A Floating Hotel? Explora III is the Destination and the Journey

Explora Journeys has officially named EXPLORA III in Barcelona, marking the arrival of its largest and most spacious ship yet — and the next chapter in the luxury cruise line's ambitious vision for ultra-elegant ocean travel.

The 63-foot-longer ship has been designed around one thing: more space to relax, dine, indulge and escape. From a spectacular new Owner's Residence designed by Patricia Urquiola to a wine cellar stocked with almost 350 labels, EXPLORA III pushes Explora Journeys' idea of understated luxury even further.

And it's already sailing. Following its official naming ceremony in Barcelona, EXPLORA III will embark on journeys through Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.

EXPLORA III: Bigger, More Private and More Luxurious

EXPLORA III is the most spacious ship in the Explora Journeys fleet, with the additional 19.2 metres of length dedicated to creating more room for guests.

The ship offers 19.5 square metres of public space per guest, with expanded suites, residences, restaurants, bars and wellness facilities designed to make the ship feel more like a private luxury resort than a traditional cruise ship.

The two 315-square-metre Owner's Residences are among the most exclusive spaces onboard.

The newest, located on Deck 7, has been designed by acclaimed architect and designer Patricia Urquiola, with interiors combining bronze, marble and ribbed wood detailing.

It also comes with a private steam room and a huge ocean-facing terrace complete with its own whirlpool.

For guests who want to take luxury at sea to its most private level, it's difficult to imagine a better place to spend a week.

A Wine Cellar, Chef's Table and

Dining

Food and drink are central to the EXPLORA III experience, with new venues joining returning favourites including Anthology and Fil Rouge.

The Cellar by Explora Journeys offers almost 350 wines, ranging from famous labels to emerging producers from destinations including England, Japan, Lebanon and Romania.

The experience goes beyond wine, with tableside cured-meat carving, caviar and three limited-edition wines from Sting's Il Palagio winery.

For something even more personalised, The Chef's Table creates a bespoke dining experience around each guest's preferences, travel memories and favourite ingredients.

Meanwhile, Shore Club on 11 combines Mediterranean cuisine with artisanal crêpes, handcrafted gelato and sophisticated zero-proof cocktails beside the expanded Conservatory Pool.

Luxury Shopping at Sea

EXPLORA III also brings an impressive collection of luxury shopping onboard.

Guests can browse boutiques from Chopard, Piaget, Cartier and Rolex, while the ship is also home to the first Mandala by Ocean Atelier boutique at sea.

The jewellery house is Explora Journeys' own luxury maison, showcasing pieces created using exceptional gemstones and traditional craftsmanship.

A New Approach to Wellness

Wellness has been given an equally prominent role on EXPLORA III.

The expanded Ocean Wellness space brings together spa treatments, fitness and movement in one dedicated sanctuary.

Facilities include a Sava Sound Pod, Technogym Sandstone equipment, Reform Pilates, an outdoor sports court and an extended running track.

The ship also features a redesigned Conservatory Pool & Bar, complete with a retractable glass ceiling, allowing guests to enjoy the pool whatever the weather.

For a slower afternoon, the new Outdoor Cigar Lounge and Malt Whisky Bar offer a more intimate alternative to the ship's livelier social spaces.

EXPLORA III Is Explora Journeys' First LNG-Powered Ship

EXPLORA III is also notable for being the first LNG-powered ship in the Explora Journeys fleet.

The ship can operate on liquefied natural gas and has been designed with the potential to use renewable alternatives such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as they become more widely available.

It also has shore power capability, allowing it to connect to electricity while in ports where the necessary infrastructure is available.

Where Will EXPLORA III Sail?

After its launch celebrations in Barcelona, EXPLORA III's inaugural season will take guests through Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.

The itineraries offer a particularly appealing combination for luxury travellers: remote landscapes and dramatic destinations paired with the privacy, space and high-end service of a boutique-style ocean experience.

With its larger suites, private residences, exceptional dining, extensive wellness facilities and distinctly European approach to luxury, EXPLORA III is positioning itself as a ship where the journey is just as important as the destination.

Find out more about the ship at https://explorajourneys.com/ie/en/ships/explora-III

Book with a leading travel agency, see what's on offer at Cassidy's at https://www.cassidytravel.ie/cruise-holidays/explora-journeys-cruises/explora-iii/