The successful launch of the troncone, the forward lower section, of Explora Journeys’ EXPLORA IV has taken place at a ceremony at Fincantieri’s Palermo shipyard in Sicily, marking an important milestone om the ship’s construction.
The section of the ship was transferred from land to water for the first time at the event attended by more than 350 guests. Once the outfitting phase of the bow section is completed, it will be moved to the Fincantieri shipyard in Sestri Ponente, where the build will be completed.
“We are incredibly proud to reach this significant milestone in the construction of EXPLORA IV. This ship represents our unwavering commitment to delivering a new standard of excellence in luxury ocean travel,” Explora Journeys’ Global President Anna Nash said.
“Our partnership with Fincantieri, one of the finest shipbuilders in the world, is built on shared values of innovation and the relentless pursuit of quality.”
EXPLORA IV, the fourth of six luxury ships to enter service by 2028, is due for delivery in 2027. It will be one of the four Explora Journeys vessels to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), in line with the brand’s commitment to “sustainable luxury at sea”.
More than €3.5 billion is being invested by the Cruise Division of MSC Group in the six ships, all built by Fincantieri, that will feature innovative design and be equipped with the latest technologies.
The construction of each ship requires over seven million work hours and provides employment for an average of 2,500 people for two to three years, with an economic impact of more than 15 billion euros on Italy, with significant downstream effects and the creation of thousands of jobs.
EXPLORA I has been sailing since 1 August 2023, marking the debut of Explora Journeys’ luxury fleet. The second ship, EXPLORA II, was delivered on 12 September 2024. EXPLORA III and EXPLORA IV will enter service in 2026 and 2027 respectively, with both ships powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI are set to join the fleet in 2027 and 2028.
