Luxury cruising is evolving, and Explora Journeys is leading the charge. Launching in summer 2026, Explora III marks a defining moment for the brand and for modern ocean travel as a whole. This is not simply the next ship in the fleet. It is the first of Explora Journeys’ new Evolution Class, offering more space, an elevated suite design, and a major leap forward in sustainability.
For travellers planning a luxury cruise in 2026 or beyond, Explora III deserves a place at the very top of your list.
Last updated: 21 May 2026
Explora III: The 30-second view
| Ship | Explora III (Explora Journeys) |
| Launch | Summer 2026 |
| Class | Evolution Class (a new class for the line) |
| Fleet position | Third ship in the fleet, first LNG-powered ship for Explora Journeys |
| Cabin design | All-suite ship with two Owner’s Residences, including the Patricia Urquiola design on Deck 7 |
| New for Evolution Class | Shore Club restaurant, expanded penthouse range, reimagined Ocean Wellness |
| Luxury maisons onboard | Chopard (debut), Cartier and Rolex (returning) |
| Sustainability | LNG propulsion, part of Explora’s wider decarbonisation programme |
| Best for | Small-ship luxury travellers, sustainability-conscious cruisers, suite-only seekers |
A Bigger Ship That Feels Even More Intimate
At first glance, Explora III is noticeably larger than her predecessors. Measuring 268 metres in length and weighing 72,810 gross tonnes, she has been extended by 19 metres compared to Explora I and Explora II.
What truly matters is how that space is used.
Despite the increased size, guest capacity remains capped at 463 oceanfront suites, resulting in one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the luxury cruise market. Wide open decks, expansive pool areas and generous public spaces ensure the ship never feels crowded, delivering a refined private-yacht atmosphere throughout the journey.
Two Extraordinary Owner’s Residences
Explora Journeys listened carefully to guest demand and responded in style. Explora III introduces two Owner’s Residences, doubling availability of the most sought-after accommodation category.
Owner’s Residence by Patricia Urquiola
Located aft on Deck 7, this is Explora Journeys’ flagship residence. Designed by acclaimed architect Patricia Urquiola, the suite spans over 3,000 square feet, including a vast ocean-facing terrace with a private whirlpool and dining for eight. Natural textures, warm Mediterranean tones and custom Cassina furnishings create an atmosphere that feels both artistic and deeply calming.
Owner’s Residence Deck 8
Equally impressive, the second Owner’s Residence occupies the full width of the ship on Deck 8, offering the same expansive layout, private butler service and uninterrupted sea views.
These suites are designed for guests who expect absolute privacy, space and personalised service at sea.
More Penthouses, More Residences, More Choice
Beyond the Owner’s Residences, Explora III features a refined accommodation mix focused on larger, more luxurious suites.
Ocean Penthouses now represent almost a quarter of all suites. Ocean Residences has expanded significantly. Select Cove Residences now include private outdoor whirlpools.
Every suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, a private terrace, walk-in wardrobes, heated bathroom floors and refined European design, reinforcing Explora Journeys’ philosophy of a true home at sea.
New Dining Concepts and Elevated Social Spaces
Explora III retains guest favourites such as Sakura, Marble & Co. Grill and Anthology, while introducing new venues exclusive to the Evolution Class.
Shore Club on 11
A relaxed, sun-drenched restaurant set within The Conservatory, Shore Club on 11 blends beach-club style dining with coastal flavours inspired by the Mediterranean and beyond.
The Chef’s Table
For guests seeking an intimate and highly personalised experience, The Chef’s Table offers a bespoke tasting journey curated directly with the culinary team.
Across the ship, dining remains fully inclusive, with no fixed seating and a strong emphasis on relaxed luxury.
A Reimagined Approach to Wellness
Wellness plays a central role on Explora III. The ship introduces a unified Ocean Wellness concept featuring a hydrotherapy pool, Finnish sauna, salt cave, steam rooms and experience showers, alongside indoor and outdoor relaxation areas.
Fitness facilities include open-air training spaces, a running track and state-of-the-art Technogym equipment. Everything is designed to support balance, restoration and wellbeing at sea.
Families are also better catered for, with the Nautilus Club now split into dedicated Juniors and Teens spaces, ensuring age-appropriate experiences in a refined environment.
Inaugural Voyages and Itineraries
Explora III is the version of the line I would tell guests to book first. The LNG propulsion is the headline shift, but what UK guests will actually feel is the bigger lower-priced suites and the new Shore Club restaurant. The summer 2026 inaugural sailings will be one of the most talked-about luxury launches of the year.
Jess Hartley, Marketing Manager, Paramount Cruises
Explora III’s maiden season showcases some of the world’s most captivating regions.
In August 2026, the ship departs on her maiden voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon via Ibiza, Cádiz and Tangier. Late summer focuses on Northern Europe and the Baltic Sea. September brings a remarkable Atlantic crossing via Iceland and Greenland, ending in Quebec City. Winter 2026 into 2027 sees the ship reposition to Miami for Caribbean itineraries, placing Explora III firmly in the top tier of Luxury Caribbean Cruises alongside Panama Canal and Pacific Coast voyages.
Each journey reflects Explora Journeys’ focus on extended stays, late departures and immersive destination experiences.
Leading the Way in Sustainable Luxury Cruising
Explora III becomes the first ship in the fleet powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG). This significantly reduces emissions, cutting sulphur oxides by almost 100 per cent and nitrogen oxides by up to 85 per cent.
Crucially, the ship is future-ready. Her engines are designed to transition to bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as these fuels become widely available, reinforcing Explora Journeys’ long-term environmental commitment.
Explora III FAQs
Explora III is scheduled to launch in summer 2026, with her maiden voyage departing on 3 August 2026.
Explora III is the first ship in the new Evolution Class. She is physically larger, offers more high-end suite categories, introduces new dining venues and is the first Explora Journeys ship powered by LNG.
The ship accommodates approximately 922 guests across 463 oceanfront suites, ensuring a spacious and uncrowded onboard experience.
Yes. Explora III is powered by LNG, which significantly reduces local air pollutants and is designed to transition to cleaner fuels in the future.
The two Owner’s Residences are the highest-tier accommodation, particularly the Patricia Urquiola–designed residence on Deck 7. Ocean Residences and Penthouses also offer exceptional space and benefits.
Yes. Explora III features enhanced family facilities, including separate Nautilus Club spaces for Juniors and Teens, along with flexible suite configurations.
The inaugural season includes the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, an Atlantic crossing via Iceland and Greenland, and the Caribbean.
Yes. Fares include dining across all venues, premium beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities, wellness access and concierge services.
Experience the Ocean State of Mind with Paramount Cruises
Call our cruise specialists on 020 7947 0270 to discuss inaugural Explora III sailings, or browse our luxury cruises collection to compare options.
Explora III represents the next chapter in luxury ocean travel, and demand for inaugural sailings is already strong. Our team at Paramount Cruises provides expert guidance, priority access and exclusive benefits when booking Explora Journeys.
Speak to one of our luxury cruise specialists today and secure your place aboard Explora III.
Disclaimer: Ship specifications, venues and itineraries are subject to change by the cruise line before launch.
