This past week, Celebrity River Cruises opened their 2028 sailings for bookings after their inaugural 2027 season sold out in minutes.
Celebrity River Cruises will have their first five of 20 ships in service for 2028. The cruises will range from six- to eight-days in length and kick off on March 16, 2028.
The five river ships Celebrity will have in service for 2028 will be:
Celebrity Boundless
Celebrity Compass
Celebrity Roamer
Celebrity Seeker
Celebrity Wanderer
Celebrity River Cruises exterior aft view with a pool
Here is a look at the different sailings and itineraries that each ship will offer in Europe. All ships will visit the Christmas markets during the holiday season.
Celebrity Boundless
Celebrity Boundless will debut on September 16, 2028, a seven-night cruise on the Danube from Nuremberg to Budapest.
The ship will offer seven-night cruises on the Danube through the end of the year including sailings to the Christmas markets in late November and all of December.
Celebrity Compass
Celebrity Compass will be one of two ships to kick off the season on March 16, 2028.
Throughout the year, the ship will sail six-, seven-, and eight-night cruises that range from visiting the Belgian tulips in the spring to the Christmas markets in December.
Cruises will take place on the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers.
Celebrity Roamer
Celebrity Roamer will be the fourth ship in the fleet and debut on July 22, 2028, a seven-night cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland.
The ship will sail its maiden season on the Rhine and will be christened on the September 9 sailing.
The ship will also visit the Christmas markets later in the year and every cruise is a seven-night voyage.
Celebrity Seeker
Celebrity Seeker will be the second ship that will kick off the 2028 season on March 16.
Celebrity Seeker will sail six- and seven-night cruises on the Danube, Main and Rhine through the season.
Celebrity Wanderer
Celebrity Wanderer will be the third ship in Celebrity’s river fleet when it debuts on April 22, 2028. The inaugural cruise is a seven-night Belgian Tulips cruise from Amsterdam to Brussels, Belgium.
The majority of the cruises on the ship in 2028 will be week-long sailings between Basel, Switzerland and Amsterdam.
The ship will be christened on the September 9, 2028 sailing.
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MSC Cruises has announced that they will be adding their MSC Yacht Club, a VIP ship-within-a-ship experience, to two more cruise ships.
MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra will be the final Musica class ships to receive the Yacht Club.
MSC Musica will receive it in late 2026 and MSC Orchestra in early 2027.
The MSC Yacht Club is an all-inclusive experience that features private suites, 24-hour butler and concierge service, and exclusive dining, lounge and sundeck spaces.
Guests staying in the Yacht Club on both ships will also enjoy MED by MSC, the cruise line’s exclusive collection of organic bath amenities crafted specifically for MSC Yacht Club guests.
For those seeking tailored experiences ashore, bespoke excursions and private transportation can be arranged to align with their individual preferences.
Once the Yacht Club is added to these two ships, it will give the cruise line 19 ships where it is available.
Sales for new MSC Yacht Club suites for these two ships will open soon.
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A festive, music-focused cruise ended in heartbreak this week with the sudden passing of one of the 100 performers on board, Ken Peplowski.
According to a blog post from Signature Cruise Experiences, the clarinetist and saxophonist died on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, while sailing aboard Celebrity Summit.
Peplowski was a headlining star of The Jazz Cruise ’26, a 7-day sailing from Port Everglades that brought dozens of musicians together for the special cruise. News of the tragedy came on the final day of the trip as the ship prepared for its return to Florida.
A Final Performance
Some knew there was a problem when on Sunday afternoon the 66-year-old failed to show up for a 4:00 PM program with a quartet led by his close friend, pianist Shelly Berg.
After a search of the ship, he was found dead in his cabin.
Community Shares Grief
The tragic news traveled quickly online, where fans shared what happened. One member of the r/Jazz community on Reddit posted a comment after the news broke, writing, “Sad news—just heard Ken Peplowski died today after playing a set on the jazz cruise yesterday. RIP to a great player.”
Commenters praised the musician’s talents and expressed their sadness over the news.
“My husband and I were on the jazz cruise with Ken. Our hearts are broken. He brought joy and kindness to a world that is desperately in need of both. That, along with his unparalleled talent as a musician and leader, are such a wonderful legacy”, one comment read.
Another comment came from a cruiser that was on the same ship:
“I’m on the jazz cruise. Ken and I talked for a few minutes a couple of days ago and I asked him how he was doing and he said he was doing very well and he was in remission from cancer. He didn’t die from the cancer. He had a heart attack last night I saw him perform a wonderful concert with Paco D’Revera and Anat Cohen – three amazing clarinetists…”
Facing a Difficult Battle
While the official cause of death is still being determined, cruisers who were fans of the musician confirmed that Peplowski had been fighting multiple myeloma since 2021.
This rare form of blood cancer is often fatal. Despite his health struggles, he remained a popular musician on stage, even hosting a party during the cruise to showcase one of his albums.
