Marella-Black-Friday-Hero.jpg

The Best & Worst Marella Cruises Ships (Ranked By Real Reviews)


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.

Marella Cruises Promotion

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.

1. Marella Voyager

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.

Read more: Meet The Marella Voyager

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.

Marella Cruises balcony cabin

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

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.

Cruise Mummy Marella food

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.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

3. Marella Discovery

Marella Discovery cruising the empty sea with shear beauty

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.

Marella casual wear

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.

Read more: Meet Marella Discovery

4. Marella Explorer

Cruise Mummy with Marella Explorer

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.

Jenni with Marella ship in background

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.

Read more: Marella Explorer – Full Ship Guide

5. Marella Explorer 2

Marella Explorer 2 cruising the vast teal ocean

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.

Marella Cruises Entertainment

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.

Read more: Marella Explorer 2 Ship Guide

The Scores

It’s extremely tight between the ships – here’s those scores in full to see what determined the ranking:

ShipCruiseline.com ScoreCruisecritic.com ScoreTrip Advisor ScoreOverall Average Score
Marella Voyager4.23.54.173.96
Marella Discovery 24.33.73.833.94
Marella Discovery4.33.73.813.93
Marella Explorer4.33.63.863.92
Marella Explorer 24.23.53.763.82

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?

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

Related Posts

If you found this interesting, please share!


Jenni with Disney Cruise ship at Castaway Cay




Source link
Large cruise ship docked in a sunny harbour, illustrating a Marella vs MSC cruise comparison

Marella vs MSC Cruises: Which Is Better for UK Cruisers in 2026-27?

Marella vs MSC comes down to one big choice: Marella sells an all-inclusive fly-cruise holiday on five mid-sized ships, with flights, transfers, tips and standard drinks in the price. MSC sells a lower base fare on a much larger fleet of mostly big, modern ships, then lets you add drinks, service charges and extras. If you want one price and a relaxed British atmosphere, choose Marella; if you want the newest ships, more cabin choice or a no-fly cruise from Southampton, choose MSC.

Below we compare both lines for UK cruisers sailing in 2026 and 2027: inclusions, fleets, the best ship on each line and the true cost once extras are added.

Marella vs MSC at a glance

This table sums up the key differences. Prices and policies change, so always check the details when you book.

Feature Marella Cruises MSC Cruises
Owner and market TUI; sold almost entirely to UK holidaymakers MSC Group (Swiss-based, Italian roots); international guests from many countries
Fleet size 5 ships 23 ships, with more on order
Ship sizes Mid-sized, roughly 69,000 to 77,000 gross tons and around 1,800 to 2,000 guests; all built 1995 to 1997 From around 2,000 guests on the older Lirica-class ships to over 6,000 on the newest World Class ships
What’s included Meals, standard drinks, tips, and on fly-cruise packages your flights and transfers Meals in included restaurants, water and basic hot drinks at the buffet; drinks, service charges and Wi-Fi are usually extra
Tips Included Daily service charge added (around €12 per adult per night on European sailings, less for children)
Drinks packages Standard all-inclusive as standard; optional Premium All Inclusive upgrade Pay-as-you-go or packages such as Easy, Easy Plus and Premium Extra, sometimes bundled in promotional fares
UK departures Fly-cruise from UK regional airports to the Mediterranean, Canaries and Caribbean No-fly cruises from Southampton plus fly-cruises to the Med and further afield
Kids Kids’ clubs on Marella Discovery, Explorer and Voyager Big kids’ clubs, water parks and family cabins; kids often sail free on selected fares (port charges apply)
Adults-only Marella Explorer 2 is adults-only; Marella Discovery 2 becomes permanently adults-only from winter 2027-28 No adults-only ships; the MSC Yacht Club offers a quieter, premium ship-within-a-ship
Typical price (7 nights) Often around £1,000 to £1,600 per person including flights and drinks Base fares from Southampton can start from a few hundred pounds per person, before service charges and drinks

All-inclusive vs pay-as-you-go: what you actually pay for

The single biggest difference in the Marella vs MSC debate is the pricing model.

Marella: one price, fewer surprises

Marella describes its holidays as all-inclusive as standard. Your fare covers meals, snacks, a standard drinks selection (selected beers, cider, spirits, house wine and a range of cocktails) and tips, and on a fly-cruise package your flights and transfers too. You can upgrade to Premium All Inclusive for premium spirits, upgraded cocktails, juices and more. From August 2026, Marella also widened its alcohol-free range across all five ships, adding 0% wines, beer and cider to the standard package, and Lyre’s alcohol-free spirits and 18 alcohol-free cocktails to the premium tier.

What is still extra on Marella: speciality restaurants, excursions, spa treatments, Wi-Fi and premium drinks if you have not upgraded.

MSC: low fare, then choose your extras

MSC fares cover your cabin, meals in the main dining rooms and buffet, entertainment and most activities. On top of that you will normally pay a daily service charge, drinks (by the glass or via a package), speciality dining, Wi-Fi and excursions. MSC also sells fare levels that bundle some extras, and promotions frequently include a drinks package, so read exactly what your fare includes. Our guide to the MSC drink packages for 2026 explains the Easy, Easy Plus and Premium Extra tiers in detail.

The true cost: a simple way to compare

Headline prices make MSC look much cheaper, but the gap narrows once you compare like for like. Before booking, add these to any MSC quote:

  1. Service charges: nights x guests x the daily rate (around €12 per adult on European sailings, or about €168 for a couple on a 7-night cruise).
  2. Drinks: if you would drink more than two or three alcoholic drinks a day, price a package for every adult in the cabin, as MSC generally requires all adults sharing a cabin to buy the same package.
  3. Travel: parking or trains to Southampton, or flights if you choose an MSC fly-cruise.
  4. Wi-Fi and any speciality meals you know you will want.

Then compare that total with a Marella quote, remembering Marella already includes flights, transfers, tips and standard drinks. As a rule of thumb, couples who enjoy a few drinks each day often find the totals land surprisingly close. Light drinkers who can drive to Southampton will usually save with MSC; anyone who wants a stress-free single price usually prefers Marella.

Private balcony overlooking a calm blue sea on a sunny day, a view both Marella and MSC balcony cabins offer
Cabin choice is one of the clearest differences between the two lines. Photo: Сокіл Sokil on Pexels

Marella cruise ships vs MSC cruise ships

The fleets could hardly be more different. Marella runs five similar mid-sized ships from the mid-1990s, all refitted for British tastes. MSC runs 23 ships, many of them among the largest afloat.

Marella cruise ships in 2026-27: which is best?

The Marella fleet is Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager. There is no new Marella ship arriving soon: TUI moved its planned Marella newbuild order to its German brand, Mein Schiff, in 2025. The 2026-27 changes are about who each ship is for:

  • Marella Explorer 2 is adults-only, so it is the obvious pick for couples who want a quieter ship.
  • Marella Discovery 2 sails adults-only in winter and becomes a permanently adults-only ship from winter 2027-28, with former kids’ spaces turned into a speakeasy, escape room, karaoke room and arts and crafts area.
  • Marella Discovery ran adults-only cruises from Cyprus in summer 2026 and spends winter 2027-28 in the Caribbean from La Romana, then Palma.
  • Marella Explorer and Marella Voyager are the family-friendly choices, with Explorer based in the Canaries in winter and Voyager in the Caribbean from Barbados.

Because the ships are so alike in size and age, the “best Marella cruise ship” for you mostly depends on whether you want an adults-only ship and where it is sailing. For deck-by-deck details, see our guide to Marella cruise ships compared by size and age.

MSC cruise ships: which is best for UK cruisers?

MSC’s newest ships are the World Class trio. MSC World Europa sails in the Mediterranean, MSC World America launched in 2025 for Caribbean cruises from Miami, and MSC World Asia starts seven-night Western Mediterranean cruises in December 2026, calling at Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina and Valletta. These ships carry well over 6,000 guests and have more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants, plus a dry slide.

For a no-fly cruise, the ships that matter most to UK passengers are the Southampton ships:

  • MSC Virtuosa sailed from Southampton from May to autumn 2026, ending with a repositioning voyage on 7 November 2026.
  • MSC Preziosa (around 4,300 guests) is based at Southampton for winter 2026-27, running seven-night Northern Europe round trips that call at ports such as Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le Havre and Cherbourg.
  • MSC Meraviglia arrives in Southampton on 18 May 2027 for its first UK season.

The best MSC ship for you is usually the newest one sailing the route you want: World Class ships for big-ship thrills, and the Southampton ship if avoiding a flight matters most.

Destinations and departure ports

Marella is a fly-cruise line. You fly from a UK regional airport to join the ship at homeports such as Palma, Malaga, Limassol, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Barbados and La Romana. Winter 2027-28 adds festive sailings, transatlantic voyages and a new seven-night Atlantic Fusion route returning to Agadir in Morocco.

MSC covers far more ground: the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, the Middle East, South America and beyond. For UK cruisers its big advantage is Southampton, which lets you drive or take the train to the ship and bring as much luggage as you like.

Cabins and the MSC Yacht Club

Marella’s older ships have a good share of inside and outside cabins, with a smaller number of balconies and suites. If a balcony is essential, book early. MSC’s newer ships are built around balcony cabins, and there is a much wider spread of cabin types, including family cabins and the MSC Yacht Club, a gated area with its own suites, pool deck, lounge, restaurant and butler service. Yacht Club guests pay a higher service charge but get a far more exclusive experience than anything Marella offers.

Plates of freshly prepared food laid out at a buffet restaurant
Both lines include a buffet and main restaurant in the fare. Photo: Markus Winkler on Pexels

Dining and entertainment

Both lines include a main restaurant and a buffet in the fare, with speciality restaurants at extra cost. Marella’s menus lean towards British favourites alongside international dishes, and dress codes are relaxed. MSC has a strong Italian slant, with pizza, pasta and gelato, and the biggest ships offer far more restaurant choice, from steakhouses to Asian dining.

Marella is well known among UK cruisers for its theatre shows, produced in-house and performed in English. MSC’s entertainment is bigger and more international, with announcements in several languages and, on the newest ships, water parks and dry slides.

Families vs adults-only cruising

Families will generally get more from MSC. The newer ships have large kids’ clubs, water parks and family cabins, and MSC regularly runs offers where children sail free (you still pay port charges and service charges). Marella still welcomes families on Marella Discovery, Explorer and Voyager, and its all-inclusive price makes budgeting easy.

Couples who want peace and quiet should look closely at Marella, which now has an adults-only ship in Marella Explorer 2 and is turning Marella Discovery 2 into a second permanent adults-only ship. MSC has no adults-only ships, though the Yacht Club and quieter sailings outside school holidays help.

Marella or MSC: how to choose

  • Choose Marella if you want an all-inclusive price, flights from your local airport, a British atmosphere, a mid-sized ship or an adults-only option.
  • Choose MSC if you want a no-fly cruise from Southampton, the newest and biggest ships, the Yacht Club, lots for kids to do, or the lowest base fare and you are happy to add extras.

Weighing up other Southampton options too? See our P&O vs MSC comparison. Check current sailings on the official Marella Cruises and MSC Cruises UK websites.

