Québec City became a new port of call for EXPLORA III this week as the ship made its first visit during its inaugural season. The Port of Québec’s schedule lists the vessel arriving on September 27 and departing on September 28, 2026. Explora Journeys marked the occasion on board September 28 with a traditional crest exchange between the ship’s leaders and port representatives.
The visit brings the third ship in the Explora Journeys fleet to a destination well suited to exploration on foot. From the waterfront, travelers can spend time in the historic streets of Old Québec, take in views of the St. Lawrence River and make a meal of the city’s French-influenced culinary scene. The stop is part of a wider East Coast program that combines Canadian ports with destinations in the United States.
A New Ship on the St. Lawrence
EXPLORA III entered service in 2026, joining EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II. The ship is the first in the fleet powered by liquefied natural gas. It also expands the line’s emphasis on space, with oceanfront suites, additional public areas, dining venues and wellness facilities. The company describes it as its most spacious ship to date.
For guests, the first Québec City call connects those onboard experiences with a distinctive urban stop. A day ashore might focus on the city’s architecture and history, while a longer stay allows time to explore its neighborhoods and restaurants beyond the busiest streets. The port ceremony itself is a maritime custom: a formal acknowledgment of a ship’s first visit, rather than a public attraction on the day’s itinerary.
The call is another milestone for Explora Journeys’ fleet expansion. DRIFT previously covered the launch of EXPLORA III and the line’s plans for its winter 2026–27 itineraries.
Where EXPLORA III Goes Next
The published North American journeys include a September 28 departure from Québec City toward New York, with stops such as La Baie in the Saguenay region, Sept-Îles, Charlottetown, Sydney and Halifax. Other October sailings return to Québec City before the ship heads south toward Miami.
From there, EXPLORA III is scheduled to begin its first Caribbean season. Travelers considering a voyage should consult the current itinerary for the exact ports, dates and time available ashore, as schedules can change.
