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Explora Journeys Takes Delivery of EXPLORA III, Reaching Halfway Point in Its €3.5 Billion Fleet Expansion

GENOA, Italy – Explora Journeys has officially taken delivery of EXPLORA III, marking a major milestone in the development of its luxury fleet. Built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at the Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, the new vessel becomes the third ship to enter service, bringing the MSC Group's luxury ocean travel brand halfway through its ambitious six-ship expansion programme. 

The delivery ceremony brought together senior executives from MSC Group and Fincantieri, alongside Italian government officials and local authorities, celebrating another chapter in one of the cruise industry's most significant long-term partnerships. All six Explora Journeys ships are being designed and constructed entirely in Italy by Fincantieri, representing an investment exceeding €3.5 billion. According to Fincantieri, the programme is expected to generate an economic impact of more than €15 billion for Italy while supporting thousands of jobs across the country's shipbuilding supply chain. 

A New Generation of Luxury Ocean Travel

While EXPLORA III shares the refined design philosophy introduced with EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, the newest ship represents the evolution of the series.

Extended by 19.2 metres, she becomes the largest and most spacious vessel in the fleet while carrying a similar number of guests. The additional space has been used to introduce new public areas, larger wellness facilities and expanded accommodation options, reinforcing Explora Journeys' commitment to privacy, comfort and understated luxury. 

Among the most significant additions are three entirely new culinary concepts—The Cellar, The Chef's Table, and Shore Club on 11—along with a second Owner's Residence designed by Patricia Urquiola, more Ocean Residences and Ocean Penthouses, redesigned Ocean Wellness facilities and the first Chopard boutique at sea for the brand. These enhancements continue Explora Journeys' strategy of refining each successive ship based on guest feedback while maintaining its distinctive boutique-hotel atmosphere at sea. 

What's New on EXPLORA III?

Rather than simply replicating her sister ships, EXPLORA III introduces a series of significant enhancements that make her the most refined and spacious vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet to date.

Feature EXPLORA I & II EXPLORA III Length Original design Extended by 19.2 metres for even more space Guest Experience Luxury boutique atmosphere Greater openness, privacy and comfort with a similar guest capacity Dining Existing signature restaurants Three new concepts: The Cellar, The Chef's Table and Shore Club on 11 Accommodation Luxury suites and one Owner's Residence Additional Ocean Residences, Ocean Penthouses and a second Owner's Residence designed by Patricia Urquiola Wellness Ocean Wellness facilities Completely reimagined wellness concept combining spa and fitness in one integrated space Retail Luxury shopping First Chopard boutique in the Explora Journeys fleet Propulsion Conventional marine fuel First LNG-capable Explora ship, ready for bio-LNG and synthetic LNG Environmental Technology Shore power ready Shore power capability plus future-ready renewable fuel compatibility

EXPLORA III represents the next evolution of the Explora Journeys concept, combining additional space, enhanced guest experiences and next-generation environmental technology while preserving the brand's signature ultra-elegant atmosphere.

🚢 Why EXPLORA III Matters

While EXPLORA I introduced the brand and EXPLORA II refined its ultra-elegant concept, EXPLORA III represents the beginning of the fleet's next generation.

She is not only the largest and most spacious ship in the Explora Journeys fleet to date, but also the first capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG), introducing expanded wellness facilities, innovative dining concepts and future-ready environmental technologies.

Most importantly, her delivery marks a strategic milestone for the luxury brand: with three ships now in service and three more under construction, Explora Journeys has officially reached the halfway point of its ambitious six-ship fleet expansion, reinforcing MSC Group's long-term vision for the future of ultra-luxury ocean travel.

A Major Step Forward in Sustainability

EXPLORA III is also the first vessel in the fleet capable of operating on liquefied natural gas (LNG), representing the next phase of Explora Journeys' environmental strategy.

The ship has been designed to support future renewable alternatives, including bio-LNG and synthetic LNG, while shore power capability enables her to connect directly to local electrical grids in ports where infrastructure is available, allowing the engines to be switched off during port stays and significantly reducing local emissions. 

