explora 1 maiden voyage

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MSC Explora Journeys details itinerary for the Maiden Voyage of its first ship Explora I

MSC Explora Journeys announced details of the maiden voyage for its first of 6 ships, EXPLORA I , that will set sail on July 17th, 2023, from Southampton (England UK) .

The brand will debut with a 15-night inaugural  journey to Northern Europe with calls to a total of 12 ports in 4 countries under the title, "A Maiden Journey into Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle".

Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys, said their vision and purpose from day one had been to create a travel and ocean experience like no other and they were thrilled that their ground-breaking new class of ship, EXPLORA I, would introduce guests during her maiden journey "to some of the most breathtaking destinations in Northern Europe while enjoying the finest luxury hospitality at sea.”

EXPLORA I from Southampton UK will call Zeebrugge (Belgium) and in Norway Geiranger , Trondheim , Molde , Leknes , Bronnoysund , Flam , Bergen , and Stavanger before sailing to Denmark with calls at Skagen and the capital city of Copenhagen .

Mr. Ungerer added that guests onboard EXPLORA I’s inaugural voyage could look forward to immersing themselves in local cultures, both on/off the beaten path, as well as witnessing some of the most astonishing natural wonders in the world. Surprise treats are due to be revealed throughout the journey, such as "thrilling experiences, thoughtful gifts and exciting guest artists that are all designed to inspire the discerning travelers’ desire to discover the world around them, meet new people, and reconnect with themselves.”

EXPLORA I is scheduled to arrive in Copenhagen (Denmark) on August 1st. With an architectural aesthetic ranging from medieval to Renaissance to contemporary, and some of the world's best fine-dining venues, the city is a cultural hub. 

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A new era of ocean travel has arrived

On 1 August 2023, EXPLORA I departed on her Maiden Journey, sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark on an epic 14-night journey through seven captivating destinations with a two-night stay in Reykjavik, before returning to the Danish capital.

This marks the start of a series of itineraries spanning three continents, offering guests cultural immersion and an opportunity for inner and outer discovery on their quest to the Ocean State of Mind .

EXPLORA I Highlights

EXPLORA I is the blueprint of exquisite design. Expect extraordinary architecture blended with environmental technologies.

461 Ocean-front suites

9 culinary experiences

3 outdoor pools, 1 indoor

EXPLORA I Live Tracker

Stay updated on EXPLORA I's journey in real time.

EXPLORA I Timeline

Explore the evolution of a luxury vessel, from its inception at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, to its grand delivery, marking a significant chapter in maritime history.

11 June 2021

Steel Cutting Ceremony

A major shipbuilding milestone for Explora Journeys. This centuries-old maritime tradition confers good fortune and blessing for her future.

24 February 2022

Coin Ceremony

A significant shipbuilding milestone honors the family's seafaring heritage and brings blessings for the ship's future.

30 May 2022

The ship's inaugural water touch marks a crucial step before completion at the Fincantieri shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy.

13 April 2023

EXPLORA I completes her sea trials with flying colours, a critical process ahead of final preparations for her maiden journey in July 2023.

20 July 2023

Delivery Ceremony

EXPLORA I, a 63,900 GT vessel, was delivered on July 20, 2023, at Fincantieri's Monfalcone shipyard, starting construction on June 10, 2021.

1 August 2023

Maiden Journey

The luxury ship journeyed from Copenhagen to Reykjavik, making stops at Lerwick, Shetland Islands, and Kirkwall, Orkney, during its seven-night trip.

12 October 2023

Naming Ceremony

Explora Journeys’ first of six luxury ships was officially named by renowned marine biologist and oceanographer Dr Sylvia Earle in Manhattan.

Meet the Captains

Explora Journeys is proud to present your two Captains, alternating as the helm of EXPLORA I.

Captain Serena Melani will steer EXPLORA I to remarkable destinations - journeying the familiar and off the beaten path. With shared values of respect for the ocean and nature and a passion for exploration, Captain Melani thrives from creating meaningful connections with hosts and guests. She is incredibly experienced and was the world’s first female captain to bring a cruise ship out of a shipyard which beautifully represents our vision to be a disruptive force in the sector, making it more diverse and inclusive.

Tuscan born Captain Diego Michelozzi comes from four generations of seafarers. The importance of preserving the mesmerising beauty of our oceans and marine life was instilled from an early age. 

Captain Michelozzi has spent the last two and a half years as Master for a luxury line. He brings 20 years of experience at the helm of major cruise ships and has served in the Italian Navy.  His decades at sea, coupled with his highly regarded associate art degree, a diploma in leadership and management plus an MBA perfectly equips him to steer the first ship of our fleet. 

EXPLORA I Godmother: Sylvia Earl

Dr. Sylvia Earle, the world-renowned oceanographer, explorer, and conservationist, will be the Godmother of its first ship, EXPLORA I. Dr. Earle is a celebrated pioneer of deep-sea exploration and has dedicated her life to ocean conservation. She has been a vocal advocate for protecting the world's oceans and marine life, and her expertise and leadership have been recognised globally. Dr. Earle's involvement with Explora Journeys underscores the brand's commitment to sustainable luxury travel at sea and ocean conservation.

EXPLORA I Ocean Suites

Luxurious, serene, and spacious, each of our 461 ocean-front suites, penthouses and residences have been created with refined European elegance, comfort and simplicity as the focus to offer a real ‘Home at Sea’ to our guests. 

Life on Explora

Our all inclusive Journeys purvey diverse culinary riches, Ocean Wellness treatments, Shopping Experiences and soulful entertainment.

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• Cruise News

Explora Journeys’ First Ship Maiden Voyage Detailed

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• November 23, 2022

Explora Journeys revealed today details on the maiden voyage for the first of six planned ships, Explora I. The maiden sailing is scheduled to depart on July 17, 2023 from Southampton, England.