Our full Marella Cruises review explains which Marella ship suits families, couples and adults-only cruisers.

FAQs

Is Marella or MSC better value?

It depends on how you cruise. MSC usually has the lower headline fare, but service charges, drinks and flights (if you need them) are extra. Marella costs more up front but includes flights, transfers, tips and standard drinks, so it often works out similar or cheaper for couples who like a drink. If you drink little and can drive to Southampton, MSC is hard to beat on price.

What is the best Marella cruise ship?

There is no single best Marella ship because all five are similar mid-sized ships from the mid-1990s. Marella Explorer 2 suits adults who want a quieter, child-free trip, Marella Discovery 2 becomes permanently adults-only from winter 2027-28, and Marella Explorer and Marella Voyager are good picks for families.

What are the top MSC ships?

The newest and most feature-packed MSC ships are the World Class ships: MSC World Europa, MSC World America and MSC World Asia, which debuts in the Mediterranean in December 2026. For UK cruisers who want to avoid flying, MSC Virtuosa, MSC Preziosa and MSC Meraviglia are the ones based at Southampton across 2026 and 2027.

Does MSC sail from the UK?

Yes. MSC Virtuosa sailed from Southampton through summer and autumn 2026, MSC Preziosa takes over for winter 2026-27 with seven-night Northern Europe round trips, and MSC Meraviglia arrives in Southampton in May 2027 for its first UK season.

Does Royal Caribbean own Marella Cruises?

No. Marella Cruises is owned by TUI and sold to UK holidaymakers through TUI. Royal Caribbean once had a stake in TUI’s former UK cruise arm, but Marella today is a TUI brand.

Large white cruise ship docked in a sunny Mediterranean port, the kind of holiday compared in Marella vs P&O

Marella vs P&O Cruises: Which Is Best for UK Cruisers?

Marella vs P&O comes down to two things: how you want to pay and how you want to get to the ship. Marella is the all-inclusive, fly-cruise choice: flights, transfers, drinks and tips sit inside one fare on five mid-sized ships. P&O Cruises is the no-fly choice from Southampton, with a bigger, newer fleet and more dining and entertainment, but you pay extra for drinks unless you add a package.

Below we compare the two lines side by side, list every P&O and Marella cruise ship currently sailing (including the fleet changes announced for 2027 to 2029), and finish with a simple guide to which line suits which kind of UK cruiser.

Marella vs P&O at a glance

Marella Cruises P&O Cruises
Owner TUI Group Carnival Corporation (via Carnival UK)
Fleet 5 ships, all built 1995 to 1997 and refurbished 7 ships, built 2000 to 2022
Ship size Mid-sized, roughly 1,800 to 1,900 guests From around 1,900 guests (Aurora) to over 5,000 (Iona, Arvia)
Drinks Included in the fare (premium upgrade available) Extra, or buy a Classic or Deluxe package
Tips Included Included
Flights and transfers Included on fly-cruises, from UK regional airports Included on fly-cruise holidays; most sailings are no-fly from Southampton
Adults-only ships Explorer 2, plus Discovery 2 from winter 2027 Aurora and Arcadia (some family sailings from December 2026)
Dress code Relaxed, occasional optional dress-up nights Smart casual, plus formal Celebration Nights
Loyalty scheme None Peninsular Club
Best for Sunshine fly-cruises with no bar bill No-fly holidays, big-ship variety, longer voyages

All-inclusive vs pay-as-you-go: what the fare covers

This is the biggest difference between the two lines, and the one that makes headline prices hard to compare.

Marella: drinks, tips and flights in one price

A standard Marella fare includes your cabin, meals in the main restaurants and buffet, a wide range of house alcoholic and soft drinks, gratuities, and on fly-cruises your return flights and airport-to-port transfers. If you want branded spirits, better wines and cocktails, you can upgrade to Premium All Inclusive. We break down what each tier covers in our Marella drinks package guide. Speciality restaurants and some extras, such as reserving a specific cabin, cost more.

P&O: gratuities included, drinks extra

P&O Cruises includes gratuities and main dining, but drinks are paid for as you go. Bar prices are broadly in line with a UK pub or a little lower. Since December 2025 P&O has sold two bundles for cruises of five nights or more departing from March 2026:

  • Classic (about £49 per person per day): standard alcoholic and soft drinks, Essential Wi-Fi and a speciality dining credit.
  • Deluxe (about £59 per person per day): premium spirits, cocktails and craft beer, Ultimate Wi-Fi and a larger dining credit.

Package prices can change, so check the current rate with P&O before booking. If you only drink a glass or two in the evening, paying as you go on P&O can work out cheaper than Marella’s built-in drinks. If you enjoy a few drinks through the day, Marella usually wins on value.

P&O cruise ships: the full fleet

P&O Cruises sails seven ships. Five are family ships and two are usually adults-only. Passenger figures are approximate, based on standard double occupancy.

Ship Entered service Approx. guests Who it suits
Arvia 2022 5,200 Families, big-ship fans, Caribbean fly-cruises in winter
Iona 2020 5,200 Families, no-fly Norway and Northern Europe
Britannia 2015 3,600 Mixed ages, classic P&O feel on a modern ship
Azura 2010 3,100 Families, fly-cruise Mediterranean
Ventura 2008 3,100 Families, no-fly Southampton breaks
Arcadia 2005 2,000 Adults, longer voyages and world cruises
Aurora 2000 1,900 Adults, traditional smaller-ship cruising

P&O fleet changes: Queen Anne in, Arcadia out

In October 2026 Carnival Corporation confirmed a fleet shuffle. Cunard’s Queen Anne will finish her Cunard career with a 2029 world voyage, then be refitted and renamed before joining P&O Cruises in May 2029. Arcadia’s farewell P&O season ends in August 2029, after which she transfers to Holland America Line. The new name for Queen Anne had not been announced at the time of writing. Read more in our report on Queen Anne heading to P&O and Arcadia moving to Holland America.

P&O has also opened Arcadia and Aurora to all ages on a small number of sailings, starting in December 2026 and running to September 2027, aimed at multi-generational families. For most of the year both ships stay adults-only, so check the sailing before booking if a child-free cruise matters to you.

Which is the best P&O cruise ship?

There is no single answer. Arvia and Iona have the most restaurants, bars and shows, and the biggest choice of cabins. Britannia is a good middle ground. Aurora and Arcadia are the ones to pick if you prefer a quieter, adults-only ship and longer itineraries. If Arvia appeals, our guide to the best and worst cabins on P&O Arvia will help you choose a room.

Sunny pool deck on a large cruise ship with loungers, the kind of space found on Marella cruise ships
Both lines put a pool deck at the heart of the ship, but the scale is very different. Photo: Tom Fisk on Pexels

Marella cruise ships: the full fleet

Marella sails five mid-sized ships, all bought second-hand from Royal Caribbean Group brands and refurbished for UK holidaymakers. None is new, but their size means fewer queues and an easier ship to find your way around.

Ship Built Joined Marella Former name Notes
Marella Voyager 1997 2023 Celebrity Mercury / Mein Schiff Herz Newest arrival, family ship
Marella Explorer 1996 2018 Celebrity Galaxy / Mein Schiff 1 Family ship, Dining Club
Marella Explorer 2 1995 2019 Celebrity Century Adults-only
Marella Discovery 1996 2016 Splendour of the Seas Family ship, Caribbean winters
Marella Discovery 2 1995 2017 Legend of the Seas Adults-only from winter 2027

Discovery 2 goes adults-only

Marella has confirmed that Discovery 2 will become a permanent adults-only ship from the winter 2027 season. Its children’s spaces are being turned into a speakeasy bar, an escape room, a karaoke room and an arts and crafts area. That gives Marella two adults-only ships alongside Explorer 2. Plans for two brand-new Marella ships ordered in 2025 were later dropped, so the five-ship fleet is what you can expect for the next few years.

Which is the best Marella cruise ship?

For couples who want no children on board, Explorer 2 (and Discovery 2 from winter 2027) is the obvious pick. For families, Explorer and Voyager have the most venues. Discovery is a favourite for Caribbean fly-cruises. Our profile of Marella Discovery covers that ship in more detail.

Itineraries: no-fly from Southampton vs fly-cruise

P&O Cruises is built around Southampton. Most of its programme sails round-trip from there, to Norway, the Baltic, the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal, and the Mediterranean on longer trips. You can drive to the port, which suits people who dislike flying or want to pack without baggage limits. P&O also runs fly-cruises, typically to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean in winter.

Marella is a fly-cruise line. Its ships are based in sunshine hubs such as Palma, Malaga, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Barbados and La Romana in the Dominican Republic, with flights from a dozen or so UK regional airports. That makes it easy to avoid a long drive south. Itineraries tend to be port-intensive, with more stops and fewer sea days on a typical seven-night cruise. Marella also offers Cruise and Stay packages that add a hotel stay before or after the cruise.

Cabins compared

P&O’s newer ships have more balcony cabins, and Iona and Arvia add Conservatory Mini-suites with extra glazed outdoor space. Azura and Ventura have a number of single cabins, useful for solo travellers. Marella’s older ships have a higher share of inside and outside (window) cabins, though balconies have been added on several ships and suites are available. Marella charges a fee to choose a specific cabin rather than taking an allocated one. Both lines provide tea and coffee facilities in cabins. Whichever you book, check the current deck plan for noisy spots near bars, theatres and pool decks.

Dining, entertainment and atmosphere

Dining. P&O has the edge on choice, especially on Iona and Arvia, which have around 30 places to eat and drink, including several speciality restaurants such as Sindhu and the Epicurean. Marella offers main restaurants, a buffet and paid speciality venues (Asian, steak and Italian concepts, depending on the ship), with a Dining Club on the Explorer ships.

Entertainment. P&O puts on large production shows, live music and comedy, with the biggest venues on its newest ships. Marella’s entertainment is lively but on a smaller scale, built around its own show company, bars and deck parties.

Atmosphere and dress code. Marella is relaxed, with no formal nights in the traditional sense, only optional dress-up evenings. P&O is smart casual most nights with formal Celebration Nights on most cruises, which some passengers love and others avoid.

Kids and families

Both lines have kids’ clubs. P&O’s Reef clubs run themed activities in partnership with Aardman, and its family ships have children’s pools and family-friendly dining. Marella’s M Club caters for children aged 3 to 11, with sessions for younger children too, though space on some ships is limited, so book activities early in the school holidays. With Discovery 2 going adults-only, Marella will have three family ships from winter 2027, so families should check which ship they are booking.

Family relaxing together on a sunny cruise ship deck, weighing up the value of a Marella or P&O holiday
Working out the real cost means adding drinks and travel to the headline fare. Photo: Hetvi Patel on Pexels

Prices and value

Comparing headline fares is misleading because the inclusions differ. As a rough guide from Cruise Critic, seven-night Mediterranean sailings in May 2027 started from about £992 per person on Marella Discovery 2 (with flights, drinks and tips) and about £829 per person on P&O Azura (with flights, but no drinks). Add a P&O Classic package for seven nights at around £49 a day and the P&O holiday comes to well over £1,100 per person, so Marella can be the better value for drinkers. Non-drinkers, or those happy with the odd glass of wine, may find P&O cheaper. For current offers on both lines, see our roundup of cruise deals for 2027.