Ken’s Bio
Ken Peplowski was a jazz musician known for his skill on both the clarinet and tenor saxophone. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, he started his professional career at just 10 years old playing in a family polka band.
He really became popular and well known when in 1984 he joined Benny Goodman’s final band. Over the next 40 years, Peplowski recorded more than 50 of his own albums.
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A strong winter storm disrupted a few cruise ships in The Bahamas over the last few days. And now some damage left behind at Royal Caribbean’s private island is only allowing one ship at a time to dock.
One cruise ship at Royal Caribbeans Perfect Day at CocoCay
A Pier at Half-Capacity
Normally, the pier at Perfect Day at CocoCay can handle two ships at the same time. But after some strong winds and rough seas over the last weekend, not all scheduled ships were able to dock at the private destination.
The storm was powerful enough to tear away the catwalks (the metal walkways used by crew members to secure mooring lines) on the eastern side of the pier.
The catwalks fell into the sea, and until they are recovered, that side of the dock is off-limits.
Wonder of the Seas and Celebrity Reflection had to alter their schedules and were not able to visit the island, and instead enjoyed cruises to nowhere.
Letter Sent to Guests
While one side of the pier remains fully operational, the other side is effectively shut down due to underwater obstructions.
In a letter sent to guests aboard Freedom of the Seas, the Captain explained,
“Due to this past weekend’s winter storm, which included strong winds and heavy seas at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas, catwalks fell into the sea on the eastern side of the pier. Unfortunately, divers have not been able to locate all of them, which prevents us from safely docking the ship at Perfect Day at CocoCay.“.
Until the sunken catwalks are retrieved, the cruise line can’t risk a ship’s hull or propeller hitting some of the debris.
Passengers on Freedom of the Seas went to Cabo Rojo in the Dominican Republic today instead of CocoCay.
Which Ships Are Impacted?
While Freedom of the Seas was not allowed to dock at the island, Wonder of the Seas was able to use the undamaged side of the pier yesterday.
Today, Utopia of the Seas is calling on CocoCay but Celebrity Reflection, which was originally scheduled to visit the private island, is visiting Freeport instead, according to tracking data at CruiseMapper.
Tomorrow, February 5, Liberty of the Seas and Adventure of the Seas are scheduled to stop at CocoCay. There has been no official word on whether or not one of these ships may need to sail somewhere else, but we will keep this article updated if we hear anything.
We also don’t’ have an exact timeline for these repairs. Replacing structures like this in the middle of the ocean isn’t as super simple and quick as you might think. Of course, better weather conditions will definitely help.
If you are scheduled to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay soon, keep a close eye on your cruise app. Royal Caribbean will notify you of any changes 24 to 48 hours in advance if possible.
At the end of the letter Royal Caribbean sent to impacted guests, the cruise line encouraged cruisers to keep the letter they sent, saying it could be used for insurance purposes.
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An outbreak on a luxury cruise ship departing from Miami sickened 27 people with a gastrointestinal (GI) illness, the Centers for Disease Control reported. Six of those affected were crew members.
The Regent Seven Seas was on a voyage from Miami to Honolulu, scheduled Jan. 11 to Feb. 1, when the illnesses were reported. The CDC characterizes the incident as a cruise ship outbreak of gastrointestinal illness; the specific cause has not yet been confirmed. Norovirus is a common cause of GI outbreaks on cruise ships, but lab testing would be required to identify the pathogen.
According to the CDC, the cruise line isolated those who became ill and stepped up sanitation measures aboard the ship as part of its response. The agency’s report notes the vessel implemented cleaning and disinfection protocols consistent with outbreak control and prevention guidance for ships. At this time, the CDC report does not specify the total number of passengers and guests aboard.
Illnesses were first reported on Jan. 29, but CDC data do not yet identify a confirmed pathogen. Laboratory testing (for example, for norovirus) would be required to determine the cause; norovirus is a common cause of gastrointestinal outbreaks on cruise ships and typically produces symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea.
The CDC says this is the first reported cruise ship outbreak of 2026.
Margaritaville at Sea raises its daily gratuities to the highest in the industry, Carnival Sunshine adjusts its Bahamas itinerary to dodge rough winter weather, and MSC Meraviglia delays departure from New York due to extreme cold and high winds, reshuffling its early‑cruise schedule. Winter continues to shake up sailings across multiple cruise lines.
Built in 2002 for $350 Million, the Celebrity Constellation is affectionately known as the Connie. I have spent the last four days on Comic-Con the Cruise Vol 2, and I wanted to show you around. Join meon a full ship tour of the Celebrity Celebration.
Cruising is still one of the best-value holidays, but over the past year that “everything’s included” feeling has gotten noticeably thinner.
A lot of the little perks that used to make a cruise feel glossy, generous and surprisingly luxe have quietly disappeared or been turned into paid extras.
