Explora Journeys confirms two hydrogen ships

Explora Journeys, the ultra-luxury cruise line that is part of the MSC Group, has confirmed that it has ordered two hydrogen-powered ships.

The two new ships, Explora V and Explora VI, will be launched in 2027 and 2028 and takes the total investment up to €3.5 billion.

Explora V and Explora VI will have new state-of-the-art energy efficiency measures and will also be capable of using alternative fuels such as bio and synthetic gas and methanol. The company will work with Fincantieri to equip the ships with future technologies including carbon capture, and more advanced waste management systems.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman – Cruise Division, MSC Group, said, “With Explora Journeys we have created a luxury brand that has been successful at redefining luxury at sea. We are seeing continued growth in the luxury segment and the investment in these two new ships shows our commitment to continue to grow within this sector as well as to invest in ships of the future. Together with Fincantieri we will study the newest technology that the world has to offer and continue with our commitment to introduce these technologies to drive efficiencies across the whole spectrum of ship performance.  And of course we will continue to deliver the very best luxury travel experience, immersing our guests in the ocean state of mind with an sustainable soul.”

Michael Ungerer, Chief Executive Officer, Explora Journeys, added, “Sustainability in luxury is the new craftmanship and our new two confirmed orders are testament to our determination to preserve and protect our precious oceans. This is what the discerning traveller of tomorrow expects so it is an absolute imperative that we not only just deliver on that anticipation, but we must and will exceed such aspirations.”

The two new ships will pursue the use of liquid hydrogen with fuel cells for their hotel operations while docked in ports to eliminate carbon emissions with the vessels’ engines switched off. The ships will also feature a new generation of LNG engines that will further tackle the issue of methane slip with the use of containment systems.