Luxury travel is evolving beyond destinations. Today’s most discerning travellers seek experiences that move them — spaces that evoke emotion, inspire reflection and deepen their connection with the world around them.
In a bold step toward redefining ocean living, Explora Journeys, the luxury ocean travel brand of the MSC Group, has unveiled a second Owner’s Residence designed by globally renowned architect and designer Patricia Urquiola.
The collaboration introduces a new interpretation of the brand’s most exclusive accommodation, debuting aboard EXPLORA III in summer 2026 and later aboard EXPLORA IV in 2027. Each ship will feature two Owner’s Residences, offering an elevated vision of contemporary living at sea.
A New Expression of the “Ocean State of Mind”
For Explora Journeys, design is not merely aesthetic — it is an essential part of the emotional experience of travel.
Anna Nash, President of Explora Journeys, explains that the partnership with Patricia Urquiola reflects a shared philosophy centred on balance, light and sensory connection.
Urquiola’s approach, known for its human-centred design and mastery of materials, aligns seamlessly with the brand’s concept of the “Ocean State of Mind” — an invitation for guests to slow down, reconnect with their surroundings and experience the sea with renewed awareness.
The Largest and Most Exclusive Residence on Board
Positioned at the aft of EXPLORA III across Decks 7 and 8, the Owner’s Residences are the largest and most exclusive accommodations on the ship.
Each residence spans 280 square metres, including 155 square metres of interior living space and an expansive 125 square metre terrace that stretches across the entire width of the vessel’s stern.
The Owner’s Residence designed by Patricia Urquiola is located on Deck 7, where sweeping ocean views unfold through oversized windows that frame the sea like a constantly changing work of art.
Inside, the layout features:
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A spacious living and dining area
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A large ensuite bedroom
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An expansive dressing room
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A marble bathroom with bathtub, rain shower and steam room
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A private pantry and guest powder room
The residence can accommodate up to four adults when connected to an Ocean Terrace Suite, creating a larger private retreat at sea.
A Mediterranean Sanctuary on the Water
Urquiola envisioned the residence as a space that engages the body as much as the eye — a sanctuary shaped by material, light and movement.
Her design draws from a Mediterranean palette, blending earthy tones, sun-warmed neutrals and tactile natural textures to create what she describes as an intimate nest that moves with the rhythm of the sea.
Bronze metals catch shifting light throughout the interior, while Cipollino and Travertino marble introduce warmth and mineral depth. Ribbed wood surfaces echo gentle ocean waves, complemented by oak parquet flooring and terracotta modules.
Soft fabrics, layered textures and carefully curated lighting create an atmosphere of calm and quiet sophistication.
The result is a residence designed not only to impress, but to invite presence, reflection and emotional connection.
Iconic Design and Italian Craftsmanship
The interior showcases a collection of iconic furniture and contemporary design pieces, many created by Urquiola herself.
Highlights include:
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The Sengu table and Sengu sofa system designed by Urquiola
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Dudet chairs by Urquiola
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Liquefy low table by Urquiola for Glas Italia
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Ruff armchair by Moroso
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Outdoor furnishings by Kettal
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Seating by Andreu World
Lighting also plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere, with pieces including the Nocta II lamp by Denis Castaing for Kolkhoze and the AM1N lamp by Franco Albini for Nemo Lighting.
Together, these elements blend Italian design heritage with contemporary craftsmanship, reinforcing the residence’s identity as a curated living space rather than simply a suite.
Seamless Living from Interior to Ocean
One of the residence’s most distinctive architectural features is a sculpted marble boiserie wall treatment extending nearly 90 metres in continuous linear design, guiding guests fluidly from one area to the next.
The transition from interior living space to outdoor terrace feels almost seamless.
On the terrace, guests can:
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Relax in a private whirlpool overlooking the ocean
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Dine outdoors at a large alfresco dining table
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Unwind on luxury outdoor lounge chairs while watching the horizon
The uninterrupted view across the stern ensures the ocean remains an ever-present part of the living experience.
Private Service for an Effortless Experience
Guests staying in the Owner’s Residence receive private butler services from a dedicated Residence Manager and team, ensuring every detail of the journey is handled with discreet precision.
The experience reflects Explora Journeys’ vision of luxury that is highly personalised yet deeply relaxed, allowing travellers to feel completely at home while exploring the world’s oceans.
A New Horizon for Ocean Living
The collaboration with Patricia Urquiola represents more than a design partnership — it reflects Explora Journeys’ broader ambition to reshape luxury cruising.
By bringing together visionary architects, artisanal craftsmanship and immersive design, the brand continues to elevate the experience of life at sea.
With the arrival of the Owner’s Residence aboard EXPLORA III in 2026 and EXPLORA IV in 2027, travellers will step into a new interpretation of ocean luxury — one where architecture, nature and movement exist in perfect harmony.
It is not simply a suite on a ship.
It is a home on the horizon.
