New luxury line Explora Journeys has floated out its second vessel, Explora II, and cut the steel of its third, Explora III.
The additional milestones come two months after the delivery of Explora I, which took place in Monfalcone on 20 July.
Michael Ungerer, chief executive officer of Explora Journeys, said the double event marks "another major step forward" on the brand’s mission to "redefine ocean travel" for luxury-focused guests.
"Following the successful launch of Explora I and the incredibly positive feedback from the first guests, travel advisors and media, the story continues, and we are now beyond thrilled to witness the next important construction milestones for both Explora II and our first LNG powered ship Explora III," he added.
Explora II will enter service in summer 2024 after construction of the 63,900-gross-ton vessel began in October 2021 at Fincantieri’s Castellammare di Stabia yard in Naples where the ship’s keel was laid in May 2022.
The vessel will spend its first season in the Mediterranean sailing to destinations such as Portofino, Argentario, Rome, Sorrento, Palermo, Syracuse, Trapani, Lipari, Cagliari, Alghero and the Emerald Coast.
Explora III, meanwhile, will enter service in summer 2026 and will be the first of the Explora fleet to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).
In January 2024, construction will begin on Explora IV, also fuelled by LNG, which will be completed in early 2027.