A simple test: add up what you would realistically spend on drinks per day on P&O. If it is more than the gap between the two fares divided by the number of nights, Marella is likely the better deal.

Marella or P&O: who should pick which?

Choose Marella if you:

  • Want one up-front price with drinks and tips included
  • Prefer to fly from a regional airport rather than travel to Southampton
  • Like port-heavy itineraries in the sun and a relaxed dress code
  • Want a smaller, easy-to-navigate ship or an adults-only fly-cruise

Choose P&O Cruises if you:

  • Want a no-fly cruise from Southampton
  • Value newer ships, more restaurants and bigger shows
  • Drink little and would rather pay as you go
  • Enjoy formal nights, longer voyages or collecting loyalty benefits

If you are also weighing up other UK-friendly lines, our comparison of P&O Cruises vs Princess Cruises covers another popular choice.

UK cruisers looking at smaller, traditional ships may also find our P&O vs Ambassador Cruise Line comparison useful.

If MSC is also on your shortlist, our comparison of P&O vs MSC Cruises covers ships, Southampton departures, drinks and prices.

Drinks are a big part of the comparison, and our guide to P&O drinks package prices sets out what each package includes.

FAQs

Is Marella better than P&O?

Neither is better overall. Marella is better value if you want drinks, tips and flights included on a sunshine fly-cruise. P&O is better for no-fly holidays from Southampton, newer ships and more dining choice.

What are the names of the Marella cruise ships?

Marella sails five ships: Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2 and Marella Voyager. Explorer 2 is adults-only, and Discovery 2 becomes adults-only from winter 2027.

What are the P&O cruise ships?

P&O Cruises sails Arvia, Iona, Britannia, Azura, Ventura, Arcadia and Aurora. Cunard’s Queen Anne is due to join P&O in May 2029 under a new name, and Arcadia leaves for Holland America Line later that year.

Who owns P&O Cruises and Marella?

P&O Cruises is part of Carnival Corporation, run through Carnival UK in Southampton. Marella Cruises is owned by the travel company TUI Group.

Are tips included on Marella and P&O?

Yes. Both lines include gratuities in the fare, so there is no daily service charge to budget for.

Cruise-Mummy-with-Marella-Ship.jpg

7 Reasons This Month Is The Best Time To Book A Marella Cruise

There’s nothing better than when a cruise line known for great value launches an offer that takes things up a notch – and Marella Cruises has done exactly that.

Cruise Mummy with Marella Ship

Whether you’re dreaming of the Caribbean, planning a Mediterranean escape, or chasing winter sun in the Canaries, this limited-time deal adds even more value to an already All Inclusive experience.

And it’s not just one reason to book that makes this worth your attention – there are seven…

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

1. Save up to £300 per booking* when you book now!

Who doesn’t love knocking a few hundred pounds off their holiday?

Right now, you can save up to £300* per booking with Marella Cruises – no faff, no minimum spend, just a great deal on your next getaway.

This image shows a woman from behind, seated on a colorful beach chair, using a laptop with a screen displaying a travel booking interface for destination, arrival, and departure options. She's on a sandy beach, symbolizing the ease of planning vacations even while enjoying a relaxed beach setting. The setup underscores the convenience of modern digital tools that enable holiday planning from any location.

Use code SETSAIL200 for £200* off selected Mediterranean and Canary Islands cruises, or SETSAIL300 to get £300* off selected long-haul sailings in the Caribbean (including transatlantic routes). You’ve got until 6th October 2025 to grab it – just make sure your cruise is at least 7 nights.

Even better, this deal applies on itineraries that are already discounted too, as long as they’re departing between 1st December 2025 and 31st December 2026 – so you’ve 13 months of cruises to aim for and you can get a double deal if you find a cruise that already has big savings before using the code!

*Terms and conditions apply

2. Flights and overseas transfers included

With Marella, your cruise starts as it should – smoothly. Flights and overseas transfers are included in the cost of your cruise, taking the stress out of planning how to get from A to B. 

Boarding the plane to Tenerife

Whether you’re jetting off to Barbados, Tenerife, or Corfu, Marella Cruises sorts out the logistics for you. 

You’ll even find TUI reps waiting at the airport, ready to guide you to your transfer or check-in. It’s a seamless start to your holiday from the moment you arrive.

3. All Inclusive onboard experience – with drinks and tips covered

Every Marella cruise includes All Inclusive as standard, which means meals, drinks, and tips are all wrapped into the price. There’s no need to budget for extra drinks or feel awkward about gratuities – it’s all taken care of.

Enjoying a drink on Marella

Drinks are available from 10am to 2am daily, including selected cocktails, beer, cider, house wine, spirits, and prosecco. 

You can also upgrade to Premium All Inclusive for access to premium spirits and barista-style drinks, if you want to. But there is plenty included in the fare already so you absolutely don’t have to.

Onboard dining is a real highlight, with each ship offering unique venues – from Nonna’s DIY pizza bar to Abuela’s Mexican eatery and Squid & Anchor, your local at sea.

And if you want even more variety, each ship has a selection of speciality dining options that have an extra charge, opening up even more dining possibilities for you.

4. A fantastic choice of destinations

Marella Cruises covers sun-soaked regions year-round, offering incredible variety. In summer, sail the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, visiting destinations like Barcelona, Dubrovnik, Rome, and Santorini.

Marella Caribbean Island

In winter, you can head to the Canary Islands or escape to the Caribbean, with itineraries including Antigua, Barbados, St Lucia, and more.

Each itinerary is carefully crafted to balance iconic cities with lesser-known gems, giving you a mix of culture, beaches, and unforgettable scenery – all from the comfort of your floating hotel.

And, of course, there are plenty of exciting shore excursion options you can choose from in every destination you visit.

5. More time ashore, fewer sea days

Unlike cruises departing from the UK, Marella Cruises fly you right into your destination – whether that’s embarkation ports such as Palma, Tenerife or Barbados – so you can get straight into the heart of your itinerary.

Cruise excursion

That means fewer sea days and more time exploring new destinations. Most cruises are designed with a port stop nearly every day, making it easy to pack more into your trip. 

Prefer a slower pace? You can always stay onboard and unwind by the pool or in the spa. You have the freedom to enjoy your cruise at your pace.

6. Incredible entertainment, day and night

When you’re not out exploring, Marella’s onboard entertainment ensures you’re never bored. Evenings bring West End-style shows, live music, UK comedians, and everything from karaoke to game shows. There’s even a casino, if you’re feeling lucky.

Marella Explorer show

By day, you can join in with quizzes, cookery demos, fitness classes, and fun competitions – or just chill with a cocktail in hand. 

Marella has even picked up awards for its entertainment, so you know you’re in for a great time, whatever your mood.

7. Outstanding service from start to finish

One of the things Marella passengers rave about most is the friendly, attentive service. The onboard crew go above and beyond to make your experience feel special, getting to know guests by name and always ready to help with a smile.

Marella crew members

From the moment you arrive at the airport, TUI’s support team is on hand, helping you through check-in and transfers. 

Onboard, the Marella Cruises crew are professional yet personable, creating a relaxed atmosphere where you feel genuinely cared for – it’s service that makes your holiday unforgettable.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first trip at sea, Marella Cruises’ Cruise Month offer is an opportunity you don’t want to miss. 

With flights, transfers, All Inclusive perks, and up to £300* off your booking, now’s the perfect time to start planning next year’s adventure.

From the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, Marella offers something for every traveller – and Cruise Month is the best time to dive in.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

Related Posts

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me


Source link

Marella-cruises-with-kids.jpg

15 Reasons Marella Cruises Are Great For Kids

Cruising with kids can be a dream or a disaster — but with Marella Cruises, it’s definitely the first one!

From splash pools to kids’ clubs, rock climbing walls to family discos, they’ve got everything to keep little cruisers happy while giving parents a well-earned break.

Marella cruises with kids

Whether you’re sailing with toddlers, tweens or teens, Marella makes family holidays stress-free and seriously fun.

Here are what my kids and I love about Marella’s family offering…

1. M Club

The M Club is a place where you can drop off your 3- to 11-year-olds and they’ll enjoy fun activities in the care of qualified childcare professionals.

There are a few things that set Marella’s kids club apart from some of the others.

Firstly, let’s talk about the age groupings. Usually, cruise ships are super strict about which kids can go in each group, based on their age. This means that my 7-year-old and my 10-year-old are used to being split up. But of course, most kids will want to stay with their siblings, right?

M Club

On a Marella cruise, there are sessions where all ages can play together.

Some sessions are split by age (3-7 and 8-11). But they said that if our older child wants to join the younger group to be with her brother, then that’s not a problem.

Unlike on other cruises we’ve been on, the kids club doesn’t just stay in the one room. They go to other venues like the theatre or the nightclub (before it opens for adults) to enjoy certain activities.

Marella Funfair

The fun continues until 9.30pm. While our kids were expecting to just watch a movie in the evening, they were pleased to discover the fun and games continued all evening on most days.

2. The Hideout

12- to 17-year-olds have access to their own venue – The Hideout. Located well away from the kids’ club, teens can pop in here whenever they like.

Mar

There are organised activities at certain times, like arts and crafts or sports tournaments. Outside of these times, they can just chill out and use the facilities.

On Marella Explorer (the ship we sailed on), those included air hockey and table football tables. They’re free to play, so won’t have to worry about running up a bill for credits!

3. Mini M Club

Under-threes can attend Mini M Club with their parents. This is a dedicated room for babies with toys for them. At certain times of the day there will be activities, like Bubble Play Time.

cruise with a baby

Yes, this is listed as being for the babies, but really, it’s the perfect spot for mums and dads to meet and have a chat too.

4. Kids Pools

Of course, kids are welcome in the main pools, but some ships also have dedicated kids pools which are perfect for those who can’t swim yet or who want to splash around without worrying about splashing the adults.

On Marella Explorer, the kids pool even has a small slide. It’s under cover too, to keep little ones out of the hot sun.

Marella Explorer splash pool

5. Rock Climbing Walls

If you cruise on Marella Discovery or Marella Discovery 2, then your family can enjoy the rock climbing walls. Kids need to be six or over to take part.

Marella Discovery 2 climbing wall

These ships used to belong to Royal Caribbean, and when they were launched, rock climbing walls were the big new things. I love that Marella has kept them since acquiring the ships.

6. Mini Golf

Each Marella ship comes with its own mini golf course, which is the perfect family activity for kids of all ages. There’s no need to book or sign out the equipment, you can just turn up and play whenever the mood takes you.

Playhing golf on Marella cruise

7. Gamer Zone

The Gamer Zone is a special room on the ship with Xboxes that are available for use. You just borrow a controller from guest services and you can spend as long as you like playing all kinds of games.

Marella Gamer Zone

Unlike on other ships where the games consoles are inside the kids club or teen club, on Marella cruises, families can all play together. This is great for families with younger kids too.

