GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – June 18, 2026 – As anticipation builds for the launch of EXPLORA III on July 24, Explora Journeys looks ahead to next summer, when the ship will sail the brand’s highly anticipated debut season in Alaska. Summer is one of the most compelling times to experience the region, when its wilderness is at its most vivid, alive and expressive, while the unique perspective of discovering Alaska by sea reveals a side of the destination that few experience. With the inaugural season now less than a year away, this is the perfect moment to begin planning an extraordinary journey, complemented by a thoughtfully curated collection of destination experiences, created for guests who have long dreamed of experiencing the awe-inspiring grandeur of the region.
Sailing from May to September 2027, the inaugural Alaskan Journeys Collection has been designed for those who wish to experience the wild grandeur of Alaska at an unhurried pace, shaped exclusively by nature’s instinctive rhythms.
“Marking an exciting new chapter in our destination portfolio, the inaugural Alaskan Journeys Collection offers a distinctive range of experiences that allow guests to explore this extraordinary region with a genuine sense of connection and discovery” said Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys. “The Alaskan Journeys Collection brings guests closer to the glaciers, wildlife and cultures that define the region – from helicopter flights and whale watching to authentic heritage experiences with local communities. Designed with exceptional outdoor space and uninterrupted views, our ships provide an exceptional vantage point from which to experience Alaska’s extraordinary landscapes. We give guests the luxury of time – time to slow down, connect more deeply with Alaska and discover the Ocean State of Mind.”
The destination experiences offered ashore fall into four themes encompassing Alaska’s dramatic marine landscapes and its ruggedly beautiful interior.
Where Ice Becomes Emotion
Between glaciers and vast horizons, discover the frozen masterworks of the Alaskan coast:
- Juneau: A helicopter flight over the Juneau Icefield leads to an exhilarating exploration of Mendenhall Glacier.
- Hubbard Glacier: A catamaran brings guests close to North America’s largest tidewater glacier, where calving ice reveals Alaska at its most powerful.
- Wrangell: A jet boat skimming the water towards LeConte Glacier Bay or Shakes Glacier takes in harbour seals, eagles, and icy glacial landscapes.
Wildlife as Nature Intended
Unscripted encounters with the region’s native species in their natural habitats:
- Ketchikan (Revillagigedo Island): Spot black bears fishing for salmon after a floatplane journey and short hike deep into the Tongass National Forest or from elevated platforms reached via rainforest trails at the Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary’s Herring Cove.
- Prince Rupert (Kaien Island): A late-season whale-watching adventure with the chance to see humpbacks, orcas, porpoises, seals, sea lions and coastal birds.
- Juneau: Combining marine wildlife watching with a guided rainforest hike through Tongass National Forest towards Mendenhall Glacier and Nugget Falls.
Blue Wrapped in Green
Elemental landscapes where fjords and rivers meet lush wilderness:
- Wrangell: A boat journey along the Stikine River reveals forests, waterfalls, cliffs and wildlife, enriched by local guiding and refreshments.
- Seward: Explore one of Alaska’s most striking coastal landscapes by boat, gliding beneath towering mountains and towards tidewater glaciers.
Connections to Stories of Land & Sea
Providing deep insight into the rich traditions, histories and communities of the region:
- Prince Rupert (Kaien Island): In the Great Bear Rainforest, guests are welcomed by the Kitsumkalum community with stories, drumming and dance before savoring a unique nomadic gastronomy experience.
- Skagway: A vintage rail journey retraces the historic route to White Pass Summit, passing waterfalls, tunnels and landmarks connected to the Klondike Gold Rush.
EXPLORA III: A Sanctuary at Sea
After unforgettable moments discovering Alaska, EXPLORA III offers the perfect homecoming across 14 spacious decks. Combining an intimate residential atmosphere with world-class hospitality, this ultra-elegant floating hotel features 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses and residences with floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces bringing views of the sweeping Alaskan wilderness indoors. Across the ship, guests can enjoy heated pools and indoor whirlpools designed to provide comfort in any weather, while exceptional culinary mastery and holistic rejuvenation further elevate the onboard experience.
In addition to returning favorites like Sakura and Marble & Co., Explora III debuts new culinary concepts including the poolside Shore Club on 11, the immersive Chef’s Table and The Cellar. Complementing these dining destinations are 12 curated bars and lounges. Between dining and adventures ashore, the 700-square-metre Ocean Wellness spa provides complete renewal with its hydrotherapy pool, salt cave and contrast therapy saunas. Together with exceptional fitness and sports facilities and an unparalleled retail offering, Explora III’s thoughtful amenities ensure every moment at sea inspires the brand’s signature Ocean State of Mind.
