114 Small luxuries The second half of 2024 is set to see a series of small and luxurious vessels make their debuts, before Disney’s upcoming sixth ship closes out the year. Alex Smith reports While the beginning of 2024 saw a series of major additions to the fleets of Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, Cunard and TUI Cruises, the order book for the rest of the year is filled with several smaller vessels that will bring new experiences to both the luxury and river cruise markets. Among the new additions will be Explora Journeys’ Explora II, the second ship to join the cruise brand’s fleet. The 14-deck vessel will be largely identical to the first Explora ship, though the cruise line has increased its use of lighting solutions from Flos and introduced bespoke Davos outdoor furniture from interior designer Matteo Nunziati in the Helios Pool & Bar area. It will set sail from Civitavecchia, Italy, on 16 September following its delivery by Fincantieri. A third Explora ship is set to be delivered by the Italian shipbuilder in 2026, followed by a fourth and fifth in 2027 and 2028. Viking Cruises, meanwhile, will be adding two newbuilds to its fleet of Nile River ships – Viking Hathor and Viking Sobek. The 82-guest vessels, named after ancient Egyptian gods, are both under construction at the Massara shipyard in Cairo, Egypt. Viking Hathor will begin sailing in August, while Viking Sobek will follow in the autumn. Alongside its CRUISE ORDER BOOK Disney Treasure will be the second Wish-class ship constructed by Meyer Werft for Disney Cruise Line Photo: Disney Cruise Line
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