What I Wish I Knew Before I Sailed an MSC Cruise (How it’s Different)
MSC Cruises rapidly expands North American presence with competitive pricing and new mega-ships, challenging established cruise lines.
Explora Journeys' first LNG-powered ship completes Mediterranean sea trials. Maiden voyage departs August 3 with Northern Europe and Atlantic itineraries planne
via Porthole Cruise and Travel · Published Jun 2, 2026 · 1 min read
EXPLORA III has successfully completed sea trials in the Mediterranean, clearing the path for its summer debut with Explora Journeys. As the fleet's first LNG-powered vessel, the ship can operate on renewable fuels including bio-LNG and synthetic LNG while incorporating advanced energy-efficiency systems. The completion represents a significant step toward the cruise line's 2050 net-zero emissions goal for maritime operations. EXPLORA III marks the halfway point in Explora Journeys' planned six-ship expansion, with three vessels operating by summer. Following final outfitting at Fincantieri's Sestri Ponente shipyard near Genoa, the ship will depart Barcelona on its maiden voyage August 3, initially sailing Northern European routes before crossing the Atlantic to New England and Canada.
Originally reported by Porthole Cruise and Travel, Julie Bouchner (June 1, 2026).
Source: Porthole Cruise and Travel — https://porthole.com/explora-iii-completes-sea-trials/
Are you the publisher and want this article removed? Email hello@cruiseshiptracking.com and we will remove it within 24 hours.
Real-time pricing from Cruisebound — compare sailings, dates, and cabin types
Search Sailings on Cruisebound →We may earn a commission when you book through our partner links, at no extra cost to you.
MSC Cruises rapidly expands North American presence with competitive pricing and new mega-ships, challenging established cruise lines.
Ralph Grizzle explains why barge travel through France is ideal for experiencing summer heat comfortably, with climate control and shaded waterway experiences.
Carnival Cruise Line hosted America250 anniversary celebration aboard Carnival Pride, with additional events planned across homeport cities this summer.