It’s not new – it’s been happening for a while – but it has continued.
These changes are not always shouted about by cruise lines, but regular cruisers are certainly noticing. Here are seven of the biggest freebies that are either gone in 2025 or on their way out.
1. Twice-Daily Cabin Service and Turndown
Once upon a time, your cabin steward would seemingly appear by magic. Bed made in the morning, towels refreshed in the afternoon, and a neat little turndown service with chocolates at night.
For 2026 cruises, that is no longer standard across most mainstream cruise lines.
Many ships have moved to once-daily servicing for standard cabins, with evening turndown now reserved for higher-tier suites.
Towel animals, chocolates and freshly fluffed pillows are becoming increasingly rare unless you are paying for a premium cabin.
Again, this isn’t entirely new. But it’s getting worse across the cruise lines, without a doubt. You still get a clean room, but the hotel-style pampering has very much been dialled back.
2. Shrinking Menus and Limits on How Many Entrées
Main dining rooms used to be a highlight of cruising. Large menus, adventurous dishes, and the freedom to order more than one main course if you fancied it.
For 2026 cruises, menus have become more streamlined and some lines now actively limit how much you can order without paying extra.
Norwegian Cruise Line has been particularly visible here, introducing charges for additional entrées beyond the first. Other lines have quietly reduced portion sizes or removed pricier items from everyday menus.
The result is that the “eat as much as you like” feel is fading. You can still enjoy good food, but there are more boundaries and more moments where reaching for a second dish now comes with a small fee.
That’s no good for big eaters like my husband…
3. Loopholes Being Closed on Drinks Packages
Drinks packages still exist, but they are getting tighter and less flexible. Cruise lines have been actively closing loopholes that savvy cruisers used to rely on.
Technically this policy has been in place a long time, but you could get around it by calling the cruise line – but they’re drawing a harder line.
Fair use policies are also more strictly enforced. Expect more systems tracking how many drinks you order, longer waits between servings, and more limits on sharing.
The headline promise of “unlimited” is still there, but the reality feels more controlled and less carefree.
4. Drinks Packages Removed From Private Island Destinations
Private islands used to feel like a natural extension of the ship where your package simply followed you ashore.
Now, guests will need to buy a separate island drinks package or pay per drink once off the ship. It is a clear sign that cruise lines are treating even their own islands as separate profit zones rather than included parts of the holiday.
This is not about big-ticket items, but the small things that made cruising feel special.
Fresh flowers in cabins, chocolates on pillows, quality mini toiletries, complimentary canapés in lounges and little surprise treats have largely disappeared.
Many cabins now have refillable soap dispensers instead of branded miniatures and extra touches like robes, slippers and canapés often have to be requested rather than appearing automatically.
These were never essential, but they added charm. Their slow disappearance has made cruising feel more practical and less indulgent.
6. Printed Daily Planner
The printed “daily planner” or “day sheet” used to appear in your cabin every evening. It told you what was happening tomorrow, what to wear, what shows were on and what time everything started.
For 2026, most lines have moved this almost entirely to apps. If you want a paper version, you usually have to ask for it.
For many cruisers, especially older guests or those trying to switch off, this removes a simple pleasure and replaces it with a screen. It is framed as an environmental move, but it also quietly reduces printing and staffing costs.
7. Lifetime Loyalty Perks Being Watered Down
This one is more about the future than an instant loss, but it was a major 2025 announcement. Carnival revealed that it is replacing its long-running VIFP loyalty programme with a new Carnival Rewards scheme, rolling out fully in 2026.
While the concept sounds positive, the big shift is that perks become more spend-based rather than purely loyalty-based. Longtime cruisers who once relied on stable, lifetime-style benefits are worried that their status will feel less special over time.
Does it signal a move away from rewarding loyalty simply for sailing and towards rewarding spend across more cruise lines? Time will tell.
For now, a lot of Carnival cruisers feel like 2025 was the year that their loyalty was thrown back in their face.
Beyond the headline changes, there are lots of small, quiet cutbacks that you will only really notice if you have cruised before.
Live lectures and enrichment talks are less common, replaced by generic game shows or pre-recorded content.
Sailaway parties are often shorter, less decorated and come with fewer complimentary snacks. Cabin extras like facecloths, extra pillows and ice buckets are more likely to be “on request” rather than stock standard.
More activities now carry small charges, too. Things like escape rooms, select fitness classes, interactive games and behind-the-scenes tours used to feel like hidden bonuses. Now they are carefully monetised experiences.
None of these changes ruin a cruise, but together they quietly chip away at the feeling that everything onboard is effortlessly included.
How to Cruise Smart in 2026
Cruising can still be excellent value, but it pays to be smarter than ever.
The first tip is to read what is actually included in your fare. Cruise lines sell very different experiences under similar-looking prices, and bundles like Princess Plus or Norwegian’s Free at Sea can completely change the onboard cost.
