Explora Journeys second ship begins construction
MSC Group’s newly-launched luxury brand Explora Journeys marked a major milestone with the steel cutting of its second ship, EXPLORA II in Italy.
Construction work has started on the second vessel which is due to welcome its first guests in spring 2024.
This follows on just three months from the launch of the Explora Journeys brand and the beginning of its first ship, EXPLORA I, being built for a May 2023 launch.
Two further new ships will join the fleet in 2025 and 2026.
"The start of Explora Journeys’ second ship signals our firm commitment to our tourism partners for the coming-to-market of our new luxury brand with a significant financial investment in a fleet of innovative, elegant ships," said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division.
All four Explora Journeys ships will be built by Fincantieri in Italy.
Michael Ungerer, CEO Explora Journeys, added, "We are greatly encouraged by the tremendous enthusiasm and support we have received so far from the travel advisor community."
"Explora Journeys has also been awarded ‘preferred’ status with a number of leading travel agency groups, an honour not normally bestowed on a brand prior to its coming into service."
EXPLORA II will feature 461 ocean view suites, all with private terraces.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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