Your guide to Marella Cruises
Photos courtesy of Marella Cruises
Marella Cruises at a glance
Great for:
Couples
Families
Age Range:
Price Range:
How formal?
There is a certain warmth to a Marella cruise that feels instantly familiar. It is the feeling of a classic beach holiday, elevated by the gentle rhythm of the sea and the promise of a new horizon each morning.
As part of the TUI family, Marella Cruises has refined a distinctly British formula for sea travel, one that trades formal traditions for the relaxed, all-inclusive ease that its loyal followers adore. This is less about the pageantry of cruising and more about the simple pleasures of good food, spirited entertainment, and friendly, intuitive service.
Onboard atmosphere and service
Onboard ships like Marella Explorer and Marella Discovery, the atmosphere is cheerful and unassuming. The décor is bright and modern, creating a comfortable backdrop for days spent by the pool and evenings filled with live music. There is no pretence here, just a genuine sense of hospitality from a crew who seem to take real pride in their work. This effortless approach makes it an appealing choice for families, couples, and groups of friends who want a sun-drenched adventure without the fuss.
All-Inclusive dining and drinks
A significant part of Marella’s appeal is its all-inclusive standard. Meals, drinks, and even tips are all covered in the fare, which allows for a truly carefree experience. Guests can order another cocktail by the pool or enjoy a second glass of wine with dinner, liberated from the worry of a final bill. The dining itself ranges from the sprawling, informal Islands Buffet to the more refined à la carte service in restaurants like Latitude 53. For an evening that feels a little more special, signature venues such as The Dining Club offer a sophisticated menu in an elegant setting. For those late-night cravings after a show, a popular snack bar is always ready to serve.
Entertainment and onboard activities
Entertainment is central to the Marella experience, with a focus on fun and participation. The days are punctuated with quizzes and activities, while evenings come alive with West End-style productions, comedy acts, and karaoke. The sail-away deck parties have become a celebrated tradition, capturing the pure, uninhibited joy of a holiday at sea. The dress code remains relaxed throughout the ship, so there is no need to pack a dinner jacket or formal wear. Cabins are designed to be bright, practical, and comfortable, offering a welcome retreat with ample space for families and couples alike.
Destinations and convenience
With itineraries that span the sun-drenched coastlines of the Mediterranean, the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, and the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands, Marella makes exploration easy. Convenient fly-cruise packages are available from numerous airports across the United Kingdom, streamlining the journey from home to ship. For many, a voyage with Marella feels like returning to a favourite holiday spot, only this time the scenery changes daily, bringing with it ever more impressive sunsets.
Top tips
- Embrace the all-inclusive model, allowing for a relaxed mindset where an extra drink often enhances the experience.
- Booking a table at a speciality restaurant, such as the Asian-inspired Kora La or the classic Surf and Turf Steakhouse, offers a memorable treat.
- On sea days, poolside loungers are in high demand, making an early arrival beneficial.
- Comfortable footwear proves essential for exploring historic ports like Dubrovnik or the cliffside villages of Santorini.
- The sail-away parties are a quintessential part of the Marella charm and are not to be missed.