A Marella cruise is a fantastic way to explore the world in comfort and style – but just how comfortable can you get during dinner?
A lot of cruise lines still operate a dress code, and before you start packing your suitcase, it’s important to know what you need to bring so you aren’t out of place.
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
Marella Cruises does have dress codes on the ship, but they are quite relaxed compared to some other cruise lines. There are three different levels of dress code to make it easy for guests to understand what to wear when they’re in different areas of the ship.
The dress code on a Marella ship can vary depending on the time of day. A restaurant may have a more relaxed dress code for lunch, for example, than it does for dinner. So guests are advised to check what the code is for their chosen restaurant for the evening.
To simplify the dress code, Marella has three different categories, which are Beachwear, Casual, and Smart. You just need to check which of these three dress codes applies to your restaurant.
Marella Beachwear dress code
The Marella Beachwear dress code is the most relaxed on the ship, and it means that you can pretty much wear whatever you want, including swimwear and flip flops. The only hard rule is that you must have something on your feet at all times.
That’s mainly for safety reasons, in case there was any broken glass somewhere that hadn’t yet been spotted, but it’s more hygienic too.
The Beachwear dress code will apply in some of the more relaxed venues on the ship, including the snacking areas.
Marella Casual dress code
The Marella Casual dress code is a step-up from the Beachwear code, and it’s often found in the restaurants on the ship at lunch time. With the Casual dress code, you can still wear any type of clothing you like, but with the exception of beach or swimwear.
Flip flops are still fine with this dress code though.
Marella Smart dress code
The Smart dress code for Marella is considered the most formal, but it’s still quite relaxed. It’ll apply to many of the restaurants for dinner. The Smart dress code permits shirts, dresses, skirts, trousers, jeans, and tailored shorts. Shirts can include polo shirts or open collar – there’s no need for a tie or jacket.
You’re not allowed to wear flip-flops with this dress code – closed-toe footwear is needed, but a pair of smart, non-sporty trainers would be acceptable. The specific items banned include sportswear (especially football shirts), caps, any beachwear, and non-tailored shorts.
If you’re travelling on a family ship and you have young children with you, they don’t need to stick to the same dress code as the adults. But if you’re sailing with teens, it’d be better to have them dress in the same way as the adults in your party.
There’s not a ‘formal’ formal night, but…
Marella Cruises usually has one night per 7-day cruise that is designated as a ‘Dress to Impress’ night. It’s where guests are encouraged to get dressed up in more formal clothing if they wish, although guests can just turn up in the regular Smart dress code if they prefer.
A lot of guests still enjoy the feeling of putting on their most glamorous suits and cocktail dresses for a night, but there are also many who don’t want to have to pack their best formal clothing, or just prefer the more relaxed feel of a smart-casual outfit.
Marella caters for both with the Dress to Impress night, since you’re welcome to choose either. And if you don’t want to feel like you’re underdressed, you can head to any of the other restaurants on the ship – the Dress to Impress night is typically limited to the main restaurant only.
And because on a Marella cruise, you’ve always got a choice of restaurants included in your fare, you don’t have to worry about paying extra to go and eat in a speciality restaurant, or stick to the buffet, if you’re trying to avoid dressing up.
A 6-night or 7-night Marella cruise will usually have one Dress to Impress night, with one additional night for every additional week of the cruise.
The day of Dress to Impress varies…
The Dress to Impress nights will usually happen on a sea day, but it’s not set on which day it will be. If your cruise doesn’t have any sea days, then the formal night could be any of the cruise, except for the first night, when guests haven’t had the time to fully unpack.
With Dress to Impress nights being all about those guests who want to look their best and don their fanciest clothing, it’s no fun if they have to rush to get ready after boarding the ship. It’s also preferable for a sea day so that guests aren’t obliged to rush back to the ship early from their port.
Why Marella Cruises?
There are loads of fantastic reasons to book a Marella cruise, and their relaxed approach to dress codes is just one of them. Marella Cruises offers great value cruising with all-inclusive fares, so you get your meals, drinks, entertainment and gratuities all included, along with flights from an airport near you.
The whole experience is super-easy too – check in at the airport with your luggage, and the next time you’ll see it will be at your cabin on the ship. Perfect if you’re packing your formal clothing and don’t want to worry about it en route to the port.
And there are many fantastic destinations to enjoy too, all over the world. If you like the idea of soaking up the sunset views of a tropical paradise in the early evening, while glammed up in your favourite dress or suit, then it’s a great cruise line to choose.
Equally, if you don’t want to stick to more smart-casual clothing choices whilst cruising around some of the warmer climates of the world, you can do that too.
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
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.
When you board a Marella Cruises, almost everything is taken care of for you. You’ll be able to dine on a huge range of incredible food options, your drinks are paid for too, and you can enjoy hours of live entertainment as you’re whisked around the globe.
However, they can’t dress you, so you will have to bring your own luggage!
There are some important things to know about your luggage when you’re cruising with Marella, so let’s take a look at everything from allowance to tags and everything in between.
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
Your luggage allowance for a Marella cruise depends on the airline you’re flying with.
Many cruises are booked in a package with a TUI Airways flight, where guests are permitted a single hold bag each weighing up to 20kg. Under 2s have a reduced allowance of up to 10kg.
If your flight is booked with a different airline, you’ll need to check the allowance limits that they set. They’ll usually be similar to the TUI guidelines, though.
If you want to pay for extra luggage then you can – there’s no limit to the number of bags you can take onboard the actual cruise ship. With TUI you can upgrade to 25kg or 30kg per adult, but no individual bag should weigh more than 25kg.
It’s also worth noting that adults can share their allowance on a TUI Airways flight, provided no single bag weighs more than 25kg. But if you pack a 25kg bag and your partner packs a 15kg bag, that will be fine.
You’re also allowed a single carry-on bag weighing up to 10kg, provided it’s no bigger than 55x40x20cm.
And you have to be able to fit it in the overhead storage yourself. If you want to bring multiple bags then you can, provided they all fit inside your single carry-on bag.
What happens to your luggage on a Marella Cruise
What happens to your luggage on a Marella cruise depends on whether your cruise is a ‘bonded’ cruise or not.
Bonded cruises couldn’t be easier, and are common for the cruise line’s Caribbean itineraries. For these cruises you simply attach the luggage tags provided to you to your luggage, and then check in as normal at the airport, handing over your bags.
The next time you see them, they’ll be outside your cabin door when your room is ready for you on the ship.
Where the cruise isn’t bonded, the journey will still be pretty straight forward. You’ll check in at the airport, and then when your flight lands you’ll collect your luggage from the baggage area as normal.
You’ll hand it over to the coach driver for your transfer, and then when your coach arrives at the port, the suitcases will be unloaded and picked up by the porters, ready to take onto the ship.
So, there is an extra step involved as you get your bags from the airport yourself, and take them to the coach, but it’s not too much extra hassle at all.
You’re allowed to bring your carry-on bag onto the cruise ship with you, but be aware that your cabin may not be ready as you board, and so you may need to carry it around with you for a couple of hours until it is.
A lot of people like to pack their swimwear in their carry-on bag, so that they can hit the pool as soon as they’re onboard.
One final thing – your cabin will have plenty of storage space for your luggage too, so once you get onboard and get into your cabin, you can unpack and hide the suitcases away, leaving you with a relaxing space to unwind for the duration of your cruise.
Marella Cruises and luggage tags
When you have a cruise booked with Marella, you’ll be sent luggage labels that you need to attach to your suitcase. This is what makes sure that your bags find their way to your cabin on the ship.
You’ll receive the labels 14 days before you’re due to travel. You’ll need to add a couple of personal details (contact details in case your bag wanders off at any point), and then fold and attach the labels to your bags.
A lot of people prefer to buy luggage tag holders. This makes sure that your labels won’t be damaged or torn off by accident, which can happen.