The Gamer Zone is particularly popular with teenagers, where it’s the go-to area to hang out after dinner. Because they can just turn up with a controller, they can play alone or with new friends on any machine.

Marella Cruises gamer zone

Because, like all of these activities, the Gamer Zone is free of charge, it will save you a fortune compared to ships that have a pay-to-play arcade!

8. Cinema

Each Marella cruise ship has a cinema onboard. On some ships this is inside and on others it’s outside. There’s a variety of movies each day, many of which are suitable for families and you should have no problem getting a seat.

Marella cinema

9. Sports Court

If you cruise on Marella Explorer, your kids can enjoy the sports court which is suitable for football and basketball.

football pitch on Marella cruise ship

On our most recent cruise, the sports court was constantly busy with children playing football. My son played football for five hours one day because he enjoyed the fun atmosphere with his new friends so much!

There’s also a table tennis table that you can use – just borrow the bats and balls from guest services.

Marella table tennis

10. Children’s Menus

Marella Cruises does a fantastic job of catering for children when it comes to mealtimes. In each restaurant there’s a kids menu with a variety of options to choose from, including plenty for vegetarians. If children would like a smaller portion of anything on the adult’s menu, that can be arranged too.

Marella Cruises kids menu

The buffet is also excellent with so many choices. Picky eaters will love the ‘Kids’ Corner’ which always has favourites like burgers, chips and pasta.

Adam eating pizza on a Marella cruise

At the snack shack, kids can enjoy quick service options like hot dogs, fries, sandwiches and fruit pots.

Most ships also have an included Italian restaurant which is perfect for pizza and pasta lovers.

Read more: Marella Cruises Dining Options Explained

Adam eating ice cream by the pool on a Marella cruise

11. All-Inclusive Drinks

Who says that all-inclusive drinks are just for adults? On a Marella cruise, everyone gets drinks included, kids too. This means that parents don’t have to consider the cost when thirsty kids are constantly wanting refreshments.

Adam drinking a drink from a red plastic cup on a Marella cruise

There are so many drinks to choose from with fruit juices, fizzy drinks and mocktails. It was on a Marella cruise that my daughter developed her obsession with Shirley Temple mocktails!

Kids drinks are always served in red plastic cups so there’s no chance that they could pick up an adults drink by mistake thinking that it’s theirs. I love this idea and wish that more cruise lines would consider doing it.

Read more: Marella Drinks Package Guide

12. Reasonable Wifi Costs

Cruise ship wifi can sometimes be ridiculously expensive. But on Marella Cruises, the wifi packages are a fraction of the price, which is very helpful for parents traveling with teenagers who might want to stay connected.

Marella wifi prices

With affordable internet access, teens can message their friends, stream content, or check social media without racking up huge costs. This means fewer complaints about boredom and more time for parents to relax, knowing their kids are happy.

Read more: Everything You Need To Know About Marella Cruises’ WiFi

13. Accommodation Options

Family accommodation options with Marella offer comfortable, spacious cabins so that you aren’t always getting under each other’s feet, particularly in those mornings when everyone wants to get ready.

Marella Explorer cabin

Several cabin types have space for three or four people, with either a double or twin bed configuration and then a sofa bed or fold-down bed.

But bigger families needn’t worry – there are Family Cabins that can accommodate up to five guests, including a regular double bed separated by a partition, a double sofa bed and a fold down bed as well.

Marella Cruises Family Cabin

You can even opt for a Family Balcony Cabin with Suite Service if you want to splash out a little and treat yourselves. Not only do you get a spacious cabin with balcony, but you get all the perks of the Suite Service, including extra amenities in the room and a free continental breakfast in bed to enjoy on one day of your cruise (or more if you cruise for over a week).

14. Destinations & Excursions

Your cruise isn’t just about the time you’ll spend on the ship, but also the destinations you’ll visit – and many are absolutely perfect for families.

If your kids love the beach, then a Caribbean getaway could be ideal. You’ll have ample time to have fun on the sand, not just relaxing and building sandcastles with your youngest, but taking part in different sports or activities too. There are even some islands that offer white-water rafting for those thrill-seeking kids!

Or, if you are travelling with an adventurous group, why not head to the Mediterranean for a cruise packed with exciting destinations, including the chance to visit the incredible Portaventura Theme Parks from Tarragona.

kids beach marella

In fact, in every destination Marella cruises to – be it the Canary Islands, Caribbean, Asia or Mediterranean – there are always plenty of excursion options to suit everyone in the family and provide memories to last a lifetime.

Read more: 12 Of The Best Destinations To Visit On A Marella Cruise

15. A Hassle-Free Holiday

The whole Marella cruise experience is perfectly suited to families – because less stress for mum and dad means happier kids too, right?

For a start, your flights are always packaged in with the cruise, with departures from airports all over the UK – no need to drive for hours upon hours just to start your journey.

Boarding the plane to Tenerife

And because the flights are managed by TUI, who owns Marella, the trip is seamless. No need to stress about whether the flights will land on time because, even in the very rare instances they don’t, the ship will wait for you. You won’t get that with other cruise lines.

Drinks and tips are already included too, including plenty of soft drink options for your kids.

And of course, Marella’s crew offer amazing service to every guest and will have each member of your family feeling truly spoiled. That’s perfect when you’ve had an adventure-filled day and you just want to spend the next morning having a lazy family start.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

The Bottom Line

In my opinion, Marella Cruises are excellent for families with children of all ages. Some families feel that they need to cruise on the big American megaships with children, but really, I don’t think that’s the case.

Sometimes it’s just as fun to spend time as a family playing Uno or Cluedo as it is to go ice skating or go-karting!

kids playing cluedo board game on Marella cruise

Marella Cruises’ mid-size ships have plenty of activities to keep kids entertained for a week, and their smaller size means that it’s easier to get around without getting lost.

The facilities do vary between the different ships. I have a guide to Marella ships that has a table showing exactly what each one has to do on board, so be sure to take a look at that before you book.

Whether you have babies, teenagers, or any age in between, Marella is definitely an option to consider for your next family holiday.

Related Posts:

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me


Source link

Mid-sized cruise ship docked in a sunny Mediterranean port, typical of a Marella Cruises itinerary

Marella Cruises Review 2026-27: Ships, What’s Included and Who It Suits

Our Marella Cruises review for 2026-27, in short: Marella is one of the best-value ways for UK holidaymakers to cruise, because tips, drinks, most food, flights and transfers are all included in the price. The trade-off is a fleet of five older, mid-sized ships with fewer big-ship thrills than the newest megaships. It suits relaxed couples, first-time cruisers and families who want an easy, sunny fly-cruise with no surprise bill at the end.

This is a researched guide rather than a personal trip report. It brings together Marella’s own information, recent fleet news and the patterns that come up repeatedly in passenger feedback, so you can decide whether Marella, and which Marella ship, is right for you.

Marella Cruises review: the quick verdict

Marella is TUI’s UK cruise line, and it feels like a package holiday at sea. You book one price, fly from a regional UK airport, are transferred to the ship and don’t need to think about gratuities or drinks tabs. Independent reviews reflect that mix. Customer scores on large booking sites tend to be strongly positive, while enthusiast forums such as Cruise Critic are more mixed. Praise centres on friendly crew, value and the informal atmosphere. Complaints tend to be about the age of the ships, busy buffets and the gap between standard and premium drinks.

What’s included on a Marella cruise

“All inclusive” is standard on every Marella sailing. According to TUI, the fare includes:

  • Flights and transfers from UK airports to the ship and back, unless you choose a cruise-only fare. Winter 2027 sailings fly from 12 UK regional airports.
  • Tips and service charges, so there’s no daily gratuity added to your account.
  • Meals in at least six included venues, typically a waiter-service main restaurant, an Italian restaurant, a buffet or food hall and grab-and-go options.
  • Drinks from 10am to 2am, covering draught and bottled beer, wine by the glass, a cocktail list, standard spirits and soft drinks.
  • Entertainment, including shows, live music, quizzes and activities, plus kids’ clubs on family ships.
  • Luggage, with a 20kg hold bag per person on flights.

Extras include speciality restaurants, the “Treat Yourself” premium dishes in the main restaurant, room service, minibar items, bottled water, Wi-Fi, spa treatments, excursions and the Premium All Inclusive drinks upgrade, which adds branded spirits, more cocktails, canned soft drinks and most coffee-shop drinks. Our Marella drinks package guide explains whether the upgrade is worth paying for.

Marella cruise ships: the 2026-27 fleet

Marella sails five ships, all rebuilt from 1990s vessels that originally sailed for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. All have had major refits, but don’t expect the brand-new feel of a 2020s ship. Here’s how the Marella cruise ships compare.

Ship Joined Marella Guests (approx.) Who it suits Stand-out features
Marella Voyager 2023 (built 1997) 1,912 Everyone, families included Food hall, Silver Fork British restaurant, newest-feeling interiors
Marella Explorer 2018 (built 1996) 1,924 Families and couples Largest ship, The Dining Club, full-size spa
Marella Explorer 2 2019 (built 1995) 1,814 Adults only Nonna’s, Beach Cove, golf simulators, quieter feel
Marella Discovery 2016 (built 1996) 1,830 Families and couples Glass-roofed pool, five-deck atrium, outdoor cinema
Marella Discovery 2 2017 (built 1995) 1,830 Adults only in winter, permanently from winter 2027 New speakeasy, escape room and karaoke room planned

Which is the best Marella cruise ship?

For most people it’s Marella Voyager. It has the most varied food and the freshest design, and it suits families as well as couples. Couples who want a calm ship should look at Marella Explorer 2, the established adults-only ship. Families who want the most space should consider Marella Explorer. The Discovery pair are smaller and more traditional, which many repeat guests like.

The big 2027 change: Discovery 2 goes adults-only

In June 2026 TUI confirmed that Marella Discovery 2 will become a permanent adults-only ship from winter 2027, after a second consecutive adults-only winter. Former kids’ spaces will be turned into a speakeasy, an escape room, a karaoke room and an arts and crafts area. Marella is also rolling out “Suite Service Max”, with extra in-suite perks and dining privileges, to Royal, Voyager and Executive Suites across the fleet. That will leave three family-friendly ships and two for adults only.

Bright cabin with a double bed and a sea view, similar to cabins on Marella cruise ships
Standard Marella cabins are a sensible size, though bathrooms are compact. Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

Cabins

Marella cabins follow the usual pattern of inside, outside (window), balcony and a range of suites, up to Royal Suites. Because the ships are older, standard cabins are a sensible size, but bathrooms are compact and balconies are less common than on new ships. That makes balcony grades sell out early on Caribbean and Canary Islands sailings. A few things to check:

  • Some outside cabins on lower decks have restricted views from lifeboats.
  • Cabins under the pool deck or near the theatre and nightclub can be noisy.
  • Family cabins sleeping three or four are limited, so book early for school holidays.

Ship-specific advice matters more than grade names. Before booking, see our Marella Explorer cabins to avoid and Marella Discovery cabins to avoid guides.

