Marine conservationist Rosalba Giugni has been named godmother of Explora Journeys’ second ship, Explora II.
Giugni is the founder of the Marevivo Foundation, a conservation organisation committed to the preservation of marine environments that was founded in 1985 and since 2019 has been a partner of the MSC Group’s MSC Foundation.
The naming ceremony for Explora II will take place in Civitavecchia near Rome on September 15, following the ship’s handover from the Fincantieri shipyard near Genoa on September 12.
The line said Giugni’s work “empowered children, youth and the next generation of maritime professionals” and also encompassed aspects of the maritime ecosystem “from fishing to maritime property, tourism, commercial shipping and recreational boating”.
It also hailed her role in the creation of marine reserves, the promotion of international campaigns and the development of legislation to protect marine ecosystems.
Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman of MSC Group’s cruise division, said: “We are honoured to have Rosalba Giugni as the godmother of Explora Journeys’ magnificent new luxury ship, symbolising the dedication of the MSC Group and our MSC Foundation to preserve the natural beauty of the oceans that are fundamental to our journeys around the world.
“Her commitment to marine conservation and the protection of the sea makes her an inspiration to us all. Rosalba’s passion for the sea extends to scientific dissemination and public advocacy, making her a fitting godmother for Explora II.”
Giugni added: “I am deeply honoured to be named the godmother of Explora II. This role holds special significance for me, as it reflects our shared commitment to experiencing the world in a meaningful and respectful way.
“I am pleased to support Explora Journeys and the MSC Group in promoting and advancing a cultural shift towards greater protection of our precious marine ecosystem. Our future is tied to the health of the sea, and its wellbeing depends on the choices we make.
“The climate crisis is a clear warning: we are out of time. The ecological transition needs to begin now, tomorrow may already be too late.”
Following the naming ceremony, Explora II will depart on a seven-night maiden journey to Tarragona, Spain, the Italian ports of Sorrento, Lipari (Aeolian Islands), Trapani (Sicily) and Siracusa (Sicily), as well as Valletta, Malta.