Meet the New Explora Ship: EXPLORA III

Case Travel
Jan 27
4 min read

Launching July 2026

A floating hotel whose address is the ocean.

The arrival of EXPLORA III marks one of the most anticipated luxury ship launches in the world of ultra-luxury travel, and it’s easy to see why.

Thoughtfully imagined and meticulously designed, EXPLORA III represents the next evolution of modern cruising: calmer, more spacious, more refined, and entirely centred around how today’s luxury traveller wants to move through the world.

This is not just a new ship.

This is the future of ultra-luxury ocean travel.

A New Benchmark in Ocean Travel

With a refined European spirit at her core, EXPLORA III has been designed to feel less like a traditional cruise ship and more like a beautifully curated floating hotel.

Everything about her encourages unhurried discovery, from the light-filled spaces and elegant interiors to the slower pace of travel and extended time in port.

Across design, dining, wellness and curated shopping, every experience onboard has been elevated, refined and rethought - without excess, noise or formality.

Designed for Light, Space & Calm

From the moment you step onboard, EXPLORA III feels different.

Her iconic Lobby has been strikingly reinterpreted to enhance light and flow, while new and expanded social spaces create an atmosphere that feels relaxed, cosmopolitan and quietly luxurious.

One of the most exciting additions is the new Owner’s Residence, designed by world-renowned architect and designer Patricia Urquiola - a second, distinct expression of this extraordinary space that sits at the very pinnacle of life at sea.

Alongside this, Ocean Wellness has been fully reimagined to create a deeper sense of calm, presence and connection to the sea.

Sustainability at the Core

EXPLORA III is the first LNG-powered ship in the Explora fleet, reflecting a commitment to reducing environmental impact and decarbonising marine operations.

Luxury here is not just about how something looks or feels, but how responsibly it’s delivered.

Homes at Sea: Spacious, Serene, Ocean-Front

At the heart of the experience are Explora’s signature Homes at Sea.

Every suite onboard faces the ocean and opens onto a generous private terrace, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living.

Expect:

Floor-to-ceiling windows flooding each space with natural light
Walk-in wardrobes with seated vanity areas
Luxurious bathrooms with custom toiletries and fine linens
Intuitive, impeccable service from dedicated hosts

EXPLORA III hosts 463 suites, with a greater emphasis on higher-category accommodations, prioritising space and comfort throughout.

From this ship onwards:

All Ocean Residences feature double vanity bathrooms
More suites across all categories include bathtubs for quiet, private relaxation
Cove Residences now offer two terrace options, with or without a whirlpool

And at the very top sits the newly designed additional Owner’s Residence- an architectural masterpiece at sea.

Culinary & Beverage: Familiar Favourites, Elevated Further

Beloved dining concepts from EXPLORA I and II return, including:

Anthology
Sakura
Fil Rouge
Med Yacht Club
Marble & Co. Grill
Emporium Marketplace

EXPLORA III also introduces three exciting new concepts:

Shore Club on 11 at The Conservatory – a relaxed, beach-club-style restaurant
The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys – an intimate, private dining experience
The Cellar by Explora Journeys – a warm, welcoming sanctuary for wine lovers

Design enhancements continue throughout the ship, including a reimagined Lobby Bar, an expanded Conservatory Pool & Bar, a new Outdoor Cigar Lounge beside the Malt Whisky Bar, and a redesigned Crema Café.

Dining here is never rushed, never crowded, and never compromised.

Ocean Wellness: Reimagined

Ocean Wellness has been redesigned as one harmonious sanctuary, spanning over 700 sqm of indoor and outdoor facilities.

Highlights include:

A tranquil Ocean Wellness Spa inspired by the restorative power of the sea
A state-of-the-art Fitness Centre and Studio in partnership with Technogym
Over 290 sqm of redesigned fitness spaces
A unique Open-Air Fitness area on Deck 14, training with uninterrupted ocean views

New signature treatments and curated wellness collaborations will be introduced, further enhancing the onboard wellbeing experience.

Curated Shopping at Sea

Luxury shopping onboard EXPLORA III reaches new heights.

Chopard debuts onboard, joining returning icons Cartier and Rolex, bringing the world’s most prestigious maisons to sea.

Guests can explore:

A bespoke Chopard boutique, showcasing fine jewellery and timepieces
A dedicated Rolex boutique, reflecting precision and timeless design
A curated Cartier experience within a refined retail setting

This is shopping designed to be discovered slowly, and enjoyed meaningfully.

Thoughtful Spaces for Families & Focus

EXPLORA III introduces an enriched Nautilus Club, with dedicated spaces for Juniors and Teens, designed to evolve with younger travellers’ needs.

From creative exploration for ages 3-5 to curated independence for ages 6-17, the Nautilus Club ensures children are thoughtfully cared for, while preserving the ship’s calm, unhurried atmosphere.

New modular meeting rooms on Deck 11 also offer beautifully designed spaces for:

Remote work
Private meetings
Creative sessions or quiet focus
With the best Wi-Fi at sea, staying connected is effortless when needed.

A Rare Preview Journey: On Sale Now

A Mediterranean Prelude to EXPLORA III

📍 Genoa to Rome

📅 24 July 2026- 5 nights

This one-time, exclusive journey offers a rare first experience aboard EXPLORA III before her official launch and Maiden Journey.

Guests will enjoy behind-the-scenes access, meet the visionaries behind her creation, and experience the evolution of the Ocean State of Mind before anyone else.

From: