Marella Cruises has confirmed British singers Pixie Lott and Lemar among the headline acts for its 30th anniversary sailings, with the celebrations set to begin across the line’s five-ship fleet from 1st May 2026.
Guests booked on the special seven-night voyages can expect live performances, celebrity appearances and a programme of themed events built around the 1990s, the decade when Marella Cruises first entered the UK market.
Pixie Lott is due to perform aboard Marella Discovery, where she is expected to bring some of her biggest hits to the anniversary sailing, including All About Tonight, Cry Me Out and Boys and Girls.
Lemar has also been added to the line-up and will headline onboard Marella Explorer 2, with the singer set to perform a selection of his best-known tracks during the cruise.
It’s expected that more headline acts for Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Discovery will still be announced in the coming months.
The entertainment programme stretches well beyond those two performances. Broadcaster Michaela Strachan is scheduled to appear on both Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager, where she will host live Q&A sessions reflecting on a television career spanning four decades, from children’s programmes and late-night music shows to wildlife documentaries filmed in the UK and around the world.
Other names confirmed for the anniversary voyages include Fleur East, Boyzlife, La Voix, Eddie the Eagle and Anthea Turner.
Marella Discovery 2 will host Fleur East in Palma alongside a live Q&A with Eddie the Eagle, while Marella Explorer, also sailing from Palma, will feature Boyzlife performing songs linked to Boyzone and Westlife, plus another guest appearance from Edwards.
Marella Voyager is set to welcome La Voix, while Marella Discovery will feature Anthea Turner during its sailing from Limassol.
Anniversary Events Planned Across The Fleet
Each ship will host its own version of the 30th birthday celebrations, but Marella said every sailing will include a Birthday Gala, Party Like It’s 1996 events, quayside celebrations, 1990s trivia quizzes and retro television box sets from the decade.
The wider aim is to turn the voyages into a fleetwide celebration of the brand’s history while leaning into the nostalgia of the era in which it launched in the UK.
“With Marella Cruises marking 30 years in the UK, we’re excited to announce even more headline acts with British stars such as Pixie Lott and Lemar, for both new and returning cruise customers.
“Our customers value our all-inclusive offering and seamless end-to-end service, and this celebration will take them on a nostalgic journey back to 1996 with music, quizzes and onboard entertainment inspired by the era. We can’t wait to welcome guests aboard our ships to celebrate this milestone birthday with us.”
Chris Hackney, CEO at Marella Cruises
Pixie Lott added: “I’m thrilled to be performing at Marella Cruises’ 30th birthday celebrations! I can’t wait to bring the party to life and make the celebrations unforgettable for everyone onboard.”
A Milestone Year For Marella Cruises
The 30th anniversary programme is one of Marella’s biggest themed entertainment pushes in recent years and underlines how important event-led sailings have become in the contemporary cruise market.
Marella Cruises, part of TUI Group, describes itself as the UK travel company’s cruise brand and says it offers all-inclusive cruising as standard, with tips and service charges included in the fare. The line also said prices for the 30th birthday sailings start from £1,056 per person.
Across the anniversary sailings, the line appears to be mixing chart acts, television personalities and nostalgia-led programming in a bid to appeal to both repeat guests and first-time cruisers.
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Royal Caribbean has shared new details and initial imagery for Royal Beach Club Lelepa, a major new private destination in the South Pacific that is scheduled to welcome guests from October 2027.
The beach club, located in Vanuatu, will mark the cruise line’s first private destination in the Southern Hemisphere. It will be featured on a range of itineraries now open for booking, including sailings aboard Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.
These voyages will span departures from Australia, extended South Pacific cruises and transpacific crossings, with further deployments expected closer to launch.
Situated on the northern coast of Lelepa Island, the destination lies around 1,200 miles northeast of Brisbane. It is also positioned approximately 25 miles from Port Vila and roughly 350 miles north of Noumea in New Caledonia, placing it within reach of some of the region’s most popular cruise ports.
How Royal Beach Club Lelepa Will Stand Out
Royal Caribbean says the new destination has been specifically designed with Australian travellers in mind, aiming to deliver a more regionally tailored experience than its existing private destinations.
“We are developing a beach club experience that is completely connected to the Australian guests who’ve told us exactly how they want to experience that, and that’s we’re creating,
“It’s really going to be a special place.”
Michael Bayley, President and CEO of Royal Caribbean.
The beach club will feature two main beaches, alongside an adults-only retreat, nature trails and a wide range of water-based activities. Snorkelling, kayaking and paddle boarding will be available, while glass-bottom experiences are planned to offer views of the surrounding marine life.
Early renderings indicate a vibrant, tropical design with shaded pavilions, loungers and social activity spaces, including beach volleyball, beach cricket and lawn-style games.
The destination will operate as a tender port, meaning guests will be transported ashore via water shuttles rather than docking at a pier, a move the cruise line believes will help maintain an exclusive atmosphere.
“The plan is to really showcase the natural beauty of the destination. The waters are crystal clear, blue for miles. The backdrop is just a vision of mountains. It really is a stunning destination,” said Keri-Ann Chin-Sang, Senior Director, Product Development for Royal Caribbean.
Dining and drinks will form a key part of the experience, with two eateries offering a mix of Royal Caribbean favourites and local cuisine, all included in the cruise fare. Ten bars will serve a variety of beverages, from classic cocktails to regional drinks and local brews.
What Guests Can Expect Onshore
Unlike some of the cruise line’s newer beach club concepts, access to Royal Beach Club Lelepa will be included in the cost of the cruise, similar to Perfect Day at CocoCay rather than the extra-charge model used at Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau.
Standard amenities such as loungers, umbrellas and towels will be complimentary, and accessibility has been factored into the design with beach wheelchairs and strollers available free of charge. Guests seeking an upgraded experience will be able to rent private daybeds or take part in selected water sports at an additional cost.
A retail area known as Mama’s Market is also planned, expected to showcase local crafts and souvenirs alongside exclusive merchandise.
Royal Caribbean has indicated that further details, including dining menus and shore experiences, will be revealed closer to the opening date as development progresses.
Expanding Royal Caribbean’s Private Destination Portfolio
Royal Beach Club Lelepa is part of Royal Caribbean’s broader push to expand its portfolio of exclusive destinations around the world.
The cruise line has already seen strong demand for Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas and recently introduced Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in late December 2025.
Future projects include Perfect Day Mexico in Costa Maya and Royal Beach Club Santorini in Greece, both of which have generated significant interest among cruisers.
With Lelepa, Royal Caribbean is not only extending its private destination model into a new region but also tailoring the experience to a different core market, signalling a more localised approach to future developments.
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A cruise line has canceled more cruises in the Mediterranean due to both of their ships being “stuck” in the Persian Gulf due to the war in the Middle East.
Celestyal Cruises has canceled more cruises, this time the March 27 and March 30, 2026 sailings on Celestyal Discovery. The cruise line sent a statement to Cruise Fever saying that all passengers have safely disembarked from both of the cruise ships.
Both vessels are fully operational, and their departure from Doha and Dubai will take place in line with guidance from relevant authorities.
The cruise line is currently finalizing arrangements for the ships to depart from the Persian Gulf and reposition to the Mediterranean ahead of the summer season. The ships will be able to leave the region once it’s safe for ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Guest who were booked on one of these two newly canceled cruises from Celestyal can receive a full refund or a credit to be used on a future cruise.
The cruise line is asking guests to contact their original travel provider to discuss their available options and next steps.
Celestyal Cruises told Cruise Fever that they are currently monitoring developments and that they remained focused on resuming their planned program to Greece as soon as possible.
They are also asking for their guests and travel partners for patience and understand as they move forward in the safest way possible.
Earlier this month, Celestyal canceled their remaining cruises this season in the Middle East due to the ongoing conflict in the region.
Celestyal Discovery was originally scheduled to begin sailing cruises to Greece on March 20. Now, all cruises through the end of March have been canceled.
Celestyal Journey isn’t scheduled to begin sailing in the Mediterranean until April 4, 2026.
Cruise Fever will continue to monitor the ongoing situation in the Middle East and will have all updates to cruises as they are announced by the different cruise lines.
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Most of us avoid ads. We hit “skip” as fast as we can, scroll past them, and do anything but sit and watch them if we can help it.
But Disney Cruise Line just released a new video ad that has not only gotten people to willingly watch it, but to also want to share it.
Thousands of comments have been pouring into various social media platforms about the new advertisement as the video goes viral.
It looks like Disney Cruise Line’s advertising department just struck gold, and here is why.
Watch the Video Here:
A Masterclass in Emotional Storytelling
Titled “Where Magic Meets the Sea,” the 90-second spot is really a masterclass in brand storytelling. It doesn’t rely on flashy sales pitches or “book now” banners.
Instead, it leans into the quiet, fleeting moments of parenthood.
The ad follows a father and son through the decades, beginning with a toddler’s first steps on a ship deck and ending with the son, now a father himself, walking alongside his aging dad.
By the time the familiar piano notes of Pixar’s Up swell in the background, the “marketing” basically becomes a cinematic experience. And it appears that many had the same type of reaction.
As one viewer noted in a Youtube comment: “Disney… making grown men cry.”
Breaking the “Skip” Habit
What made this video ad go viral is the sheer number of people admitting they watched it multiple times and even cried every time.
The comment sections, whether on Facebook or Youtube, have become a collective digital outlet for parents and Disney fans.
And it seems the ad is effective for those who have never even been on one of their ships.
One YouTube user shared, “I’m a 35-year-old black man with two kids who has never been on a Disney cruise and this commercial made me shed a tear.”
On Facebook, one person echoed the sentiment of many long-time cruisers: “The people that made this commercial knew exactly what a Disney family is! Now where did I put that tissue…”
Authenticity Over Advertising
The ad’s success all comes down to authenticity and relatability. It captures specific traditions that real families have practiced for years.
One mother recalled her husband taking their daughter on “5:30 am coffee walks” from the time she was two until she was thirteen.
Another father shared a sentiment that hit home for many: “I always whispered to them while they were sleeping to grow up a bit slower.”
Some viewers even suggested the ad belonged on the awards stage itself: “And the Oscar for best advertisement goes to… Disney Cruise Line.”
But it’s the relatability that really makes the ad “sing”. One comment stated it like this:
“So how many fellow cruisers know this is 100% true to your life!!!! I can say we’ve raised both our daughters on Disney cruiseline and they were 6yr and 4yr now with 11 cruises they are 15yr and 20yr and I want our daughters to raise there kids on Disney cruises as well, the people that made this commercial knew exactly what a Disney family is!”
More Than Just a Vacation
“Where Magic Meets the Sea” serves as a masterclass because it sells something far more valuable than a cabin on a ship: it sells memories.
It reminds us that while the ships, like the newly mentioned Treasure and Destiny, are beautiful, the real magic happens in the quiet walks between generations.
As one viewer perfectly summarized, “This video didn’t just show a cruise — it sold an experience.”
And no, this is not a sponsored post. We get no kickbacks for even mentioning the new ad. But when an ad is this successful in the eyes of the critics on social media, you know it’s a winner.
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A new residential cruise ship will launch in 2028 that will be part of a new premium cruise line created by the founder of Villa Vie Residences.
Avora Residencies has acquired the luxury cruise ship Seven Seas Navigator from Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The ship will relaunch in January 2028 and will give cruisers another option for those who want to live at sea.
The ship will be renamed Avora Lumina and it will be a purpose-built residential ship designed for long-duration living at sea.
After launching from Lisbon, Portugal in early 2028, the ship will sail a three-year continuous cruise around the globe that will visit over 140 countries and 400 ports. The ship will remain in each port for up to five days at a time.
Prices for lifetime ownership start at $545,000 and go up to $4.2 million for the 242 residences on board. The cruise line will also offer a five-year ownership program that starts at $219,000.
This new cruise line will position itself between the high-end The World ship and the budget friendly option Villa Vie Residences.
Avora has entered into a nine-year charter with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings for the ship, with a nominal purchase option.
Avora plans to preserve the operational DNA of Seven Seas Navigator wherever possible, maintaining established systems, standards, and key vendor and service relationships that have defined the vessel’s performance and reputation over decades of global service.
This approach ensures operational consistency while allowing Avora to thoughtfully curate the onboard experience for life at sea.
Ahead of its 2028 launch, Avora Lumina will undergo a full residential conversion. Planned upgrades include personalization and residential enhancements, reimagined common spaces optimized for long-term living, a dedicated business and global connectivity center designed to support extended voyages.
Residences will range from 300 to 1,173 sq. ft. and will be floating homes, not cruise cabins.
Mikael Petterson, Founder of Avora Residences, said the following:
“Residential cruising has proven its viability. Avora Lumina represents the next evolution — purpose-built for long-duration global living, expedition capability, and a more refined residential experience.”
Kathy Villalba, Co-Founder & CEO of Avora Residences, added:
“Our philosophy is evolution, not disruption. Navigator has a soul — built through years of disciplined operations, experienced crews, and trusted relationships. We intend to honor that legacy while transforming the ship into a true long-term residential platform.”
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Cruise ships are floating holiday resorts and wonderfully lively places to be. But even the most sociable traveller sometimes needs a moment of calm.
Luckily, most ships have a handful of tucked-away locations that many passengers never stumble upon.
These secret sanctuaries are perfect for reading a book or watching the sea roll by when everything gets too people-y.
1. Helicopter Pad
If your ship has a helicopter landing area, it is often open to passengers when not in use.
You may need to find your way through a quiet set of doors at the bow, and sometimes it is only accessible during daytime hours.
But if you manage to locate it, you are rewarded with uncrowded views straight out to sea and a refreshing breeze. It is a brilliant spot to watch sailaways, take photos, or just enjoy the ship slicing through the waves in peaceful isolation.
Pronounced “fo’c’sle”, this is the area at the very front of the ship, sometimes separate from the helicopter pad.
Not every cruise line allows guest access, as this area is often used as the outdoor area for crew members and you may see a crew pool or hit tub here.
However, if yours is open for guests, you can often find benches and railings perfect for Titanic-style sea-gazing, minus the soundtrack.
The gentle hum of the ship at work and the occasional spray of salty mist remind you that you are on a real ocean adventure. It feels like a private spot where only the most inquisitive wanderers arrive.
