
Explora class · Explora Journeys · In service since 2026
Explora III
Explora III is an Explora class cruise ship operated by Explora Journeys, in service since 2026. At about 73,904 gross tons, it carries roughly 926 guests and ranks #1 by size in the 3-ship Explora Journeys fleet we cover.
- 73,904 gross tons
- 926 guests
- 879 ft long
Photo: Pjotr Mahhonin, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Ship facts
- Cruise line
- Explora Journeys
- Ship class
- Explora class
- Entered service
- 2026 (this year)
- Gross tonnage
- 73,904
- Guests
- 926
- Length
- 879 ft (268 m)
- Builder
- Fincantieri
- IMO number
- 9869899
About Explora III
Explora III is the third ship from Explora Journeys, the luxury brand of the MSC Group, and the first in the fleet designed to run on liquefied natural gas. She is larger than Explora I and II but follows the same philosophy: every suite faces the ocean with a private terrace, public spaces feel like a contemporary European resort, and the pace is slow, with longer stays in port. Expect a sophisticated, relaxed atmosphere, a wide choice of restaurants and bars, and a wellness program with indoor and outdoor spaces. Like her sisters, she suits travelers who want hotel-style luxury at sea rather than traditional cruise rituals.
Best for: Travelers who want Explora’s first LNG-powered ship and a modern, resort-style take on luxury cruising.
Explora III highlights
- Ocean-front suites with private terraces throughout
- LNG power, a first for the Explora fleet
- Several restaurants spanning Mediterranean, pan-Asian and steakhouse menus
- Ocean Wellness spa and fitness areas
- Itineraries with longer port stays and overnights
How Explora III compares in size
- Explora III73,904
- Explora II63,900
- Explora I63,621
Gross tonnage measures a ship's enclosed volume, not its weight. Source: Wikidata.
Explora class sister ships
Sailing with Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is the luxury brand of the MSC Group: sleek, European-styled ships of about 900 guests with all ocean-front suites that each have a private terrace. Fares include drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities and almost all dining, and itineraries favor longer port stays in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Caribbean. It suits younger luxury travelers and couples who want a contemporary, resort-like feel rather than old-school formality.
Read our full Explora Journeys guide: dining, drinks, tipping and who it suits →
Explora III FAQs
How big is Explora III?
Explora III measures about 73,904 gross tons and is about 879 feet (268 m) long. That makes it #1 of 3 Explora Journeys ships we cover by tonnage, and #173 among all 255 ocean cruise ships in our guide.
How many passengers does Explora III carry?
About 926 guests, according to Wikidata's record for the ship. Cruise lines usually quote capacity at two guests per cabin; with third and fourth berths filled, the maximum is higher.
When was Explora III built?
Explora III entered service in 2026 and was built by Fincantieri. It's one of the newest ships at sea.
What class of ship is Explora III?
Explora III belongs to Explora Journeys's Explora class, alongside Explora II, Explora I. Ships in the same class share a layout and most signature features.
Is Explora III good for families?
Children are welcome, and the Nautilus Club offers activities for kids and teens, especially during school holidays. Families are a minority, and the ships suit older children who enjoy a calmer environment. Facilities vary by ship, so check what Explora III offers for your kids' ages.
Updated November 2026 by the BookMyDreamCruise editorial team. How we research and fact-check.
Sources: Wikidata, Explora Journeys official site.
