The triple construction milestone featured the float out of EXPLORA III, the coin ceremony of EXPLORA IV and the steel cutting of Explora V, with the participation of prominent figures from the local establishment, including the Government Commissioner of the Western Ligurian Sea Port Authority, Matteo Paroli, who remarked:
“The Explora Journeys cruise ships, built in the Genoa-based Fincantieri Shipyard, are a sophisticated feat of naval engineering and contemporary design. These technologically advanced vessels, constructed in compliance with the highest standards of luxury ocean travel, further boosts Italy’s leadership in global shipbuilding. This triple ceremony reflects the strength of the strategic vision of MSC and the capability of Fincantieri to respond to recent trends registered across the international cruise industry, and which offers unique opportunities for economic and employment development across Genoa, Liguria and Italy alike.”
Bolstered by a sizable infrastructure investment programme, the Port Authority is firmly committed to Genoa’s shipyard expansion with the construction of a new 400-metre mega drydock, with a depth alongside of 11 meters, equipped for the construction of ships up to 360 meters in length and, upon completion, will rank as one of the largest in the Mediterranean, thereby boosting further the leading role of the Italian shipbuilding industry worldwide.
The recently established MSC Explora Journeys brand is a new symbol with the ambition to redefine the ultra-elegant ocean travel sector. All six ships within the fleet are under construction in Italy by Fincantieri for a total investment of over 3.5 billion euros, with an economic impact of over 15 billion euros.
The brand is using each new ship as an opportunity to refine, innovate and stay true to its guest-first approach. Sustainability is another priority and, from EXPLORA III onward, all vessels will be powered by liquified natural gas (LNG), with EXPLORA V and VI prepared to integrate hydrogen fuel cell technology, based upon an environmental mission which is also shared by the Italian port industry.