The brand will make its debut with a 15-night inaugural journey to northern europe with calls to 12 ports in four countries. “Our vision and purpose from day one has been to create a travel and ocean experience like no other,” said Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys. “We are thrilled that our ground-breaking new class of ship, Explora I, will introduce guests during her maiden journey to some of the most breathtaking destinations in Northern Europe while enjoying the finest luxury hospitality at sea.”

Here are the ports of call on the inaugural journey:

Zeebrugge is where guests can enjoy medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, canals, and pristine gardens in nearby Bruges. From there, the ship will journey north along Norway’s western coastline where the Atlantic meets the Arctic. Its fjords are listed by UNESCO World Heritage Sites as “the best unspoiled travel destinations in the world.”

Geiranger , at the head of Geirangerfjord, is a perfect example of a little Nordic village. The fjord is so famous that it’s been awarded UNESCO status, and its especially known for Seven Sisters — one of the world’s 10 highest waterfalls.

Trondheim was the Viking capital of Norway until 1217, and its port dates back to 997. Its medieval Nidaros Cathedral is a fitting tribute to its impressive heritage.

Molde, known as the City of Roses thanks to its abundance of summer blooms, is ringed by 222 snow-capped peaks, and is home to a plethora of little shops and cafés.

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Leknes is on Vestvågøya, one of Norway’s six Lofoten islands in the Arctic Circle. Warmed by the Gulf Stream and long summer days of sunshine, it features tropical beaches, horseback riding, sea eagles, and beautiful scenery.

Brønnøysund may be the only place with a pretty bathing lake right in the center of town. It also has a mountain with a hole in it, along with a bustling marina and beautiful hiking trails.

Flåm ‘s railway is one of the most awe-inspiring train journeys in the world, winding past eye-popping natural wonders such as the Nærøyfjord, another Norwegian entry on UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

Bergen ‘s 14th century Hanseatic wharf, Bryggen, provides visitors with their first glimpse of a city crammed with arts, crafts, and food markets. Its world-class restaurants make it a worthy member of UNESCO’s City of Gastronomy network.

Stavanger ‘s colorful old town has rustic cobbled streets and perfectly restored white wooden houses that sit alongside cafés, craft shops, museums, and vibrant nightlife. Beyond the town lie stunning landscapes and beaches. This will be the ship’s last port of call in Norway.

Skagen, Denmark’s most northerly point, is where the Baltic meets the North Sea. Its rich art heritage is a legacy of the many painters seduced by Skagen’s uniquely translucent light. In addition, its seafood, architecture, and the vast migrating dune at Råbjerg Mile have made Skagen a must-see.

Explora I will arrive in Copenhagen on August 1, 2023. With its architectural aesthetic ranging from medieval to Renaissance to contemporary, and some of the best fine dining venues in the world, this city is a cultural hub. It’s also arguably the hippest city in Scandinavia, a fitting way to bring down the curtain on an unforgettable voyage.

Explora Journeys’ ‘A Maiden Journey into Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle’ is now open for bookings. Travelers can take advantage of the Explora Journeys early booking system and enjoy a five percent savings.

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Explora Journeys: itinerary for maiden voyage released

The first ship of the luxury brand of MSC will set sail in July 2023.

Explora Journeys unveiled details for its first journey: Explora I , the first of six ships, will sail on July 17, 2023 from Southampton , UK. The luxury brand of MSC´s cruise division will debut with a 15-night journey to Northern Europe, with calls to 12 ports in four countries – the trip entitled A Maiden Journey into Epic Fjords and the Arctic Circle .

Explora I from Southampton will call at Zeebrugge, Belgium , and in Norway at Geiranger, Trondheim, Molde, Leknes, Brønnøysund, Flåm, Bergen and Stavanger , before sailing on to Denmark with visits to Skagen and Copenhagen.

First stop in Zeebrugge

Details about the ship’s journey and its destinations have been released, with a first stop in Zeebrugge where guests can head off to enjoy medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, canals and the pristine gardens of nearby Bruges. From Zeebrugge , they will journey northwards along Norway’s western coastline, where the Atlantic meets the Arctic, stopping first at Geiranger, at the head of the Geirangerfjord, a true example of a small traditional Nordic village . Trondheim was the Viking capital of Norway until 1217, and its port dates back to 997, while Molde is ringed by 222 soaring, snow-capped peaks, and boasts some of the best shops and cafés in the country. Leknes is on Vestvågøya, one of Norway’s six Lofoten Islands in the Arctic Circle: warmed by the Gulf Stream, it boasts tropical beaches, horse riding, and sea eagles. Brønnøysund has a mountain with a huge hole visibly punched through it, along with a bustling marina and sensational hiking trails.

Skagen , Denmark’s most northerly point, is where the Baltic meets the North Sea; its art heritage is a legacy of the many painters who have been seduced by Skagen’s translucent light. In addition, its fabulous seafood, architecture, and the vast migrating dune at Råbjerg Mile make Skagen a must-see for tourists to the region. The ship will finally arrive in Copenhagen on August 1.

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Explora I Cruise Ship, Switzerland

Explora I will embark on its maiden voyage, from Barcelona to Athens, in May 2023.

Vessel Type

Cruise ship

Gross Tonnage

Maiden voyage.

Explora Journeys

Explora I is a new cruise ship under construction by Fincantieri at its shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy. The vessel will be operated by Explora Journeys, a new luxury brand of MSC Cruises .

The vessel is the first of four ships ordered for Explora Journeys. Construction of the first vessel commenced in June 2021. The coin ceremony for the ship was held in February 2022, and the float-out ceremony was held in May of the same year.

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Explora I is expected to set sail on its maiden voyage in May 2023.