According to Fincantieri, the following ships in the class—EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI—will go even further by introducing fuel-cell technology as part of MSC Group's long-term pathway towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. 

Halfway Through an Ambitious Fleet Programme

The delivery of EXPLORA III marks the halfway point in Explora Journeys' fleet expansion.

Three ships are now in service, while EXPLORA IV, EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI remain under construction at Fincantieri and are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2028. 

The project has quickly become one of the most important luxury cruise investments of the decade, combining Italian shipbuilding expertise with MSC Group's long-term vision for premium ocean travel.

Mediterranean Debut Before a Global Journey

Following delivery, EXPLORA III will embark on an exclusive five-night Mediterranean Prelude Journey departing Genoa before arriving in Barcelona for her official naming ceremony on 1 August 2026.

Her inaugural season will then take guests across Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America, with carefully designed itineraries focused on longer stays and deeper destination immersion. In 2027, the ship will also become the first in the Explora Journeys fleet to sail in Alaska, while the brand plans to expand into Asia with EXPLORA V in 2028. 

📖 Continue Reading: Discover EXPLORA III's First Voyages

Now that EXPLORA III has officially joined the fleet, guests can start looking ahead to her inaugural season across Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland and North America.

If you'd like to explore her first itineraries, exclusive destinations and what to expect from her maiden season, don't miss our complete guide:

👉 EXPLORA III Summer 2026: Itineraries, Destinations and Maiden Season Guide

A New Milestone for Italian Shipbuilding

Beyond the delivery of a new cruise ship, EXPLORA III symbolises the strength of the long-standing partnership between MSC Group and Fincantieri.

Designed, engineered and built entirely in Italy, the vessel showcases the country's expertise in luxury shipbuilding, advanced environmental technologies and high-end craftsmanship. As Explora Journeys continues to expand its fleet over the coming two years, EXPLORA III stands as the clearest expression yet of the brand's ambition to redefine ultra-elegant ocean travel while reinforcing Italy's position as a global leader in cruise ship construction. 

🚢 The Evolution of Explora Journeys

Follow the journey of Explora Journeys as its luxury fleet continues to grow.

- EXPLORA III Summer 2026 Discover the ship's inaugural itineraries across Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland. - EXPLORA III Delivered You're reading this story — the official delivery marks the halfway point of the brand's six-ship fleet expansion. - EXPLORA II Winter Mediterranean Explore the exclusive Winter 2026–2027 Mediterranean collection. - EXPLORA IV Reservations are already open for the next-generation luxury ship arriving in 2027.

🔍FAQs

Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026: Up to 50% Off Cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska & More

Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 have officially arrived, offering travelers an excellent opportunity to explore some of the world's most popular cruise destinations while taking advantage of significant savings. Through its new "Get Away Without Going Far Away" campaign, Norwegian Cruise Line is encouraging guests to rediscover the convenience of sailing from homeports across the United States and Canada, combining attractive pricing with a diverse selection of itineraries.

Unlike a traditional product announcement, this campaign reflects a broader commercial strategy designed to capitalize on the growing demand for accessible, drive-to cruise vacations. With discounts of up to 50% available on selected sailings, Norwegian Cruise Line aims to attract both first-time cruisers and loyal guests looking for an affordable summer getaway.

Sea trials of Norwegian Cruise Line – Norwegian Luna -

A Strategy Focused on Convenience

Over the past few years, travelers have increasingly prioritized vacations that require less planning, fewer connecting flights and lower transportation costs. Norwegian Cruise Line has embraced this trend by promoting departures from 15 convenient homeports throughout North America.

Rather than focusing exclusively on destination appeal, the campaign highlights the overall travel experience. Guests can reach many embarkation ports by car or with short domestic flights, significantly reducing both travel time and vacation expenses.

This approach aligns with a growing industry trend, as more cruise lines invest in regional departures that simplify the journey before guests even step onboard.

