by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 1:45 PM ET, Wed June 12, 2024
EDITOR'S NOTE: Since this story was first published on June 12, 2024, Explora II's debut has been delayed until September.
Explora Journey’s newest ship, Explora II, has achieved a key milestone.
The new vessel, the second in the line’s fleet, successfully completed sea trials ahead of her August 11 maiden voyage from Barcelona.
Explora Journeys is the new, luxury lifestyle brand of MSC Group that launched last year with Explora I. That first ship was “the realization of a long-held family dream to offer guests an unmatched luxury at sea experience,” says Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s cruise division.
“In summer 2024 discerning travelers will now have the opportunity to travel on our two ships on carefully created and combinable itineraries both in the Western and Eastern Mediterranean, embarking from easy access ports and uncovering hidden gems in lesser traveled destinations," he adds.
When Explora II sets sail this summer, the ship will visit destinations like Portofino, Porto Cervo, St-Tropez, Calvi, Mahon and Monte Carlo. Itineraries range from seven to 21 nights.
The new ship can accommodate up to 922 guests in 461 staterooms, with an average size of 452 square feet. The vessel has 178,680 square feet of public space across 14 decks, plus six restaurants and 12 bars and lounges. It also has three outdoor pools, an indoor pool with a retractable roof, an indoor hydrotherapy pool and 64 private cabanas.
Explora II also features some of the latest sustainability technologies, including a selective catalytic reduction system that reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by as much as 90 percent and an advanced wastewater treatment system. It can also connect to shore power and features state-of-the-art recycling and solid waste management.
The ship is also equipped with noise-reducing features to minimize its impact on marine wildlife.
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