New luxury cruise ship headed to Alaska in summer 2027
Cruise travelers seeking a coolcation to Alaska continue to get new and elevated options for sailings to the Great Land as more cruise lines compete for their vacation dollars in this in-demand region.
The 2026 season brought three additional cruise lines to Alaska for the first time: MSC Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, while premium Alaska cruise favorites brought new and newly upgraded ships to the region. This season also saw the return of two luxury cruise lines, Azamara Cruises and Crystal, which hadn't sailed in Alaska in several years.
Looking ahead to summer 2027, high-end cruise options are expanding further in Alaska as a growing luxury line prepares to debut in the region with a brand-new, yacht-inspired vessel.
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Explora Journeys to debut in Alaska with new EXPLORA III in 2027
Explora Journeys, the luxury sister cruise line of MSC Cruises, is poised to make a grand entrance in Alaska in summer 2027 with its brand-new ship, EXPLORA III.
Launching in July 2026 in the Mediterranean, EXPLORA III is the line's third ship. It's an ultra-elegant vessel that promises an immersive experience thoughtfully designed to add deeper meaning to journeys and enhance connections with destinations.
Sailing from May to September 2027, the ship's inaugural Alaskan Journeys Collection of seven- to 14-night sailings is ideal for luxury travelers who want to explore Alaska at an unhurried pace, guided by nature's rhythms.
Related: What your travel agent needs to know to book your cruise
"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 Explora Journeys President Anna Nash.
From curated destination experiences offered ashore highlighting glaciers, wildlife, and culture, to the yacht-like feel of the ship, Explora Journeys' new sailings invite truer immersion.
"Designed with exceptional outdoor space and uninterrupted views, our ships provide an exceptional vantage point from which to experience Alaska's extraordinary landscapes," Nash added. "We give guests the luxury of time - time to slow down, connect more deeply with Alaska."
Alaskan Journeys feature meaningful destination experiences
EXPLORA III's Alaskan Journeys feature a range of small-group destination experiences led by local experts. The thoughtfully designed excursions are defined by four themes reflecting Alaska's diverse coastal ecosystem:
- Where Ice Becomes Emotion: up-close glacier adventures in multiple ports of call
- Wildlife as Nature Intended: encounters with the region's native species in their natural habitats
- Blue Wrapped in Green: boat journeys that explore where fjords and rivers meet lush wilderness
- Connections to Stories of Land & Sea: cultural experiences showcasing the traditions, histories, and communities of the region
EXPLORA III will serve as a floating luxury hotel to recharge between adventures
Passengers will return from each port day to the comfort of an intimate, residential atmosphere on EXPLORA III. The ship features 461 oceanfront suites, penthouses, and residences with floor-to-ceiling windows and private sun terraces for taking in the beauty of Alaska from the ship.
Dining promises to be a major highlight of the onboard experience as Explora Journeys expands its focus on personalized cruise dining and wine discovery with new culinary concepts debuting aboard EXPLORA III.
Between dining and exploration ashore, passengers can enjoy heated pools and indoor whirlpools and holistic rejuvenation in the Ocean Wellness spa featuring a hydrotherapy pool, salt cave, and contrast therapy saunas.
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This story was originally published June 28, 2026 at 11:37 AM.