It is also worth doing the maths on drinks packages rather than assuming they are good value. With tighter rules and higher prices, they are no longer an automatic win for everyone.
Budget for extras in advance. Build in money for gratuities, speciality coffees, room service and WiFi so they do not come as a shock at the end of the cruise.
Finally, enjoy what is still genuinely free.
Main shows, sun loungers, basic meals, kids’ clubs and simple hot drinks are still included on most lines. If you go in knowing what has changed, you can still have a fantastic cruise without feeling nickelled and dimed.
Final Word
Cruising in 2026 is not worse than it used to be, but it is different. The big buffet, the shows and the sea views are all still there. What has changed is the number of small, thoughtful extras that once made everything feel effortless and indulgent.
The shift is clear. Cruise lines are chasing extra onboard spending rather than building loyalty through generosity. That does not mean cruising is no longer good value, but it does mean passengers need to be more aware, more prepared and a little more realistic about what “all-inclusive” really means.
If you know what has been taken away, you can plan around it. And if you plan around it, a cruise can still feel special. It just looks a little different to the golden age many of us remember.
If you’ve ever searched for a cruise departing from the UK, you’ve probably come across both Marella and P&O Cruises.
They’re two of the biggest names catering to British travellers, but the onboard experience feels quite different once you’re on board.
From dining and entertainment to how the fares are structured, there’s a lot to weigh up – especially if you’re trying to decide which one gives you better value.
So, let’s compare Marella and P&O Cruises side by side, to help you figure out which one suits you best.
The Biggest Difference – One Is ‘All Inclusive’
The most important distinction between Marella Cruises and P&O Cruises is how much is included in the fare – but it’s not quite as simple as one being “all inclusive” and the other not.
Both cruise lines are great choices for British travellers because they already include gratuities in the fare. That’s quite different from the American cruise lines, where daily service charges are often added to your onboard account.
The real difference lies in drinks and flights.
With Marella Cruises, your standard fare includes a wide range of drinks – everything from draught beer and wine by the glass to cocktails, spirits, soft drinks and speciality coffees.
In fact, the selection is roughly equivalent to what you’d get with P&O Cruises’ Classic Drinks Package, which costs around £50 per person, per day on top of your fare.
That makes Marella’s pricing far easier to budget for. There’s no bar bill waiting at the end of your cruise, and you can order your G&T or cappuccino without worrying about what’s included.
Marella’s fares also include flights and airport transfers on almost all itineraries, which we’ll explore more in the next section when we look at destinations – because that’s where the two cruise lines differ again.
It’s worth noting, though, that Marella’s “all inclusive” doesn’t cover everything. Speciality restaurants still cost extra, just as they do on P&O.
Both cruise lines also offer upgraded drinks packages if you’d like a little more choice.
On Marella, you can upgrade to the Premium All Inclusive package (around £13.50 per person, per day) for premium spirits, branded beers, cocktails and a wider wine list.
On P&O Cruises, the Deluxe Drinks Package starts at around £60 per person, per day, adding premium wines, craft beers, and barista coffee to the mix.
So, while Marella is undoubtedly the simpler and more inclusive option upfront, both cruise lines can be tailored to suit how you like to holiday – whether that’s a truly all-in experience or a pay-as-you-go approach.
This table shows the differences in what you get when you book a P&O cruise, versus a Marella cruise…
P&O Cruises
Marella
Accommodation
✓ Included
✓ Included
Meals and snacks
✓ Included
✓ Included
Drinks
✗ Not included (unless you add a drink package)
✓ Included
Entertainment & activities
✓ Included
✓ Included
Gratuities / tips
✓ Included
✓ Included
Flights
✓ Included (except when cruising from UK)
✓ Included
Coach Transfers
✓ Included overseas (Sometimes included in UK for Select Fares)
✓ Included
WiFi
✗ Not included
✗ Not included
Speciality dining
✗ Not included
✗ Not included
Shore excursions
✗ Not included
✗ Not included
Spa / salon
✗ Not included
✗ Not included
Laundry
✓ Included (self-service)
✗ Not included
P&O Cruises has bigger and newer ships
One of the clearest contrasts between Marella and P&O Cruises is ship size and style. P&O’s newer flagships are among the largest ever built for the British market, while Marella’s ships are mid-sized and more informal, with a friendly, familiar feel.
