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Explora 1 Aerials NYExplora Journeys, MSC Group’s premium travel division, marks a defining moment in maritime luxury with the prestigious naming ceremony of EXPLORA I, held today at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

The time-honoured maritime tradition-breaking a champagne bottle against the ship’s bow – was elegantly executed by the ship’s Godmother, Dr Sylvia Earle, globally celebrated marine biologist and oceanographer. This significant event witnessed the convergence of luminaries from diverse sectors, including global media, prominent travel partners of Explora Journeys, and top brass from MSC Group, culminating in a grand gala dinner and a night teeming with vivacity.

Diego Michaelozzi, Dr Sylvia Earle, Pierfrancesco Vago, Michael Ungerer, Daniela Picco

Diego Michaelozzi, Dr Sylvia Earle, Pierfrancesco Vago, Michael Ungerer, Daniela Picco.

Pierfrancesco Vago, at the helm of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, remarked, “EXPLORA I isn’t merely a ship; it heralds a transformative era in luxury ocean travel. Our vision extends beyond the customary; we aim to captivate those seasoned in luxury, land-based retreats, drawing them to genuine, authentic, and immersive sea voyages. As Explora Journeys continues to chart unexplored territories, travelers are poised to engage with the world from the vantage of unparalleled luxury.”

Michael Ungerer, the dynamic CEO of Explora Journeys, emphasized, “This christening underscores our commitment to redefine luxury travel. We are ecstatic to unveil the majestic EXPLORA I against the backdrop of New York City’s iconic skyline.”

Dr Earle, steering Mission Blue, conveyed her gratitude, “It’s a profound honor to christen EXPLORA I. This association embodies our collective aspiration to safeguard and rejuvenate our precious oceans.”

Dr Sylvia Earle

Dr Sylvia Earle

With its maiden voyage in July, the €3.5 billion maritime marvel, masterfully crafted by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, embarked on an expansive journey, spanning Northern Europe, the Atlantic, with stops in pristine locales like Iceland, Greenland, and Canada.

Boasting 461 sea-facing suites, sumptuous dining options, sprawling wellness facilities, and more, EXPLORA I is set to grace the shores of North America, the Caribbean, the U.S West Coast, Hawaii, and Europe in the coming months, promising its patrons an incomparable cruising experience.

Furthermore, Explora Journeys is poised to unveil its fleet’s subsequent marvels: EXPLORA II in 2024 and EXPLORA III and IV in 2026 and 2027, all championing eco-conscious advancements. With a keen focus on sustainable voyaging, the latter vessels are equipped to utilize alternative fuels and employ cutting-edge energy efficiency measures.

All Explora Journeys vessels are vested in safeguarding our oceans with avant-garde environmental and marine technologies, amplifying the brand’s commitment to a responsible yet luxurious maritime experience.

 

 

 

Written by: Anne Keam

 

 

 

 

 

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