Be aware though, the forecastle is the windiest spot on the ship. It will be closed in bad weather, and even if it is open, I’d advise taking a hair bobble and definitely no hat!
3. Highest Deck
Many passengers stop at the pool deck and assume it is the top. In fact, there is often a small additional deck above, accessed by a discreet stairwell.
If ever you can’t find a sunlounger, then keep heading upwards and you’re almost certianly sure to find one here. Yes, it may be quite a walk from the pool, and there’s also a chance of encountering some soot from the funnel, but it’s also one of the quietest sunbathing spots on any ship.
The back of the ship is home to some of the most soothing views around, with the wake trailing behind in a never-ending ribbon of white foam.
While aft pools and lounges can be busy, head down if you can and look for small outdoor decks tucked just below or above the main action.
Aft balconies are among the most coveted cabins for a reason, and public areas back here absorb fewer people. Sometimes you’ll even find comfy loungers with the best views on the ship. It is peaceful, hypnotic, and a perfect setting to enjoy a quiet drink with nothing but ocean behind you.
Even if you don’t fancy a massage or hot stone treatment, it may be worth checking whether your ship’s spa offers complimentary or low-cost relaxation spaces.
These can include heated ceramic loungers, calming dark rooms with soft music, or panoramic windows looking out to sea.
Some ships have thermal suites that require a pass, but they are still far quieter than the main decks. It feels like stepping into another world, where the loudest sound is someone gently drifting into a nap.
The promenade deck wraps around the ship and is a classic escape for those who love sea breezes and movement, yet many people forget it exists at all!
Despite being a large space, it rarely fills up, especially near the bow or on the shady side. Bring a book, lean on the rail, or take a slow stroll while listening to the ocean rushing past. Many promenade decks also have games like shuffleboard or double up as a running track.
Many ships even place loungers out here, creating the perfect low-key sunbathing spot. While others chase the poolside soundtrack, you can enjoy the sound of actual waves.
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7. VIP Areas
Many cruise lines reserve some areas of the ship only for VIPs. These are usually guests staying in suites, or those in the highest levels of the loyalty programme (the ones who have cruised many times before).
However, may guests who are entitled to use these areas forget that they exist at all. So if you do splah out on a suite for your cruise, remember that the extra space in your accommodation is just part of the deal.
Be sure to look out for the suite lounge, a dedicated suite restaurant, or a VIP sun deck to make sure that you get the most out of the perks that you paid for.
8. Crow’s Nest
Older ships often have a crow’s nest lounge up forward on a high deck. It may go by different names, but the idea remains the same: huge windows, elevated views, and usually fewer visitors than the main bars.
During the day it can be a haven for readers, photographers, and anyone who enjoys watching the world go by without loud music or crowds.
After dark, many are transformed into more social spaces, so visit early to enjoy the quiet charm.
Also, if you’re cruising on a tall sailing ship – something like those offered by Star Clippers -there might be an actual Crow’s Nest area, although you’ll have to climb the rigging to get there!
9. Library And Card Room
Libraries are classic cruise hideaways, designed for the calm-seeking traveller. They provide comfy chairs, hushed voices, and sometimes even a decent selection of novels and board games.
Card rooms serve a similar purpose, especially on ships that have downsized their libraries over the years.
These spaces are often overlooked because the biggest entertainment happens elsewhere. Whether you are plotting to conquer a crossword or conquering a new thriller, you can count on a bit of peace.
10. Nightclub During The Day
The nightclub might be the loudest venue on board at night, but in the daytime, nobody ever goes there. Most ships keep the doors open, allowing you to wander in for a feel of the space.
If you like cool temperatures, comfy seating, and complete quiet, this is a dream. It is like having your own exclusive VIP lounge, minus the sweaty dancing and questionable DJ remixes.
A word of warning though – it can sometimes smells like stale beer, depending on how good they are at cleaning the carpets.
11. Teen Club (Sometimes Open to All at Certain Times)
Teen zones are normally off-limits. However, some ships open them up during daytime hours when the young crowd is elsewhere. These spaces are designed for chilling out, with gaming chairs, sofas, and sometimes top-notch forward views.
If you spot the doors open, don’t feel shy about popping in. You might find one of the most comfortable and strangely peaceful lounges onboard. Alternatively, you may end up playing Mario Kart on the Xbox. Either way, it’s worth a lopok.
12. The Pool In The Evening
The pool isn’t exactly hidden, but you’d be surprised how many people head indoors at 6pm and never venture outside again until the morning!
Staying by the pool after dark can be a great idea, particularly during warmer weather.
You’ll have plenty of space to swim, hot tubs to yourself, and many ships even offer movies on the top deck. If it’s chilly, they may place blankets out that you can snuggle under while you eat your popcorn.
Many poolside bars stay open after dark too, offering a quieter and more romantic spot to enjoy your evening cocktail.
