Explora Journeys has announced its summer 2026 cruise programme, which marks a significant expansion with the launch of its third ship and new northern European routes. Olivia Palamountain reports

Explora Journeys will introduce its third ship Explora III with a maiden seven-night voyage from Barcelona to Lisbon on August 3, 2026.

The new vessel will then embark on an extensive northern European programme, taking in the Atlantic coast of Portugal and France before sailing to the UK, Ireland and the Baltic Sea.

Explora III's first season will extend to Iceland and Greenland before traversing the east coast of North America, including New England. The ship will make maiden calls at several ports including Flåm in Norway, Riga in Latvia and Aarhus in Denmark, with the journey culminating in Quebec City and New York.

Meanwhile, the fleet's first two vessels, Explora I and II, will focus on Mediterranean itineraries, combining celebrated destinations such as Santorini, Naples and Saint-Tropez with lesser-known ports including Carloforte in Italy and Syros in Greece. New destinations for the line include Çeşme in Turkey, Capri and La Spezia in Italy, and Nafplio in Greece.The cruise line's itineraries feature extended stays and overnight calls, with flexible journey lengths ranging from seven to 21 nights. All departures operate from easily accessible ports, with guests able to combine consecutive journeys.

Each ship offers Ocean Suites, Penthouses and Residences, designed as oceanfront accommodation. The vessels feature what the company describes as "unforgettable culinary offerings and ocean-inspired wellness experiences," aimed at helping guests discover what the line terms an "Ocean State of Mind."

The summer 2026 programme is now open for bookings through the company's website.