Construction of Explora II, the second vessel, commenced at Fincantieri’s Castellammare di Stabia (Naples) yard in October 2021. Explora II is expected to be delivered in 2024, followed by the third and fourth vessels in 2025 and 2026, respectively.

Explora I cruise ship design and features

Explora I will have a length of 248m and gross tonnage of 63,900t. It will have 14 decks and incorporate a blend of Swiss precision and modern European craftsmanship.

The Explora fleet will be designed with the latest environment-friendly technologies and provide flexibility to adapt to new alternative energy solutions in the future. The Explora vessels will also prohibit single-use plastics both on board the ship and during land-based experiences.

Explora I can be equipped with a battery storage system to enable hybrid power generation in the future. The sustainable features of the ship will also include selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 90%.

The ship will be able to receive onshore power to avoid carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions while at berth. All four Explora series vessels will be RINA DOLPHIN certified for reduced underwater noise .

Accommodation details

Explora I will feature 461 ocean-front suites and residences with a design focus on refined European elegance, comfort and simplicity.

The on-board accommodation options will include one Owner’s Residence, 22 Ocean Residences, 67 Ocean Penthouses, and 371 Ocean Terrace and Ocean Grand Terrace suites. The ship will feature 82 connecting suites.

The Ocean Terrace suites will have a space of 35m² (377ft²) each, along with floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces. Each Ocean Grand Terrace suite will feature a larger ocean-front terrace of 11m² (118ft²) with an outdoor dining area and daybed.

The Ocean Penthouse suites will be available in four categories, namely Penthouse, Deluxe Penthouse, Premier Penthouse and Grand Penthouse. The penthouses will include a private dining area for four as well as a workspace.

Each penthouse is designed with ocean-front floor-to-ceiling windows and expansive terraces. The total area of each penthouse suite will range between 43m² (463ft²) and 68m² (732ft²), of which the suite area will be between 34m² (366ft²) and 47m² (506ft²) while the terrace area will range between 9m² (97ft²) and 21m² (226ft²).

The Ocean Residence category will be available as Cove, Retreat, Serenity and Cocoon residencies, which will all feature a personal terrace with dining area, private outdoor whirlpool and dedicated butler service. The suites will have a living area ranging between 56m² (603ft²) and 74m² (807ft²) and terrace area ranging between 14m² (151ft²) and 75m² (807ft²).

The Owner’s Residence will be the largest on-board accommodation, with panoramic ocean views from a private outdoor terrace. It will feature a spacious whirlpool and dedicated private butler service. The Owner’s Residence will have a suite area of 155m² (1,668ft²) along with a 125m² (1,345ft²) terrace.

On-board dining

Explora I will feature six restaurants and the Chef’s Kitchen, which will provide an ocean-front private kitchen experience for 12 guests, as well as 12 distinct bars and lounges, eight of which will be located indoors with the remaining four located outdoors.

Anthology will feature global cuisines and unique wine pairings. The restaurant will have an al fresco dining seating capacity of 22 as well as 48 indoor seats.

Guests will be able to enjoy pan-Asian cuisines, including Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese and Malaysian, for lunch and dinner at the Sakura restaurant. Sakura will also offer Asian-influenced beverages and services by a Sake sommelier. Indoor seating will be available for 92 guests while the outdoor seating area will accommodate 26.

Marble & Co will provide a European steakhouse experience with an in-house dry ager and cellar. The restaurant will accommodate 80 guests indoors and ten guests in an outdoor seating area.

The Med Yacht Club will provide an indoor seating capacity of 136, including 34 at the bar. It will offer menus from Greece, Italy, France, Spain and North Africa, and incorporate plant-based vegetarian options and wholesome ingredients. A selection of Mediterranean wines, fresh juices and cocktails will also be available.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be available to guests at the Emporium Marketplace, which will accommodate 271 guests indoors as well as 70 in an outdoor space. The restaurant will serve globally diverse cuisines inspired by local destinations. With 18 separate cooking stations, guests will be able to choose from sushi, fresh seafood and a daily rotisserie that will offer grilled, roasted and slow-cooked meats.

Pasta, pizzas, bread and home-made sandwiches are among the other food options. The restaurant will also feature fromagerie, charcuterie, boulangerie and patisserie stations. The breakfast menu will include fresh juices, smoothies and acai bowls. Wines, champagne and beverages will also be available throughout the day.

The Fil Rouge, which will accommodate 222 guests, will offer a global tasting tour of French-inspired international cuisine, complete with an elegant dessert cart and selection of wines.

Entertainment and other amenities

The vessel will have more than 2,500m² (26,909ft²) of outdoor space, including three swimming pools. It will offer 64 private cabanas and an all-weather indoor pool with a retractable glass ceiling.

Explora I will also feature shops, an art gallery and a casino. Other on-board amenities will include treatment rooms and gyms with state-of-the-art fitness equipment.

Explora I’s inaugural season is scheduled to begin at the end of May 2023, starting with an 11-night Mediterranean journey from Barcelona to Athens.

In its first year, the cruise ship will visit 132 ports in 40 countries. These will include Kastellorizo in Greece and Saint Pierre in Martinique, two destinations that have not been visited by cruise ships before.

The inaugural season will include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the UK, Iceland, Greenland, Canada, the Caribbean Sea, the East Coast of the US, South America and Hawaii. The trips will range from six-night trips to a 44-night grand journey around Northern Europe.

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Explora I embarks on maiden voyage

Explora Journey’s first ship, Explora I , has set sail on her maiden journey.

The ship is currently sailing a seven night itinerary visiting Lerwick, Shetland Islands and Kirkwall, Orkney before heading to Reykjavik, Iceland.