13. The Back Of The Buffet
The buffet can be one of the busiest places on a cruise ship. Yet many guests often don’t realise that there may be an extra outdoor seating area, right at the back.
If the weather isn’t too warm, you may think that sitting outside for breakfast isn’t really an option. However, due to the sheltered location at the aft, the outside area of the buffet can be a real sun trap.
Some ships also have patio heaters here, making it a real hidden gem.
And even between meals when the buffet isn’t serving food, this can be a great place to sit and enjoy a quiet cup of coffee while admiring the wake views.
14. The Dog Toilet
Cruise ships allow service animals such as guide dogs onboard, and you may never have considered where they do their business.
The answer is that there will be a service animal relief area somewhere outside. If your ship has a promenade deck then you may see it tucked out of the way, or it may only be accessiblt to those in the know through a secret door.
Dog toilets on cruise ships have a patch of fake grass, a trash bin for the waste, and usually either a small sink or some hand sanitiser for the owner.
Here’s a place that I hope you never see on a cruise ship – the brig. That’s the name for the onboard jail.
When crimes are committed at sea, the onboard security officers may have to detain guests while investigations take place or until they can be disembarked at the next port. Some cruise ships have specialised facilities to hold them in.
Not all cruise ships have brigs though. As they’re used so rarely, guests may be confined to their cabins instead, with a security officer placed outside. Balcony door handles can be removed to prevent access to balconies when needed.
16. The Morgue
Another place where you definitley never want to end up on a cruise ship is the morgue.
Given that so many people take cruises each yeat, and that many of them fit into an older age demographic, deaths onboard are inevitable. When that happens, bodies must be stored until its time for them to be disembarked.
Cruise ship morgues usually have space for four to eight guests, depening on the size of the ship. If the morgue is full, other spaces such as food storage freezers may be used instead.
A cruise holiday is full of excitement, but it is the quiet moments that often become the most memorable.
Whether you discover a rarely visited nook at the bow, a shady lounger on the promenade deck or simply decide that your balcony is the best seat in the house, there is always somewhere to escape for a breather.
So, take a little time to explore beyond the obvious. Your perfect peaceful spot may be just a deck or two away.
Marella Cruises is one of the most popular cruise lines in the UK, especially with travellers who want an easy, all-inclusive style of holiday without the formality of traditional cruising.
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, great entertainment and good-value fares, Marella attracts a loyal following – and for good reason. But with a mixed fleet of older and refurbished ships, not every experience is the same.
So, which Marella ship is actually the best?
To find out, I analysed real guest reviews and ranked every ship by popularity and overall satisfaction. As with my other cruise line rankings, I was genuinely surprised by some of the results.
Before we get into the rankings, here’s how I put the list together.
How I Gathered the Data
I’ve cruised with Marella myself, but to keep things fair, I didn’t use my own experience to rank the ships. I’ve only sailed on one, so it would hardly be fair!
Instead, I collected thousands of genuine customer reviews from major independent cruise review websites – Cruiseline.com, Cruise Critic, and TripAdvisor – and calculated an average score for each ship.
These sites have large enough review volumes to give a balanced picture, rather than being skewed by one-off bad experiences.
The Best Marella Ships by Reviews
1. Marella Voyager
Marella Voyager takes the top spot in the Marella fleet, and it isn’t hard to see why from the reviews.
Guests consistently praise how easy and stress-free the whole experience feels, from smooth embarkation through to disembarkation. Many love the TUI integration, with bonded luggage, quick transfers and cabins often ready very shortly after boarding.
The ship herself is also well liked. While she isn’t the newest or the biggest in the world (though she is the newest and biggest in the Marella Cruises fleet), her 2023 refurbishment means she feels modern, clean and well maintained.
Balcony cabins are frequently mentioned as being spacious, and the hammocks are a popular touch.
Food and service are standout positives. Most reviews highlight friendly, hardworking crew and a good variety of dining – from main restaurants to speciality venues and buffets – with strong praise for the quality and choice.
A small number of guests did find the main restaurant and buffet food underwhelming, especially when comparing Voyager to other cruise lines, but overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive.
Marella Voyager tends to be especially popular with first-time cruisers and families, offering a relaxed, all-inclusive experience that makes cruising feel simple and enjoyable.
2. Marella Discovery 2
Marella Discovery 2 is one of the most popular ships in the Marella fleet and is especially well reviewed by first-time cruisers.
Many guests praise the warm, friendly service, with cabin stewards and restaurant staff regularly named in reviews for going above and beyond. Housekeeping gets particularly strong feedback, with cabins described as spotless and well looked after.
The ship itself is often described as comfortable and well laid out, with balcony cabins proving especially popular. Guests also enjoy the entertainment, with several reviewers saying the evening shows are among the best they’ve seen at sea.