Here’s a combined table showing the ships for both fleets, ranked by size – although it also highlights how all of the P&O ships have a higher guest capacity, and were built more recently…
Ship
Cruise Line
Year Built
Gross Tonnage
Length (feet)
Guest Capacity
Arvia
P&O Cruises
2022
184,700
1,128
6,264
Iona
P&O Cruises
2021
184,089
1,128
6,264
Britannia
P&O Cruises
2015
143,730
1,082
4,406
Ventura
P&O Cruises
2010
116,017
955
3,727
Azura
P&O Cruises
2008
115,055
951
3,737
Arcadia
P&O Cruises
2002
84,342
951
2,458
Marella Voyager
Marella Cruises
1997
77,302
866
1,912
Marella Explorer
Marella Cruises
1995
76,988
861
1,924
Aurora
P&O Cruises
2000
76,152
886
2,258
Marella Explorer 2
Marella Cruises
1996
71,545
807
1,814
Marella Discovery
Marella Cruises
1995
70,000
866
1,830
Marella Discovery 2
Marella Cruises
1996
69,472
866
1,836
P&O Cruises: Large and Modern with a British Touch
P&O currently operates seven ships, ranging from huge, modern vessels to smaller, traditional ones. The newest sisters, Iona and Arvia, each carry around 5,200 guests and bring a real “wow” factor – glass-roofed SkyDomes, multiple pools and hot tubs, big production theatres and a choice of over 20 bars and restaurants.
Alongside them, Britannia, Azura and Ventura offer a similar mix of modern design and family-friendly spaces, while Arcadia and Aurora cater exclusively to adults for much of the year.
The overall style is distinctly British, with crisp contemporary interiors, afternoon tea, and entertainment designed to appeal to UK tastes. Larger ships have more choice and buzz, while the smaller, older vessels offer a quieter, more traditional cruise experience that many repeat guests love.
Marella’s fleet is smaller, made up of five mid-sized ships – Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, and the newest, Marella Voyager, which joined the fleet in 2023 after a complete refurbishment.
These ships carry between 1,800 and 1,950 guests, so they feel much more intimate than the P&O giants. It’s easy to find your way around, and after a few days, you’ll start recognising familiar faces among both guests and crew.
Décor across the fleet is relaxed and contemporary, with comfortable lounges, a mix of bars and casual dining spots, and a warm, approachable style. Marella Voyager in particular feels the most modern, with refreshed venues and some new bar and restaurant concepts added in her refit.
The line also offers Marella Explorer 2 as an adults-only ship, while the rest of the fleet welcomes families. This balance works well for couples seeking peace and quiet, or for families who like a relaxed, no-fuss holiday atmosphere.
If you love the idea of large resort-style ships packed with variety – more dining options, big shows, several pools and plenty going on – then P&O Cruises has the advantage.
If you prefer something smaller and more sociable, where you can quickly feel at home and enjoy a more personal service, then Marella’s ships are a great fit.
Both lines offer adult-only choices, but the overall vibe differs: P&O feels a little more polished and “big ship British,” while Marella is more relaxed, cheerful, and informal – the kind of cruise where the crew soon know your name and your favourite drink.
P&O Cruises Offers More Destinations
When it comes to where they sail, P&O Cruises and Marella Cruises take quite different approaches. P&O’s strength is in its wide range of itineraries departing from the UK, while Marella focuses on fly-cruises that get you straight to the sunshine.
P&O Cruises: Sailing from the UK to the World
P&O Cruises primarily sails from Southampton, making it a convenient choice if you prefer to skip the airport entirely. From there, you can explore an impressive mix of destinations – from short mini-breaks to Bruges or Amsterdam, to longer voyages around the Norwegian Fjords, Northern Europe, or down to the Mediterranean and Canary Islands.
P&O also offers fly-cruises, mainly in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Canary Islands, for those who prefer to start their holiday in warmer weather. Flights are available from ten UK airports, with transfers included, so you can choose whichever departure point suits you best.
For those with more time on their hands, P&O also runs world cruises and grand voyages, sailing across multiple continents – something Marella doesn’t currently offer.
Marella Cruises: Sunshine-Focused Fly-Cruises
Marella Cruises specialises in fly-cruises, whisking you directly to the heart of the action with minimal sea days. You’ll typically fly from the UK to join your ship in the Mediterranean, Canary Islands, or the Caribbean.
Because these itineraries start close to the main cruising regions, you’ll visit more ports and spend less time at sea – ideal if you prefer waking up somewhere new each day rather than long stretches of ocean.
Marella flights depart from up to 16 UK airports, giving plenty of flexibility no matter where you live.
Another advantage for Marella guests is the option to book Cruise & Stay holidays. Since Marella is part of TUI, it’s easy to combine your sailing with a few extra nights in one of TUI’s hotels. Whether you fancy a beach break before you embark or a few relaxing days afterwards, it’s all packaged neatly together.
How to Choose
If you prefer to cruise straight from the UK, without worrying about airports or luggage limits, P&O Cruises is the obvious choice. You’ll also find a far greater variety of itineraries, including short UK and European breaks, Northern Lights adventures and world cruises.
If you’d rather fly out and start your holiday in the sunshine straight away, Marella Cruises offers great value, more port days and a much shorter journey to reach warmer climates. It’s a more convenient option for those who like relaxed, destination-focused itineraries with minimal time at sea.