Up to 50% Savings Across Multiple Destinations

At the heart of the Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 campaign is an attractive promotional offer featuring savings of up to 50% on a wide selection of cruises departing throughout the summer season.

The promotion includes voyages to some of Norwegian Cruise Line's most popular destinations, including:

- Caribbean - Bahamas - Alaska - Bermuda - Canada & New England

Rather than limiting the offer to a handful of sailings, NCL has expanded the campaign across multiple ships and departure ports, giving travelers greater flexibility when planning their vacation.

Whether guests are looking for a short three-night escape or a week-long adventure, the campaign covers a broad range of itineraries designed to suit different travel styles and budgets.

The Caribbean Remains the Star of Summer

As expected, the Caribbean continues to be the centerpiece of Norwegian Cruise Line's summer strategy.

Several ships will operate from Miami and Port Canaveral, offering cruises ranging from three to seven nights with calls at some of the region's most iconic destinations.

Featured ports include:

- Cozumel, Mexico - St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands - Tortola, British Virgin Islands - Falmouth, Jamaica - Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island in the Bahamas

The variety of itineraries allows travelers to choose between quick weekend escapes and longer island-hopping vacations while enjoying Norwegian Cruise Line's signature Freestyle Cruising experience.

Norwegian Luna Takes Center Stage

One of the most significant highlights of the campaign is the continued promotion of Norwegian Luna, one of the newest ships in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet.

Designed to represent the next evolution of the Prima Plus Class, Norwegian Luna combines innovative attractions with contemporary design, elevated dining experiences and a strong emphasis on outdoor spaces.

Among the ship's signature features are:

- The Aqua Slidecoaster, combining a waterslide with a rollercoaster-style experience. - A wide variety of specialty restaurants. - Expansive outdoor decks and infinity pools. - Modern entertainment productions, including a brand-new tribute show inspired by Elton John.

By positioning Norwegian Luna at the center of its summer campaign, the company is clearly showcasing one of its strongest assets while introducing guests to the latest evolution of the Norwegian Cruise Line experience.

Readers interested in the future of the fleet can also explore our coverage of Norwegian Aura, the next-generation Prima Plus Class ship expected to further expand NCL's innovative lineup.

As Norwegian Cruise Line continues to expand its Prima Plus Class fleet, the company is already looking ahead to the arrival of Norwegian Aura, its next-generation vessel expected to further elevate the onboard guest experience.

👉 https://www.cruisingpassion.net/norwegian-aura-float-out-ncl-2027/

Norwegian Aura in Fincantieri Monfalcone Shipyard

Alaska Continues to Drive Premium Demand

While the Caribbean dominates overall capacity, Alaska remains one of Norwegian Cruise Line's highest-value seasonal markets.

Departures from Seattle and Vancouver provide guests with the opportunity to experience breathtaking glaciers, abundant wildlife and spectacular natural scenery.

Alaska itineraries continue to attract travelers seeking immersive experiences rather than traditional beach vacations. Shore excursions often include glacier viewing, whale watching, scenic railway journeys and visits to charming coastal communities.

Demand for Alaska cruises has remained exceptionally strong over the past several seasons, making it one of the industry's most resilient premium cruise products.

Norwegian Cruise Line continues to position itself competitively within this market by offering modern ships equipped with expansive observation lounges, panoramic outdoor decks and diverse dining options designed to complement the destination itself.

Great Stirrup Cay Becomes More Important Than Ever

Beyond attractive pricing, another key objective behind the Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 campaign is to reinforce the growing importance of Great Stirrup Cay, the company's private island destination in the Bahamas.

Over the last year, Norwegian Cruise Line has announced substantial investments aimed at transforming Great Stirrup Cay into one of the Caribbean's premier private cruise destinations. New amenities, upgraded facilities and the highly anticipated Great Tides Waterpark are expected to significantly enhance the guest experience while expanding the island's appeal for future itineraries.

