Explora Journeys has signed a Letter of Intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard to construct its first luxury river ships, marking the brand’s official entry into river cruising. The brand will bring its signature Ocean State of Mind philosophy to Europe’s most iconic waterways. Further details will be announced in due course, with sales for the new itineraries planned to open in 2027.
Geneva, Switzerland | September 24, 2026 – Explora Journeys has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of its first luxury river ships. The strategic agreement marks the prestigious ocean travel brand’s official planned entry into the river cruising sector.
Since its inception, Explora Journeys has sought to redefine luxury travel through its signature “Ocean State of Mind” philosophy, blending the freedom of travel with refined European hospitality and design. The brand now intends to translate that ethos to Europe’s most iconic waterways.
Bringing Luxury Ocean Hospitality to Europe’s Waterways
Building on the success of its expanding ocean-going fleet, which recently welcomed EXPLORA III, the brand’s first LNG-powered vessel, Explora Journeys is setting its sights on river exploration.
While specific details regarding ship design, onboard amenities, construction delivery schedules, and initial itineraries remain under wraps, the company confirmed that further announcements will be made in due course. Sales for the new river cruises are slated to open in 2027.
About Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is the privately owned luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Rooted in Swiss precision, understated European elegance, and the Aponte-Vago family’s 300 years of maritime heritage, the brand bridges the refined service of the world’s finest boutique hotels with the freedom of the water.
The ocean fleet currently features:
- EXPLORA I (Entered service in 2023)
- EXPLORA II (Entered service in 2024)
- EXPLORA III (Entered service in 2026 as the brand’s first LNG-powered ship)
- EXPLORA IV (Scheduled for early 2027)
- EXPLORA V & VI (Scheduled through 2027 into 2028, featuring advanced environmental technologies)
Source: Explora Journeys