Explora Journeys has signed a letter of intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard for a fleet of river cruise ships. The agreement gives the luxury brand its first entry into the river cruise market.
The deal was announced on 25 Sep 2026. Explora Journeys, which currently operates three ocean vessels, said the new river ships will broaden its business beyond ocean cruising for the first time.
Three more ships — Explora IV, Explora V and Explora VI — are scheduled for delivery by 2028. The river vessels are due to focus on Europe.
The brand, part of MSC Group, said it intends to bring its existing philosophy of combining “the freedom and discovery of sea travel with the elegance and refinement of European hospitality and design” to the river market.
Explora Journeys said further details on the new ships’ design, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and initial itineraries will be announced later.