Explora Journeys has signed a Letter of Intent with Den Breejen Shipyard for the construction of its first luxury river ships, marking the brand’s planned entry into river cruising for MSC Group.

The company that said since launching, Explora Journeys has sought to change the way people experience ocean travel through its Ocean State of Mind philosophy, “combining the freedom and discovery of travelling by sea with the elegance and refinement of European hospitality and design. The brand now intends to bring that same approach to Europe’s most iconic rivers.”

Further details regarding ship design, onboard experiences, delivery schedules and initial itineraries will be announced in due course with sales planned to open in 2027.

The move follows Celebrity Cruises entry into the river market, which will happen in 2027, as well as Lindblad Expeditions, which debuted its European river operation this year.

For a complete overview of the market, see the new 2027 European River Market from Cruise Industry News.