by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 1:05 PM ET, Thu September 21, 2023
Explora Journeys has ordered two new hydrogen-powered ships from the Italian shipbuilding company, Fincantieri, expected to debut in 2027 and 2028 as the last in the six-ship fleet.
The hydrogen-powered ships, which advance the line’s sustainability target of becoming net zero by 2050, are the last in the line’s first six luxury ships that will comprise the fleet.
The ships, called EXPLORA V and EXPLORA VI, will be able to use alternative fuels such as synthetic gas, methanol and biofuels, as well as liquid hydrogen with fuel cells for hotel operations while in port.
Explora Journeys debuted its first ship this July, EXPLORA I. The second ship in the fleet, EXPLORA II, will make its first sailing in the summer of 2024. The third ship is expected to begin sailing in the summer of 2026, while the fourth in the fleet will begin sailing in early 2027.
“With Explora Journeys we have created a luxury brand that has been successful at redefining luxury at sea. We are seeing continued growth in the luxury segment and the investment in these two new ships shows our commitment to continue to grow within this sector as well as to invest in ships of the future,” said Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman - Cruise Division, MSC Group.
“Together with Fincantieri we will study the newest technology that the world has to offer and continue with our commitment to introduce these technologies to drive efficiencies across the whole spectrum of ship performance,” Vago continued. “And of course we will continue to deliver the very best luxury travel experience, immersing our guests in the ocean state of mind with a sustainable soul.”
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