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Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…
Staterooms and Suites
Both Marella and P&O Cruises offer the familiar four main cabin types – Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suite. So whether you’re looking for a good-value option or a little extra space and luxury, you’ll find something to suit.
Room Options
Inside cabins are the most affordable choice, perfect if you’re happy to spend most of your time out and about on the ship.
Oceanview rooms add a window or porthole, giving you natural light and a glimpse of the sea, while Balcony cabins provide your own private outdoor space – ideal for morning coffee or evening sunsets.
At the top end, Suites offer more spacious layouts, upgraded amenities, and various extra perks, which differ between the two cruise lines.
Both Marella and P&O Cruises also cater particularly well to solo travellers, which isn’t something every cruise line can say.
Each has a selection of dedicated single cabins, meaning you don’t need to pay the usual single supplement for a double room.
Solo staterooms tend to be smaller in size but well designed, with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Families are also well looked after on both cruise lines. Selected ships feature larger family cabins, some of which sleep up to six guests on P&O Cruises and up to seven on Marella, depending on the ship and cabin layout.
Suites and Perks
The big differences start to show once you move up to the suite category.
On Marella Cruises, guests staying in a suite enjoy a few thoughtful extras through the line’s Suite Service programme.
Altogether, it’s one of the most comprehensive suite packages in the mainstream cruise market, giving P&O the clear edge when it comes to included perks.
Unique Room Types
It’s also worth mentioning a couple of unusual options that make P&O Cruises stand out. The line’s newest ships, Iona and Arvia, feature Promenade cabins – technically balcony or conservatory-style rooms that open directly onto the promenade deck.
They’re great if you like easy access to fresh air, but do note that other guests can walk past outside your balcony area, so they’re not quite as private as standard balconies. Some cruisers love them for the open feel; others prefer a more secluded space.
How to Choose
Both cruise lines deliver comfortable accommodation with plenty of choice for solos, couples and families alike.
If you’re happy with classic comfort and a few thoughtful extras, Marella’s suites will feel like a lovely step up from standard cabins.
But if you’re looking for something closer to a luxury experience – with full butler service, daily breakfast in a private restaurant and a few extra indulgences – P&O Cruises’ suites definitely take the lead. And because many of P&O Cruises ships are newer, you’ll find the decor to be a little more modern than Marella’s cabins which can sometimes feel a little dated.
Dining
Food is a big part of any cruise, and both Marella and P&O Cruises deliver plenty of choice – from classic main dining rooms to relaxed buffets and speciality restaurants where you can splash out on something extra.
A Comparable Dining Experience
In many ways, the overall dining setup on both cruise lines is quite similar. Each offers:
Main dining rooms, serving multi-course meals with a mix of British favourites and international dishes
A buffet restaurant for casual, flexible dining throughout the day
A range of speciality venues – some complimentary, others with a small surcharge
The main difference comes down to ship size and therefore the number of venues available.
On Marella Cruises, you’ll typically find 8 to 10 dining options per ship, depending on the vessel. This usually includes a main restaurant, buffet, poolside grill, coffee shop, and a couple of speciality restaurants such as Surf & Turf, Kora La (Asian fusion), or The Dining Club, a fine-dining venue available on some ships.
On P&O Cruises, the larger ships – particularly Arvia and Iona – offer a much wider selection, with around 13 venues to choose from. These include popular favourites such as Sindhu for Indian cuisine, The Glass House wine bar and restaurant, and The Keel & Cow, which serves British gastropub classics.
Smaller ships in the P&O fleet, like Aurora and Arcadia, have fewer venues, so the overall choice becomes more comparable to what you’d find on Marella’s ships.
One of P&O Cruises’ unique touches is the children’s tea – an early buffet-style meal designed especially for younger cruisers.
It’s served around 5 pm, so kids can eat before heading off to the evening sessions in the kids’ club, leaving parents free to enjoy a quieter dinner later on. It’s a small detail, but one that families often really appreciate.
Marella Cruises doesn’t have a set time for a kids’ tea but there is a children’s corner of the main buffet, serving some of their favourites.
How to Choose
Both cruise lines offer a good balance of quality and variety when it comes to dining. The menus are largely familiar and designed to appeal to British tastes, but there’s enough international influence to keep things interesting.
If you like a larger selection of speciality restaurants and dining venues, P&O Cruises’ newer ships give you the edge. But if you prefer a simpler, more relaxed setup where most dining is already included in your fare, Marella’s approach will suit you perfectly.
Onboard Activities & Entertainment
When you’re not exploring ashore, there’s plenty to keep you busy onboard both Marella and P&O Cruises.
Neither line goes for the high-adrenaline thrills you’ll find on American family mega-ships – there are no rollercoasters or surf simulators here – but both offer a relaxed mix of classic cruise activities, live entertainment and quiet spots for downtime.