Dining

The included food is generally rated good rather than gourmet. Each ship has a waiter-service main restaurant (Latitude 53 or 47 degrees, depending on the ship), an included Italian option such as Nonna’s, Gallery 47 or Sirocco, a buffet (or The Kitchens food hall on Voyager) and the Snack Shack for burgers and fries. Speciality restaurants cost extra and include Kora La (Pan-Asian) and Surf & Turf steakhouse on most ships, plus ship-specific options such as The Dining Club on Explorer and sushi venues. Pre-book through the app in busy weeks. Buffets get crowded on sea days, and service in the main restaurant can be slow at peak times.

Drinks

The standard drinks list is generous for the price. Wine by the glass, local beer, a set cocktail menu and house spirits are served all day from 10am. What it doesn’t cover is brand choice. If you only drink a particular gin or whisky, or drink lots of coffee-shop drinks, the Premium upgrade or paying as you go will make sense. If you’re weighing Marella against a line where drinks cost extra, our Marella vs P&O Cruises comparison sets the costs side by side.

Entertainment and activities

Marella produces its own shows, from West End-style productions to tribute nights. Expect quizzes, deck parties, live bands, a casino and a late-night bar on each ship. Facilities vary: climbing walls and mini golf on the Discovery pair, golf simulators on Explorer 2, and a spa on every ship. There are no waterslides, surf simulators or headline attractions like those on Royal Caribbean or MSC’s newest ships.

Family relaxing by a sunny outdoor swimming pool on holiday
Family-friendly Marella ships offer kids' clubs and pool time. Photo: Quang Nguyen Vinh on Pexels

Families vs adults-only

Marella Explorer, Marella Discovery and Marella Voyager are the family ships, with kids’ and teens’ clubs and a lively atmosphere in the school holidays. Explorer 2, and Discovery 2 from winter 2027, are for adults only. They suit couples and groups who want quieter pools and later-night bars. Bear in mind that a family ship in term time can be very calm, and an adults-only ship in peak summer can still be busy and sociable.

Itineraries

Marella is built around fly-cruises to the sun. In summer, ships are based in the Mediterranean, with routes taking in Spain, Italy, Croatia, Greece and the Adriatic, and in winter they move to the Canary Islands and the Caribbean. Recently confirmed winter 2027-28 deployments include Discovery 2 from Tenerife and Gran Canaria, Discovery from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, Explorer around the Canaries, and Voyager and Explorer 2 from Barbados. Cruise-and-stay options with nearly 200 hotels make it easy to add a week on land.

Value for money

The headline fares are realistic because so much is included. TUI’s launch announcement quoted Caribbean Charms sailings for winter 2027 from £1,817. Once you’ve added flights, transfers, drinks and tips, many comparable sailings on other lines come out higher. Prices rise sharply in school holidays, and suites and balcony cabins carry a large premium. Watch for TUI sales and extras added at booking, such as speciality dining or the drinks upgrade.

Pros and cons

Pros Cons
Drinks, tips, flights and transfers included Ships date from the mid-1990s
British-friendly, informal atmosphere Fewer headline attractions than new megaships
Flights from regional UK airports Standard drinks are house brands only
Two adults-only ships from 2027 Buffets and venues get busy on sea days
Simple pricing, easy for first-timers Limited balcony and family cabins

Who Marella suits (and who it doesn’t)

Marella is a strong fit for first-time cruisers, couples who want a sunny, all-inclusive week without fuss, and families who’d rather pay one price up front. Adults wanting a quieter ship now have two options. It is less suited to cruisers who want the latest ship technology, many dining choices or luxury-level service. They would be better served by premium or luxury lines.

Families wanting a calm, classic ship with the fleet’s biggest spa should read our guide to Marella Explorer.

If you are still deciding, see how Marella compares with other UK-friendly all-inclusive lines before you book.

FAQs

What are the Marella cruise ships?

Marella has five ships: Marella Voyager, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, Marella Discovery and Marella Discovery 2. Explorer 2 is adults-only, and Discovery 2 becomes permanently adults-only from winter 2027.

What is the best Marella cruise ship?

Marella Voyager is the best all-rounder, with the widest choice of food and the freshest design. Marella Explorer 2 is the best pick for adults wanting a quieter ship.

Are tips included on Marella cruises?

Yes. Tips and service charges are included in every Marella fare, along with drinks from 10am to 2am, most meals, and flights and transfers on fly-cruise packages.

Are Marella Cruises still operating?

Yes. Marella is sailing in 2026 and has already released its winter 2027-28 programme, with five ships sailing from the Canaries, the Caribbean and the Dominican Republic.

Is Marella good for first-time cruisers?

Very. The all-inclusive pricing, included flights and transfers and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the easiest ways for UK travellers to try cruising.

Cruise-Mummy-with-Marella-Explorer.jpg

11 Things Marella Does Better Than Other Cruise Lines

I just returned from a Marella Cruise and the thing that stood out to me the most was that I didn’t hear a single complaint from another guest onboard. Weird, huh?

That’s a pretty big contrast to what my experience has been on some other British cruise lines, let me tell you!

I had started to think that Brits were a nation of moaners. But this cruise showed that’s not the case. Everyone onboard the Marella Explorer had a fantastic week cruising the Canary Islands.

Cruise Mummy with Marella Explorer

Full disclosure: I was invited onboard this cruise as a guest of the cruise line. All opinions are my own and the cruise line has no control over my content.

I’ve cruised with pretty much all of the mainstream cruise lines and it’s clear to me that Marella gets it right in so many ways. Here are the areas where I feel this cruise line excels.

1. So much is included in the cruise fare

Usually, when you take a cruise, the price of your cruise ticket is just a fraction of the overall cost of your holiday.

You’ll also need to consider your flights and transfers to the cruise port, a pre-cruise hotel, gratuities for the crew members, drinks and much more. Many of the American cruise lines also don’t include port fees and taxes in the upfront price.

However, Marella is different. The cruise fare includes all of that. And because everyone on your ship is flying in with TUI, you don’t need a pre-cruise hotel, as you can be sure that they won’t let you miss the ship.

Cruise Mummy with TUI plane

Check out this ful list of everything that’s included in a Marella cruise. I’m sure you’ll agree, the only other cruise lines to include tis much are the ultra-luxury lines. (Where you’ll pay 10X as much anyway!)

2. There’s a great choice of included drinks

Whether you like to drink alcohol a lot, a little, or not at all, I’m sure you’ll be impressed with the drinks that are included in your Marella cruise.

Marella included cocktails

Every passenger receives a drinks package, which includes a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Even if you don’t drink alcohol, the package is valuable. My husband, who doesn’t drink, enjoyed the mocktails.

There’s always a selection of different cocktails available at each bar and I loved the Mediterranean bar that serves different kinds of Sangria. You can grab a drink from a table before heading into the theatre and the crew members regularly walk around the pool with trays of drinks to tempt you.

Waiter with a tray of drinks

If you like certain drinks like Champagne or fine wines, there’s the option to upgrade to Marella’s Premium drinks package. Take a look at my guide to Marella drinks packages if you need any help with figuring out which one is best for you.

3. Diverse Dining Options

Marella Cruises thas a much larger selection of included food venues than you’ll typically find on a cruise.

Me enjoying the food on a Marella cruise

Alongside the main dining room and buffet, you’ll find an Italian restaurant, a pizza and pasta joint, and a tapas bar.

By the pool, there’s also the Snack Shack offering burgers, hote dogs and grab-and-go sandwiches and salads. You know those little pots of fruit that cost about £5? Those are all free. As are the cookies and cakes.

Snack shack grab and go

The buffet changes themes nightly, so as well as the international cuisine you can enjoy Mexican food one night and Indian the next.

Special dietary requirements are also catered for, with clear labeling and multiple options for vegans, vegetarians and those with intolerances. Theres’s also an area with kids favourites.

kids corner in buffet

4. Exceptional Crew Members

The crew on Marella Cruises truly stand out. They are friendly, attentive, and genuinely interested in making your experience enjoyable.

Marella crew members

Simple gestures, like asking how your day was or fulfilling special requests, go a long way. For example, when my son wanted chocolate sauce for his pancakes, the crew went out of their way to find it. Their willingness to help is a testament to the excellent training and culture on board.

5. Affordable Shopping Onboard

Shopping on cruise ships can often be expensive, but Marella’s shops have very reasonable prices.

handbag sale on Marella ships

There are several different sales and shopping events during your cruise. I took advantage of a 50% off handbags day and bought myself a beautiful Nine West bag for £30. We also bought pens as souvenirs in the gift shop and got 4 for the price of 3.

6. Unique Activities

There is so much to do on a Marella cruise, you certainly will never be bored. One standout experience is having your iris photographed, which is a fun activity for all ages. The onboard photographer was lovely, making it an enjoyable experience for all.

Marella Iris photography

There are lots of free activities too. The kids loved the Funfair games that popped up by the side of the pool one day. And the miniature golf was great too.

Marella funfair games

Read more: 22 Fun Things You Can Do On A Marella Cruise

7. Affordable Spa Services

The spa on Marella Cruises is another highlight. A day pass is only £29, significantly less than what you’d find on other cruise lines.

marella sauna

With facilities like a steam room, sauna and several relaxation areas, it’s a perfect way to unwind during your cruise. If you have the chance, definitely consider spending some time here.

8. Reasonably Priced Excursions

Marella’s excursions are not only fun but also priced competitively. I found that booking an excursion through the cruise line often cost the same or less than arranging it independently.

Marella excursion coach next to ship

The convenience of stepping off the ship and onto the coach is a bonus, and you can trust that you’ll be brought back in time. Plus, if there are any changes to your itinerary, Marella takes care of rebooking your excursions without hassle.

9. Perfect Ship Size

In my opinion, the size of Marella ships is ideal, each accommodating around 2,000 guests. This size strikes a perfect balance between having enough amenities and activities without feeling overcrowded.

Cruise Mummy with Marella Explorer

We sailed on Marella Explorer, which has 12 decks, making it easy to navigate and find your way around. The layout is cleverly designed with different colours of carpet next to elevators, so you never lose your way.

10. Family-Friendly Gaming Options

For families, Marella offers a space with Xbox consoles available for use. This is a fantastic option for kids who may not want to join the kids’ club but still want to engage in fun activities. The accessibility of gaming options allows for quality family time and also encourages older kids to make new friends.

Marella gaming zone

11. A Relaxed Atmosphere

The atmosphere on Marella Cruises is notably friendly. Passengers are generally upbeat and sociable, creating a lovely environment.

Marella Cruises offers a relaxed dress code. There are no enforced formal nights, which is a refreshing change for those who prefer a more casual cruising experience. While some guests still choose to dress up for special occasions, the overall vibe remains relaxed and enjoyable.

NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!

Don’t miss the latest Marella Cruises offers…

To Conclude

If you’re considering a Marella cruise or have one booked, I hope this overview helps you understand what to expect. With its all-inclusive packages, excellent dining options, and friendly atmosphere, Marella Cruises could be the perfect choice for your next holiday. Enjoy your journey!

Related Posts:

If you found this interesting, please share!