These developments also reflect a wider trend across the cruise industry, where private destinations have become strategic assets that allow cruise lines to deliver exclusive experiences while creating additional onboard and shoreside revenue opportunities.

The island is undergoing its biggest transformation yet, with the upcoming Great Tides Waterpark set to become one of the Caribbean's largest private cruise attractions.

👉 https://www.cruisingpassion.net/great-tides-waterpark-opening-date-2026/

Bermuda and Canada & New England Offer a Different Kind of Summer Escape

While tropical destinations naturally capture most of the attention, Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 also shine a spotlight on two regions that continue to attract travelers looking for a slower pace and unique cultural experiences.

Bermuda remains one of Norwegian Cruise Line's signature destinations, particularly for guests sailing from the U.S. East Coast. Departures from ports such as New York and Philadelphia allow travelers to reach the island without the need for international flights, making Bermuda an attractive option for families, couples and first-time cruisers alike.

Unlike many Caribbean itineraries that visit a different port every day, Bermuda cruises typically offer extended stays, giving guests more time to explore the island's famous pink-sand beaches, colonial architecture, golf courses and crystal-clear waters.

Further north, Canada & New England cruises provide an entirely different atmosphere. These itineraries combine picturesque coastal towns, historic cities and breathtaking maritime scenery, making them particularly popular with travelers seeking a more relaxed and immersive vacation.

Ports such as Halifax, Saint John and Quebec City continue to be among the highlights of these voyages, offering a blend of history, culture and spectacular landscapes that contrast beautifully with traditional tropical cruises.

Why This Campaign Matters Beyond the Discounts

At first glance, the Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 campaign appears to be another seasonal promotion focused primarily on price.

However, a closer look reveals a much broader commercial strategy.

Rather than simply offering discounts, Norwegian Cruise Line is reinforcing several key pillars that are shaping the future of its business:

- expanding departures from easily accessible homeports; - promoting shorter cruises alongside traditional seven-night itineraries; - increasing visibility for its newest ships; - strengthening the appeal of Great Stirrup Cay as a premier private destination; - encouraging repeat guests to discover different regions within the NCL network.

These initiatives align with broader industry trends observed across the global cruise market, where convenience, flexibility and destination exclusivity have become increasingly important factors in travelers' purchasing decisions.

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Competition Among Cruise Lines Continues to Intensify

Norwegian Cruise Line is far from alone in pursuing this strategy.

Across the industry, cruise operators are investing heavily in private destinations, exclusive shore experiences and next-generation ships designed to differentiate their products.

Royal Caribbean continues to expand its portfolio of destination experiences, while MSC Cruises is strengthening its presence in North America through larger ships and enhanced Caribbean deployments.

Against this backdrop, Norwegian Cruise Line is leveraging two of its strongest competitive advantages:

Freestyle Cruising

The company's signature concept continues to appeal to guests seeking flexibility, with no fixed dining times, multiple specialty restaurants and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

A Modern Fleet

Ships such as Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Luna represent the company's latest investment in guest experience, combining innovative attractions with premium accommodations and contemporary design.

At the same time, future additions to the fleet—including Norwegian Aura—demonstrate NCL's long-term commitment to expanding the Prima Plus Class and maintaining a competitive position within the premium contemporary cruise segment.

Looking Ahead

The Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 campaign is more than a seasonal promotion—it offers a clear glimpse into the company's priorities for the coming years.

Convenient departures, innovative ships, private island experiences and competitive pricing are becoming the foundation of Norwegian Cruise Line's strategy as it responds to changing traveler expectations.

With demand for cruise vacations continuing to grow worldwide, campaigns like this demonstrate how cruise lines are evolving beyond simply selling itineraries. Instead, they are creating complete vacation ecosystems designed to simplify travel while maximizing the onboard and destination experience.

Whether travelers dream of exploring Alaska's majestic glaciers, relaxing on Caribbean beaches, discovering Bermuda's charm or sailing through the historic ports of Canada & New England, Norwegian Cruise Line's latest offers provide a wide range of opportunities for every type of cruiser.