Dining generally scores well, with good variety across restaurants and buffets, although opinions are mixed – some guests love the food, while a smaller number describe it as bland compared to other cruise lines.
The main criticisms tend to focus on communication and onboard charges. A few guests felt extras weren’t explained clearly enough, and some were disappointed by Wi-Fi pricing and cabin allocations.
Overall, Marella Discovery 2 is a strong all-rounder, particularly appealing to guests who value friendly service, traditional cruising and a comfortable, easy-going atmosphere.
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3. Marella Discovery
Marella Discovery is one of the most talked-about ships in the Marella fleet and generally scores well with guests who value atmosphere and value for money.
One of the ship’s biggest strengths is the crew. Time and time again, reviews mention friendly, hardworking staff, attentive cabin stewards and a warm, welcoming feel onboard. The entertainment team also gets strong praise, with production shows, live music and guest speakers regularly highlighted as a real high point.
Public areas are usually described as well maintained, and many guests appreciate the open, relaxed style of cruising, with casual dress codes, drinks and tips included, and no-pressure formalities.
Itineraries are another strong pull. Many guests book Marella Discovery specifically for the routes she sails, and reviews often mention how well-organised port days and shore experiences feel.
The more critical feedback tends to focus on cabins showing their age in places and occasional queues at peak times for bars and restaurants. Dining is generally rated as good and plentiful, though it doesn’t always reach the same standard as newer ships.
Overall, Marella Discovery scores well for delivering a friendly, sociable cruise with great entertainment and excellent value – particularly for guests who prioritise service, itinerary and atmosphere over ultra-modern finishes.
Marella Explorer is a popular choice for guests who care most about itinerary and ease of travel.
One of the strongest themes in the reviews is how well Marella handles the logistics. Flights, transfers and embarkation are often described as smooth and well organised, making the whole holiday feel simple and stress-free from the start.
Cabins are generally well liked, particularly balcony cabins, which many guests describe as clean, quiet and comfortable. Housekeeping teams receive lots of praise for being friendly, polite and hardworking.
Guests also enjoy the itineraries, especially in the Mediterranean and Canary Islands, with many describing the routes as a major highlight of their trip.
Food and décor receive more mixed feedback. Afternoon tea is frequently mentioned positively, while buffet options sometimes feel limited compared to other cruise lines. The ship itself is often described as plain but tidy, with public areas feeling smart after updates.
Overall, Marella Explorer tends to suit travellers who want great routes, friendly service and an easy, good-value cruise rather than a flashy, ultra-modern ship.
Marella Explorer 2 is Marella’s adults-only ship and appeals strongly to couples and those looking for a quieter, more relaxed cruise style.
Many guests highlight the friendly, efficient crew as one of the ship’s biggest strengths, with service in bars and restaurants often described as quick and professional. The ship is also widely praised for being clean and well looked after, with hardworking housekeeping teams keeping public areas tidy.
Adult-only cruising is a major draw. Reviews often mention how calm and relaxing the atmosphere feels compared to family-heavy ships, and balcony cabins in particular receive positive comments for their space and comfort.
Entertainment generally scores well, with evening shows and themed nights frequently described as a highlight. Several first-time cruisers also say the overall experience exceeded expectations and felt very good value for money.
Where feedback is more mixed is around the ship’s age. Some cabins and bathrooms are described as tired in places, and a handful of reviews mention noise issues in certain areas of the ship. Food is usually rated as good with plenty of choice, although buffet consistency is occasionally criticised.
Overall, Marella Explorer 2 tends to work best for couples and adults looking for a good-value, sociable cruise with strong service and a relaxed, adult-focused atmosphere.
It’s extremely tight between the ships – here’s those scores in full to see what determined the ranking:
Ship
Cruiseline.com Score
Cruisecritic.com Score
Trip Advisor Score
Overall Average Score
Marella Voyager
4.2
3.5
4.17
3.96
Marella Discovery 2
4.3
3.7
3.83
3.94
Marella Discovery
4.3
3.7
3.81
3.93
Marella Explorer
4.3
3.6
3.86
3.92
Marella Explorer 2
4.2
3.5
3.76
3.82
The Bottom Line
Marella Cruises continues to be one of the most popular choices for British cruisers who want an easy, all-inclusive style holiday without the formality of traditional cruising.
Across the fleet, the strongest themes are friendly service, smooth organisation and great value for money. Ships like Marella Voyager and Marella Discovery 2 stand out for their consistently warm reviews, while older ships such as Marella Discovery and Marella Explorer are best suited to guests who prioritise itinerary, atmosphere and price over the latest onboard features.
There isn’t a bad ship in the lineup – it really comes down to what you value most.
But what do you think? Do you agree with the rankings, or do you have a favourite Marella ship?
Smooth jazz legend Dave Koz joins Cruise Addicts to talk about SOMMA, a one-of-a-kind luxury music cruise experience sailing aboard Silversea Cruises’ Silver Nova on the breathtaking Jewels of the Adriatic itinerary.