Explora Journey’s states that the northern European journey “has been designed to emphasise the brand’s ‘ocean state of mind’ philosophy with immersive experiences that aim to reward guests physically, intellectually and spiritually.”

Excursions onboard this maiden journey include exploring Copenhagen’s waterways by kayak, discovering Shetland through its heritage pony breed and exploring the sites inside the Golden Circle in Iceland.

This sailing is the first in a series of upcoming itineraries, which will span across three continents.

Festivities, such as the traditional crest exchange, were held in Copenhagen on 1 August 2023 to celebrate the ship’s first visit to a destination.

Explora Journeys CEO, Michael Ungere,r said: “It is our absolute honour to welcome the very first guests onboard our extraordinary ship and share this special moment with them as we embark on the maiden journey from Copenhagen.

“Our guests will be able to experience the very best European hospitality at sea and our vibrant, cosmopolitan sense of luxury, while discovering some of the world’s most remarkable destinations.

“A new era of transformative luxury ocean travel begins now with the first sailing of Explora I .”

Explora I  itineraries

The ship will again call at the port of Copenhagen on August 15, 2023, with a sailing to Hamburg, Germany.

In fact, the ship will spend several weeks in Northern Europe, sailing on a range of different itineraries, and will then cross the Atlantic Sea and will spend the winter in North America and the Caribbean Sea before returning to Europe in summer 2024 for her Mediterranean season.

Explora II  is currently being built in Italy, hitting the water in August 2024.

In terms of the rest of the fleet, Explora III will become the first of two LNG powered vessels to join the fleet, due to be delivered in 2026, with Explora IV due in 2027.

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FIRST LOOK: Inside Explora Journeys’ first ship, EXPLORA I

Sakura and med yacht club restaurants, the lobby and ocean terrace suite in pics.

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EXPLORA I , the first ship to join the fleet of Explora Journeys , commenced her maiden journey on 1 August 2023, a seven-night sailing that will take guests through the majestic landscapes of Lerwick, Shetland Islands and Kirkwall, Orkney before heading to Reykjavik, Iceland.

The first in a series of upcoming itineraries which will span three continents, this northern European journey has been designed to emphasise the brand’s ‘Ocean State of Mind’ philosophy with immersive experiences that aim to reward guests physically, intellectually and spiritually. Along with the onboard experience, this also includes activities like exploring Copenhagen’s beguiling waterways by kayak, discovering Shetland through its heritage pony breed, and an overnight stay in Iceland to explore the soul-enriching sites inside the Golden Circle.

The maiden voyage coincides with the release of first interior photos of the ship which spotlight EXPLORA I ‘s Lobby, Sakura Restaurant, Med Yacht Club Restaurant and Ocean Terrace Suite.

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“It is our absolute honour to welcome the very first guests onboard our extraordinary ship and share this special moment with them as we embark on the maiden journey of EXPLORA I from Copenhagen,” Michael Ungerer, CEO Explora Journeys said. “Our guests will be able to experience the very best European hospitality at sea and our vibrant, cosmopolitan sense of luxury, while discovering some of the world’s most remarkable destinations. A new era of transformative luxury ocean travel begins now with the first sailing of EXPLORA I .”

The festivities held in Copenhagen on Tuesday also included the traditional crest exchange, a maritime tradition to celebrate a ship’s first visit to a destination – on board with the ship’s master Captain Serena Melani, Johan Hoganfalt, Deputy Port Captain, Sune Christensen, Chief Commercial Officer Copenhagen Malmö Port, Klaus Bondam, Director of Cruise Baltic and Cruise Copenhagen and Michael Ungerer.

EXPLORA I will also call the port of Copenhagen on 15 August 2023 with a sailing to Hamburg, Germany.

The luxury ship will spend several weeks in Northern Europe and spend the winter in North America and the Caribbean Sea before returning to Europe for voyages in the Mediterranean Sea next summer.

EXPLORA II is currently being built in Italy and will come into service in August 2024. EXPLORA III will become the first of two liquefied natural gas powered vessels to join the Explora Journeys’ fleet with the ship due to be delivered in 2026 and EXPLORA IV in 2027.

Lead image: Sakura restaurant on Deck 5 of EXPLORA I.

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Explora I sets sail from Copenhagen for maiden voyage

Explora Journeys’ new vessel sails with guests onboard for the first time 

By Alex Smith | 01 August 2023

Explora Journeys’ Explora I set sail on its maiden voyage from Copenhagen in Denmark on 1 August, marking the new cruise line operating fully for the first time.

Explora 1 arrived in Copenhagen at 9:00 local time on 1 August after a shakedown cruise from Portsmouth, UK, with Explora Journeys staff, travel professionals and members of the media onboard. Guests were then welcomed onboard for the first time later the same day.

“We offer our guests a new style of transformative ocean travel,” said Michael Ungerer, CEO of Explora Journeys. “The next generation of luxury travellers are craving authentic connections, actively seeking out the new. Explora Journeys aims to create unique and emotional connections that are powerful, transformative and universal, which we call the ‘ocean state of mind’. Everything we do is rooted in that philosophy.”

Explora 1 has 461 suites, all of which include ocean-facing balconies. These range from the 35-square-metre Ocean Terrace Suites to the 280-square-metre Owner’s Residence, which has a dedicated private butler service, a panoramic ocean-front terrace and a welcome bottle of Dom Pérignon champagne.

“Welcome to our home, a dream that we’ve been working on for over three years,” said Jason Gelineau, head of product at Explora Journeys, during the shakedown cruise. “We feature elegant spaces that really connect you with the sea. Our suites have an incredible sense of space, with light colours and floor-to-ceiling windows. They have been fitted out with high-quality products such as the Dyson supersonic hair dryer, the Illy coffee machine, and the complimentary bottle of champagne found in every suite. It’s not just a room to sleep in, it’s a room to live in.”

