Some of Europe’s most popular rivers will soon have new ships offering luxury cruises with reservations set to open in 2027.

Explora Journeys has signed a letter of intent with Dutch shipbuilder Breejan Shipyard to construct its first luxury river ships.

The agreement is expected to expand Explora Journeys’ presence beyond ocean travel and onto some of Europe’s most prominent inland waterways.

Beyond the letter of intent, Explora hasn’t shared any additional details about its upcoming river cruise venture, including itineraries or number of vessels.

“Further details regarding ship design, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and initial itineraries will be announced in due course,” the cruise line said in a press release.

                                             Increased River Cruising

The Geneva-based cruise line and sister company of MSC Cruises, Explora Journeys is set to join Celebrity as the second ocean cruise line to expand into river cruising in recent years.

“River cruising in 2026 is on a fast-paced growth track, so we’re thrilled to learn that Explora Journeys has signed a letter of intent with a Dutch shipyard to build its first river ships,” Craig S. Pavlus, founder and CEO of Pavlus Travel & Cruise, said in a press release.

“This is truly a smart move by Explora Journeys to grow its brand and give luxury cruise guests another enticing vacation option,” Pavlus said.

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 brand now intends to bring that same approach to Europe’s most iconic rivers.

“Overall, the cruise industry as a whole should also benefit through increased marketplace exposure for river cruising as a fabulous vacation choice,” Pavlus said.

                                         Story of Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys history begins in 1970 when Neapolitan ferry captain Gianluigi Aponte, along with his Swiss sweetheart, created MSC – Mediterranean Shipping Company. The first vessel was a small cargo ship, the MV Patricia.

Today, MSC operates about 1,000 cargo vessels through its container shipping line and 23 active cruise ships through MSC Cruises.

Explora Journeys officially began cruising operations on Aug. 1, 2023, with the maiden voyage of its first ship, Explora 1. Since then, Explora II was launched in 2024 and Explora III in July 2026.

Future ships include Explora IV and Explora V scheduled for 2027 and Explora VI set for 2028.

“We’re all eagerly awaiting the line’s next official ‘reveal’ with more specifics,” Pavlus said. “All in all, Pavlus sees this as a great development to help expand the global footprint of river cruising.”

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