MSC Cruises Jumps Into River Cruising with Explora Journeys
The move follows months of rumors as river cruising grows, with IG RiverCruise citing 1.49 million passengers in Europe in 2025.
- Explora Journeys signed a letter of intent with Dutch shipbuilder Den Breejen Shipyard to construct its first luxury river ships, expanding the MSC Cruises-owned brand's portfolio beyond ocean travel.
- The brand aims to bring its 'Ocean State of Mind' philosophy to Europe's iconic rivers, targeting a sector that numbered 386 ships carrying 1.49 million passengers in 2025.
- Competitors like Celebrity Cruises plan to launch river ships in 2027, while Lindblad Expeditions debuted European sailings aboard the Connect this year, showing growing industry momentum.
- While the company has not confirmed route itineraries or total vessel counts, officials noted that sales for the new fleet are planned to open in 2027.
- Cruise Executive analysts recently predicted sustained 12 percent growth for European river cruising, underscoring the segment's rapid expansion and appeal to travelers seeking river-based vacations.
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This Luxury Cruise Line Is Making a Major Move Into River Cruising—and an Expert Calls It a ‘Game Changer’
Explora Journeys plans to bring its all-suite ships, European hospitality, and luxury-focused approach to river cruising, joining a growing group of brands sailing both oceans and rivers.A river cruise ship on the Moselle in Germany.Credit: Alfredpics/Getty ImagesFirst it was Celebrity Cruises, whose 2025 announcement that it was launching a fleet of innovative river ships sent loyal cruisers into a frenzy. Now, another ocean cruise line is set …
Explora Journeys, a member of MSC Cruise Management, announced its intention to enter the river cruise market, signing a Letter of Intent with the Dutch shipyard Den Breejen Shipyard… Explora Journeys: Plans entry into river cruises - ΙΝΑΦΤΕΜΟΡΙΚΙ
Explora Journeys has signed a letter of intent with the Dutch shipyard Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of its first luxury fluvial ships. A new brand is beginning to be...
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