The ship includes six restaurants and 12 bars and lounges. These include the pan-Asian dining venue Sakura, European steakhouse Marble & Co. Grill, the French-inspired Fil Rouge and Med Yacht Club, which offers a menu of Mediterranean dishes. In addition, the Anthology restaurant offers a menu curated by chef Mauro Uliassi, whose restaurant in Senigallia, Italy, has received three Michelin stars. The restaurant will rotate menus curated by a range of acclaimed chefs, and all dishes will be paired with wines selected by the cruise line’s sommeliers.

“We’re all more educated in food and beverages today, and we wanted to make sure that we provided our guests with choice,” said Gelineau.  “Each restaurant has its own personality, with none being inferior to the rest. Our culinary team is truly top class, and we work alongside incredible chefs who are still passionate about cooking. They use high-quality, authentic ingredients, and are able to cater to today’s lifestyle choices, whether it be vegetarian or vegan.”

Explora 1 will now sail from Copenhagen to Reykjavik, Iceland, with stops at Lerwick in the Shetland Islands and Kirkwall on the island of Orkney over the course of a seven-night voyage. The ship will spend several weeks sailing itineraries in Northern Europe before crossing the Atlantic Ocean via Greenland to spend the autumn in North America, the winter in the Caribbean and spring on the West Coast of America and in Hawaii. It will then return to Europe in Summer 2024. Itineraries will range from seven to 11 nights in length, with guests able to combine multiple voyages in a single stay.

“We don’t look to do the same itinerary more than once,” said Norbert Stiekema, chief commercial officer at Explora Journeys. “This means not only that every itinerary is different, but that every journey is different, as guests can combine multiple journeys without visiting the same port. This allows us to offer a wide range of experiences for guests to discover.”

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Ep153 – Maiden Voyage for Explora 1, Special guests for Saga & Princess, NCL receives Norwegian Viva and more.

In episode 153, Baz is sailing solo on this week’s show, bringing you the latest cruise news from around the world. Chris and Baz will be back in a few weeks with the usual mix of Maritime History & Fact or Fiction. If you have a question, do get in touch via the website clicking on join the show in the top right.

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Cruise news

EXPLORA I Welcomes Guests for her Maiden Journey

• On 1 August 2023, privileged guests celebrated the dawn of an exciting new era for luxury ocean travel as EXPLORA I set sail on her Maiden Journey from Copenhagen. This inaugural voyage ushered in a series of itineraries that take you on extraordinary adventures across three continents to celebrated shores and lesser-known destinations.
• EXPLORA I, the first ship to join the fleet of Explora Journeys, has commenced her maiden journey for a seven-night sailing that will take guests through the majestic landscapes of Lerwick, Shetland Islands and Kirkwall, Orkney before heading to Reykjavik, Iceland.
• The first in a series of upcoming itineraries which will span three continents, this northern European journey, has been designed to emphasise the brand’s ‘Ocean State of Mind’ philosophy with immersive experiences that aim to reward guests physically, intellectually and spiritually.
• The luxury ship will spend several weeks in Northern Europe to offer a range of different itineraries and will then cross the Atlantic Sea and spend the winter in North America and the Caribbean Sea before returning to Europe in Summer 2024 for voyages in the Mediterranean Sea.
• EXPLORA II is currently being built in Italy and will come into service in August 2024. EXPLORA III will become the first of two LNG (liquefied natural gas) powered vessels to join the Explora Journeys’ fleet with the ship due to be delivered in 2026 and EXPLORA IV in 2027.

Celebrity chef John Torode MBE joins Saga cruises for the first-time

• Celebrity chef, John Torode MBE is set to join a Saga cruise for the first-time next week, and the cruise line is welcoming back chef and TV presenter, Phil Vickery and wine expert, Oz Clarke back to its ships later this year.
• John Torode – The hugely popular John Torode is known as a straight-talking co-host and judge on MasterChef and Celebrity MasterChef, and is a regular guest chef on This Morning, as well as co-hosting with his wife, Lisa Faulkner, on ITV’s John & Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen. He has also presented a number of culinary road trips, including an upcoming one from his native Australia for ITV. He was awarded an MBE in 2022 for services to Food, Broadcast & Charity and he has published a range of cookery books.
• John will be joining Saga’s all-inclusive 14-night Flavours of France, Spain and Portugal cruise, which departs Dover on Spirit of Discovery on 6 August 2023 and will give two talks over the course of the trip. The itinerary will follow the coasts of Portugal, Spain, and France, visiting cities such as Lisbon and Portimão, on the popular Algarve, as well as La Coruña, Santander, Bordeaux, and Brest before heading home via the Isles of Scilly.

Themed Cruise Featuring Original Mythbusters Co-Host Adam Savage

• A playground at sea for curious minds awaits on a specially themed cruise hosted by Adam Savage, original co-host of Discovery Channel’s series MythBusters and godparent to Discovery Princess. The cruise sets sail onboard Discovery Princess, November 25-29, 2023, from the Port of Los Angeles for a four-day West Coast Getaway to San Diego and Ensenada. 
• On sale now, guests will have the exciting opportunity to meet Savage, learn about his career through several hosted activities and even get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at Discovery Princess with Savage as guide.
• In addition, Savage is launching an exclusive video series that takes viewers on a fascinating up-close-and-personal journey of the astonishing wonders of Sun Princess, the cruise line’s latest marvel that is currently under construction and set to debut in early 2024. Shot aboard Sun Princess at the Fincantieri shipyard, the first video is the series is available now and reveals never-before-seen glimpses of the groundbreaking Dome and Sphere features, as the series reveals the ship’s birth from the ground up.  Airing on his popular “Tested” channel on YouTube, with more than 6.3 million subscribers, the engaging series can be viewed at www.youtube.com/tested .

