Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, will mark the brand’s inaugural Journeys through Asia, in September 2027.
Asia will take centre stage as EXPLORA III embarks on the brand’s first-ever Journeys through the region. Over the course of 28 immersive Journeys, the ship will visit 47 destinations across Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore – each one a maiden call.
Ancient shrines, neon-lit skylines, hidden harbours and timeless street food scenes all converge in a region where past and future continue to coexist in vivid harmony. Guests can explore serene temples in Japan’s tropical Miyako Islands, wander the volcanic landscapes of Jeju or dive into the vibrant food halls of Singapore – all from the comfort and elegance of EXPLORA III.
Guests will enjoy the best seasonal highlights for each region
EXPLORER III will arrive in Japan in September 2027 in time for the autumn foliage season which transforms the country into a canvas of amber, crimson and gold. From autumn’s blaze of maple and ginkgo trees in Kyoto to spring’s ethereal cherry blossoms in Shimizu and Nagoya in Japan, the Journeys align with Asia’s most evocative seasons.
The itineraries will also coincide with major cultural events including Chinese Golden Week in Shanghai and Chinese New Year celebrations onboard in January 2028 – marked with themed entertainment and traditional festivities.
In between, these Journeys have been meticulously crafted to showcase the profound diversity and layered heritage of Asia. This is a region of spirit and mystery—where mists drift through Thailand’s Phan Nga Bay and Vietnam’s Ha Long Bay. Monks ring temple bells in Da Nang, incense swirls through Ho Chi Minh City’s pagodas.
With overnight stays in Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Naha (Japan), Ha Long Bay (Vietnam), Ho Chi Minh City and Bali, guests will have the time and space to engage with local life in greater depth.
From February to April 2028, guests can experience Japan at its most enchanting season when the cherry blossoms bloom.
EXPLORA III is the first LNG-powered ship in the fleet
EXPLORA III as its name implies, is the third ship in the fleet that will launch in summer 2026 sailing Mediterranean itineraries. EXPLORA III features 463 ocean-front suites, five heated pools, seven restaurants, 12 bars & lounges and 1.25 : 1 guests per host ratio.
EXPLORA III will also introduce brand new culinary concepts, a second Owner’s Residence, reimagined wellness and fitness facilities, and an exclusive Chopard boutique, amongst a plethora of other enhancements.
Inaugural season in the Mediterranean
Explora Journeys will also be launching ‘In Balance: A Jannik Sinner Ocean Wellness Programme’, marking a significant evolution of the brand’s partnership with Grand Slam champion Jannik Sinner who was appointed Global Brand Ambassador in August last year.
The programme will be further brought to life through Jannik’s presence during a special segment of EXPLORA III’s Prelude Journey. Taking place before her maiden journey, thanks to the ship’s early delivery, this five-night sailing from Genoa to Civitavecchia (Rome), from 24 to 29 July, 2026 will welcome Jannik aboard from 24 to 25 July.
The ship’s naming ceremony in will be held in Barcelona on 1 August, From Barcelona, EXPLORA III will start her Maiden Voyage to Lisbon on 3 August and Journeys through new destinations in Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland later in the year.
