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Explora Journeys and Fincantieri celebrate triple milestone in Genoa

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 09 March 2026 09 March 2026

Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, today celebrated another important milestone in its mission to redefine high-end hospitality at sea and further strengthen its position in the ultra-luxury travel segment.

During a triple ceremony held at Fincantieri’s Sestri Ponente shipyard in Genoa, Italy, Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of MSC Group, was joined by Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Fincantieri, Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division, and local dignitaries to mark three pivotal stages in the construction of the brand’s next-generation fleet: the float out of Explora IV, the coin ceremony for Explora V, and the steel cutting of Explora VI.

This marks the third triple ceremony for Explora Journeys in just 18 months, reflecting the pace at which the brand’s six-ship fleet is taking shape. With two ships already successfully sailing at full capacity and Explora III on track for delivery and launch in July 2026, four vessels are currently under construction at Fincantieri’s Genoa shipyard.

Today’s triple event reinforces Explora Journeys’ unwavering momentum and its commitment to having six ultra-elegant ships on the water by 2028. For the first time, the entire Explora Journeys fleet now exists across different stages of development, reflecting the brand’s ability to deliver an ambitious vision at pace. Each ship is an emblem of Italian shipbuilding, introducing design innovations and technological improvements that push the boundaries of excellence at sea while generating significant economic and employment benefits for the country.

“For the first time, all six ships in our fleet are either in service or under construction — a defining moment as we bring the ‘Ocean State of Mind’ to life on an even greater scale,” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “These ships realise the Aponte-Vago family's vision of an experience where the ocean itself becomes the destination — inviting wellbeing, discovery and a deeper connection with the ocean. As our fleet grows, we are introducing more discerning guests to a new expression of luxury ocean travel — one that stands in a category of its own and challenges the idea that luxury must always be anchored to land, instead finding its home on the horizon.

This vision is further expressed through Explora Journeys’ new cinematic global campaign, Explore the Ocean State of Mind, unveiled in New York last month. Developed by McCann Paris and brought to life by award-winning director Jonas Lindstroem, it challenges traditional cruise conventions and invites a new generation of affluent travelers to rethink luxury travel. Framing each ship as a five-star floating hotel where the ocean itself becomes the destination, the concept reinforces Explora Journeys’ position in a category of its own, transcending the boundaries between traditional cruises and land-based luxury.

While the ceremony honored the cherished maritime traditions that define the shipbuilding process, it also celebrated the future of Explora Journeys’ next-generation fleet and the brand’s vision for ultra-luxury ocean travel. Two godmothers were appointed for the coin ceremony of Explora V: Captain Serena Melani, representing Explora Journeys, and Alice Gallo from Fincantieri at the Sestri Ponente shipyard. Captain Serena served as the first Master of both Explora I and Explora II, making a significant contribution to the brand’s success, and she will also serve as the Master of Explora III. Additionally, Cristina Bacigalupo from the Fincantieri’s shipyard outfitting workshop in Sestri Ponente served as the godmother for the technical launch of Explora IV, representing the expert craftsmanship behind the ship’s construction.

A legacy in motion

The €3.5 billion investment in Explora Journeys’ six-ship fleet represents a cornerstone of MSC Group’s broader commitment to the Italian maritime sector. When combined with the four MSC Cruises ships previously built by Fincantieri, the Group’s total investment in the shipyard reaches approximately €7 billion. This collaboration continues to uphold an uncompromising standard of seafaring artistry and technical prestige, ensuring that Explora Journeys remains at the forefront of the industry.

The momentum now turns to the highly anticipated Explora III, set to be delivered ahead of schedule this July. Following her delivery, she will embark on a Mediterranean Prelude Journey ahead of its naming ceremony on August 1 at MSC’s new cruise terminal in Barcelona.

With Explora IV and V scheduled to enter service in 2027 and Explora VI following in 2028, each new ship will continue to integrate the highest standards of craftsmanship and innovation.

Environmental features of the Explora fleet

As part of the MSC Group’s Cruise Division, Explora Journeys is committed to taking meaningful, measurable actions that have a long-term positive impact. The Cruise Division is working towards achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 for its marine operations by investing in new technology, improving operational efficiency and advancing renewable fuels.

Renewable fuels are a key part of this decarbonization strategy. Explora Journeys considers LNG a fuel that facilitates a direct transition towards drop-in bio-LNG and synthetic LNG, which have the potential to reduce well-to-wake greenhouse gas emissions by more than 80%.

Explora III will be the first ship in the fleet with LNG-powered capabilities, reflecting the brand’s efforts to decarbonize its marine operations. Explora IV, V and VI are also being designed with LNG-powered capabilities.

All Explora ships are equipped with shore power capabilities, allowing them to switch off their engines and connect to the local electricity grid while in port, thereby eliminating direct emissions.

Explora Journeys also has a project underway to examine the capability of a large fuel cell transforming LNG into hydrogen and significantly reducing emissions. Explora V will be built to allow for a potential retrofit of the technology in the future whilst Explora VI will be delivered with a fuel cell on board.

American Cruise Lines launches Celebrating 250 Years of America campaign

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 10 February 2026 10 February 2026

American Cruise Lines today announced its Celebrating 250 Years of America campaign. This year, the company will honor America’s Semiquincentennial on all 2026 sailings exploring the nation’s iconic rivers and domestic waterways in 35 states from Alaska to Florida. The campaign includes commemorative 250th recognition on board ships, enhanced enrichment programming, and special guest experiences, including celebratory events throughout the year.

