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First look inside Explora III as the luxury cruise line reveals early launch

Explora III will be launching ahead of schedule in July 2026, with a second Owner's Residence, new restaurants, and 30 boutiques, including Swiss luxury watch brand Chopard making its debut at sea.

Explora III will be launching ahead of schedule in July 2026, with a second Owner’s Residence, new restaurants, and 30 boutiques, including Swiss luxury watch brand Chopard making its debut at sea.

Explora III will launch with a Mediterranean journey on 24th July before her naming ceremony on 1 August 2026 in Barcelona.

Designed to have the feeling of a private yacht, the 463-suite ship’s lobby is a double-height atrium of marble and cascading chandeliers, complemented by contemporary artworks by Yves Dana and Nena, soft lighting and a dedicated music corner with a Steinway piano.

Making its debut at sea, Chopard introduces the Swiss Maison’s heritage craftsmanship with both luxury jewellery and Swiss watches, along with 30 other artisanal brands, including Cartier, and rotating art expeditions.

The Chef's Table on Explora III
The Chef’s Table on Explora III
Crema Cafe onboard Explora III
Crema Cafe

There are nine dining options, including two making their debut, Shore Club on 11 (for all-day dining) and The Chef’s Table (for a multi-sensory experience).

Three outdoor heated swimming pools, one reserved for adults only, and a total of 60 private cabanas and expanded shaded areas mean plenty of spaces to relax.

For the ultimate in wellness, the spa has new signature treatments and holistic wellness rituals, including the Sava Sound Pod, which offers a “deeply restorative audio experience using sound frequencies and vibration to promote relaxation, reduce stress and support mental clarity”.

Explora III pool deck
Explora III pool deck

There are two Owner’s Residences taking up the entire width of the ship at the stern to ensure sea views from every angle.

The newest, on deck seven, has curated artworks, a marble bathroom and private steam room.

Outside, a private whirlpool, daybeds, dining and lounging areas encourage immersive indoor-outdoor living.

Explora Journeys Owner's Residence
Explora Journeys Owner’s Residence

Explora Journeys president Anna Nash says the ship represents “a natural yet powerful evolution of our vision for ocean travel”.

“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.

Explora III
Explora III

“The deliberate continuity allows for a more generous experience throughout the ship, where new residences and thoughtfully designed suites, alongside expansive public areas, foster a genuine feeling of being at home at sea,” says Nash.

“As the third ship in our fleet, Explora III also marks an important milestone in our journey, bringing us halfway through our six-ship vision and reinforcing our long-term commitment to shaping a more refined future for ocean travel.

“She embodies our belief that true luxury lies in space, intention and the privilege of exploring the world at a more considered pace.”

For more information, visit Explora Journeys.