There are a selection of items that you aren’t allowed to bring with you on a Marella cruise, or on a flight to reach your cruise embarkation port.
A lot of these are common sense items – things like weapons (including replica weapons), power tools (or indeed any sharp tools), fireworks etc.
And you’ll need to follow the guidelines on liquids in your luggage too, making sure to only carry small liquids and to put them inside a plastic bag.
If you have a specific query on an item then you can check with Marella Cruises and they’ll let you know whether it’s permitted or not.
Luggage tags for carry-on bags
Carry-on bags don’t need luggage tags for a Marella cruise. You just need to make sure you keep the bag with you at all times.
When you reach the cruise ship, you’ll keep the bag with you – hence the name ‘carry-on’. You’ll go through security, similar to that at the airport, to make sure you aren’t carrying anything you shouldn’t be. And then, the bag will be yours to take with you onto the ship.
Remember that you might not be able to drop it off in your cabin right away, so try to pack light if you can, and remember to keep any essential medications or other items you need immediately onboard in that bag, since it could be a couple of hours until you get your checked bags.
Cruising with Marella really is easy, and you’ll have no trouble getting your luggage to the ship. Before you know it, you’ll be unpacked and sat sipping a cocktail by the pool, as you sail to your next exciting port.
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
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.
When you think of a cruise holiday, your mind probably drifts to summer — sun, sea and sand. But let me stop you right there!
Winter cruising is the ultimate treat, and I’m about to tell you why. If you’ve not yet experienced the wonders of a winter cruise, you’re genuinely missing a trick.
Marella Cruises has some marvellous winter itineraries, and here’s what makes them special…
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
Book your cruise now – remember you get flights, meals, drinks and tips included!
The advantages of winter cruising
1. Avoid (some of) the crowds
Now, I love a lively atmosphere as much as anyone, but in the summer it can just be way too much. I’d much rather explore port cities when they’re less busy and avoid the long queues for museums, cable cars and other tourist attractions.
And if you’re lucky, your cruise ship might be much less busy too! Marella Cruises’ ships are smaller than most, only accommodating 1,800 or 1,925 people at full capacity. You’ll feel like a VIP because the reduced number of guests means that crew members can give you their undivided attention.
Say goodbye to those never-ending buffet lines and hello to a more personal experience.
2. Cooler weather
Let’s be real. Scorching heat isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If you’ve ever been to Florida in August, you’ll know that it’s not a nice place to be.
Indeed, much of the world is just too hot in summer. So if you want to explore the Middle East, North Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean or the Canary Islands, then winter is a great time to do it.
You’ll still come home with a tan, but you can relax without constantly seeking out the shade and worrying about reapplying your sun lotion.
3. Great deals
I don’t know about you, but I like value for my money. Winter cruising is generally cheaper. We’re talking about lower fares, reduced flight costs, and maybe even free cabin upgrades, particularly if you book last minute.
Marella Cruises offers some smashing winter deals, allowing you to enjoy their top-notch service without breaking the bank.
Since winter isn’t peak tourist season, many excursions and attractions also come with reduced prices. Think of all the souvenirs you can get with those extra savings!
4. More last-minute availability
Whenever you leave it late to book your cruise, you risk there being no cabins left. That’s why if you need a cabin that sleeps three or four and prefer school holiday sailings, you should book at least a year in advance.
But the good news is, that if you want to get away this winter, there’s still plenty of last-minute availability. And if you’re planning for next winter, you’ll have some great options available too.
Of course, the captain and his crew will do everything necessary to keep guests safe, but that often means closing outside decks and skipping ports.
So if you’d like to avoid hurricane season, it’s best to cruise in the winter or spring, when bad weather is much less likely.
6. Escape the cold of the UK
The UK in winter can be pretty miserable. Not only is the weather awful, but you find yourself spending an absolute fortune on warming your home!
January and February can be particularly bleak, so what better way to cheer yourself up than by having a warming, winter sun cruise to look forward to?
7. Christmas and New Year at sea is unforgettable
I’ve enjoyed a Christmas and New Year cruise before and I would definitely recommend it. From the beautiful Christmas trees all over the ship to the buzzing New Year’s Eve parties, there’s a lot to like.
As almost everyone on Marella cruises is British, you can expect traditional favourites like roast turkey with all the trimmings, Christmas pudding and pigs in blankets. The weather won’t be the same as at home though, that’s for sure!
Why choose Marella Cruises for your winter getaway
If you’re looking to escape the chill of winter and bask in some much-needed warmth, Marella Cruises offers an exceptional holiday experience that combines comfort, and fantastic service.
Unlike the crowded, high-energy atmosphere you may encounter during peak season on a mega ship, winter cruising with Marella promises a more tranquil and intimate setting. Almost everything is included, from your flights and transfers to your onboard entertainment, meals and even your drinks. So all that’s left for you to do is relax and soak up the sun.
Perhaps you’re imagining sun-kissed beaches and serene harbours? Marella Cruises delivers on this front by sailing to a variety of warm destinations, providing an excellent escape from the grey skies of home. While others are layering up in wool and down, you could be lounging by a sparkling pool or strolling on a sandy beach!
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
Book your cruise now – remember you get flights, meals, drinks and tips included!
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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.
One of the reasons I’m such a fan of Marella Cruises is that they offer unbeatable value for money!
The packages include flights, transfers, accommodation onboard, drinks, entertainment, activities, kids’ clubs and gratuities. So you’d think that with so much included as standard, the ticket price would be high, right?
Wrong!
Here are my top picks if you’re looking for a cheap cruise…
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
Book your cruise now – remember you get flights, meals, drinks and tips included!
1. Island Explorer
The 7-night Island Explorer cruise showcases the Canary Islands’ most enchanting destinations. With the option to start your cruise from Gran Canaria or Tenerife, island-hopping adventure includes the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, the charm of Funchal in Madeira and much more.
You have the option to combine your cruise with a hotel stay too, extending your break and adding even more value with the fantastic price options available.
With choices ranging from the plush TUI Blue resorts to more budget-friendly options, the chance to extend your holiday is a bargain not to be missed.
2. Sail into Spring 1
Sailing from Las Palmas to Cyprus, this 9-night repositional cruise is perfect for those seeking sun, relaxing sea days and fantastic value for money.
Onboard Marella Discovery 2, your voyage is nothing short of spectacular. Movie buffs can watch a film under the stars, while anyone seeking a more active time can check out the rock climbing wall, the pool or the minigolf course.
Culinary aficionados will love the restaurants on offer, while the West End-style nightly performances promise to keep entertainment high on the agenda.
Prefer exploring ashore to days at sea? This next cruise is for you…
3. Mediterranean Medley
This amazing cruise itinerary is absolutely packed with fantastic port visits, giving you amazing value if you want to see the highlights of Europe in one cruise.
Setting sail from Palma, you’ll get to visit an exciting port in Italy. Livorno is your gateway to the breathtaking architecture of Florence or the Leaning Tower of Pisa, with either option being a captivating destination.
You’ll then call at Villefranche and Toulon in France, ideal if you want to explore the sun-kissed Cote d’Azur and its pretty harbours, before a day in the magnificent city of Barcelona as you begin the Spanish leg of your cruise.
You still aren’t done, because it’s then onto the rustic charm of Valencia, before your incredible cruise concludes once more on the island of Majorca for your flight home.
4. Adriatic Affair
Imagine a voyage that immerses you in the captivating charm of the Adriatic Sea, each port of call more enchanting than the last. Marella’s 7-night ‘Adriatic Affair’ cruise promises just that – an adults-only escapade through picturesque towns, medieval streets, and pristine beaches.
This cruise sets sail from the world-renowned Dubrovnik. As you navigate the tranquil waters, your next haven awaits in Koper, Slovenia. Roam its medieval streets, absorbing the rich history and diverse culture.
Next is Trieste – Italy’s charming port city, where you’ll experience a fusion of maritime heritage and cultural elegance. Then the allure of Ancona presents an eclectic mix of historical sights and Adriatic vibes.
Back in Croatia, Split dazzles with its Roman architecture and buzzing promenades. Lastly, Kotor in Montenegro offers a blend of mesmerizing marinas and sun-kissed beaches.
Amidst these exotic destinations, Marella Explorer 2 ensures every moment onboard is an affair to remember. Tailored exclusively for adults, this ship offers a sanctuary of comfort and relaxation.
5. Journey to the Tropics
If you want the best value from your Marella cruise, it’s worth considering a transatlantic crossing. You’ll often be able to find great prices on two-week cruises that still let you explore exciting ports in Europe and the Caribbean as well.
Journey to the Tropics is a great example. You’ll set sail from Malaga and enjoy a fun day out in Gibraltar before beginning your cruise across the ocean.
Once you arrive in the Caribbean, you’ll visit Antigua, St Kitts, St Maarten, the British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic, giving you plenty of beautiful beaches to enjoy that tropical winter sunshine on.
But don’t disregard that peaceful time you’ll spend as you cross the Atlantic too – the perfect time to enjoy all aspects of your ship or to simply switch off and unwind with a cocktail or two by the poolside.
Why Marella Cruises?
Marella Cruises stands out in the vast sea of cruise offerings primarily due to its exceptional value for money.
At the heart of its value proposition is an All Inclusive pricing model, which encompasses meals, drinks, entertainment, and even gratuities, ensuring guests can indulge in a myriad of experiences without worrying about racking up a bill.
Beyond the transparent pricing, Marella Cruises boasts a diverse array of destinations and itineraries, catering to both popular spots and hidden gems, ensuring that travellers get a comprehensive and unique cruising experience.
Their ships are equipped with modern amenities, diverse dining options, and entertainment that rivals onshore offerings.
Combined with impeccable service and an ever-evolving set of itineraries, the value derived from a Marella cruise is not just in the monetary savings, but in the enriched experiences and memories travellers take home.
Check out the amazing All Inclusive deals available with Marella Cruises!
Book your cruise now – remember you get flights, meals, drinks and tips included!
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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.
Looking for the perfect excuse to book your next holiday? Marella Cruises is here to make your decision easier with their incredible Black Friday offer.
Whether you’re dreaming of island-hopping around the Canaries, soaking in the history of the Aegean, or jetting off to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, you could save up to £300* on your next adventure.
With destinations as dazzling as these and savings this good, there’s never been a better time to plan your getaway.
What’s the offer?
Marella Cruises is making your dream holiday even more affordable with their Black Friday promotion in 2024.
From 25th November to 2nd December 2024, you can enjoy:
£200 off per booking on selected Mediterranean and Canary Island cruises using code BFSAIL200.
£300 off per booking on selected Caribbean and repositional cruises using code BFSAIL300.
Simply enter the relevant code for your cruise at checkout, and your discount will be applied before any extras. The offer is valid on cruises departing between 1st January 2025 and 30th April 2026, so there’s a wide window to plan your perfect escape!
Don’t forget: the offer only applies to new bookings and requires a minimum of 7 nights.
Why choose Marella Cruises?
Marella Cruises is known for its fantastic all-inclusive value.
On every cruise, you’ll have several included dining options, as well as a few alternatives for a fee if you want even more variety.
And, unlike most other cruise lines, you don’t have to worry about paying tips – those are already covered in your fare.
Drinks? A wide selection of options, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, are also included for you at no extra cost! You won’t get that with most other cruise lines.
And the premium upgrade for drinks doesn’t cost anything like the £30+ or even £50+ per day or more you’d pay on some other cruise lines.
Whether you’re enjoying a cocktail by the pool, having a three-course dinner, or taking in a show at the Broadway Show Lounge, you can focus on relaxing while Marella takes care of the details.
With itineraries spanning tropical getaways, cultural capitals, and everything in between, Marella offers something for every traveller.
Destinations to dream about
Ready to start planning? Here’s just a tiny sample of the incredible itineraries where you can save big with this offer:
Atlantic Islands – Save £200
Explore the sunny Canary Islands and Portugal’s Madeira, where natural beauty meets year-round warmth.
This journey begins and ends in Tenerife, taking you to the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote, the golden beaches of Gran Canaria, and the lush greenery of Madeira. Each stop offers its own unique charm, from rugged coastlines to vibrant local cultures.
Indulge in the tropical delights of the Caribbean on this sun-soaked itinerary.
Starting and ending in Barbados, this cruise takes you to the vibrant streets of St Lucia, the lush rainforests of St Vincent, and the pristine beaches of Grenada. Whether you’re sipping rum punch on Tobago’s shores or exploring Guadeloupe’s French-Caribbean flair, this cruise offers pure paradise.
Discover the enchanting history and stunning scenery of the Aegean Sea on this cultural adventure.
Starting and ending in Corfu, this cruise includes a visit to Athens, where ancient ruins like the Acropolis await. Stroll through the whitewashed streets of Santorini, explore Turkey’s coastal gems, and enjoy the laid-back charm of Crete and Kefalonia.
Embark on an unforgettable repositional cruise that combines the exotic beauty of the Caribbean with the charm of Europe.
Starting in the Dominican Republic, you’ll also visit Antigua before making your way across the Atlantic to Madeira, Alicante and ultimately Majorca. This unique journey offers a mix of tropical relaxation and European discovery.
This exciting Black Friday deal is only available for a limited time, from 25th November to midnight on 2nd December 2024. With no minimum spend and no hidden catches, it’s as simple as entering the code BFSAIL200 or BFSAIL300 during booking.
As long as it’s a new booking and it’s 7 nights or more, you can enjoy this massive saving.
Remember, availability is limited, so if you’ve got your eye on a particular cruise, it’s best to act fast.
Time to set sail
There’s no better time to book your next adventure with Marella Cruises. From tropical getaways to cultural explorations, you’ll find the perfect itinerary to match your travel dreams.
Use code BFSAIL200 or BFSAIL300 to make the most of this offer and start planning your unforgettable escape today.
Bon voyage!
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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.
Whenever you book a cruise, you want it to be the best experience possible. That doesn’t mean you’ll always book the very best cabin on a ship, because you have to balance your budget too.
But some cabins are better than others, even without spending more. There are also certain cabins you should try to avoid, whether due to their location on the ship or just a particular quirk. That’s as true on Marella Discovery as it is on any ship.
In this guide, I’ll help you understand all of the cabin options available to you on Marella Discovery. I’ll also tell you which cabin numbers you should avoid booking where possible. You can check out the Marella Discovery deck plans if you want to see specific cabin locations.
Some of this advice is subjective, and will depend on your personal tastes. Be sure to read everything then make your decision carefully, based on the type of cruise you want.
Suites – Junior Suites, Family Junior Suites, Family Suites, Grand Suites, Executive Suites and Royal Suites
Let’s delve a little deeper into each cabin type, so you can understand more about the options available.
Inside Cabins
Marella Discovery has multiple different types of Inside Cabin that you can book:
Cabin
Size
Sleeps up to
Decks 2 & 3 Inside Cabin
12 square metres
2-4
Decks 6, 7 and 8 Inside Cabin
12-13 square metres
2
Inside Plus Cabin
15 square metres
2-4
Single Inside Cabin
12 square metres
1
Inside Cabins are always the cheapest accommodation on any cruise ship (unless there are special upgrade offers). They’re windowless, but it’s always a short walk to an open deck if you want to enjoy a view, especially on a smaller ship like Marella Discovery.
Inside Cabins are a great choice if you’re on a tight budget, and don’t plan on spending much time in your cabin apart from sleeping and getting ready. They’re the smallest rooms, but you can save money for your next cruise if you’re comfortable in one of these. They typically come with twin beds, that can be converted into a queen-sized bed if you prefer.