To honor America’s milestone birthday, American Cruise Lines has introduced a branded 250th logo and badge. This year, the company’s 250th logo will be prominently displayed on the bow of every ship as American’s fleet cruises over 500,000 miles along U.S. waterways, visiting 160 U.S. ports of call – from sea to shining sea. On embarkation days, the company’s ships will also display huge American flags draped over the side, welcoming guests aboard for a patriotic adventure.

American’s crew uniforms have been adorned with the new celebratory badges, and American’s 250th campaign logos appear prominently on the website and across 2026 advertising and marketing. The company has also created a line of 250th collectible pins and other Semiquincentennial keepsake gifts for guests sailing throughout 2026.

On board, American’s cruises will offer Semiquincentennial programming and added fun for guests, from a 250th-inspired game show to daily announcements of U.S. historical trivia, and patriotic Red, White & Blue-themed cocktail parties and desserts. The company has even developed its own American 250 signature cocktail menu featuring The Spirit of 1776 and more. The Celebrating 250 Years of America campaign will also highlight American Cruise Lines-produced patriotic videos and special ceremonies honoring veterans.

On shore, guests will enjoy included excursions at every port-of-call, and throughout 2026, additional opportunities abound. Many cities that American’s ships regularly visit are hosting major events like Sail 250’s maritime celebrations in New York City, Boston, Baltimore, and Norfolk. Opportunities to take in scenic views from American’s small ships will be extraordinary. Historical sites and museums are featuring exhibits honoring the 250th, and American’s guests will have the opportunity to enjoy these extra experiences around the country, from major 250th exhibits at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C., to boutique exhibitions at smaller museums like the Wrangell Museum in Alaska.

Over the 4th of July, celebrations on American’s cruises will be even more memorable, as guests will enjoy fireworks displays and patriotic events everywhere the company’s small ships are sailing. Guests aboard the Line’s 52-Day Great United States Cruise will take in the massive fireworks display over Boston Harbor – the site of the Boston Tea Party which ignited the American Revolution and ultimately led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.

For over 50 years, American Cruise Lines has been dedicated to sharing America’s story on the finest American ships. There is no better way to celebrate the country’s history, geographic beauty, and cultural tapestry, than to cruise through it all with American Cruise Lines.

Port of Los Angeles selects Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC as developer and operator of two cruise terminals

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 22 January 2026 22 January 2026

The Port of Los Angeles has announced that Pacific Cruise Terminals, LLC (PCT), a joint venture between Carrix, Inc. and JLC Infrastructure, has been selected as the developer and operator of the future Outer Harbor cruise terminal. PCT will also take on redevelopment and operation of the existing World Cruise Center on the Port’s Main Channel.

“This new Outer Harbor cruise terminal and World Cruise Center redevelopment will allow us to capture more of the rapidly growing cruise business, while also establishing Los Angeles as the primary West Coast gateway for cruise operations,” said Port Executive Director Gene Seroka. “This project will also be a huge win for our Port communities, who will greatly benefit from the economic activity generated by such significant public and private investment in our LA Waterfront.”

Each cruise ship call at the Port of Los Angeles generates approximately $1.3 million in local economic activity. In 2025, the Port welcomed 241 cruise calls and a record 1.6 million passengers.

The forthcoming state-of-the-art Outer Harbor cruise terminal will be developed by PCT to accommodate the newest and most environmentally sustainable cruise ships arriving in Los Angeles. In addition, the proposed cruise terminal development is envisioned as a significant community asset, offering open spaces, recreational facilities, and enhanced access to the LA Waterfront for both residents and visitors.

Carrix is one of the world’s largest independent marine and intermodal terminal operators and North America’s leading cruise terminal operator. Together with its partners, Carrix has a long track record in collaborating to develop large-scale infrastructure projects while enjoying a deep-rooted history in Southern California across containerized cargo and cruise terminal operations.

“Carrix is proud to have been selected by the Port of Los Angeles as the lead partner for the development of the Outer Harbor cruise terminal and the redevelopment of the World Cruise Center,” said Uffe Ostergaard, CEO of Carrix. “We believe our deep experience with large maritime infrastructure projects such as this will contribute to a significant economic return for both the Port and the greater Harbor community.”

“Pacific Cruise Terminals is honored to have the opportunity to develop and operate these transformative cruise facilities at the Port of Los Angeles,” said Stefano Borzone, president of Carrix’s cruise division. “In response to the growing demand for cruise vacations, cruise ship operators have committed to an unprecedented new build program, introducing larger and more technologically advanced ships to the market. This exceptional new cruise center will be instrumental in positioning Los Angeles as a premier homeport and one of the leading cruise gateways on the West Coast.”

JLC Infrastructure has assets under management of approximately $2.3 billion and currently manages investments in the transportation, energy, and communications sectors. JLC’s existing transportation investments include MasParc & Mobility, LLC, the exclusive operator of parking systems at Northeastern University, the LAX Airport Cargo Modernization Project, and the New Terminal One project at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

“We are excited about this opportunity to partner with Carrix and the Port of Los Angeles. This project supports our strategy to invest in critical infrastructure that contributes to the growth of the surrounding communities,” said Marlon Smith, managing director at JLC. “Los Angeles is a strategic location to support increasing demand for Pacific Coast cruise operations. We expect that the incremental tourism generated from cruise operations and the reimagined waterfront will produce meaningful benefit to the Port, local business, and the community as a whole.”