Explora Journeys Unveils Ultra-Luxury Owner's Residences on New Cruise Ship
Explora Journeys, the premium cruise line owned by MSC Cruises, has revealed details of two ultra-luxurious Owner's Residences aboard its newest vessel, Explora III, set to launch in August 2026. These exclusive suites mark a significant addition to the fleet, offering unparalleled opulence for discerning travellers.
Exclusive Design and Premium Amenities
The Owner's Residences on Explora III have been meticulously designed by renowned architect Patricia Urquiola, celebrated for her work on projects such as the Mandarin Oriental in Barcelona and showrooms for prestigious brands like BMW and Ferrari. Positioned at the aft of the ship on decks seven and eight, these residences are the largest accommodations available on board.
Each suite spans an impressive 280 square metres, with 125 square metres dedicated to a sweeping terrace that covers the full width of the ship. Urquiola's design philosophy blends Mediterranean influences with contemporary style, creating spaces that reflect the rhythm of the sea. The interiors feature bronze metals that capture shifting light, Cipollino and Travertino marble for mineral warmth, and ribbed woods that introduce waves of texture.
Lavish Features and Personalised Service
Guests staying in an Owner's Residence will enjoy a host of premium amenities designed for ultimate comfort and convenience. Key features include:
- An expansive dressing room for ample storage and preparation space.
- A bedroom with a bespoke king-sized bed layered in fine linens.
- A Liquefy low table designed by Urquiola for Glas Italia and a Ruff armchair by Moroso.
- A marble bathroom with a double vanity area, bathtub, separate rain shower, and steam room.
- A private living area with a dining table and sofas, surrounded by marble panelling and oversized windows offering uninterrupted ocean views.
On the terrace, guests can relax in a whirlpool, dine at an alfresco table, or recline in outdoor lounge chairs while taking in the panoramic seascape. Each residence comes with a dedicated butler or residence manager, providing extra services such as packing and unpacking, itinerary planning, and dining arrangements.
Pricing and Capacity Details
Prices for these luxurious suites vary depending on the sailing, starting from approximately £21,000 for a week-long cruise and reaching up to £85,000 for the most exclusive voyages. The maximum capacity for an Owner's Residence is two adults and one child under two years old. For larger groups, a connecting Ocean Terrace Suite can be added to accommodate two more adults and an additional child under two.
Philosophy and Vision Behind the Design
Anna Nash, president of Explora Journeys, commented on the collaboration with Urquiola, stating, "Patricia's work reflects a sensibility naturally aligned with Explora Journeys. She understands how considered design can evoke emotion and how the right balance of light, texture, and form immediately imbues a sense of ease. This is central to our ocean state of mind, which invites guests to slow down and feel fully connected to their surroundings. In the Owner's Residence, Patricia has translated that philosophy into spaces that feel generous, grounded, and deeply attuned to the sea."
Urquiola added, "I imagined the Owner's Residence as a space to be inhabited with the body as much as with the eyes, where textures and materials create a sense of protection while remaining open to the movement of the sea. For me, it is about creating a sense of belonging on the water. The project grew through a long-standing relationship of trust and continuous dialogue with the Aponte family, and this project reflects that."
Maiden Voyage and Broader Fleet Offerings
Explora III's maiden voyage is scheduled for 3 August 2026, departing from Barcelona and arriving in Lisbon after seven nights. Prices for this inaugural journey start at £4,770 per person. Across the entire Explora Journeys fleet, all cabins are suites, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, private terraces, and regularly-stocked minibars, with hosts available to assist with various requests.
The introduction of these Owner's Residences on Explora III follows the design legacy of earlier ships, Explora I and Explora II, whose suites were crafted by Jorio Luxury and Yachts, interior design studio NenMar, and the Aponte family, owners of MSC Cruises. This latest offering underscores Explora Journeys' commitment to redefining luxury at sea with innovative design and exceptional service.