New Itineraries Highlight Princess Cruises 2025 Alaska Season

• Princess Cruises has unveiled its 2025 Alaska cruise and cruisetours season, featuring three captivating roundtrip itineraries and an exclusive new National Parks Cruisetour. These remarkable offerings are available for booking starting August 3.
• New Adventures and Extended Journeys Await, including a Departure from LA :
• New for 2025 from the cruise line that brings the most guests to Alaska every year is a 22-day roundtrip voyage sailing from San Francisco on Ruby Princess that coincides with the Summer Solstice, and a 17-day roundtrip cruise from Seattle on Grand Princess featuring three days of scenic glacier viewing. For guests seeking to sail from Southern California, a new 16-day roundtrip Inside Passage voyage from Los Angeles on Grand Princess offers a convenient and affordable option.
• National Parks Cruisetour :
• Following its debut in 2024, the National Parks Cruisetour returns in 2025 with a 15-night adventure to five of Alaska’s most breathtaking parks. Guests will have the opportunity to explore Glacier Bay, Denali, Wrangell-St. Elias, Kenai Fjords National Parks, and Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park in Skagway. Unique to Princess, this experience combines a seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise, scenic rail travel, and multiple days on land, including stays at four Princess-owned wilderness lodges.
• “As the market leader in Alaska, we’re excited to offer guests even more exciting ways to see the natural beauty of Alaska with itineraries in 2025 that serve up new adventures and extended journeys that first-time guests and repeat visitors are going to find intriguing,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “We’re also making it easier for guests to access an Alaska cruise by bringing back a roundtrip option out of Los Angeles, which also make it more affordable for millions within that drive market.”
• Caribbean Princess to Debut in Alaska in 2025
• In 2025, seven Princess ships will sail to Alaska, including Caribbean Princess for the first time. In addition, the number of Princess homeports offering Alaska voyages expands to five with the addition of Los Angeles, with the season featuring 21 cruise destinations and four glacier-viewing experiences, highlighted by 88 visits to Glacier Bay National Park, taking more guests to this spectacular national park than any other cruise line.
• With 155 total departures on 18 unique itineraries ranging in length from 4 to 22 days, cruise and cruisetour choices include:
• Seven Ships, Five Homeports
• NEW! Ultimate Alaska Solstice with Glacier Bay National Park: 22-day roundtrip from San Francisco on Ruby Princess – departs June 6, 2025
• NEW! Ultimate Alaska with Glacier Bay National Park: 17-day roundtrip from Seattle on Grand Princess – departs May 6, 2025
• Inside Passage with Glacier Bay National Park: 16-day roundtrip from Los Angeles on Grand Princess visiting Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay National Park, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan and Victoria, B.C. – departs August 30, 2025
• Voyage of the Glaciers: This top-rated seven-day itinerary features Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and two glacier-viewing experiences at Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier or College Fjord. Caribbean Princess, Coral Princess, and Sapphire Princess offer weekly northbound and southbound cruises from Vancouver, B.C. to Anchorage (Whittier) and vice versa. Guests can combine select seven-day voyages for an amazing 14-day Voyage of the Glaciers Grand Adventure – operates May 10 to September 13, 2025.
• Inside Passage: Princess’ signature seven-day roundtrip sailings from Seattle and Vancouver, B.C., as well as 11-day roundtrip departures from San Francisco and Vancouver that include four ports of call and a day of glacier viewing. Many Inside Passage cruises include Glacier Bay National Park. Discovery Princess and Royal Princess sail from Seattle weekly, May 4 – September 21, 2025. Grand Princess offers weekly cruises from Vancouver, B.C., May 27 – August 19, 2025. Ruby Princess sails 11-day cruises roundtrip from San Francisco May 4 – September 13, 2025.
• Alaska Samplers: Three itineraries of four to five days offer shorter voyages for guests looking for a quick getaway. Discovery Princess, Royal Princess and Grand Princess operate four-day, roundtrip voyages between Vancouver, B.C. to Seattle with a stop in Ketchikan – departing April 30, May 13 and May 23, 2025. Caribbean Princess sails a four-day, roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, B.C., with a visit to Ketchikan departing September 13, 2025, and a five-day roundtrip cruise from Vancouver, B.C., with stops in Sitka and Ketchikan sailing May 5, 2025.

AIDAsol: Bookings open for legs of the 2024/2025 World Cruise

• The AIDAsol 2024/2025 world cruise is now open for bookings for individual legs. The duration of the voyages varies between 33 and 84 days – a great opportunity to enjoy the world cruise in shorter legs and discover unique destinations. For example, guests can travel from Hamburg to San Antonio, the port of Santiago de Chile, in 36 days or to fantastic destinations such as French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia and Mauritius in 48 days. Another highlight is the leg from Mauritius to Hamburg with stops on La Réunion, in South Africa, Namibia and the Canary Islands.
• The entire AIDA World Cruise will depart from Hamburg on October 23, 2024, visiting 41 ports and 17 countries in 117 days. The voyage with AIDAsol will return to Hamburg on February 17, 2025
• Unforgettable highlights
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Golden beaches, subtropical forests and Sugar Loaf Mountain: The locals simply call their city “Cidade Maravilhosa” – the fantastically beautiful city. Fall in love with the rhythm of Rio and the joie de vivre of its inhabitants.
• Napier: This new AIDA port is famous above all for its classicist architecture from the 1930s. The New Zealand Art deco city is also home to many Maori motives and patterns.
• Tauranga: All of the “Lord of the Rings” and “Hobbit” movies were filmed in various locations in New Zealand. Guests can still admire the Shire with the hamlet of Hobbingen not far from the city center – in the seemingly endless greenery around Matamat.
• Melbourne: Guests can celebrate their New Year’s Eve in the Australian metropolis! Along the Yarra River, in the Birrarung Marr parks, at Federation Square or on the deck of AIDAsol – you have a perfect view of the fireworks and drone show from everywhere.
• South Africa & Namibia: Here, guests experience the charms of Africa in all its beauty: from the charm and picturesque Table Mountain backdrop of Cape Town to the awe-inspiring African wildlife and towering sand dunes of the Namib Desert.
• These are the bookable legs of the World Cruise 2024/2025:
• From Hamburg to San Antonio from October 23, 2024 to November 28, 2024 (36 days)
• From San Antonio to Mauritius from November 28, 2024 to January 15, 2025 (48 days)
• From Mauritius to Hamburg from January 15, 2025 to February 17, 2025 (33 days)
• From Hamburg to Mauritius from October 23, 2024 to January 15, 2025 (84 days)
• From San Antonio to Hamburg from November 28, 2024 to February 17, 2025 (81 days)
• From Hamburg to Sydney from October 23, 2024 to December 29, 2024 (67 days)
• From Sydney to Hamburg from December 29, 2024 to February 17, 2025 (50 days)