Dave Koz’s Luxury Music Cruise
For 15 years, Dave Koz and Friends at Sea has delivered sold-out voyages that many fans describe as a true music festival at sea. Now that incredible experience continues with SOMMA, bringing together world-class musicians, thought-provoking speakers, and passionate music lovers for an unforgettable journey.
In this exclusive interview, Dave Koz shares insights on:
🎷 What makes performing on a luxury cruise ship different from touring on land 🚢 Why Silversea’s Silver Nova is the perfect ship for this experience 🌍 What makes the Jewels of the Adriatic such a special itinerary 🎶 How the SOMMA music lineup is selected 🧠 The unique guest speakers and enrichment experiences onboard
Whether you’re a cruise lover, music fan, or someone curious about themed cruises, this voyage offers an incredible opportunity to combine luxury travel with unforgettable performances.
Disney Cruise Line’s special offers this week now extend into mid-September 2026 — with 66 different sail dates available from a variety of departure ports, including Barcelona, Civitavecchia, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral, San Diego, and Vancouver. Additional special offers are also available across the fleet for these sailings.
The Disney Wish and Disney Magic are now tied for the fleet lead at 22 sailings each, with the Wish down 4 from last week’s 26 and the Magic holding steady. The Disney Wonder has surged to 20 sailings (up 7 from last week’s 13), while the Disney Treasure remains at 15 sailings. The Disney Fantasy held steady at 11 sailings, and the Disney Dream rebounded to 7 sailings (up 3 from last week’s 4).
The Southern California Resident offer returned this week after a 3 year hiatus with offers on 9 sailings onboard the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder this April and May.
The Florida Resident rate held at 12 sailings, the US Military Personnel offer added 2 to bring the total to 33 sailings, and the Canadian Resident offer dropped 6 to 43 sailings. The special bonus US Military offer for $250 onboard credit, announced in November, for select sailings in 2026 remains available.
Finally, the extra savings for those with placeholder reservations where the standard 10% is applicable for some concierge levels on select sailings and a bump in the discount up to 25% off on select sailings remain active.
The special offers listed below are available to book today while inventory lasts.
Special Offers for U.S. Military Personnel
Special Rates for U.S. Military Personnel (MTO) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid for new bookings only.
Disney Dream
12-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Civitavecchia ending in Barcelona Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy • At Sea • Messina (Sicily), Italy • Corfu, Greece • At Sea • Mykonos, Greece • Piraeus (Athens), Greece • Rhodes, Greece • Rhodes, Greece • At Sea • Valletta, Malta • At Sea
14-Night Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise from Fort Lauderdale ending in Barcelona Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal • At Sea • At Sea • Cádiz, Spain • Málaga, Spain • Cartagena, Spain • At Sea
7-Night Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona Barcelona, Spain • At Sea • Livorno, Italy • Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy • Naples, Italy • Cagliari, Italy • At Sea
7-Night Mediterranean Cruise from Barcelona Barcelona, Spain • At Sea • Cagliari, Italy • Naples, Italy • Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy • Livorno, Italy • At Sea
9-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Barcelona ending in Civitavecchia Barcelona, Spain • At Sea • Messina (Sicily), Italy • At Sea • Piraeus (Athens), Greece • Santorini, Greece • Mykonos, Greece • Chania, Greece • At Sea
9-Night Mediterranean with Greek Isles Cruise from Civitavecchia Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy • At Sea • Chania, Greece • Mykonos, Greece • At Sea • Dubrovnik, Croatia • Corfu, Greece • Valletta, Malta • Valletta, Malta
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Juneau, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
Special military rates are available to retired and active US military personnel (and their spouses), including US Coast Guard, US National Guard and US Military Reserves. Members of the US National Guard or the US Military Reserves (or their spouses) must show active-duty orders dated January 1st of the previous year to qualify. Third and fourth Guest prices valid with 2 full-fare Guests in the same stateroom. Rates may vary by sail date and category. Other restrictions may apply. Other categories and sail dates may be available. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Active and retired members (or spouse) of the US military must provide valid identification at time of check-in. Valid for new bookings only.
Special Offers for Florida Residents
Special Rates for Florida Residents (FLR) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid on new and existing reservations.
Disney Dream
14-Night Eastbound Transatlantic Cruise from Fort Lauderdale ending in Barcelona Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal • At Sea • At Sea • Cádiz, Spain • Málaga, Spain • Cartagena, Spain • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
To take advantage of Florida residency cruise rates, proof of Florida Residency for at least one adult in each stateroom must be presented at time of check-in. Guests unable to show proper proof of Florida residency at check-in will have their cruise re-priced and the balance must be paid before being allowed to sail.
