Your guide to Marella Cruises destinations

Photos courtesy of Marella Cruises

Great for families
Marella shore excursions

Marella Cruises – relaxed holidays to well-loved ports

Fairly Good

3.5 Stars

Destination Coverage

3.5 Stars

Itinerary Variety

3.5 Stars

Scenic & Iconic Ports

3 Stars

Shore Experiences

3.5 Stars

Ease of Exploration

3 Stars

Convenient Departures

4 Stars

Marella Cruises has a certain knack for making exploration feel both effortless and exciting. With an all-inclusive approach and a fleet of friendly, mid-sized ships, it has mastered the art of stress-free travel.

Journeys often begin with a convenient flight from a local UK airport, whisking guests away to sun-drenched destinations where the ship awaits. It is a formula that simplifies travel, leaving more time for the important things, like watching the sun set over a new horizon with a cocktail in hand. This is cruising designed for pure relaxation and discovery.

Where does Marella Cruises sail?

Marella’s ships follow the sun, charting courses to some of the world’s most beloved warm-weather regions. The Mediterranean is a clear favourite, with itineraries that weave through the Greek Isles, trace the dramatic coastlines of Italy, and call at vibrant Spanish cities. When winter arrives in Europe, the fleet repositions to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean and the year-round warmth of the Canary Islands, offering a welcome escape from the chill.

More recently, the cruise line has expanded its horizons, introducing voyages to the captivating landscapes of Asia and the Arabian Gulf. Each cruise is thoughtfully designed to offer a balanced blend of experiences, from tranquil beach days and cultural immersion to thrilling adventures.

Gaudi's Segrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona
Gaudi’s Segrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona

Itinerary variety

The itineraries are crafted to feel fresh and inspiring, balancing iconic, must-see destinations with quieter, lesser-known ports. One week might involve exploring the ancient history of Santorini and the medieval charm of Split, while the next could be a classic Caribbean journey from Barbados to the shores of Antigua.

The selection caters to all kinds of travellers, with short taster cruises for those new to life at sea, and longer, more immersive voyages for seasoned explorers. Convenience is central to the experience, with many cruises beginning and ending at easily accessible ports like Palma, Corfu, or Barbados, ensuring that the holiday starts smoothly, without the strain of long transfers.

Enjoy a dip at Dunns River Falls, Jamaica
Enjoy a dip at Dunns River Falls, Jamaica

Shore excursions

Onshore, the focus is on relaxed and engaging exploration. The excursion programme offers a wide variety of well-organised activities, from guided walking tours through historic towns to island safaris and snorkelling trips in crystal-clear waters. These tours are well suited to families, couples, and groups, providing a dependable way to experience the best of each destination.

For those who prefer to forge their own path, the onboard team is an excellent resource, always ready to offer tips on local highlights and hidden gems. The shore excursion staff are known for their friendly and flexible approach, helping guests find the perfect way to spend their day ashore, whether on an organised tour or an independent adventure.

Damnoen Saduak, Thailand
Damnoen Saduak, Thailand

Ease of exploration

Marella’s all-inclusive model is the cornerstone of its effortless travel philosophy. With flights, transfers, luggage handling, and even tips all included, guests are free to immerse themselves in the experience without worrying about the logistics. The fleet’s smaller ships also contribute to this sense of ease, allowing for quicker disembarkation and often docking closer to the heart of each destination. It is a seamless approach that removes the friction from travel, leaving only the joy of discovery.

Mount Floyen in the Norwegian Fjords
Mount Floyen in the Norwegian Fjords

Top tips

  1. For a varied holiday, select an itinerary that balances relaxing beach stops with culturally rich city ports.
  2. Comfortable footwear is essential, as many of the destinations are best explored on foot.
  3. The local food tours come highly recommended; Marella’s excursion team selects some of the finest culinary experiences.
  4. Consider a repositioning cruise for a different pace, with more leisurely days at sea to enjoy the ship’s amenities.
  5. Do not hesitate to ask the crew about local transport options, as some ports are perfectly suited for independent exploration.