NCL takes delivery of Norwegian Viva

• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 56-year history of breaking boundaries, today took delivery of Norwegian Viva, the newest vessel in the now 19-ship fleet and the second ship in the revolutionary Prima Class, at the renowned Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Italy.
• The milestone event marks the arrival of the second of six ships in the Prima Class set to debut through 2028.  Following the launch of the award-winning Norwegian Prima in 2022, Norwegian Viva will continue to raise the bar on cruising. The ship’s tagline “Live it Up” embodies the enhanced guest experience and on-board characteristic of this pioneering class, including elevated offerings, more spacious designs, thrilling onboard activities such as the three-story Viva Speedway, and new dining concepts, most notably Indulge Food Hall—an open-air food market featuring 11 unique eateries.
• While the ship boasts many of the highlights that are central to the Prima Class, unique to Norwegian Viva is the at-sea debut of Tony Award®-nominated production, “Beetlejuice,” where guests can “Live it Up” with the undead during a musical adaptation of Tim Burton’s 1988 film of the same name.  Additional evening entertainment programming includes Press Your Luck Live—an immersive game show experience pulled straight from the television screen, offering audience members a chance to participate in the classic game and win prizes.
• At 965 feet long, 143,535 gross tonnes and with the capacity for 3,100 guests, Norwegian Viva also features The Concourse, an outdoor sculpture garden in Ocean Boulevard, the wrap-around boardwalk bringing guests closer to the water than ever before. Reimagined for Norwegian Viva, the area will include work from six artists that have been featured on previous Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. ships: Kevin Box, Jonathan Prince, Arik Levy, Richard Hudson, Sophie Elizabeth Thompson, and Pablo Atchugarry. A new art addition will be included at Metropolitan Bar, the ship’s exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, “Every Wing has a Silver Lining,” a 52-foot-long interactive work of art designed exclusively for Norwegian Viva by contemporary British digital artist Dominic Harris.
• Following the ship’s maiden voyage on 10 August 2023, Norwegian Viva will sail a series of Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries, before her official Christening ceremony in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023. Luis Fonsi, Latin GRAMMY® award-winning artist and godfather to Norwegian Viva, will attend the celebration to officially name the ship and will be joined by The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; “Saturday Night Live” cast member and Miami-native Marcello Hernandez; and singer Pedro Capó. The ship will homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico for a season of Caribbean voyages from December 2023 through March 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John’s, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

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Explora II: A Rundown of Inaugural Itineraries

• January 1, 2024

Explora Journeys’ new ship, Explora II, is set to enter this summer, embarking on its maiden voyage in August 2024 headed for the Western Mediterranean.

Titled “A Journey to Elegant Enclaves on Old European Shores,” the Explora II’s maiden sailing departs from Barcelona, Spain, and sails along the Mediterranean coast while stopping in Ibiza, Spain; Marseille, France; Genoa, Italy; Portofino, Italy; Monaco; and Porto Santo Stefano, Italy. The voyage ends in Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy on August 19, 2024.

Throughout its inaugural summer season, the ship will remain positioned in the Mediterranean with embarkation in Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome). Itineraries range from seven to 19 days, including also one 28-night Grand Journey from Iberia to the Caribbean, sailing from Barcelona to Miami, Florida.

Example itineraries of Explora II’s summer 2024 season include:

• A seven-night Journey of Ibizan Bohemia and the French Riviera, departing from Civitavecchia on August 19, 2024. Ports of call include Lipari, Italy; Siracusa, Sicily; Trapani, Italy; and Alghero, Sardinia, before ending the voyage in Barcelona, Spain.
• A seven-night Journey of Riviera Reveries and Italian Icons, departing on August 26, 2024. The Explora II will take guests to explore Monaco; St Tropez, France; Ajaccio, Corsica; Porto Cervo, Sardinia; Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy, before reaching Civitavecchia.
• A seven-night sailing from Tarragona to Rome, departing September 23, 2024, from Tarragona, Spain, headed for Civitavecchia. Ports of call include Marseille, France; St Tropez, France; Ajaccio, Corsica; Porto Cervo, Sardinia; and Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy.
• A six-night Journey from Italian Piazzas to Tunisian Souks, departing on September 30, 2024, from Civitavecchia to Rome. Before arriving in Rome, the ship will call in Sorrento, Italy; Palermo, Sicily; Tunis, Tunisia; and Port Mahon, Minorca.
• A ten-night Journey of Iberian Wonders and Moroccan Mystique, departing Barcelona on October 6, 2024. Ports of call include Malaga, Spain; Gibraltar, UK; Lisbon, Portugal; Portimao, Portugal; Tangier, Morocco; Ibiza, Spain.

