Explora Journeys Plans Expansion Into River Cruising
MSC Group’s luxury cruise brand has signed a letter of intent for its first river ships, with sales expected to begin in 2027.
Explora Journeys has announced plans to enter the river cruise market, signing a letter of intent for the construction of its first luxury river vessels. The ships are slated to be built by Den Breejen Shipyard in the Netherlands.
The company has not disclosed the number of vessels planned, their design, onboard offerings, itineraries or anticipated delivery schedule. Explora Journeys said sales for the river cruises are expected to open in 2027.
A company spokesperson said the brand aims to bring its existing approach to luxury travel, European hospitality and design to European rivers. Explora Journeys is the luxury cruise brand of MSC Group, which also owns MSC Cruises.
The expansion would place Explora alongside Viking, Scenic and Celebrity among cruise brands operating or preparing to operate both ocean and river vessels. Celebrity’s first two river ships, Celebrity Compass and Celebrity Seeker, are expected to arrive in 2027.
Explora is also expanding its ocean fleet. According to the report, EXPLORA IV and EXPLORA V were under construction in Italy and scheduled for delivery the following year, while EXPLORA VI was expected to follow in 2028.