Conclusion

The Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026 campaign is not about introducing a brand-new ship or unveiling a previously unknown itinerary. Instead, it reflects a carefully planned commercial strategy focused on accessibility, value and destination diversity.

By offering savings of up to 50% across a broad selection of itineraries, Norwegian Cruise Line is positioning itself to attract both experienced cruisers and newcomers looking for an affordable summer escape.

Combined with the continued expansion of Great Stirrup Cay, the growing prominence of Norwegian Luna and the future arrival of Norwegian Aura, the campaign highlights NCL's long-term vision of delivering flexible, experience-driven vacations supported by one of the industry's most modern fleets.

For travelers planning their next cruise, these summer offers present an excellent opportunity to discover some of the world's most iconic destinations while experiencing everything that Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer.

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Ready for Your Next Cruise?

Inspired by the Norwegian Cruise Line Summer Deals 2026? Explore the latest itineraries, discover exclusive offers and book your next unforgettable vacation directly through Norwegian Cruise Line.

🌴 Book Your Cruise Now

Discover Caribbean, Alaska, Bermuda, Europe and many more incredible destinations.

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Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages: Japan, Northern Europe, World Cruises and New Ships

Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages offer more than just a preview of future sailings. The newly announced collection provides a clear look at the cruise line’s long-term strategy, highlighting a growing focus on destination-rich itineraries, immersive cultural experiences, smaller ports, and luxury exploration across the globe.

With more than 230 voyages opening for booking across the 2028 and 2029 seasons, Oceania Cruises is positioning itself to capitalize on some of the strongest trends in luxury travel. From expanded Japan itineraries and Northern Europe adventures to the debut of a brand-new world cruise vessel, the company is setting an ambitious course for the years ahead.

A Destination-First Strategy

The biggest takeaway from the Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages collection is the company’s continued commitment to destination-focused cruising.

Unlike many mainstream cruise brands that prioritize onboard attractions, Oceania Cruises continues to emphasize immersive travel experiences. The line's future deployments showcase longer port stays, more overnight calls, and access to destinations that larger ships often cannot reach.

More than 60 overnight stays are featured throughout the collection, allowing guests to spend additional time exploring iconic cities such as Copenhagen, Lisbon, Bangkok, and Bali, while also discovering lesser-known destinations around the world.

This strategy reflects the growing demand among luxury travelers for meaningful experiences rather than simply checking destinations off a list.

Japan Emerges as a Key Growth Market

One of the most significant developments within the Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages program is the cruise line's increasing focus on Japan.

While Japan has become a popular cruise destination in recent years, Oceania is moving beyond traditional ports and introducing itineraries that highlight smaller and more authentic destinations.

Aboard Oceania Riviera, guests will have opportunities to visit ports including:

- Kagoshima - Ishigaki - Miyazaki - Tokyo - Osaka

The emphasis on smaller Japanese ports aligns perfectly with Oceania's boutique approach and provides travelers with access to destinations often overlooked by larger cruise ships.

Japan's combination of culture, cuisine, natural beauty, and efficient infrastructure continues to make it one of the fastest-growing cruise markets in the world, and Oceania appears determined to strengthen its presence there through 2029 and beyond.

Northern Europe Continues to Gain Importance

The cruise line's recently highlighted Northern Europe program for 2027 also offers valuable insight into its long-term strategy.

Northern Europe has become one of the most desirable regions for luxury travelers seeking dramatic scenery, authentic cultures, and unique experiences. Oceania Cruises is responding by expanding itineraries throughout:

- Norway - Iceland - Greenland - Scandinavia - The Baltic - The British Isles

Unlike larger vessels, Oceania's smaller ships can access destinations such as Rosendal in Norway, Stornoway in Scotland, Seydisfjordur in Iceland, and Karlskrona in Sweden.

These ports provide a more intimate and authentic travel experience while reinforcing Oceania's position as a destination-driven luxury cruise line.

