May 25, 2025Delta Air Lines Adds Flight to Kona, Hawai‘i
From its Salt Lake City (SLC) hub, Delta Air Lines launches a new Hawai‘i route this winter. Starting this December, the airline offers non-stop service from Salt Lake City to Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport at Keahole on the Big Island. Marking the airline’s 17th route from the U.S. mainland to Hawai‘i, the service will operate on a Boeing 767-300ER through March 28, 2026.
Sponsored Content
Sail Unique with Explora Journeys
SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.
Hotels
May 24, 2025Beaches Turks & Caicos Unveils Treasure Beach Village
Beaches Resorts recently revealed details about the addition of Treasure Beach Village at Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort. Now open for reservations, Treasure Beach Resort features 101 multi-bedroom concierge and butler suites, including two-, three- and four-bedroom luxury accommodations.
Relax, Rejuvenate and Heal at StolenTime
May 2025
May 23, 2025Hotel Nice Beau Rivage Review
eFlyer Reviews
May 21, 2025Celebrity Cruises Launches Limited-Time Sale
eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025Escape and Save at The Shore Club’s Estate Villas in Turks and Caicos
Combine luxury with some good deals this summer at The Shore Club’s stunning Estate Villas in Turks and Caicos. These standalone accommodations are perfect for groups or anyone craving a full-service resort experience. From private pools to full kitchens to butler service to ocean views, you can save and indulge at the same time.
Sponsored Content
Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage
Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.
eFlyer Deals
May 21, 2025Save 20 Percent Off Stays at This Turks and Caicos Resort
Who says a trip to Turks and Caicos needs to be expensive? This summer, the all-suite The Regent Grand, on world-famous Grace Bay Beach, debuts its May I Stay Here Please offer.
ShareThis