EXPLORA III departed Barcelona on her maiden voyage on 3 August and today made her first-ever call at the Port of Hamburg
Hamburg, 7 September 2026 – Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle travel brand of the MSC Group, today welcomed EXPLORA III on her inaugural visit to Hamburg. The maiden call marks the vessel’s first-ever visit to the Hanseatic city and underscores the brand’s growing presence in the German market. EXPLORA III departed Barcelona on her maiden voyage on 3 August 2026.
To commemorate the occasion, the traditional plaque exchange ceremony was held on board between Captain Serena Melani, Simon Rosenkranz, Harbour Master, Hamburg Port Authority, Simone Maraschi, Managing Director of Cruise Gate Hamburg, Dr. Stefan Behn, Chairman of Hamburg Cruise Net, andAlexander Napp, Managing Director of PWL Port Services.
Jörg Eicher, Managing Director DACH of MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys, and Daniel Kierkemann-Rott, Executive Director DACH of Explora Journeys, joined local port representatives for the traditional exchange of plaques marking EXPLORA III’s first call in Hamburg.
“Through the commitment of Explora Journeys as part of MSC’s Cruise Division and the wider MSC Group, we aim not only to strengthen our important connection with Hamburg, but to continue expanding it. We want to bring together people who share a passion for shipping and the maritime industry while also contributing to the continued development of the city. The maiden call of EXPLORA III is symbolic of this commitment and marks another milestone in our partnership with the Hanseatic city.”
Jörg Eicher, Managing Director DACH Region, MSC Cruises and Explora Journeys
“The maiden call of EXPLORA III in Hamburg was a special moment for us and a valuable opportunity to write the next chapter of the Explora Journeys story together with our trade and media partners. The strong interest and positive feedback demonstrate that our vision of modern luxury ocean travel is resonating with an increasing number of travellers. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all partners who accompany us on this journey and contribute significantly to the success of Explora Journeys.”
Daniel Kierkemann-Rott, Executive Director DACH, Explora Journeys
“We are delighted to welcome EXPLORA III on her maiden call to Hamburg and to Cruise Center HafenCity. As the newest ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA III represents a refined and contemporary approach to ocean travel that aligns perfectly with Hamburg’s growing appeal among premium and luxury cruise brands, as well as discerning international travellers. Cruise Center HafenCity offers guests a truly exceptional gateway to Hamburg. Located in the heart of the city and directly adjacent to the vibrant Hamburg-Überseequartier, passengers can step ashore and immediately immerse themselves in one of Europe’s most exciting waterfront destinations, where modern urban development meets maritime heritage, exceptional dining, cultural experiences and world-class architecture.We are proud to be part of EXPLORA III’s journey and are delighted to welcome her guests to our city.”
Simone Maraschi, Managing Director, Cruise Gate Hamburg
EXPLORA III: The Third Ship in the Fleet
EXPLORA III is the third vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet and represents a significant milestone in the development of the young luxury brand. Commissioned on 24 July 2026, she is also the fleet’s first LNG-powered ship, symbolising the next generation of ocean travel.
With six ships planned in total, Explora Journeys continues to build a fleet that is redefining ultra-elegant ocean travel.
As an all-suite vessel, EXPLORA III features 461 ocean-front suites, each with floor-to-ceiling windows, a private terrace, and a daybed, offering guests an exceptionally spacious home at sea. A remarkable host-to-guest ratio of 1:1.25 ensures highly personalised and attentive service throughout the journey.
The ship’s generously designed public spaces, extensive wellness facilities, diverse dining concepts, and carefully curated onboard experiences create an atmosphere more akin to an exclusive luxury resort than a traditional cruise ship.
At 19.2 metres longer than her sister ships EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, EXPLORA III is the most spacious vessel in the fleet to date. Despite carrying a comparable number of guests, she offers even greater privacy, comfort, and a heightened sense of space. Expanded public areas, enhanced wellness facilities, and additional culinary venues further elevate the guest experience, while the design emphasises elegance, comfort, and openness throughout.
Enhanced Culinary Experiences
The culinary offering has also been expanded with three distinctive new restaurant and bar concepts:
- The Cellar
- The Chef’s Table
- Shore Club on 11
These additions further enhance Explora Journeys’ acclaimed gastronomic programme and create new opportunities for memorable dining experiences at sea.
Exclusive Residences and Wellness
EXPLORA III also introduces a second Owner’s Residence, designed by renowned architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, alongside an expanded selection of Ocean Penthouses and Ocean Residences.
The redesigned Ocean Wellness facilities seamlessly combine spa and fitness experiences, providing additional opportunities for relaxation, movement, and holistic wellbeing.
Luxury Shopping at Sea
The vessel sets new standards for luxury retail with the first Chopard boutique at sea, alongside exclusive boutiques from Piaget, Cartier, and Rolex.
In addition, EXPLORA III features the first Mandala Collection presented in the Ocean Atelier Boutique at sea, Explora Journeys’ in-house jewellery concept showcasing exceptional pieces and bespoke creations.
EXPLORA III combines the experience of an exclusive boutique hotel with the freedom of ocean travel. Through its signature “Ocean State of Mind”, Explora Journeys invites guests to discover the world at their own pace while enjoying space, privacy, and highly personalised service.
The ship’s innovations reflect Explora Journeys’ ongoing commitment to continuously enhancing the guest experience while setting new benchmarks for ultra-elegant ocean travel.
The Ocean State of Mind philosophy connects guests with the sea, with themselves, and with like-minded travellers. Carefully curated itineraries combine iconic destinations with lesser-known ports, creating opportunities for meaningful exploration and a more relaxed style of travel.