After wrapping up its Mediterranean season, the Explora II will depart for Miami, where it will stay positioned for the winter season, operating Caribbean voyages with calls to  destinations such as Roseau, Dominica;  San Juan, Puerto Rico;  Basseterre, Guadeloupe; St Johns, Antigua; and Bridgetown, Barbados among others.

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USNS Harvey Milk arrives in San Francisco Bay on historic maiden voyage visit

By Dave Pehling

Updated on: March 29, 2024 / 3:23 PM PDT / CBS San Francisco

The US Naval ship named after the late civil rights icon Harvey Milk arrived in San Francisco Bay Thursday afternoon, making its historic first visit to the Port of San Francisco.

CBS News Bay Area livestreamed the arrival of the ship as it passed under the Golden Gate Bridge on the  CBSSF.com  home page as well as on the station's  YouTube channel . 

In July 2016, then United States Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus advised Congress of his plan to name the John Lewis-class oilers after prominent civil rights leaders, with this particular ship being named in honor of gay rights activist Milk. He served in the US Navy during the Korean War aboard USS Kittiwake (ASR-13), a submarine rescue ship, and held the rank of lieutenant (junior grade). 

Milk's career as a Navy officer ended with an "other than honorable" discharge, due to allegations of fraternization with enlisted personnel. He went on to become one of the first openly gay candidates elected to public office in the nation. He was serving on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors on November 27, 1978, when a former political colleague, Dan White, assassinated him and Mayor George Moscone at City Hall.  

The ship was officially named at a ceremony in San Francisco on August 16, 2016 , and was christened and launched from San Diego Bay in November of 2021 . The USNS Harvey Milk (T-AO 206) is an oiler ship that provides diesel fuel, lubricating oil and jet fuel as well as small quantities of fresh and frozen provisions, dry stores and potable water to Navy ships at sea.

"So to have this second ship of that class be named after Harvey Milk is incredible," said U.S. Navy Media Officer Brian O'Rourke. "To have that ship visit San Francisco on its very first port visit -- not only its first port visit to San Francisco, but its first port visit ever to be San Francisco, is so significant. This was Harvey's chosen city; very important to him. To have this ship come to San Francisco is a testament to his legacy."

On Friday, officials will hold a ceremony to honor the ship and its namesake as well as a salute to veterans at Pier 30/32. The vessel is not open to the public and will be departing San Francisco later that afternoon to head off for its first mission in the Middle East.

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Celestyal Discovery’s maiden voyage showcases new livery

Celestyal Discovery set sail on her maiden voyage around the Aegean on March 22, 2024, showcasing the cruise line’s new livery. Departing from Lavrion, Athens, under the experienced command of captain Panagiotis Giakoumatos and his crew, Celestyal’s global leadership team joined the ship’s officers in welcoming guests on the inaugural voyage.

The ship’s first passengers are sailing on the ‘Iconic Aegean’ itinerary, taking in Mykonos, Kusadasi, Patmos Island and Santorini, visiting a total of five ports over the three-night sailing. Meanwhile, from April 1st , the popular port of Heraklion (Crete) is to be added to this itinerary. From March through to November, Celestyal Discovery will be rotating this three-night itinerary with a four-night ‘Iconic Aegean’ option, featuring an additional day in Rhodes.

After joining the fleet in November 2023, the 1,266-guest Celestyal Discovery , underwent a multi-million-euro refurbishment. Celestyal invested heavily in the onboard social spaces, along with a complete stateroom refresh. The vessel boasts the additions of a new coffee shop, Café Nation, serving illy coffee, the Pizza Oven eatery and the Discovery Lounge which will feature brand partnerships across the season.

The new livery consists of:

• An updated Celestyal logo and wordmark with cleaner lines and symmetry, lending itself to a more digitally native world
• A distinctive blue wave hull. The wave concept was borne from the operations team, demonstrating the collaboration across the business and the forward motion of the company
• The signature Celestyal stars
• A unique funnel design which complements each ship, showcasing the beautiful lines of each vessel

Celestyal Journey will receive her own livery upgrade at the start of 2025, when undergoing scheduled maintenance works in the Arabian Gulf, as she moves to a year-round operation, with a winter season homeporting from Doha, Qatar from November 2024 to March 2025.

“We were delighted to welcome 1,100 guests onboard our newest ship, Celestyal Discovery, this weekend,” said Celestyal CEO Chris Theophilides . “We have successfully refreshed our fleet in under a year, staying true to our commitment to invest in our customer experience.”

He added: “Celestyal can now offer premium, destination immersive holidays, unmissable both at sea and ashore. It’s an extremely exciting time for us as we continue to expand as a global brand, and we look forward to more developments over the coming year.”

For his part, Lee Haslett, Chief Commercial Officer at Celestyal , noted that: “having already announced 12 new destinations, a completely refreshed fleet, and significantly-upgraded customer experience, we are delighted to be setting sail on both our 2024 season and our new global year-round operation”.

Continuing, he went on to say that: “we have spent the past year listening to our valued customers and partners to understand what makes Celestyal so special. We’ve evolved our identity to reflect this, and our new fleet, with the new livery, is now the most visible extension of our brand.”

Celestyal is currently offering three- and four-night ‘Iconic Aegean’ cruises on Celestyal Discovery with prices from €249, per person, (2024 and 2025 cruises now on sale, 2026 to follow in the coming weeks). All prices quoted are for interior cabins, based on double occupancy, including meals, drinks with meals, €75 discount per person on prebooked shore excursion and include all port fees and service charges.

Bookings made before May 31, 2024, will also benefit from low deposits, from €125 per booking.

For more information, visit: celestyal.com or call: 211 1995176.