Marella Discovery breaks down its Inside Cabins by decks.
A few important things to note:
Some of the cabins on Decks 2 and 3 sleep two guests, while others sleep up to four.
Inside Cabins on Decks 7 and 8 have been recently refurbished, but those on Deck 6 in the same category have not.
Inside Plus Cabins either sleep two guests or up to four. Those that sleep up to four were refurbished in November 2022.
Single Inside Cabins come with a queen-sized bed, which is pretty nifty. Most single cabins on other ships have a single twin bed.
The cabins that sleep more than two guests have fold-down beds.
Decks 2/3 Inside Cabin
These are Pullman beds which are hidden in the ceiling during the day, so that they don’t take up valuable space. They’re also better because you’re less likely to hit your head on them when you’re in a lower bed.
Outside Cabins
Decks 2/3 Outside Cabin
There are three main types of Outside Cabin on Marella Discovery:
Cabin
Size
Sleeps up to
Outside Cabin
14 square metres
2-4
Deluxe Cabin
20 square metres
4
Single Outside Cabin
14 square metres
1*
Outside Cabins are a good choice if you want to keep costs low, but don’t like the idea of being completely enclosed with no natural light. They’re also a better choice if you tend to get seasick, since focusing on the horizon can help.
The standard Outside Cabins on Marella Discovery are all on Decks 2 and 3, and have either a porthole or a picture window. Unfortunately, the categories aren’t split. I’ll cover that in a little more detail in the section below on cabins to avoid if you don’t want a porthole.
Deluxe Cabins are higher up on the ship, on Decks 7 and 8, and they’ve all been newly refurbished. They have a floor-to-ceiling window that offers a much better view, but that comes with a higher price for your booking.
Finally, Single Outside Cabins are available to book on Deck 3. Again, these have either a picture window or a porthole, and really they’re just a standard Outside Cabin sold at a special rate.
The Marella Cruises website even says they come with ‘twin beds that convert into a queen-sized double bed’. Why would you want twin beds if travelling alone?
Balcony Cabins
There are two different options for Balcony Cabins on Marella Discovery:
Cabin
Size
Sleeps up to
Balcony Cabin
13-14 square metres
2
Deluxe Balcony Cabin
15-16 square metres
4
A Balcony Cabin is a further step up from an Outside Cabin. It gives you your own private balcony space, where you can sit and soak up the view with the fresh sea air. On most cruise ships, a Balcony Cabin will also be larger than an Outside Cabin, but that’s not really the case with Marella Discovery.
Deluxe Balcony Cabins are larger though, so feel a little more luxurious. They also sleep up to four guests. Not with Pullman beds this time but with a double sofa bed, which is better for smaller children.
Suites
There are six different suite options on Marella Discovery:
Suite
Size
Sleeps up to
Junior Suites
21 square metres
2
Family Junior Suites
39 square metres
6
Family Suites
40 square metres
7
Grand Suites
32 square metres
4
Executive Suites
47 square metres
4
Royal Suites
92 square metres
4
On any cruise ship, suites are considered the best accommodation, but there are usually a few different choices. That’s true of Marella Discovery, where there are six suite types available.
Junior Suites
Junior Suites are the entry-level suite option on Marella Discovery, designed for two people. They’re essentially a larger Balcony Cabin, with twin beds that convert into a queen-sized bed and a private balcony to enjoy.
Junior Suite
Family Junior Suites
Family Junior Suites are much larger, and designed for up to six guests. There’s a bedroom that has twin beds. In the living area are two more twin beds, which can convert into a queen-sized bed, and finally a double sofa bed. Like all suites, there is a balcony too.
Family Junior Suite
Family Suites
There are very few cabins at sea that can sleep seven guests, so if you’re travelling with a large family these could be ideal. There are two bedrooms with twin beds/queen beds in each, one of which has a single fold-down bed. The sofa in the living area also converts into a double bed.
Grand Suites
Grand Suites have been newly refurbished with a modern style, and are aimed at two to four guests. They have one bedroom, with a double sofa bed in the living area. Although the Family Suites may be larger, a Marella Discovery Grand Suite is more about offering spacious, mid-level suites for couples or smaller families.
Executive Suites
A Marella Discovery Executive Suite is the second-best accommodation option on ship. These revamped suites are really spacious and very light, with massive doors to the balcony that really help make the room feel open. They have a bedroom and a queen-sized sofa bed in the living area.
Executive Suite
Royal Suite
The best suite on the ship, the Royal Suite, is almost twice as large as an Executive Suite and almost eight times the size of an Inside Cabin. They’re huge! The master bedroom has a king-sized bed, while the living area has a large sofa bed, so the suite sleeps four guests. It also has a whirlpool bath and a baby grand piano.
Royal Suite
Premier Service
All of the suites on Marella Discovery – from Junior Suites up to the Royal Suite – come with Premier Service. This is what you’d call the ‘suite perks’ on some other ships. The list of benefits isn’t huge though:
Free pressing service for up to three items of clothing per passenger in the first 24 hours onboard.
Free continental breakfast in bed per guest, once per week.
Adapted Cabins on Marella Discovery
There are Marella Discovery adapted cabins you can book, even though they are not mentioned on the cruise line’s own website where the cabins are listed.
This means I can’t give you exact room sizes, since they’ve not been measured separately. They are larger though, since they are designed to accommodate wheelchair users.
There are 17 adapted cabins available to book on Marella Discovery, including:
Six Inside Cabins (3 on Deck 2, 3 on Deck 7)
Six Outside Cabins (3 on Deck 2, 3 on Deck 3)
Three Balcony Cabins (Deck 6)
Three Junior Suites (Deck 8)
How to Choose the Best Cabin
There are a lot of different things to consider when choosing your cabin on Marella Discovery. Even with this guide, you’ll need help to go through the steps when making your selection. You need to know where to avoid, what to do if your first choice is available and so on.
To make things easier, I’ve created a checklist that you can use for Marella Discovery or indeed any ship. Just pop your email address and name into this form, and I’ll send it right to you. You can keep it to hand when you book your Marella Discovery cruise.
Cabins To Avoid on Marella Discovery
Here are the cabins to avoid when booking a cruise on Marella Discovery.
Remember that these depend on what kind of cruise passenger you are, so some might actually be better suited to you.
When you book an Outside Cabin, you’re paying a little more than for an Inside. You can enjoy some natural light during daytime hours, and hopefully a bit of a view.
Although most Outside Cabins have a picture window, there are a handful towards the front and aft of the ship on Deck 2 that only have a porthole, and the difference is significant. The portholes don’t really offer any kind of view at all, and they let very little light through.
I’d recommend getting a picture window room instead. Otherwise you might as well save some money and just go for an Inside Cabin.
2. Rooms that are not ideal if you get seasick
8000 to 8016, 8060 to 8086, 8500 to 8516, 8566 to 8590 Inside Cabins on Deck 8
Marella Discovery is not a huge ship, which has both advantages and disadvantages when it comes to seasickness. Larger, more modern ships tend to have the latest stabilising technology, but they need it more because guests stay on higher decks.
The higher you are, and the closer to the front or aft, the more you’ll feel the motion of the ship. This is what can trigger seasickness. Marella Discovery only has cabins on Deck 8 and below, so you’re never too high. But avoid anything on Deck 8 near the front or aft of the ship if you’re concerned you might feel sick.
You definitely want to avoid the Inside Cabins on that deck too. Not only are you more likely to feel the movement of the waves, but you can’t look out to the horizon, which tends to work well in easing seasickness.
If you think you might feel seasick, then aim for a lower room, ideally in a mid-ship location and with a view. The Marella Discovery best cabins on Deck 3 – the Outside Cabins with a picture window – are a great choice.
3. Junior Suites
Some of the suite options on Marella Discovery are worth the extra money. They’re a lot more spacious, and are in some of the best locations on the ship.
