Explora Journeys names first LNG-powered ship “EXPLORA III” in Barcelona

Explora Journeys recently officially named EXPLORA III in Barcelona, welcoming the brand’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered ship to the fleet. 

Following her early delivery in Genoa on 23 July 2026, EXPLORA III embarked on a journey through the Mediterranean before arriving in Barcelona for the official naming ceremony. 

“As the first LNG-powered vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA III represents the next step in the brand’s investment in advanced marine technologies,” the company said on its website. 

Designed to operate on LNG today, the ship also offers a pathway towards renewable alternatives such as bio-LNG and synthetic LNG as these become increasingly available. 

The vessel is equipped with shore power capability, enabling connection to onshore electricity in ports where infrastructure exists, allowing engines to be switched off while alongside.

EXPLORA III departed on 3 August on its seven-night Maiden Journey to Lisbon.

Photo credit: Explora Journeys
Published: 5 August, 2026