Dr Sylvia Earle announced as godmother of Explora I

The oceanographer, explorer, and conservationist will christen the ship during a ceremony in Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, on July 8.

Dr Earle, who is also godmother and namesake of AE Expedition's second purpose-built small ship and the founder and chairman of Mission Blue – a non-profit organisation aiming to protect oceans – said: “I am honoured to be chosen as the godmother for Explora 1 and look forward to a meaningful relationship between Mission Blue, Explora Journeys and the MSC Foundation toward protecting and restoring the ocean globally.”

Explora Journeys’ chief executive officer, Michael Ungerer, added: “We are honoured to have Dr Sylvia Earle as the godmother of our first luxury ship, Explora 1. Her lifelong commitment to ocean conservation and exploration makes her an inspiration to us all.

"We share her passion for protecting the world's oceans, and we are excited to partner with her on this important mission."

Explora 1 is the first of six planned ships for Explora Journeys. She will depart for her 15-night maiden journey ‘Into Epic fjords and the Arctic Circle’ on July 17, 2023 from Southampton, UK.