Proof of residency must be valid at the time of sailing, and includes the following:
Florida Driver’s License
Florida Identification Card
If you do not have one of the IDs indicated above, then you must provide one of the following—dated within the past 2 months—verifying a Florida residential address and your name, along with a corresponding, valid government-issued photo ID (such as passport, driver’s license, state identification card):
Monthly mortgage statement
Renter’s lease agreement
Current automobile registration, insurance policy or bill
Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
Current utility bill (power/phone/cable/water)
Mail from a financial institution, including checking, savings or investment account statements
Mail from a federal, state, county or city government agency
Note: property deeds and P.O. boxes are not considered acceptable proofs of residency.
Children’s rates are also available to Guests ages 3 through 12 that are traveling with 2 adults in the same stateroom.
Special Offers for Southern California Residents
Special Rates for Southern California Residents are limited to 50 staterooms per sailing. The offer is available to those living in a qualifying zip code—90000 to 93599—at time of check-in. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. To take advantage of Southern California resident rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide proof of residency. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts, but is valid on new and existing reservations.
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
To take advantage of this offer, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide valid proof of residency in a qualifying zip code—90000 to 93599—at time of check-in. If valid proof of residency is not provided at check-in, the non-discounted, prevailing rate for the cruise will be charged and must be paid by Guests before sailing; failure to pay the full balance due will result in cancellation of the reservation with applicable fees.
Proof of residency must be valid at the time of sailing, and includes the following:
California Driver’s License
California Identification Card
If you do not have one of the IDs indicated above, then you must provide one of the following documents—dated within the past 2 months—verifying your California residential address in a qualifying zip code (90000 to 93599) and your name, along with a corresponding, valid government-issued photo ID (such as passport, driver’s license, state identification card):
Monthly mortgage statement
Renter’s lease agreement
Current automobile registration, insurance policy or bill
Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
Current utility bill (power/phone/cable/water)
Mail from a financial institution, including checking, savings or investment account statements
Mail from a federal, state, county or city government agency
Note: Property deeds and P.O. boxes are not considered acceptable proofs of residency.
Children’s rates may also be available to Guests ages 3 to 12 that are traveling with 2 adults in the same stateroom.
Other categories and sail dates with other rates may be available.
Canadian Resident Rates
Special Rates for Canadian Residents with savings on prevailing rates as quoted on Disneycruise.com for non-concierge Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside Staterooms on select cruises. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Proof of residency is required an you must mention the special offer code CAN when booking. NOTE: Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested when calling in. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits.
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver ending in San Diego Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • St. Thomas, USVI • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Juneau, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
The Canadian Resident rate excludes suites and categories with restrictions (VGT, OGT, and IGT). Proof of Canada residency will be required at time of check-in. Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses are not included. If booking through Disney Cruise Line’s Contact Center, you must mention code CAN. Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested by caller. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits. Offer valid for new and existing reservations.
Please note, the offers listed are not to be taken as official quotes. Prices and availability can change at any time without notice. More importantly, the deals listed above are a snapshot in time based on DCL’s online cruise search tool.
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to invite you to consider joining us on an upcoming DCL Blog Group Cruise! This summer, we are heading to Fort Lauderdale to sail to the Western Caribbean on the all new Disney Destiny. Click here to learn more out this group opportunity. We look forward to seeing you aboard.
Royal Caribbean announced that they will be creating public beach access in Cozumel that will be part of their development as they build Royal Beach Club Cozumel.
The path in the Zona Hotelera Sur will significantly improve public beach access, which has long faced challenges such as traffic conflicts, lack of signage and lighting.
The relocation will ensure greater accessibility, improved safety, and enhanced facilities.
Construction on the Royal Beach Club Cozumel will begin once all of the regulatory and environmental permits are completed. The current beach access will remain open until the new facilities are fully operational, guaranteeing uninterrupted public access during the transition.
Royal Beach Club Cozumel will be the third Beach Club from Royal Caribbean. The first, located in Nassau, Bahamas, opened to rave reviews this past December. The second, Royal Beach Club Santorini, will open this year.
Royal Beach Club Cozumel was first announced in March 2024 and it will be one of Royal Caribbean’s seven Ultimate Destinations.
Royal Beach Club Cozumel
Ari Adler Brotman, president, Royal Caribbean Mexico, said the following:
“We are excited to bring the Royal Beach Club experience to Cozumel while ensuring that beach access, a right guaranteed under Mexican law, is available to all. This initiative reflects our dedication to creating shared value by improving safety, accessibility and infrastructure for the community.”
This program is aligned with Royal Caribbean’s SEA the Future initiative which seeks to offer the best vacation experiences responsibly, sustaining the planet, energizing communities, and accelerating innovation.
The cruise line’s commitment to supporting projects that uplift and uphold environmental preservation, economic development, and sustainability plays a vital role in ensuring that coastal destinations remain resilient, welcoming, and vibrant for generations to come.
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