Highlighted itineraries include voyages through Icelandic fjords, Greenland's remote coastlines, and Scandinavia's cultural capitals, offering travelers some of the most scenic cruise experiences available anywhere in the world.

Stockholm 21 June 2011

Oceania Aurelia Will Debut with World Cruises

Perhaps the most exciting announcement within the Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages collection is the introduction of Oceania Aurelia's inaugural world cruises.

The new vessel will accommodate fewer than 500 guests and is scheduled to operate 180-day Around the World voyages in both 2028 and 2029.

The 2028 sailing will depart from Miami and conclude in New York, while the 2029 edition will begin in Los Angeles before also ending in New York.

The launch places Oceania directly into the growing ultra-luxury world cruise segment, where travelers increasingly seek longer, more immersive global journeys.

World cruises continue to gain popularity among affluent travelers, and Oceania Aurelia is expected to become one of the most sought-after luxury cruise experiences in the industry.

Oceania Allura Expands Mediterranean Operations

Another major development is the continued expansion of Oceania Allura's presence in the Mediterranean.

The ship will return for a second consecutive winter Mediterranean season during 2028 and 2029, operating itineraries throughout:

- Italy - Greece - Turkey - Spain

With more than 80 Mediterranean sailings available, Oceania Cruises is offering travelers an alternative way to experience the region during the quieter winter months.

Winter cruising in the Mediterranean has become increasingly popular thanks to milder weather, reduced crowds, and enhanced opportunities for cultural exploration.

This deployment further demonstrates how Oceania Cruises is adapting to changing traveler preferences while expanding its year-round destination portfolio.

Do you want to read our news about the Oceania Sonata? Follow this link -> https://www.cruisingpassion.net/oceania-sonata-maiden-season-voyages/

Alaska Remains a Strategic Priority

The Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages collection also confirms the return of Oceania Riviera to Alaska.

Alaska continues to be one of the strongest-performing cruise markets globally, attracting travelers interested in wildlife, glaciers, and spectacular natural scenery.

Following its Alaska season, Riviera will reposition to Asia, creating a deployment strategy that links two of the world's fastest-growing cruise destinations.

This flexibility allows Oceania to maximize demand across multiple regions while maintaining a strong presence in premium destination markets.

The Future of the Sonata Class Fleet

The announcements also reinforce Oceania Cruises' long-term fleet expansion plans.

The company currently has five Sonata Class ships on order, with deliveries scheduled for:

- 2027 - 2029 - 2032 - 2035 - 2037

This represents one of the most ambitious growth plans in the luxury cruise sector.

As these vessels enter service, Oceania Cruises will be able to expand its global reach while maintaining the intimate atmosphere and destination-focused philosophy that have become hallmarks of the brand.

Looking Ahead to 2029

The Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages collection reveals a cruise line that is carefully positioning itself for the future.

By expanding in Japan, strengthening its presence in Northern Europe, investing in world cruises, growing its Mediterranean operations, and introducing new ships, Oceania Cruises is creating a diverse and highly competitive portfolio for luxury travelers.

For cruise enthusiasts, the message is clear: the future of Oceania Cruises is centered on exploration, authenticity, and access to extraordinary destinations. Whether sailing through Greenland's remote fjords, discovering hidden ports in Japan, or embarking on a 180-day world cruise aboard Oceania Aurelia, travelers will have more opportunities than ever to experience the world in depth.

As bookings open for these future seasons, the Oceania Cruises 2028 and 2029 Voyages collection stands as one of the most significant luxury cruise announcements of the year.

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Alaska from San Francisco in 2026: why it’s trending again (routes + who should go)

🌊 Holland America Cruise Deals from Just $54/Night Looking for the perfect balance of luxury, culture, and unbeatable value? Holland America Cruises delivers an experience unlike any other — and now, thanks to this exclusive deal starting at just $54 per night, the world is closer than ever. ✨ Why Choose Holland America? Enriching Activities: From America’s Test Kitchen cooking shows to BBC…