Explora Journeys has become a global partner of the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup, set to take place in Barcelona, Spain, from August.
This marks a significant milestone for Explora Journeys, the new luxury ocean travel brand of MSC Group, aligning with the brand’s commitment to creating exceptional experiences at sea and reflecting a shared maritime heritage and values.
At the 37th America’s Cup, where famously ‘There is no Second’, teams from the US, UK, Italy, Switzerland, and France race for supremacy in the prestigious Louis Vuitton Cup Challenger Series before the ultimate showdown as the triumphant challenger earns the right to face off against the defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, in the illustrious Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Match.
The official opening ceremony is in Barcelona on 22 August, while the final Preliminary Regatta and the Louis Vuitton Cup (Challenger Selection Series) will follow, leading up to the Louis Vuitton America’s Cup Match starting on the 12 October.
Since its inception in 1851, the America’s Cup has symbolised sailing’s pioneering spirit, fostering ground-breaking designs and pushing the boundaries of performance. Today it is the pinnacle of global yacht racing and the oldest competition in international sports.
“Our collaboration with the America’s Cup pays homage to a shared seafaring history of challenge and achievement,” executive chairman, Cruise Division of MSC Group, Pierfrancesco Vago, said. “From the rich tapestry of the Cup’s history to our own 300-year maritime tradition, this partnership embodies our commitment to excellence, innovation, and a deep reverence for the sea.”
Grant Dalton, CEO of the America’s Cup Events, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Explora Journeys as a Global Partner to the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup. They are driven by creating exceptional experiences at sea, and I have no doubt that during the two months of racing from August 22nd we are going to see some of the most exceptional America’s Cup racing ever.”
As part of the collaboration, Explora Journeys will host the prestigious America’s Cup trophy onboard Explora I on 19 June, offering guests and partners the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the legacy of this legendary competition.
Part of the activations and events in Barcelona, Spain are the Official Race Village, which will include a dedicated Explora Journeys area, where guests can immerse themselves into the Ocean State of Mind.
“Our ambition at Explora Journeys is to redefine luxury at sea,” added Vago. “Like the design of the America’s Cup yachts, it is an ongoing, evolving challenge that we embrace with passion and dedication. With vessels like Explora I and the upcoming Explora II, we are committed to setting new benchmarks in design and craftsmanship, sharing the same passion as the America`s Cup for maritime innovation and the relentless pursuit of perfection.”
The Port of Barcelona is one of the MSC Group’s key destinations, where it is building a new cruise terminal that will be dedicated to both Explora Journeys and sister company MSC Cruises when completed later this year.
In addition to the Louis Vuitton 37th America`s Cup celebrations on board Explora I in Barcelona on June 19th, the port of Barcelona will also be a port of call regularly by the soon-to-be launched Explora II in the northern summer and autumn of 2024.
Explora I’s 461 ocean-front suites, penthouses, and residences range from 35sqm (377 sft) to 280sqm (3,014 sft). Suites feature spacious terraces, walk-in wardrobes, and heated bathroom floors, ensuring utmost comfort and privacy.
The outdoor areas on Explora Journeys’ ships are equally impressive, with expansive decks offering over 6,200 sqm (66,736 sft) of breathtaking sea views. Guests can bask in the sun or relax in four pools and whirlpools, immersing themselves in the Ocean State of Mind.
