Explora Journeys, the luxury brand of MSC Cruises, has confirmed its entry into the European river cruise market. The brand announced the construction of its first luxury river cruise ships by signing a Letter of Intent with Dan Breejeen Shipyard.
Details of the New Ships
This statement puts an end to rumors circulating in the market and indicates the brand's plans to enter river cruising. Details regarding the ship design, delivery schedule, and routes will be announced in the near future before sales begin in 2027.
Read more: Mohammad Kiani: Mosques Play a Central Role in Communicating with the People
Growth of the River Cruise Market
Explora Journeys did not mention the number of river cruise ships it intends to build, nor have the rivers for which the ships will be designed been specified. Some rivers in Europe, such as the Seine, have length and height restrictions, while others like the Main and Rhine accommodate larger ships.
The river cruise market is one of the fastest-growing segments in the cruise industry. Forecasts indicate that this sector will continue to grow by 12 percent or more in Europe. In 2025, the European river cruise market included 386 ships and 1.49 million passengers.
Explora Journeys was launched in 2023 as a subsidiary of MSC Cruises and has recently introduced its third cruise ship. Three remaining ships are also under construction at Fincantieri in Italy. The introduction of ocean cruise ships will conclude by August 2028 with the ship Explora VI.
Dan Breejen Shipyard is recognized as a reputable builder of river cruise ships and has listed 40 river cruise ships on its website. The yard is currently constructing river cruise ships for Transcend, which focuses on the group and charter market.
With its entry into the river cruise market, Explora Journeys aims to compete with other companies like Celebrity Cruises, which will introduce its first river cruise ships in 2027.
Read more: Creating Memories at the Port of New York and New Jersey: 9/11 Memorial with Eternal Light · Royal Caribbean is Negotiating to Purchase the Sandals Hotel Group in the Caribbean