But it’s harder to justify the jump in cost from a Deluxe Balcony Cabin to a Marella Discovery Junior Suite.
Junior Suite
That’s not to say you should never book a Junior Suite. It might be that you want that extra five square metres of space over a Deluxe Balcony Cabin, and you’re happy to pay the additional money. But if you won’t spend a huge amount of time in your cabin, I’m not sure it’s worth it.
Either stick with a Deluxe Balcony Cabin, or aim a little higher and look at a Grand Suite. Then you’re getting twice the space, which really feels worth it.
The Premier Service perks and the extra five square metres of space aren’t enough to give a Junior Suite my full recommendation. I’d rather downgrade to something like a Marella Discovery Balcony Cabin on Deck 6, save the money and put it towards another cruise instead.
4. Connecting cabins (if you aren’t booking both)
Various on every deck
Connecting cabins are rooms that are side-by-side and have a door between them. Normally this door is locked, but if your travelling party books both rooms, you can have the door unlocked. This essentially open up both rooms to create a larger space.
If you are not booking both connecting cabins, I recommend you avoid booking one of them. That’s because the door that links these two rooms is thinner than the wall, so you’ll hear more of what your neighbours are getting up to. If they like to wake up early or watch TV late, you might hear them and it could be distracting.
Connecting cabins do have their uses though…
5. Family Suites if you’re on a budget
I love that there are Family Suites sleeping up to seven guests on Marella Discovery, but I wouldn’t recommend them if you are travelling as part of a group.
The difference in cost for booking a Family Suite is not just based on the extra space you’ll get. It will often be cheaper to book two separate connecting cabins than to book one Family Suite.
As a rough guide, I checked a typical seven-day itinerary that included flights. Booking two connecting cabins, with two adults and one child in each, would cost approximately £7,700. The cost for booking a single Family Suite for the same cruise, with four adults and two children, was over £11,000.
With a Family Suite you are getting more space, a better ship location and the Premier Service benefits. Family Suites are not a bad choice. But if you are on a tight budget, I’d consider booking connecting rooms instead.
6. Cabins adjacent to lifts
3055, 6061, 6561
There are plenty of cabins near the lifts on Marella Discovery, which can be both a blessing and a curse. It’s good because you don’t have to travel far to get to and from your cabin. But it can be annoying because a lot of people walk past your room in the morning or at night, which can be noisy.
But there are three Inside Cabins in particular that are directly adjacent to the lifts. So you might also hear the lift mechanism itself.
To be clear, they aren’t super loud, but if you’re sleeping right next to them then you’ll either find the noise soothing or annoying. It might not be worth the risk if you’re a light sleeper.
7 Cabins directly under the pool deck
8012 to 8072, 8512 to 8572
A common complaint from cruise ships is where the cabin is situated directly below the pool deck. There’s still a competitive element when it comes to securing a pool lounger, and guests often rise extra-early to grab one. Then they drag these across the deck, causing quite a racket in the cabins directly below.
When researching this guide, it was a complaint that cropped up a couple of times for the Marella Discovery cabins on Deck 8. This was specifically for the rooms underneath the indoor pool area, from around 8040 to 8064 and 8546 to 8572 on the starboard side. But it might be an issue under the outdoor pool area as well.
If you’re also awake early, it’s not going to bother you. But if you like a lie-in, consider a room away from the pool deck.
8. Cabins a long trek from the kids’ club
Any cabin where the second digit is 1 or 6, such as 7134 or 2600.
The Marella Discovery has a kids’ club area for families, situated towards the front of the ship on Deck 10. It has various facilities including a Baby Centre, a gaming zone, and clubs for younger kids and teenagers.
This isn’t an issue for teens, but if you have young children or babies staying in these areas, avoid having a cabin right at the aft of the ship. These have either 1 as the second digit (port side) or 6 as the second digit (starboard side). It’s worse if you’re on a lower deck too.
That’s purely from a practicality point of view – the farther you are from the kids’ club, the farther you have to travel. It’s not so bad during the day but if you’ve enjoyed dinner, and gone to pick up a child who is now napping, it can be a long walk carrying a heavy lump in your arms!
9. Inside Cabins if travelling with older kids/other adults
It’s great that there are lots of Inside Cabin options for sleeping three or four guests, but I wouldn’t recommend them if you’re staying with adults or older kids.
The Inside Cabins are not very big, so you could easily get under each other’s feet. The Pullman Beds aren’t great for grown-ups either, and can be a bit uncomfortable.
I think they’re a good choice for younger kids, though preferably not so young they could fall out. For adults or teens though, I’d look at something more spacious.
10. Rooms above the Squid & Anchor if you like an early night
6000 to 6016, 6500 to 6516
There are some rooms towards the front of Deck 6 that are directly above the Squid & Anchor lounge. If you like an early night on your cruise, I wouldn’t recommend booking these.
The speakers for the Squid & Anchor’s musical performances are on the roof, so the sound can reverberate through to your cabin. It’s not super-loud, and tends to end earlier than on other cruise lines, usually 11pm at the latest.
But still, if you’re a lighter sleeper or like to be asleep by 9pm or so, you might prefer to choose a quieter spot on the ship.
11. Tired cabins that haven’t been renovated
Various across the ship
A lot of Marella Discovery’s new cabins were fully refurbished in late 2022, but not all of them, so it’s worth asking the question when you book.
The older cabins are not bad, but some people think they look a little tired. They’re still recommended as very comfortable, but the refurbished rooms look a lot nicer.
It might not matter to you, but if it does, check whether or not your cabin has been refurbished.
The Best Cabins on Marella Discovery
Most of the cabins on Marella Discovery are great, but a handful really stand out as worth booking, depending on your travelling party and budget.
A lot of the most sought-after rooms on a cruise ship are those with an aft view. They tend to be the most popular because you’re sheltered from the wind, with a fantastic view of the ocean and the wake of the ship.
There are a selection of Balcony Cabins and Junior Suites on Decks 6, 7 and 8. These tend to book up quickly, so be sure to act fast if you want to enjoy an aft view.
In particular, try to book either 6130, 7642 or 8086. These three rooms are dead-centre in the ship, so not only is the view incredible but you actually get a slightly larger balcony. You can see from the deck plans that they’re angled, so the more central you are, the bigger the balcony is.
2. Royal Suite (if you can afford it)
Of course, it’s easy to pick the biggest suite on the ship as one of the best, but it really is something special – provided you have the budget for it.
Royal Suite Bathroom
The whirlpool bath is a fantastic addition, but not too uncommon on cruise ships. It’s still a great feature on warmer cruises, where you can properly relax with an amazing view.
However, there are very few cruise ship suites I can think of where you also get a baby grand piano. Even if you can’t play, it’s a very classy addition.
It’s not something I’m likely to book. I’m typically the person who would save my money to enjoy multiple cruises instead. But I can’t argue that it’s not a fantastic suite.
3. Single Cabins (Inside or Outside)
On a lot of cruise ships, single rooms are crammed into smaller spaces. They’ll usually be the smallest room on a ship, with just a single bed and a limited amount of storage.
Not so with Marella Discovery – you’re essentially getting a full Inside or Outside Cabin, with a queen-sized bed. It’s a lot more comfortable for solo travellers, and I love that Marella has thought about single passengers enough to give them this comfort.
After all, you probably aren’t sleeping in a single bed at home, so why would you downgrade for an actual holiday?
Final Thoughts
There you have it – a complete guide to all the cabins on Marella Discovery, plus tips for cabins that you should consider avoiding when you book.
I know the decision isn’t always simple. You might have your heart set on a certain itinerary that’s nearly sold out, or your budget might mean you can’t book the perfect cabin for you.
But with everything in this guide, you can at least make some informed decisions and travel prepared. For example, a set of earplugs might be all you need to make a louder room bearable.