Daytime Activities
During the day, life onboard either line tends to be laid-back. Expect poolside lounging, quizzes, craft sessions and dance classes, along with more active options such as the gym and sports courts.
On one of P&O Cruises’ larger ships, you’ll find a few more bells and whistles…
Arvia features a high ropes course, mini golf, and a sports arena, while the SkyDome hosts everything from live bands to pool parties under its retractable glass roof. There’s also a well-equipped spa, cinema screenings, and plenty of bars and lounges for socialising.
Marella Cruises keeps things slightly more informal but just as enjoyable. Expect pool games, pub quizzes, cocktail-making demos, and live daytime music.
Some ships – notably the Discovery class – also feature mini golf and a climbing wall, while others have adult-only areas for those who prefer peace and quiet. The spa and gym facilities are good-sized for mid-range ships, and there’s always something on the daily programme if you don’t fancy just sunbathing.
Evenings are where both cruise lines shine, with a strong line-up of live performances and venues to suit every mood.
P&O Cruises leans towards a more traditional style of evening entertainment, with West End-style productions, live music, and comedy shows in the main theatre.
The Headliners Theatre Company produces original shows exclusively for P&O Cruises, and you’ll also find tribute acts, guest entertainers, and pub-style quiz nights.
Depending on the ship, you may even see big-name performers – Gary Barlow and Olly Murs have both appeared on board in recent years and I once saw Ronan Keating perform on Arvia on New Years Eve.
Marella Cruises has its own in-house entertainment team who perform high-energy theatre shows, musicals and themed party nights. You’ll also find live bands, comedy acts, game shows and movie screenings across the fleet.
The atmosphere is friendly and sociable rather than formal – it’s the kind of place where you can dance along without feeling out of place.
How to Choose
Both cruise lines keep their entertainment accessible and familiar, with plenty of variety but without the overwhelming crowds of larger American ships.
If you like polished stage shows and a choice of several lounges and entertainment venues, P&O Cruises’ larger ships offer a little more sophistication and variety.
If you prefer a more relaxed, sociable style of evening with an emphasis on fun rather than formality, Marella’s shows and live music will hit the right note.
Either way, you’ll never be short of something to do – or somewhere to unwind with a drink if you’d rather just enjoy the sea breeze.
Kids’ Facilities
Both Marella Cruises and P&O Cruises cater well for families, with kids’ clubs, family-friendly entertainment, and plenty of flexible dining options. At the same time, each cruise line also operates adult-only ships, so there’s something to suit both family holidays and child-free getaways.
P&O Cruises for Families
Five of P&O Cruises’ seven ships are family-friendly, offering dedicated kids’ clubs for children aged from 2 up to 17. The clubs are divided into age-appropriate groups, each with their own play spaces and activities – from soft play and crafts for little ones, to gaming areas and chill-out zones for teens.
Activities are varied and well thought out, with everything from treasure hunts and sports tournaments to movie nights and talent shows. P&O Cruises also hosts family deck parties and offers a good choice of family cabins, some sleeping up to six people.
However, there is one really important thing to mention – as of June 2025, you’re now charged a free if you want to prebook a place at the kids clubs for your children. It’s around £5 for a daytime session and £9 for evenings.
You don’t have to prebook, but if it’s a busy sailing, there might not be space for your child.
A highlight for many parents is the children’s tea that I mentioned already – it’s a good feature.
P&O Cruises is one of the only cruise lines to allow children in swimming nappies in the pools. The kids club accepts two-year olds (on most other cruises they must be three and toilet trained) and there’s an excellent and free night nursery babysitting service.
If you’re looking for a child-free atmosphere, P&O’s Arcadia and Aurora are adults-only for most of the year, offering a more peaceful, traditional cruise experience.
Marella Cruises for Families
Marella is also very family-friendly, with M Club providing supervised fun for children aged 3 to 11 and Hideout areas for teenagers to relax and make friends.
The clubs have enthusiastic youth staff organising games, crafts and movie sessions. However, my kids, age 7 and 10 didn’t rate the kids club on Marella anywhere near as highly as the P&O kids clubs which they love.
All the ages were bundled together and they were bored by the activities like singing, colouring and storytime that were mostly geared towards much younger children.
For adults seeking a quieter cruise, Marella Explorer 2 is entirely adults-only, and some other ships operate adult-only sailings at certain times of year, giving travellers a choice of atmosphere.
Families are well catered for on both cruise lines, with friendly youth teams, flexible dining, and plenty to keep kids entertained.
If you prefer a larger ship with more structured clubs and a few extra family amenities, P&O Cruises edges ahead.
Just be conscious of those controversial pre-booking fees on P&O Cruises, especially during school holidays when the kids clubs might fill up.
And if you’d rather cruise without children at all, both lines make it easy – P&O’s Arcadia and Aurora, or Marella Explorer 2, are designed specifically for adults who want a calmer onboard vibe.
