As part of its push towards net zero-carbon emissions by 2050, the MSC Group-owned luxury line said it would continue to use new environmental technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells. 

The hydrogen-powered Explora V and Explora VI, due to launch in 2027 and 2028 respectively, will also be powered by bio and synthetic gas and methanol. 

Explora V and Explora VI will use hydrogen fuel cells for their hotel operations while docked in port, meaning that carbon emissions will be “eliminated” once the ships’ engines are turned off.

Explora Journeys agreed a deal with Fincantieri last year to build two hydrogen-powered ships and has now confirmed their orders. 

The ships will also feature Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) engines. LNG is one of the world’s cleanest marine fuels currently available at scale. 

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s cruise division, said: “We are seeing continued growth in the luxury segment and the investment in these two new ships shows our commitment to growing within this sector as well as to invest in ships of the future. 

“Together with Fincantieri we will study the newest technology that the world has to offer and continue with our commitment to introduce these technologies to drive efficiencies across the whole spectrum of ship performance.”

Chief executive Michael Ungerer added: “Sustainability in luxury is the new craftmanship and our new two confirmed orders are testament to our determination to preserve and protect our precious oceans.

"This is what the discerning traveller of tomorrow expects so it is an absolute imperative that we not only just deliver on that anticipation, but we must and will exceed such aspirations.” 

Explora I was delivered by Fincantieri in July and is currently operating in northern Europe. 

Explora II will enter service next summer, with sailings in the Mediterranean, the Middle East, the Indian Ocean and Africa. It first touched water earlier this month at a “float out” ceremony near Genoa, Italy. 

Explora III will launch in summer 2026, while Explora IV will begin sailing in 2027.