For a closer look at all of the cabins on Marella Discovery, I highly recommend that you check out this video by Paul and Carole. I’m sure you’ll find it interesting…
In putting this guide together, I scoured the official Marella Discovery deck plans but also looked at Facebook groups. I recommend you check them out too, because people often post photos of specific cabins, and you might find yours on there before you sail.
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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.
Marella Cruises has just announced details of the summer 2026 season and it’s looking like one of the most exciting cruise seasons ever!
The cruise line has some amazing itinerary options to choose from across the fleet, along with some special occasions you won’t want to miss.
Let’s take a look!
Popular home ports and refreshed itineraries
The Marella Cruises summer 2026 programme brings fresh and exciting changes, including revamped itineraries.
Marella Voyager will make Corfu its home for the first time, offering passengers the perfect gateway to explore the beauty of the Greek Islands and the Adriatic.
Meanwhile, Marella Explorer returns to Palma, Majorca, after a five-year hiatus, sailing classic routes with a fresh twist.
Two revamped itineraries on Marella Discovery 2 (sailing from Majorca) are sure to catch the eye of seasoned cruisers and newcomers alike.
The Jewels of the Mediterranean offers a picturesque journey through the Western Med, visiting idyllic spots like Villefranche, Toulon, and La Spezia.
For those craving cultural charm, the Cosmopolitan Charms itinerary will whisk you from Palma to the Italian and French coasts, with stops in Palermo, Propriano, and the historic wonders of Rome.
To round out the fleet, Marella Explorer 2 will spend the summer sailing from Dubrovnik, offering exciting Adriatic cruises, while Marella Discovery will sail the Greek Isles from Cyprus.
Whether you’re looking for sun-drenched beaches or cultural experiences, there’s an itinerary for every taste.
Marella turns 30!
2026 marks a milestone year as Marella Cruises celebrates its 30th birthday! And you’ll be able to join in with the festivities if you book a cruise for May.
You’ll have the chance to join in the celebrations across all five ships, with cruises departing from Corfu, Majorca, Dubrovnik, and Limassol.
Whether you’re sailing on Marella Voyager as it journeys through Croatia and Montenegro, or enjoying the Mediterranean delights aboard Marella Discovery 2, you’ll get to be a part of Marella’s big birthday bash – the big day is 7th May 2026!
See the Solar Eclipse at sea
One of the most anticipated events of the summer 2026 season is the rare chance to witness a solar eclipse at sea.
On August 12, 2026, guests onboard Marella Discovery 2’s Cosmopolitan Charms itinerary will have a front-row seat to this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. Imagine watching the moon eclipse the sun from the comfort of a luxury cruise ship, surrounded by the serene Mediterranean waters.
The journey starts in Palma, Majorca, and includes scenic stops in Palamos, Propriano, and Civitavecchia (for Rome), making it an unforgettable adventure both for astronomy enthusiasts and travellers who appreciate unique experiences.
This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event, so make sure you don’t miss it!
Repositional cruise options
For those looking to start their summer early, Marella’s repositional cruises at the end of Winter 25/26 are packed with extra entertainment and special onboard activities.
Two of these repositioning sailings take you from the sunny Caribbean to the Mediterranean, offering extended itineraries perfect for those who want to make the most of their time at sea.
One of the highlights is the Atlantic Quest cruise aboard Marella Discovery 2, sailing from Barbados to Palma over 12 nights.
Other options include the Bon Voyage Barbados on Marella Explorer and Mediterranean Marvels on Marella Voyager.
With Marella Voyager welcoming families on this exciting repositional voyage, it’s a fantastic opportunity to bring the whole family on a unique adventure before the summer season officially kicks off.
Cruise & Stay favourites
Marella’s popular Cruise & Stay programme has expanded for 2026, offering even more ways to extend your holiday.
With 112 hotels to choose from across four stunning destinations, including 18 new additions, you can now enjoy luxurious stays in places like Corfu, Dubrovnik, Cyprus, and Majorca before or after your cruise.
Top picks include the Amavi in Paphos, Cyprus, perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway, and the Ikos Dassia in Corfu, an all-inclusive haven.
Sailing on Marella Explorer or Marella Discovery 2? You’ll want to check out the Insotel Cala Mandia Resort and Spa for your pre- or post-cruise extension, while the Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera in Croatia is a beautiful spot to pair with a cruise on Marella Explorer 2.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation in a world-class spa or a beach-front family retreat, there’s a hotel to suit every holiday style.
What hasn’t changed – everything included as standard!
One of the best things about Marella Cruises is that everything you need for a fantastic holiday comes included as standard.
Every package includes your meals (excluding speciality dining), standard drinks, tips, and flights, meaning you won’t be hit with any unexpected costs. Whether you’re dining at one of the delicious complimentary onboard restaurants, sipping cocktails by the pool, or enjoying the evening entertainment, it’s all part of the package.
Plus, Marella offers flights from 20 regional airports across the UK, making it easy and convenient to start your cruise no matter where you’re based. And with a wide selection of onboard activities, including live shows, fitness classes, and kids’ clubs (or the option of adults-only sailings), there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Marella’s all-inclusive approach means you can sit back, relax, and truly make the most of your holiday – because with Marella, it’s all taken care of!
Final word
With Marella Cruises turning 30, the summer 2026 season promises to be a celebration of epic proportions!
From refreshed itineraries and special birthday sailings to the unforgettable solar eclipse at sea, there’s never been a better time to set sail with Marella.
Whether you’re a returning guest or booking your first cruise, Marella’s all-inclusive offerings make for a hassle-free and unforgettable holiday.
Ready to celebrate with Marella? Book now and be part of the adventure!
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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.
There are a lot of things about Marella Cruises that could make them the best choice for you.
While Marella Cruises might not be as famous as some of the larger cruise lines in the world, you might be surprised to discover that a Marella cruise could be right up your street.
So, here’s a look at 11 things to love about Marella Cruises.
1. Your journey to the ship is stress-free
Marella Cruises is part of the TUI Group – so your cruise and your flights are all operated by the same company – they’re sold as a package together.
Therefore your holiday runs a bit more smoothly – from the moment you arrive at the airport, you’re in the hands of a single company.
You’ll be transferred from the destination airport to your cruise ship directly. On some cruises, you won’t even have to collect your luggage at the airport. Just drop it off at your home airport and you’ll next see it in your cabin!
The whole experience is seamless, which just takes away some of the stress of bouncing from one operator to another. Or having to fly out a day early and cross your fingers that you get to the ship on time.
2. Marella Cruises are aimed at the British market
The ships are all tailored toward the British cruise market, which has a lot of little benefits.
It’s simple things like having tea and coffee-making facilities in your cabin or having bars that are stocked with all the drinks you would expect to find at home.
Plus, it’s the bigger things, like having the option of 20 different departure airports in the UK for your cruise.
What it doesn’t mean is that the cuisine is ‘British’ only. There are classic UK meal options, but there’s plenty of choice too. Marella’s cruises blend the best of British with the variety you’d expect from a cruise ship.
3. You can easily extend your holiday with a hotel break
Because Marella Cruises is part of the TUI Group, it’s really easy to extend your holiday with a hotel break if you want to.
Most cruise packages sail out of destinations where TUI owns hotels, so as part of the booking process, it’s really simple to just add on a few nights (or even a whole week) without having to spend ages hunting for a suitable option.
And again, because everything is managed by the same company, all of the finer details are arranged for you. You’ll still get your flights booked for the correct dates, all of your transfers arranged and so on – it’s really simple.
With the latest additions to the portfolio, you’ve got hundreds of options for a hotel break, with 18 new options for the recently announced summer 2026 season.
Finding the right one for you will never be a problem!
4. You’ll enjoy excellent service from welcoming crew members
Cruise ships in general are known for their hard-working crew, but the service provided by the staff on Marella Cruises ships is particularly well-reviewed.
A lot of guests comment on just how friendly the crew are, and how determined they always seem to give passengers the best experience possible.
