Explora Journeys is full of good news: Firstly, the coin ceremony for Explora II, the second of MSC Cruises’ luxury brand, recently took place at the Fincantieri Sestri Ponente shipyard in Italy. Secondly, the date for the naming ceremony of Explora I has been set for July 8, near Rome, Italy.
The coin ceremony, a time-honored maritime tradition, was done as a sign of blessing during construction and good fortune in the future. The new ship’s godmothers, Feliciana Maresca, executive assistant to Explora Journeys’ CEO Michael Ungerer, representing the owners and Martina Mosca, supervisor of hull fabrication department for Fincantieri representing the shipbuilder, together placed commemorative coins inside the ship.
“The event today is another major step forward on our mission to redefine ocean travel for today’s discerning luxury travelers,” said Michael Ungerer, CEO. “Explora II—and her sister ship Explora I, due to perform her inaugural journey in mid-July from Southampton, UK – will blend renowned destinations seen through a different lens and unique off-the-beaten-path ports, offering the next generation of luxury travellers highly curated, transformative and immersive experiences.”
Explora II will sail in the Mediterranean Sea, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean and Africa between August 2024 and April 2025. It will have 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences, 6 restaurants, 12 indoor and outdoor bars and lounges, four swimming pools, outdoor decks with private cabanas, and over 10,700 sq.ft. of wellness and fitness facilities.
The First of Explora Journeys’ Fleet Sets Sail in July
Explora I is still at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Italy. After its naming ceremony on July 8, it will head to Southampton, UK, for its maiden voyage through Northern Europe, a 15-night adventure to Copenhagen, Denmark. A third vessel will join the fleet in 2026, with a fourth ready in 2027. Two more are expected for 2027 and 2028. Every ship in the fleet is outfitted with the latest environmental technologies.
For more information, visit explorajourneys.com.