Price
At first glance, Marella Cruises and P&O Cruises can look quite different in price – but that’s mainly because they include different things in their fares.
Marella’s prices usually appear higher upfront, but that’s because they already include flights, transfers and drinks.
With most other cruise lines (including P&O Cruises), those extras are paid for separately. So while the base fare might seem cheaper on paper, you’ll need to add the cost of drinks packages if you plan to use them.
On P&O Cruises, the entry-level Saver fares give you the lowest price but less flexibility, while the higher Select fares add perks like onboard credit or free parking in Southampton. You can also tailor your cruise with paid add-ons, like the drinks packages.
Ultimately, the best value depends on how you like to cruise. If you’re someone who prefers a pay-as-you-go approach, P&O Cruises might suit you better.
But if you’d rather have everything bundled in one easy-to-manage price, Marella’s all-in style makes budgeting simple – no surprise bar bills or service charges at the end of your holiday.
The best way to compare is to price up everything you’d realistically want included – from drinks and WiFi to flights – and then look at the total cost side by side. The headline fare only tells part of the story.
Both Marella and P&O Cruises are fantastic choices for British travellers, offering comfortable ships, familiar food, and friendly service – but they appeal to slightly different cruising styles.
Marella Cruises is ideal if you like the idea of an easy, fully packaged holiday where flights, drinks and gratuities are all included, and where you can get straight to the sunshine with more time in port.
P&O Cruises, on the other hand, offers greater variety – from short breaks and world cruises to sailings straight from Southampton – with a little more choice onboard, especially on the larger ships.
In truth, you can’t really go wrong with either, they’re both great choices!
One strange difference I have found lies with the guests. On Marella cruises, everyone seems super happy to be onboard, whereas some P&O cruisers enjoy having a moan at the dinner table!
I suspect that may be because many Marella cruisers have moved over from TUI package holidays and find a cruise to be much better. Whereas P&O cruisers have often been cruising with P&O Cruises for years and like to nitpick about cutbacks.
Whichever you choose, you’ll be sailing with a cruise line designed around British tastes – and that means great service, familiar comforts, and plenty of tea and gin wherever you go!
Carnival Cruise Line sent out an important notice to travel agents regarding certain fees that will be going up on their cruise ships beginning on April 2, 2026.
Starting on April 2, 2026, the prices for Carnival’s Bottom Bubbles Package and the daily gratuities that guests are charged each day are going up.
Bottomless Bubbles
Bottomless Bubbles is Carnival Cruise Line’s unlimited soda package. The price will be going from $9.50 per day to $11.99 per day for guests who are 18 years and older. There is also a 20% service charged added to the price.
The price for children (17 and younger) will be staying the same at $6.95 per day, plus 20% gratuity.
Bottomless Bubbles must be purchased for the entire cruise and offers the following unlimited beverages:
Soft drinks/soda (Coca-Cola products)
Juices: Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Tomato Juice, Pineapple Juice and Grapefruit Juice
If you purchase the package ahead of your cruise, Carnival will honor the existing price ($9.50 per day) for pre-paid Bottomless Bubbles through April 1, 2026 before the price adjustments take effect.
For cruises in Australia, the new price will be AUD$15.99 per person, per day for adults and AUD$10.95 for children.
Daily Gratuities
Also on April 2, daily gratuities will be going up by $1 per person, per day.
The new rates will be as follows:
Inside, ocean view, and balcony cabins: $17 per day, per guest
Suites: $19 per day, per guest
Guests who have a cruise booked on Carnival after April 1 can prepay the current prices through April 1, 2026. This is the first time Carnival has increased daily tips since April 2023.
Daily gratuities that guests are charged go to the hardworking crew members on the ship. They include room stewards, dining staff, and other behind the scenes workers that make your cruises as special as they are.
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This year, Holland America Line is celebrating 100 years of offering cruises to the Caribbean. It all started back in February 1926 when Veendam II sailed to the Caribbean from New York.
To celebrate this milestone, Holland America Line is offering a special sale for the next seven days that’s good on cruises to the Caribbean through April 30, 2026.
This 100 year sale from Holland America Line includes the following:
Up to 50% off cruises
$50 in onboard credit per guest
Kids cruise for free on select sailings
Good on cruises that depart through April 30, 2026
Beth Bodensteiner, president of Holland America Line, gave the following statement:
“Our first Caribbean voyage in 1926 marked a defining moment for Holland America Line and for the evolution of modern cruise travel.
:As we celebrate 100 years, we wanted to offer something both meaningful and memorable — $100 for 100 years, with added ways for guests to save. It’s our way of honoring the milestone while inviting travelers to experience what sets us apart in the Caribbean: perfectly sized ships designed for guests to relax and connect, a premium onboard experience and time ashore at our private island RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay.”
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