EXPLORA III unveils Northern Europe voyages and solar eclipse experience for Summer 2026 - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Explora Journeys has revealed details of EXPLORA III’s inaugural Summer 2026 programme, featuring luxury voyages through Northern Europe, Iceland, Greenland, Canada and New England, alongside a rare solar eclipse sailing and a transatlantic crossing to North America.

The new vessel, which enters service on 3 August 2026, marks another milestone for the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand. According to the company, EXPLORA III will become the first LNG-powered ship in the fleet and introduce a range of new onboard concepts, destination experiences and cultural programmes.

Northern Europe itineraries focus on slower travel and immersive experiences

The inaugural season will begin in the Mediterranean before continuing through Northern Europe and Iceland, eventually crossing the Atlantic via Greenland towards Canada and the northeastern United States.

Explora Journeys said the itineraries were designed around slower-paced exploration, longer stays and overnight calls in destinations such as Stockholm, Reykjavik and Quebec City. The company also emphasised that no itineraries will be repeated during the season.

Among the new ports for the brand are Bergen, Flåm, Riga and Tallinn. Guests will also sail through Icelandic fjords and Greenlandic landscapes shaped by glaciers, remote coastlines and traditional communities.

From Norway’s fjords to the Atlantic coast of North America, the itineraries combine scenic navigation with cultural experiences and nature-focused excursions.

Solar eclipse voyage among season highlights

One of the central moments of the season will be a dedicated solar eclipse sailing in August 2026. According to Explora Journeys, EXPLORA III will be positioned in optimal viewing conditions to observe the eclipse, described as the first visible from Europe in 27 years.

The programme will include guest speakers and experts connected to science, exploration and ocean conservation. Among them are science presenter and adventurer Huw James as well as Helen Sharman, the first British astronaut, who will join guests for onboard talks linked to the eclipse experience.

Lewis Pugh, UN Patron of the Oceans and endurance swimmer, will also sail aboard EXPLORA III during a voyage from Bergen to Copenhagen, sharing perspectives on marine conservation and ocean protection.

Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, said the season combines several dimensions of luxury travel into one programme.

“From witnessing the cinematic beauty of a solar eclipse alongside world-class luminaries who bring science and adventure to life, to the profound serenity found in a more soulful navigation of the North, every element has been aligned to create a deeper connection with the world around us,” said Nash.

New onboard concepts and sustainability features

EXPLORA III will introduce several new culinary and retail concepts. Among them is “The Cellar by Explora Journeys”, which the company describes as the most extensive wine collection at sea, as well as “The Chef’s Table by Explora Journeys”, featuring personalised dining experiences developed together with guests.

The ship will also see the return of Rolex’s boutique-at-sea concept, alongside luxury retail offerings from brands including Cartier, Piaget and Chopard.

As the first LNG-powered vessel in the Explora Journeys fleet, EXPLORA III is equipped with shore power capability and environmental technologies aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions.

According to the company, the vessel reflects its longer-term strategy of combining luxury travel with more sustainable operational solutions.

Special launch offer available for Summer 2026

Explora Journeys said selected Summer 2026 sailings aboard EXPLORA III are currently available with savings of up to 2,000 US dollars per suite for bookings made before 26 May 2026.

Image Credit: © Explora Journeys