Explora Journeys is officially making a move into river cruising, confirming plans for its first luxury river ships following months of industry speculation.
The MSC Group luxury brand has signed a Letter of Intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard. The agreement marks Explora Journeys’ planned expansion from the oceans to Europe’s rivers.
The announcement confirms rumours that have circulated for months about the brand exploring the fast-growing river cruise sector, as reported by The Maritime Executive.
However, Explora is keeping plenty under wraps.
The company has not revealed how many river ships it plans to build or which waterways they will sail. Ship designs, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and initial itineraries will also be announced at a later date.
One thing we do know is when bookings will begin: sales are planned to open in 2027.
From oceans to rivers
Explora Journeys launched its first ship in 2023 and is currently midway through the rollout of its six-ship ocean fleet.
EXPLORA III joined the fleet this year, marking the halfway point in the MSC Group brand’s six-ship vision.
The remaining three ocean ships are under construction at Fincantieri in Italy.
Now, Explora intends to bring its luxury approach to Europe’s waterways.
“Since launching, Explora Journeys has sought to change the way people experience ocean travel through its Ocean State of Mind philosophy — combining the freedom and discovery of travelling by sea with the elegance and refinement of European hospitality and design,” the company said.
“The brand now intends to bring that same approach to Europe’s most iconic rivers.”
River cruising heats up
The move comes as major ocean cruise players increasingly look towards the river sector.
Celebrity Cruises is also preparing to enter river cruising, with its first river ships set to launch in 2027.
Explora will also enter a market populated by established operators including Viking, while Scenic Group operates across both sectors through its Scenic and Emerald brands.
For now, Explora has stopped short of revealing when its first river ship will actually sail. Its official announcement confirms only that sales will open in 2027, with further details to come.