This is helped by the size of the ships – because they’re mid-sized, rather than super ships, it’s easier for the crew to get to know guests throughout the week, and they’re able to provide a more tailored service.
Whether it’s addressing any issues you’re having quickly, or just making sure your favourite drink is ready for you when you arrive at dinner, you’ll be wowed by the quality of service provided.
5. Fewer sea days mean more time to explore
Marella Cruises’ itineraries are carefully planned to minimise the number of days you spend at sea. Because you’ll typically fly right into the heart of the best regions, you won’t have to spend a lot of time sailing just to get to your first interesting port of call.
Sea days can be fun and relaxing, but it’s better to have an itinerary that’s full of ports. For those who like to explore, this means more chances to get ashore and see the world.
And for those who do just want to take it easy on the ship, having more days in port means the ship becomes even quieter during the day as most guests head off on excursions.
6. There’s a wide range of destinations to choose from
On the note of ports of call – Marella Cruises may have a relatively small fleet but that doesn’t mean you’re limited in choice for the places you can sail.
Stay closer to home with a sailing around the Western Mediterranean, or hop over to the Eastern Mediterranean for a chance to explore the beautiful Greek islands.
The Canary Islands provide a wonderful option for some winter sun, or you can fly a little further and enjoy the tropical paradise of the Caribbean.
And with the ships being a little smaller, there are some ports that they can visit which larger ships for other cruise lines simply can’t get to.
7. Cruises are all-inclusive
Marella Cruises advertises itself as being “All Inclusive As Standard”, and while there may be a few optional extras that you might choose to pay for, Marella is certainly more inclusive than most other cruise lines.
Here’s what’s included in a Marella cruise:
All flights, transfers and luggage costs
All food in the main dining room and several on-board restaurants
A wide range of drinks from 10 am until 2 am every day
All of your live entertainment during the cruise
Kids’ clubs
All tips and fees
Of that list, many elements are included with other cruise lines too, but the fact that the standard drinks package and your tips and other fees are included in the fare does give Marella a significant advantage over many other cruise lines.
These things cost extra:
WiFi internet access
Premium drinks
Shore excursions
Speciality dining venues
Spa treatments
The casino
Shopping onboard
One of the key reasons people often choose a Marella cruise holiday is the price. They’re not the cheapest, but compared to other cruise lines they offer amazing value, especially when you consider everything that’s included in the fare that you would otherwise pay extra for.
A cruise on a Marella ship may appear to be a similar price to one offered by Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises or NCL but when you factor in that you’re getting the whole package with flights and transfers, and there aren’t any hidden extras for drinks, tips or port fees, then Marella’s pricing can work out much lower overall.
One common cruise mistake that people make is to not consider exactly what’s included when comparing prices. What looks like a great deal sometimes isn’t, and vice versa.
8. Upgrading your cruise is easy – and affordable!
If you aren’t happy with the drinks that are included in the standard package, you can upgrade to a Premium package to get a much wider selection.
And it’s really cheap too, compared to other cruise lines. Upgrading to the Premium drinks package costs around £12 per person, per day. This package not only gives you premium cocktails but also includes Lavazza coffee and Teapigs tea from Coffee Port, and canned soft drinks too.
The drinks don’t cost a lot individually though – they’re also much cheaper than you’d find on other cruise lines. So, it makes sense to weigh up how much you would plan to drink before committing to a drinks package upgrade.
9. Ships offer a wide range of dining options
People often have an idea that smaller cruise ships are limited in their dining options. You might get the main dining room and a buffet, but then maybe only one or two more venues at best.
Not so with Marella Cruises, where every ship has a great selection of restaurants you can choose from.
Marella Voyager, the newest ship in the fleet, has 17 different choices. There’s a Mexican venue, a snack bar near the pool, a pan-Asian restaurant, an upmarket British classics venue and more.
Different ships in the fleet have different options but you are certainly not limited to eating in the same 2-3 places every day of your cruise, and all diets are catered for as well – including fussy kids.
Speaking of which…
10. The kids’ clubs are varied, fun and free
Marella offers plenty of fun cruise itineraries that kids will love, with family cabins available.
Ships also have kids’ clubs, which are included in your fare. There are different facilities for different age groups, meaning the teens and the younger kids get activities suited to them, both during the day and in the evening too.
Other cruise lines may have more variety when it comes to the facilities aimed at younger guests, but Marella’s kids’ clubs still have plenty to keep junior members of the family fully entertained during your holiday.
Don’t worry if you want an adults-only cruise – those are available too.
11. There’s always someone to help
Cruises with Marella typically go really smoothly but there may be times when you need a little bit of help resolving an issue or just getting a question answered – as there would be with any cruise line.
What’s special about Marella Cruises is just how easy it is to get the help you need. Yes, there’s a website and a customer service centre you can call, but you can also pop into any TUI store on UK high streets to get help with your booking, even if you booked online.
Plus the TUI Group has reps based at many UK and international airports, so finding someone to speak to in person to assist you is always easy. And again, the crew on the ship will go above and beyond to resolve any problems during the cruise itself.
Conclusion
There’s a lot to love about Marella Cruises, especially if you’re travelling from the UK. They make package cruise holidays really simple, both from the perspective of booking and by having more included in your fare as standard.
If you want to know more, check out everything that’s included in your Marella cruise fare, and get to know the latest ship in the fleet – Marella Voyager – too.
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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.
The Canary Islands are a top destination for cruise lovers, offering a unique mix of natural beauty, history, and year-round sunshine.
Each island in the archipelago has its own charm and attractions, so whether you’re after volcanic landscapes, golden beaches, or cultural experiences, there’s an island that’s perfect for you.
Here’s a breakdown of the best Canary Islands to visit on a Marella Cruise and what makes each one special for cruise guests.
Tenerife – For nature and adventure
Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers. The island is home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, a dormant volcano offering incredible hiking opportunities and panoramic views.
For those who prefer a less strenuous activity, a cable car ride to the top is a great alternative. Beyond the mountain, Tenerife is packed with stunning landscapes from lush forests to dramatic cliffs along the coastline.
Cruise guests can explore charming towns like La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or enjoy a day of relaxation on Playa de las Teresitas, a beautiful golden sand beach.
Tenerife also boasts the famous Loro Parque, a wildlife park with one of the world’s most impressive animal collections. Whether it’s nature or a vibrant town atmosphere, Tenerife has plenty to offer.
Gran Canaria – For beaches and culture
Gran Canaria is a favourite for its diverse landscape and cultural appeal.
Las Palmas, the island’s capital, is a bustling city filled with historical landmarks, museums, and shopping opportunities. The Vegueta district is particularly noteworthy, with its cobbled streets and colonial architecture, giving you a glimpse into the island’s rich history.
If sunbathing and beach days are high on your priority list, Gran Canaria won’t disappoint. The island’s southern coast is home to Maspalomas Beach, known for its vast sand dunes and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for a beach day.
Gran Canaria also offers plenty of water sports and scenic coastal walks, giving cruise guests a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Lanzarote – For volcanic landscapes and art
Lanzarote stands out for its unique volcanic scenery, shaped by past eruptions and now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Timanfaya National Park is one of the island’s highlights, where you can take a guided tour of the dramatic volcanic landscape. The park’s geothermal activity is still very much alive, and visitors can witness geysers shooting water into the air and food being cooked using the earth’s natural heat.
Another must-see is the work of local artist César Manrique, whose influence can be found throughout the island. His architectural projects, such as the Jameos del Agua and the Cactus Garden, blend beautifully with the natural environment, offering a cultural touch to Lanzarote’s rugged beauty.
Cruise guests will love the island’s balance of striking landscapes and artistic flair.
Fuerteventura – For tranquil beaches and watersports
Fuerteventura is the Canary Island to visit if you’re after peace, quiet, and some of the best beaches in the archipelago.
