Cruise & Cruise Line

Debut of Explora II Delayed Until September

Image: Rendering of the EXPLORA II. (photo via Explora Journeys) (Photo Credit: (photo via Explora Journeys))
Image: Rendering of the EXPLORA II. (photo via Explora Journeys) (Photo Credit: (photo via Explora Journeys))
Sarah Kuta
by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 3:40 PM ET, Thu June 20, 2024

The debut of Explora Journeys’ newest ship, Explora II, will be delayed until September, forcing the cruise line to cancel five voyages.

The ship—which successfully completed sea trials earlier this month—had been scheduled to set sail on August 11 from Barcelona. Now, Explora II’s maiden voyage will depart September 16 from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy.

MSC Group, the parent company of Explora Journeys, and shipbuilder Fincantieri announced the delay today.

The cruise line is contacting guests who are booked on the affected voyages, either directly or through their travel advisors, to make alternate arrangements.

“After careful and detailed reviews of Explora II, it was decided that more time is needed for the final finishes to the ship to guarantee the highest quality luxury standards and to ensure that the new ship delivers to the fullest on the brand’s promise of an unmatched luxury ocean experience,” according to the announcement.


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