Cruise Mummy

Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

Read more about me


Source link

Large white ship sailing on a blue sea, illustrating a guide to Marella Explorer cabins to avoid

Marella Explorer Cabins to Avoid (and the Best Cabins to Book) 2026-27

The Marella Explorer cabins to avoid are mostly about location rather than category: cabins directly below the Deck 11 pool deck and Market Place buffet, cabins near the late-night Indigo Bar on Deck 12, rooms right above or below busy entertainment venues, and lower-deck aft cabins where some guests report engine, thruster and docking noise. The best picks for most people are midship balcony cabins on Decks 9 and 10, a Large Balcony cabin if you want more outdoor space, or a Junior Suite for extra room and perks.

Below we cover what Marella Explorer is like, every cabin type with sizes from Marella’s own cabin listings, where noise and motion are most likely, and which cabins are worth paying extra for in 2026 and 2027.

What is Marella Explorer like?

Marella Explorer is a mid-sized, all-inclusive ship in the Marella Cruises fleet, the UK cruise line owned by TUI. She was built in 1996 as Celebrity Galaxy, then sailed for TUI Cruises in Germany as Mein Schiff 1 before joining Marella in 2018. At around 77,000 gross tonnes with roughly 1,900 guests at standard occupancy and 962 cabins, she sits in the middle of the fleet in size.

The ship has been refurbished several times, most notably in 2018 when she joined Marella and again in late 2021, when bars, restaurants, the Broadway Show Lounge and the pool deck were updated. You get a pub (Squid & Anchor), a main show lounge across Decks 6 and 7, a buffet and pool deck on Deck 11, an adults-only Veranda area and the Indigo Bar on Deck 12, which turns into a casino and nightclub in the evening.

How Marella Explorer compares in the Marella fleet

Marella currently sails five ships: Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager. The fleet picture has shifted towards adults-only sailing. Marella Explorer 2 is already adults-only, Marella Discovery sailed as adults-only for summer 2026, and Marella has announced that Marella Discovery 2 will become a permanent adults-only ship from winter 2027, with former kids’ spaces turned into a speakeasy, escape room and karaoke room.

Marella Explorer is not adults-only, which makes her one of the main choices for families and mixed-age groups. For winter 2027-28 she alternates between Tenerife and Las Palmas on Canary Islands itineraries (including a Christmas sailing with an overnight in Funchal), and for summer 2027 she is based in Corfu. If you want a child-free ship, see our guide to Marella adults-only cruises. If you are choosing between the line’s two most popular ship designs, our Marella Discovery ship guide is a useful comparison.

Marella Explorer cabin types at a glance

All cabins on Marella Explorer have a shower and WC (no baths), air-conditioning, TV, safe, hairdryer and tea and coffee facilities. Twin beds can usually be pushed together into a queen. Sizes below come from Marella’s own cabin descriptions and are approximate.

Cabin type Approx. size Max guests Decks Good to know
Inside 16 m² 2 (more with fold-down beds) 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12 Cheapest option; some have upper berths reached by a ladder
Single Inside / Single Outside Not stated 1 Lower and mid decks No single supplement worries, but limited numbers
Family Inside 19 m² 5 Check deck plan Fixed double, sliding partition, sofa bed and fold-down bed
Outside 17 m² 2-4 4, 5, 8, 9 Porthole or picture window, so check which you are getting
Large Outside 20 m² 3 Check deck plan Sofa bed; more floor space than a standard outside
Balcony 17 m² (balcony about 4 m²) 2-3 Mid and upper decks Small balcony, room for two chairs
Large Balcony 16 m² (balcony 6.8 m²) 2-3 9, 10, 12 Sun lounger and hammock on most
Family Balcony (Suite Service) 20 m² (balcony 6.5 m²) 5 9, 10, 12 Only around 14 on board; book early
Balcony Junior Suite (Suite Service) 22 m² (balcony 8.8 m²) 3 10, 12 Breakfast in bed once a week, coffee machine, robes
Executive Suite (Suite Service Max) 49 m² (balcony about 23 m²) 4 10 Daily in-suite breakfast, Wi-Fi package, laundry, afternoon tea

One thing many guides skip: Marella lets you reserve a specific cabin number for a fee (from around £75) when booking or up to 15 days before sailing. If you only book a category, the line assigns the cabin, which is exactly how people end up under the buffet or at the very back of the ship. If location matters to you, the fee is usually worth it.

Balcony with a sea view and outdoor seating, similar to balcony cabins on Marella Explorer
Balcony cabins midship tend to be the quietest all-round choice. Photo: Ann Perkas on Pexels

Marella Explorer cabins to avoid

None of the cabin categories on Marella Explorer is bad in itself. The problems guests report are almost all about what is above, below or next to the cabin. Always look at the deck plan for the decks directly above and below your cabin before you book or reserve.

1. Cabins directly below the pool deck and buffet

The main pool, whirlpools, Market Place buffet, Snack Shack and Mediterranean venues are all on Deck 11. Cabins on Deck 10 underneath these areas can hear sun loungers being dragged and set out early in the morning, plus trolleys and chairs in the buffet. If you are a light sleeper, choose a Deck 10 cabin that sits beneath other cabins rather than public spaces, or move down to Deck 9.

2. Cabins near the Indigo Bar on Deck 12

Deck 12 holds some of the most desirable balcony cabins and junior suites, but it is also home to the Indigo Bar, casino and poolside bar. The Indigo Bar becomes a nightclub in the evening, so cabins nearest it can pick up music and footfall late at night. Pick Deck 12 cabins well away from the venue end of the deck.

3. Cabins above or below entertainment and dining venues

The Broadway Show Lounge spans Decks 6 and 7, and Deck 7 also has the Squid & Anchor pub, which hosts live bands and quiz nights. Latitude 53, the main restaurant, sits aft on Decks 5 and 6. Cabins on Deck 5 and Deck 8 that are directly beside or above/below these spaces can hear bass, applause or early breakfast set-up. Cabins sandwiched between other cabin decks are generally the quietest.

4. Lower-deck aft cabins

Aft cabins on the lowest decks are closest to the propellers and thrusters. Some guests on Marella’s ex-Celebrity ships report vibration while at sea and loud thruster noise during early-morning docking. If you love the view off the back of the ship, aim higher rather than lower.

5. Outside cabins with porthole or obstructed views

Marella describes its outside cabins as having “a porthole or picture window”, and some lower-deck outside cabins look onto lifeboats or tenders. If you are paying the extra for natural light, check which window your exact cabin has, or reserve the cabin number so there are no surprises.

6. Four-berth cabins for a full family of teens

Many inside and outside cabins sleep three or four by using fold-down upper berths reached by a ladder. They are fine for small children, but four adults or older teenagers in a 16-17 m² cabin is tight for a week. Look at the Family Inside (19 m²), Family Balcony (20 m²) or two cabins instead.

7. Cabins without a fridge (if you need one)

A fridge is not listed among Marella’s standard cabin amenities, and some recent guests report that standard cabins no longer have one. If you need a fridge for medication, ask Marella before you sail rather than assuming one will be there.

Best cabins on Marella Explorer

  1. Midship balcony cabins on Decks 9 and 10 (avoiding the stretch under the buffet). These give the best balance of price, stability and quiet.
  2. Large Balcony cabins (Decks 9, 10 and 12). The cabin is slightly smaller, but the balcony is about 6.8 m², typically with a sun lounger and hammock. Marella notes that two of them (10170 and 10177) do not have hammocks.
  3. Balcony Junior Suites (Decks 10 and 12). At 22 m² with an 8.8 m² balcony and Suite Service extras, these are the sweet spot for couples who want more space without paying Executive Suite prices.
  4. Executive Suites (Deck 10). At around 49 m² with a roughly 23 m² balcony and Suite Service Max perks, these are the top of the range. Read our Marella Royal Suite guide to see how Marella’s top suites differ across the fleet.
  5. Midship inside cabins on Decks 8 and 9. For budget cruisers, a mid-deck inside cabin away from venues is a quieter choice than one on Deck 4 or 12.
White wake trailing behind a ship at sea, the view from aft cabins on Marella Explorer
Aft views are lovely, but higher decks are usually quieter than lower ones. Photo: Dapur Melodi on Pexels

Motion, seasickness and the best deck for calm sailing

If you are prone to seasickness, choose a cabin low and in the middle of the ship, as that is where movement is least noticeable. On Marella Explorer that means a midship cabin on Deck 4, 5 or 8. Forward cabins and high decks feel motion the most, which matters on winter Canary Islands sailings, when Atlantic swells are more common than on summer Mediterranean routes from Corfu.

Accessible and connecting cabins

Marella offers adapted cabins on its ships, but its public cabin listings for Marella Explorer do not set out how many there are or where. Because this is a 1990s ship, door widths, bathroom layouts and balcony thresholds can differ from newer ships, so speak to Marella’s special assistance team before booking and ask for the exact cabin specification.

The same applies to connecting cabins. Marella does not publish a full list, so if you need two rooms with an internal door, ask at the time of booking and reserve the cabin numbers so they cannot be changed.

Is a balcony worth it on Marella Explorer?

For Mediterranean summers from Corfu and sunny winter Canaries cruises, a balcony gets a lot of use, especially with Marella’s mix of port-intensive itineraries and occasional sea days. The step up to a Large Balcony is often better value than a standard balcony if you want to sunbathe privately. If you mainly sleep in your cabin, a well-placed inside cabin and the money saved for excursions is a perfectly sensible choice. If you are still weighing up cruise lines, our Marella vs P&O Cruises comparison covers how the cabins and inclusions stack up.

If you are also considering Marella Discovery 2, our guide to Marella Discovery 2 cabins to avoid covers the noisy spots and the best cabins to book.

Booking the sister ship instead? Read our guide to Marella Explorer 2 cabins to avoid and the best cabins to choose.

For restaurants, bars, the spa and where she sails this year, see our full Marella Explorer ship guide.

FAQs

Which deck is best on Marella Explorer?

Deck 9 is a strong all-round choice: it has balcony and Large Balcony cabins and sits between other cabin decks, so it avoids most venue noise. Deck 10 is also good if you avoid cabins directly beneath the Deck 11 pool and buffet.

Is Marella Explorer a nice ship?

Yes, for most people. She is an older ship (built 1996) but has been refurbished several times, most recently in late 2021, and offers all-inclusive drinks, a good choice of venues and a mid-sized feel with around 1,900 guests.

What is the difference between Marella Explorer and Explorer 2?

They are similar ex-Celebrity sister ships with a similar layout. The key difference is that Marella Explorer 2 is adults-only, while Marella Explorer welcomes families.

Is Marella Explorer adults-only?

No. Marella Explorer is a family-friendly ship. Marella Explorer 2 is adults-only, and Marella Discovery 2 is becoming a permanent adults-only ship from winter 2027.

What is the best Marella cruise ship?

It depends on who is travelling. Families tend to suit Marella Explorer or Marella Voyager, while couples wanting a child-free trip should look at Marella Explorer 2 or Marella Discovery 2.

