The luxury line, owned by MSC Group, had been due to launch the vessel from Barcelona next May but the ship will now leave from Southampton in July.

Michael Ungerer, Explora Journeys chief executive, said the brand was “taking into consideration the challenging situation facing the world” and global supply chains and had agreed with shipbuilder Fincantieri to update the vessel’s construction schedule.

“The additional time at the shipyard and at sea prior to her first journey will be utilised to ensure that Explora I can and will deliver to the fullest on our brand’s promise and vision – making absolutely no compromise on quality and luxury, our primary objective,” said Ungerer.

In a statement, Explora said travel agents had “already been updated” on the new dates of the inaugural journey and guests offered a full refund, as well as a full booking value in the form of a future cruise credit. 

The line added agents would have the full value of their commission protected already paid on the original booked cruise and will receive their commission on the value of the future cruise credit booked.