Explora Journeys: Construction Order Confirmed for Hydrogen-Capable Ships Explora III to VI
The MSC Group has confirmed the construction order for the next four Explora ships (III–VI) at Fincantieri. From Explora V onwards, the ships will use hydrogen fuel cells for auxiliary power.
03. April 2026
In October 2024, the MSC Group confirmed the construction order for the ships Explora III, IV, V and VI of its premium subsidiary Explora Journeys at the Fincantieri shipyard. Entry into service is staggered between 2026 and 2030.
Hydrogen fuel cells from ship V onwards
Explora V and VI will be built with a hybrid propulsion architecture: LNG for the main propulsion, hydrogen fuel cells for hotel operations in port. This makes them the first commercial cruise ships with a genuine hydrogen connection.
Platform sharing
All six ships of the Explora class share the same hull and the all-suite concept. With each new generation come technical refinements such as propulsion optimisation and higher battery capacities.