Neat cruise ship cabin with twin beds and a window, the kind of room to compare when choosing Marella Discovery cabins

Marella Discovery Cabins to Avoid (and the Best Cabins to Book Instead)

The main Marella Discovery cabins to avoid are the forward cabins on Deck 3 and Deck 6, which sit directly below and above the two-level Broadway Show Lounge and the Squid & Anchor pub, the aft cabins on Deck 8 under The Veranda on the pool deck, and the older, unrefurbished inside cabins on Deck 6. For the best mix of quiet, motion and value, aim for a midships balcony on Deck 7, a Deluxe cabin with a big window, or a Junior Suite on Deck 8 away from lifts and stairwells.

This guide is purely about choosing a cabin. If you want the bigger picture on dining, entertainment and itineraries, read our complete Marella Discovery ship guide first, then come back here with the deck plan open.

Is Marella Discovery still sailing in 2026 and 2027?

Yes. At the time of writing (late October 2026) Marella Discovery remains one of the five ships in the Marella Cruises fleet, alongside Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager. No sale or retirement has been announced. The two new ships Marella had planned were reassigned to sister brand TUI Cruises in 2025, so the current fleet looks set to carry on.

Marella Discovery was built in 1996 as Royal Caribbean’s Splendour of the Seas, a Vision-class ship, and carries around 1,800 guests in 918 cabins. It spent summer 2026 on adults-only Aegean cruises from Limassol, sails the Caribbean from La Romana in the Dominican Republic over winter 2026/27, moves to Palma for summer 2027 and returns to La Romana for winter 2027/28.

Don’t confuse this ship with Marella Discovery 2, a different (slightly older) vessel. It is Discovery 2 that Marella announced will become a permanent adults-only ship from winter 2027. Marella Discovery itself has had adults-only seasons, so if age policy matters to you, check the specific sailing when you book. The advice below is for Marella Discovery only; Discovery 2 has a different layout.

Marella Discovery cabins at a glance

Around 39% of Marella Discovery cabins have a balcony, which is low by modern standards, so balconies and suites tend to sell out first. Most cabins were refurbished between 2022 and 2024, but not all. Sizes below are from TUI and Cruise Critic.

Cabin type Decks Approx. size Worth knowing
Inside 2, 3, 6, 7, 8 12 to 13 m² Deck 7 and 8 insides refurbished; Deck 6 insides were not
Inside Plus 7, 8 15 m² More floor space for little extra
Outside 2, 3 14 m² Picture window or porthole, low on the ship
Single Inside / Single Outside 2, 3 12 to 14 m² No single supplement
Deluxe 7, 8 Just over 20 m² Large floor-to-ceiling window, sofa bed, sleeps up to four
Balcony 6 13 to 14 m² plus balcony Compact balcony with two chairs and a table
Deluxe Balcony 6 (aft), 7 15 to 16 m² plus balcony Sitting area; a handful have sun loungers
Junior Suite 8 About 21 m² Bigger balcony with two loungers; Suite Service perks
Family Junior Suite / Family Suite 8 39 to 40 m² Sleep six or seven; separate sleeping areas
Grand Suite 8 32 m² Walk-in shower, larger balcony
Executive Suite 8 47 m² Only five; separate living area; Suite Service Max
Royal Suite 8 (forward) 92 m² Baby grand piano, whirlpool bath; Suite Service Max

Extra berths in three and four-berth cabins are usually fold-down upper bunks reached by a ladder, worth knowing if you are sharing with older children or adults.

Long carpeted cruise ship cabin corridor lined with doors, like the busy passageways near lifts
Cabins near lifts and stairwells see the most foot traffic late at night. Photo: Gzon Rami on Pexels

Marella Discovery cabins to avoid

No cabin here is truly bad, but some are noisier or more awkward than others for the same price. These are the ones guests and reviewers flag most.

1. Forward cabins on Deck 3 and Deck 6 (theatre and pub noise)

The Broadway Show Lounge sits forward and spans Decks 4 and 5, with the Squid & Anchor pub on Deck 5. That sandwiches the forward cabins on Deck 3 (below) and Deck 6 (above) between the busiest evening venues on board. Shows usually finish before 11pm, but light sleepers and families with young children should look further aft.

2. Deck 3 aft and cabins under the Atrium bars

Deck 4 is the ship’s main entertainment and bar deck, with the Atrium, the Live Room, the Cocktail & Piano Bar, the casino and the 47-Degree main restaurant. Cruise Critic’s editors recommend early sleepers avoid Deck 3 aft inside and outside cabins, which lie below the show lounge and Live Room areas, and guests have reported late-night clattering of trolleys and glassware in cabins under the Atrium bar service areas (cabin 3531 is one example mentioned).

3. Deck 8 aft cabins under The Veranda

The Veranda (the former Solarium) and The Glass House sit towards the aft end of Deck 9. Some guests in the aft cabins on Deck 8 directly below report hearing sun loungers and furniture being moved late at night or early in the morning, when crew set up and clear the deck.

4. Unrefurbished inside cabins on Deck 6

TUI states that the Deck 7 and 8 inside cabins were refurbished but those on Deck 6 were not. Some Deck 6 insides also have a fixed double bed pushed against the wall, meaning one person has to climb over the other, and Cruise Critic notes that unrefurbished insides still have two-pin European and American sockets rather than UK plugs. Guests also report heavier footfall near the Coffee Port. For an inside cabin, choose Deck 7 or 8.

5. Cabins near lifts and stairwells

Cabins right beside the forward and aft lift lobbies get the most late-night corridor chatter. A few doors along is usually enough to escape it.

6. Very forward or very aft cabins if you get seasick

At roughly 70,000 tonnes, Marella Discovery is a mid-sized ship and you can feel the motion in open water, especially on Atlantic crossings. The bow pitches most, so seasick-prone guests should pick a low or middle deck midships.

7. Porthole cabins (if you want a real view)

Outside cabins on Decks 2 and 3 have either a picture window or a porthole, close to the waterline, and the category does not always say which. Ask before paying for a specific cabin, or consider a Deluxe cabin instead.

8. Connecting cabins (unless you are booking both)

Cruise Critic counts 126 interconnecting cabins. The connecting door is never as soundproof as a wall, so avoid them unless you are booking both sides.

Obstructed views are less of a worry than on many ships, as the lifeboats hang on Deck 5, between the outside cabins on Decks 2 and 3 and the balcony decks above.

Marella Discovery best cabins: our picks by traveller type

Here are the Marella Discovery best cabins for different budgets and priorities.

  1. Best value overall: Inside Plus on Deck 7 or 8. Refurbished, a little roomier than a standard inside and well placed between the public decks.
  2. Best non-balcony upgrade: Deluxe cabin on Deck 7 or 8. At just over 20 m² with a large floor-to-ceiling window and sofa bed, these are among the most generous non-suite cabins on board and often cheaper than a Deluxe Balcony.
  3. Best for solo travellers: Single Outside on Deck 2 or 3. No single supplement, though check you are not under a public room.
  4. Best for seasick-prone guests: midships Deck 3 or Deck 6. Low and central, where the motion is gentlest.
  5. Best for families: Family Suites and Family Junior Suites on Deck 8. Separate sleeping areas for six or seven guests, and Suite Service perks thrown in. Book early, as there are only a few.
  6. Best splurge: an Executive Suite or the Royal Suite. Both now come with Suite Service Max (see below).
Two chairs and a small table on a private cruise ship balcony overlooking calm blue sea
A balcony on Deck 7 is the sweet spot for many Marella Discovery guests. Photo: Roman Chernov on Pexels

Marella Discovery balcony cabins: which ones to choose

Because balconies make up well under half of the ship, it pays to be picky. Marella Discovery balcony cabins come in three broad levels:

  • Standard Balcony (Deck 6): the cabin is compact at around 13 to 14 m², and the balcony fits two chairs and a small table. Fine for a drink at sunset, but not for lounging. Avoid the forward end above the theatre.
  • Deluxe Balcony (Deck 6 aft and Deck 7): slightly bigger, with a sitting area. Midships on Deck 7 is arguably the sweet spot on the whole ship: public rooms are well below you, cabins are above you, and motion is modest. TUI notes that cabins 6626, 6628, 6630 and 6632 have balconies with two sun loungers, which is worth requesting if available.
  • Junior Suites (Deck 8): about 21 m² with a deeper balcony that takes two loungers. There are dozens of them, so you can usually find one away from the aft end under The Veranda and away from the lift lobbies.

If you are weighing up whether the balcony premium is worth it on a ship like this, our guide to balcony versus inside cabins runs through the trade-offs. On Caribbean sailings with sea days a balcony earns its keep; on port-heavy Greek island weeks, a Deluxe window cabin may be the smarter spend.

Suites on Marella Discovery and the new Suite Service Max

All suites are on Deck 8. Junior Suites, Grand Suites, Family Junior Suites and Family Suites come with Marella’s standard Suite Service, including a weekly breakfast in bed, some free pressing, a coffee machine and upgraded toiletries.

From summer 2026, Marella rolled out Suite Service Max across the fleet for its Royal, Executive and Voyager Suites. On Marella Discovery that means the five Executive Suites and the Royal Suite. Perks include daily in-suite breakfast, weekly afternoon tea, Champagne on arrival, Elemis toiletries, free laundry bags, an internet allowance and priority embarkation. The Royal Suite sits forward on Deck 8 next to the bridge, so it is quiet but feels the motion more than midships suites. For a closer look at what you get, see our Marella Royal Suite guide.

Accessible cabins on Marella Discovery

Marella Discovery has a small number of wheelchair-accessible cabins (published counts vary between 12 and 17), spread across inside, outside, balcony and Junior Suite categories, largely on Decks 2, 3 and 7. They have wider doors, turning space and roll-in showers. Contact Marella’s special assistance team early, as numbers are limited.

How to avoid a bad cabin when booking

If you book a “guarantee” or allocated cabin, Marella chooses your cabin number for you, and that is how people end up under the theatre. TUI lets you reserve a specific cabin number for a fee (from around £75 per booking at the time of writing), either when booking or up to 15 days before departure. For a week-long all-inclusive holiday, that is usually money well spent, especially on Decks 3, 6 and 8 where location makes the biggest difference.

Before paying, check three things on the deck plan: what is above your cabin, what is below it, and how far it is from the lifts. If the answers are “cabins”, “cabins” and “a few doors”, you have picked well.

Comparing Marella ships? Our guide to Marella Explorer cabins to avoid covers the noisy decks and best balconies on the fleet’s family-friendly ship.

Comparing Marella ships? We also cover the cabins to avoid on Marella Explorer 2.

FAQs

What are the best cabins on Marella Discovery?

A midships Deluxe Balcony on Deck 7 or a Junior Suite on Deck 8, away from the aft end and the lifts, gives the best balance of space and quiet. On a budget, a refurbished Inside Plus or Deluxe window cabin on Decks 7 and 8 is excellent value.

Which cabins have been refurbished on Marella Discovery?

Most cabins were updated in dry dock work between 2022 and 2024. TUI says the inside cabins on Decks 7 and 8 were refurbished but those on Deck 6 were not.

Which deck is best on Marella Discovery?

Deck 7 is usually the best all-round deck, with cabins above and below it. Deck 8 is best for suites, as long as you avoid the aft cabins under The Veranda.

