Explora III cuts a sleek profile at sea, blending superyacht lines with the scale of a modern luxury cruise ship. | Source: RobbReport
If buying a superyacht isn’t in your budget this year, don’t be too sad about it; there’s a smart alternative if you still want to experience long sea voyaging. This summer, a new ship launches that borrows the feel of private yachting and pairs it with the service of a high-end hotel—then delivers it at sea. Expect fewer people, more room, and a kind of luxury that feels calm and deliberate, not overdone.
An indoor-outdoor pool stretches beneath a glass canopy, offering resort-style lounging with uninterrupted views of the open sea. | Source: RobbReport
That ship is Explora Journeys’ newest addition, Explora III, set to debut this July in the Mediterranean. Rather than leaning into the usual cruise-ship formula, the brand frames the vessel as a floating hotel. The approach is familiar but refined: generous space, thoughtful design, and a slower, more intentional way to travel. Explora III builds on what Explora I and II started, but raises the bar with more space per guest and a clearer design direction.
Explora III is also the first ship in the fleet to run on liquefied natural gas, which significantly reduces emissions compared with traditional marine fuel. Onboard, there are 463 suites in total, all designed as all-suite accommodations. These include 109 Penthouses and 39 Ocean Residences. Every suite comes with a private terrace and floor-to-ceiling windows, keeping the focus on light, privacy, and understated comfort.
Explora III cuts a sleek profile at sea, blending superyacht lines with the scale of a modern luxury cruise ship. | Source: RobbReport
At the top of the offering are two Owner’s Residences, each spanning over 3,000 square feet with expansive private terraces. One, located on Deck 7, was designed by Patricia Urquiola. Her influence shows in the layered textures, warm materials, and relaxed elegance. The residence includes a private steam room, an outdoor whirlpool, and multiple lounging areas—features more often found on large private yachts than cruise ships.
The ship’s central lobby feels more like a boutique hotel atrium, anchored by marble finishes and a sculptural chandelier. | Source: RobbReport
The shared spaces follow the same thinking. The lobby uses Italian marble and a sculptural chandelier inspired by ocean spray. Guests can choose from three pools, including a nearly 50-foot indoor-outdoor pool at the Conservatory Bar, or spend the day in one of 60 private cabanas. The spa combines traditional treatments with sound-based therapies, while outdoor fitness areas and a pickleball court add active options.
Food and drink span seven restaurants and 12 bars and lounges. New venues include a chef-led tasting experience, a rare-wine cellar, and a relaxed poolside dining spot. A whisky bar, cigar lounge, and Chopard boutique complete the onboard experience.
“Explora III represents a natural yet powerful evolution of our vision for ocean travel,” said Anna Nash. The ship launches with a short Mediterranean prelude voyage in late July before continuing on to destinations across Southern and Western Europe.
Most people dream about owning a private yacht or statement ship. In reality, that dream comes with steep costs and constant upkeep. For now, sailing on Explora III may be the simplest—and most enjoyable—way to experience that lifestyle without owning the vessel.
