Explora Journeys – the luxury lifestyle travel brand of the MSC Group – has unveiled an inspiring new partnership with Clarendon Fine Art, one of the world’s foremost contemporary art galleries. Together they are launching an exclusive onboard art concept that transforms Explora Journeys’ ships into refined floating galleries, where guests can admire and acquire exceptional artworks from renowned masters and leading contemporary artists.
The collaboration was officially introduced during a private event at Clarendon’s flagship gallery in London’s Mayfair on 16 October. Clarendon Fine Art now holds the distinction of being the first and only concession partner aboard Explora Journeys’ fleet, debuting in the elegant Galleria d’Arte on Deck 5 of both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II.
Within this serene and sophisticated space, guests can discover a curated selection of 20th-century icons such as Picasso, Warhol and Hockney, displayed alongside contemporary talents including Mr Brainwash—known for his vibrant pop-art energy—and Christian Hook, winner of Sky Portrait Artist of the Year, celebrated for his emotionally charged portraits. Each piece showcased in the Galleria d’Arte, from fine art photography to large-scale canvases, is available for purchase, with new works rotated regularly to keep the collection fresh and engaging throughout each voyage.
Explora Journeys President Anna Nash described the partnership as “an authentic and enriching expansion of our cultural offering”, adding that art on board is not merely decoration but “a reflection of discovery, elegance and heritage”. She noted that the collaboration allows guests to “engage personally with gallery-grade art while sailing some of the world’s most captivating destinations.”
Echoing that sentiment, Rebecca Ball, Chief Commercial Officer of Clarendon Fine Art, highlighted the shared vision behind the initiative: “This partnership transforms the appreciation of art into an intimate journey of discovery. We have created an immersive setting that mirrors the sophistication of Explora Journeys while extending our global gallery presence both on land and at sea.”
To enhance the onboard cultural atmosphere, Clarendon Fine Art has also introduced an Art Luminary and Enrichment Programme, featuring expert-led talks and discussions that explore topics such as collecting art, understanding visual storytelling, and identifying emerging trends. These 30- to 45-minute sessions are designed to appeal to both seasoned collectors and those newly discovering the art world, enriching guests’ understanding of the pieces they encounter.
Once a work is selected, Clarendon Fine Art provides a fully managed global delivery service, ensuring every purchase is handled with precision, care and discretion—from ship to home—anywhere in the world.
Blending fine art with luxury ocean travel, this partnership deepens Explora Journeys’ Ocean State of Mind philosophy—inviting travellers to slow down, connect meaningfully with culture and creativity, and experience the world through beauty and inspiration, even while at sea.
Photo: Explora Journey