Is Marella Discovery the same ship as Marella Discovery 2?

No. Marella Discovery is the former Splendour of the Seas; Marella Discovery 2 is a separate ship with a different layout, becoming permanently adults-only from winter 2027.

How many ships does Marella Cruises have?

Five: Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager. No new ships are currently on order for the brand.

Cruise ship sailing at sunset, illustrating Marella Explorer 2 cabins to avoid and the best cabins

Marella Explorer 2 Cabins to Avoid (and the Best Cabins to Book) in 2026-27

The Marella Explorer 2 cabins to avoid are mostly the ones in noisy or busy spots: cabins at the very back of the ship (thruster and docking noise early in the morning), Deck 8 cabins right above the bars and venues on Deck 7, Deck 10 cabins under the pool deck and buffet, and the Deck 12 balcony cabins that Marella itself lists as having an obstructed view. The safest bets are midship cabins on Decks 8, 9 and 10, with other cabins above and below you, away from lifts and stairwells.

Below you will find a deck-by-deck guide to the ship as it sails in 2026 and 2027, the cabin types worth paying extra for, and a few checks to make on the deck plan before you pay your deposit. We describe areas and cabin types rather than cabin numbers, so always confirm a specific cabin on Marella’s current deck plan.

Marella Explorer 2 in 2026-27: what you need to know first

Marella Explorer 2 is the former Celebrity Century, built in 1995 by Meyer Werft. It joined Marella in 2019 after a conversion refit, and had a further cabin and bathroom refresh in 2020. Its most recent drydock was at Navantia in Cadiz from January to early February 2026. That was routine maintenance and class work, not a redesign, so the cabin layout you see on the deck plan is the same as before. The ship carries roughly 1,800 to 1,900 guests in just over 900 cabins, spread across six cabin decks: 4, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 12.

There has been no announcement that the ship is leaving the fleet. Unlike its sister Marella Explorer, it is not adults-only. It stays family-friendly, with the M Club kids’ club and family cabins, plus an adults-only area called the Veranda. Published schedules have it crossing from Malaga to Barbados in November 2026 for a winter of week-long Caribbean round trips from Bridgetown until April 2027, then spending summer 2027 on seven-night cruises from Malaga. Marella’s winter 2027-28 programme has it back in Barbados. Itineraries do change, so check your booking for the current route.

If you are comparing ships, our guide to the cabins to avoid on Marella Explorer covers the adults-only sister ship. The two ships differ, and their cabin numbers do not match.

Quick guide: Marella Explorer 2 cabins to avoid

Area or cabin type Why some guests avoid it Who it may still suit
Aft cabins on the lowest and middle decks Thruster and engine noise during docking, often between about 4am and 6am, plus more vibration Heavy sleepers who want the bigger aft-facing balconies
Deck 8 cabins above Deck 7 venues Deck 7 is home to the Squid and Anchor pub, the 19th Hole golf bar, the Gin and Whisky Bar and the upper level of the theatre Night owls who are out until the bars close anyway
Deck 10 cabins under Deck 11 Deck 11 holds the pool, the Market Place buffet and Champneys Spa, so expect early chair scraping and deck cleaning Early risers who like being one flight from breakfast
Deck 12 balcony cabins Marella lists these balconies as having an obstructed view, and Deck 12 also has the Indigo bar, casino and club Budget-minded travellers who want fresh air more than a clear view
Cabins next to lifts, stairs and crew doors Corridor traffic, chatter and door noise at all hours Guests with limited mobility who value a short walk
Decks 4 and 5 near gangway and tender areas Gangway doors and crew activity in port; lower decks feel engine hum more Anyone prone to seasickness, as low and midship is the most stable spot

Aft cabins and docking noise

The most common complaint in guest reviews of Marella Explorer 2 cabins is noise at the stern. When the ship docks or leaves port, its thrusters and engines work hard, and cabins at the back feel it most. On a Caribbean week with a new island most days, that can mean early starts. If you want a large aft balcony, accept that you may trade some sleep for the view.

Cabins above and below public areas

The ship’s public decks are 6 and 7 in the middle, and 11 and 12 near the top. Deck 6 has the lower level of the Broadway Show Lounge, the Surf and Turf steakhouse, Kora La, Flutes and Aperitif. Deck 7 has the theatre’s upper level, the Atrium, shops, the Coffee Port, the Squid and Anchor and the 19th Hole. That makes the Deck 8 cabins directly above Deck 7 the ones to check most closely if you are a light sleeper. At the top, Deck 10 cabins sit under the pool and buffet deck, so the area above you may get busy from early morning.

Obstructed-view balconies on Deck 12

Marella’s own cabin page lists the Deck 12 balcony cabin as having an obstructed view. These cabins have a fixed double bed and the standard 3.7m² balcony. They can be fair value if you know the view is partly blocked before you book. Deck 12 also holds the Indigo bar, casino and nightclub and The Shack, so check how close your cabin is to them.

Balcony with seating overlooking a calm blue sea
A standard balcony is around 3.7 square metres, enough for two chairs and a table. Photo: Javlon Pulatov on Pexels

Marella Explorer 2 best cabins by type

The best cabin is the one that matches your budget and how you cruise. Here is how the main Marella Explorer 2 cabins compare, based on Marella’s published sizes.

  • Inside cabins (16m²): found on Decks 4, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 12. Twin beds convert to a queen. Midship inside cabins on Decks 8 or 9 are a sensible pick: dark for sleeping and away from the noisiest spots. Single inside cabins exist for solo travellers.
  • Outside cabins (16m²): porthole or picture window, mainly on Decks 4, 5, 8 and 9 with some on 12. The lower-deck ones are good for anyone who gets seasick. Look for cabins midship, not right next to gangway doors.
  • Balcony cabins (16m² plus 3.7m² balcony): on Decks 8, 9, 10 and 12. Decks 9 and 10 midship are often thought of as the sweet spot. Note that some Deck 8 balcony cabins have a fixed double bed against the wall, which matters if you want twins or easy access from both sides.
  • Deluxe cabins with balcony (19m² plus almost 9m² balcony): on Decks 9 and 10, with two sunloungers outside. The Deck 9 version has a partition door between the bed and a living area. The Deck 10 version has no partition and uses twin beds that push together. Check whether the cabin you are offered is aft, given the docking noise.
  • Junior Suites (23m² plus 9.6m² balcony): on Decks 10 and 12, with Suite Service. Most have a shower over a bath, but Marella notes that two of them have no bath and two on Deck 12 have slightly smaller balconies with one table.
  • Executive Suites (46m², 25.6m² balcony) and the Royal Suite (94m², 23.4m² balcony with whirlpool): these come with Suite Service Max, including breakfast in the suite, free laundry and champagne on arrival. Our look inside Marella’s Royal Suites explains what the top tier includes.

Best cabins for families

Because Marella Explorer 2 still welcomes children, it has plenty of three- and four-berth cabins with sofa beds or fold-down beds. Inside and outside four-berths are on Decks 4/5 and 8/9, and family balcony cabins are spread across Decks 8 to 10. In a 16m² cabin, fold-down beds eat into space, so families of four may prefer a deluxe balcony cabin with its double sofa bed.

Best cabins for seasickness

Motion is felt least low down and in the middle of the ship. Midship outside or inside cabins on Decks 4 and 5 are the steadiest. For a balcony, Deck 8 midship is the lowest option. This matters most on the multi-day ocean crossings between Malaga and Barbados.

Adapted cabins on Marella Explorer 2

Marella confirms that the adapted cabins on both Marella Explorer and Marella Explorer 2 are on Deck 5. An independent access survey by AccessAble lists eight cabins with accessible en suites on Deck 5, including adapted inside and adapted outside cabins with wheel-in showers, fold-down shower seats and grab rails. The same survey notes a few gaps, such as no in-cabin emergency alarm and non-adjustable bed heights. If you rely on specific equipment, raise it before you book.

Deck 5 is low and stable, but you will need the lifts, which get busy at peak times, to reach the pool and buffet on Deck 11. Marella’s Assisted Travel team can confirm the current adapted cabin list and hold one for you. Book early, as there are only a handful on the ship.

Long carpeted corridor lined with cabin doors
Cabins near lifts, stairwells and busy corridors can hear more foot traffic late at night. Photo: Jeffry Surianto on Pexels

How to read the Marella Explorer 2 deck plan before you book

The Marella Explorer 2 deck plan is the most useful tool you have. Work through these checks for any cabin you are offered:

  1. Look up and down. Find your cabin, then check exactly what is on the deck above and below. You want cabins on both sides, not a bar, galley, theatre or pool.
  2. Check the ends of the ship. Cabins at the very front feel more pitching in rough seas. Cabins at the very back get docking noise. Midship avoids both.
  3. Find the lifts, stairs and service doors. Two or three doors away from a lift lobby is a good balance of convenience and quiet. Unmarked corridor doors are often crew areas used early in the morning.
  4. Read the cabin notes. Marella flags fixed double beds, missing baths and obstructed views in its cabin descriptions. Do not assume twin beds or a bath.
  5. Consider a guarantee fare carefully. A guarantee or “cabin allocated later” fare is cheaper, but you lose control over location. If you are a light sleeper or need to be near the lifts, choose your cabin.

Booking early generally gives the widest choice of cabins. Our round-up of cruise deals for 2027 is a useful starting point if you are planning ahead for the summer or Caribbean season.

Is Marella Explorer 2 the best Marella cruise ship for you?

The Marella fleet currently has five ships: Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2 and Marella Voyager. Marella Explorer is adults-only, and Marella has announced that Discovery 2 will become a permanent adults-only ship. That makes Explorer 2 one of the stronger choices for families who want all-inclusive drinks, a large theatre and a full kids’ club. Couples who want a calmer ship may prefer an adults-only option. There is no single best Marella cruise ship, but for families Explorer 2 is well worth a look.

FAQs

Which cabins should I avoid on Marella Explorer 2?

Light sleepers usually avoid aft cabins (docking noise), Deck 8 cabins directly above the Deck 7 bars and theatre, Deck 10 cabins under the pool and buffet, cabins beside lifts or crew doors, and the Deck 12 balconies, which Marella lists as having obstructed views.

What are the best balcony cabins on Marella Explorer 2?

Midship balcony cabins on Decks 9 and 10 are often the best balance of quiet, stability and convenience. For more outdoor space, the deluxe balcony cabins have balconies of almost 9m² with sunloungers. Check the location, as some sit towards the stern.

Where are the adapted cabins on Marella Explorer 2?

Marella says the adapted cabins are on Deck 5. An independent access survey lists eight cabins with accessible en suites there, including inside and outside options with wheel-in showers.

Is Marella Explorer 2 adults-only?

No. Marella Explorer 2 is family-friendly, with a kids’ club and family cabins, although it has an adults-only Veranda area. Its sister ship Marella Explorer is the adults-only one.

Where is Marella Explorer 2 sailing in 2026 and 2027?

Published schedules show Caribbean cruises from Barbados from November 2026 to April 2027, followed by summer 2027 sailings from Malaga. Marella has also scheduled the ship for the Caribbean in winter 2027-28.