Explora Journeys has signed a Letter of Intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of its first luxury river ships, marking the brand’s planned entry into river cruising.

Since launching, Explora Journeys has sought to change the way people experience ocean travel through its Ocean State of Mind philosophy - combining the freedom and discovery of travelling by sea with the elegance and refinement of European hospitality and design. The brand now intends to bring that same approach to Europe’s most iconic rivers.

Further details regarding ship design, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and initial itineraries will be announced in due course with sales planned to open in 2027.

About Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is the privately owned luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Rooted in Swiss precision, understated European elegance and the Aponte-Vago family's 300 years of maritime heritage, the brand has grown from a long-held vision to redefine the ocean experience for a new generation of discerning guests. At its heart is a unique ‘Ocean State of Mind’ that connects guests with the sea, themselves and like-minded others, while immersive itineraries blend iconic destinations with lesser-travelled ports for unhurried Journeys inspiring discovery.

Marrying the refined essence and service of the world's finest boutique hotels with the boundless freedom of the ocean, the fleet prioritizes a profound sense of space. Each ship features generously proportioned oceanfront Suites, Penthouses and Residences, where abundant natural light, generous outdoor living space and uninterrupted sea views create an unrivalled sense of openness. Guests enjoy a sophisticated collection of distinct dining destinations, world-class wellness facilities, heated pools designed for all seasons and premium retail spaces, all reflecting the brand’s effortless sense of understated European luxury.
EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II entered the fleet in 2023 and 2024, respectively, and were joined in 2026 by EXPLORA III, the brand's first LNG-powered ship. EXPLORA IV will follow in early 2027, with EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI joining the fleet through 2027 into 2028, incorporating advanced environmental technologies as part of the brand’s commitment to sustainability.