It’s known for its long stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, making it a haven for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
The island is famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing, thanks to its steady winds and perfect surf conditions, particularly at Flag Beach in Corralejo.
Corralejo Natural Park, with its vast sand dunes leading to the ocean, is a favourite for nature lovers, while the island’s laid-back vibe makes it ideal for those looking to escape the crowds.
Fuerteventura also offers a range of local seafood dining experiences, giving cruise guests a delicious taste of Canarian cuisine.
La Palma – For hiking and stargazing
La Palma, often called “La Isla Bonita” (the Beautiful Island), is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. It’s one of the least commercialised of the Canary Islands, making it perfect for those who prefer off-the-beaten-track destinations.
The island’s rugged landscapes are crisscrossed with hiking trails, including routes through the stunning Caldera de Taburiente National Park.
La Palma is also a UNESCO Starlight Reserve, renowned for its incredibly clear night skies, making stargazing here a magical experience. If you’re into astronomy or just looking for a peaceful escape into nature, this island is a hidden gem on any Canary Islands cruise – especially if you can find a quiet spot as the ship sails away at night.
Why the Canary Islands make a great cruise destination
The Canary Islands are a fantastic cruise destination for a number of reasons.
One of the biggest draws is the year-round warm climate, making it an ideal choice for winter sun seekers. While much of Europe shivers through the colder months, the Canaries offer sunshine and pleasant temperatures, making them a perfect escape during the winter season.
Another plus is the variety the islands offer. From the volcanic landscapes of Lanzarote to the beach paradises of Fuerteventura, the Canary Islands have something for everyone, whether you’re into hiking, relaxing by the beach, exploring culture-rich cities, or trying out exciting watersports.
The islands’ proximity to one another also means that cruising between them is easy and efficient, allowing you to experience a diverse range of activities and environments within a short space of time.
Why choose Marella for your Canary Islands cruise?
Marella Cruises offer a hassle-free way to explore the Canary Islands, with all-inclusive packages that cover meals, drinks, and tips.
This means you can enjoy your holiday without worrying about additional costs, making it a stress-free experience. Marella’s wide range of shore excursions ensures that there’s something to suit every type of traveller, from guided hikes and city tours to beach breaks and cultural experiences.
What sets Marella Cruises apart is the exceptional service and attention to detail. With a friendly, British-style approach, they cater to guests with a personal touch that ensures you feel well looked after from the moment you step on board.
The flexible itineraries mean you can explore the Canaries at your own pace, all while enjoying the luxury and comfort of Marella’s cruise ships.
For a perfect mix of winter sun, stunning scenery, and diverse excursions, Marella Cruises is the ideal choice for your Canary Islands adventure.
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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.
Barbados is a dream destination for those seeking sun, sand, and vibrant local culture.
With Marella Cruises, you can explore the island’s highlights through a variety of exciting shore excursions. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, history buff, or nature lover, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a round-up of some of the best excursions in Barbados with Marella Cruises. Availability for these will depend on your specific itinerary, but every Caribbean cruise always has a range of activities for you to choose from.
Barbados Turtle Snorkelling Tour
If you want to experience the wonders of marine life, the Barbados Turtle Snorkelling Tour is a must.
You’ll hop on a sleek catamaran and sail out to a coral reef, where you can snorkel alongside hawksbill and leatherback turtles in crystal-clear waters.
After your turtle encounter, unwind on deck with a buffet lunch and drinks from the open bar. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, letting you soak in the beauty of Barbados’ coastal waters while interacting with its stunning marine inhabitants.
Harbour Lights Beach Dinner Show
For a true taste of Barbados after dark, the Harbour Lights Beach Dinner Show promises an unforgettable night of entertainment.
With fire breathers, stilt walkers, and live local bands, you’ll be immersed in the island’s vibrant culture. This beachfront event includes a delicious barbecue dinner and an open bar, creating a lively atmosphere as you enjoy the energetic performances.
The evening ends on a high note with limbo dancing, making it an evening of fun and excitement for everyone.
Mount Gay Rum Tour with Lunch
No trip to Barbados would be complete without a visit to the island’s iconic rum distillery.
The Mount Gay Rum Tour with Lunch lets you discover the history of Barbados’ famous rum-making tradition. After sipping on a refreshing rum punch, you’ll tour the distillery and sample three premium rums.
A highlight of the tour is the mouth-watering Bajan lunch, served from live cooking stations, which gives you a taste of the island’s authentic cuisine, all while enjoying stunning views of the Caribbean coast.
Barbados Atlantis Submarine Tour
Dive deep beneath the waves on the Barbados Atlantis Submarine Tour, where you’ll explore the island’s underwater world without getting wet.
This narrated submarine ride takes you up to 150 feet below the surface, offering panoramic views of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and colourful marine life.
The submarine is fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable and unique way to experience Barbados’ rich marine ecosystem. It’s the ideal excursion for anyone looking to explore the island’s aquatic life in a relaxed, safe environment.
Barbados Catamaran Sunset Cruise
Cap off your day with the serene Barbados Catamaran Sunset Cruise.
As you sail along the coast, you’ll have time to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy a leisurely dinner onboard. The highlight, however, is watching the sun set over the Caribbean, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.
This relaxing cruise offers a peaceful retreat on the water, combining stunning views with a romantic dinner, making it a perfect evening for couples or anyone wanting to savour a true Caribbean sunset.
Scenic Railway Tour, Barbados
For a more relaxed outing, the Scenic Railway Tour offers a charming way to see Barbados’ beautiful landscape.
Starting at St Nicholas Abbey, you’ll embark on a 45-minute heritage train journey through the countryside. Keep an eye out for exotic birds and capture the stunning views from Cherry Tree Hill.
This tour is a slower-paced excursion, perfect for soaking in the island’s natural beauty while learning about its history.
Barbados Island 4×4 Safari Tour
For those looking to see the island’s rugged beauty, the Barbados Island 4×4 Safari Tour is the perfect adventure.
You’ll explore Barbados by off-road vehicle, journeying through sugar cane plantations and past historic houses. Stops at breathtaking sites like Edge Cliff and Little Bay offer amazing photo opportunities, while a buffet lunch at the Sugar Cane Club ensures you’re well-fuelled for your island expedition.
This thrilling tour is led by local guides who will share intriguing stories about the island’s history and folklore.
Beach Hop Island Style, Barbados
The Beach Hop Island Style tour is perfect for beach lovers. This open-sided bus tour whisks you through Bridgetown, passing historical landmarks like the parliament buildings and Heroes Square.
You’ll also explore the UNESCO Garrison area, known for its impressive collection of iron cannons. Along the way, you’ll stop at several of the island’s best beaches, including the famous Accra Beach, where you can enjoy watersports or relax under the shade of sea-grape trees.
Carlisle Beach Break, Barbados
The Carlisle Beach Break combines a relaxing day on one of Barbados’ most beautiful beaches with a scenic drive through Bridgetown.
After a short coach ride past iconic sights like Independence Square and the Garrison, you’ll arrive at Carlisle Bay, where you can spend the day snorkelling around shipwrecks, swimming in turquoise waters, or simply lounging under a palm tree.
This excursion is ideal for anyone seeking a laid-back day in paradise.
Harrison’s Cave, Barbados
The Harrison’s Cave tour takes you underground to explore one of Barbados’ most spectacular natural wonders. This limestone cave is filled with impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and rock pools.
You’ll travel through the cave on an electric tram, taking in the unique formations and the underground waterfall. It’s an awe-inspiring excursion that reveals a side of Barbados many visitors don’t get to see, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Why choose Marella Cruises for your Caribbean cruise?
Marella Cruises offers an exceptional way to explore the Caribbean, combining all-inclusive luxury with unforgettable experiences.
With no tipping required and drinks included, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday.
Marella’s variety of itineraries and excursions ensures there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion. Again, the exact excursions available will vary depending on your itinerary, but you’ll have plenty of fantastic options to choose from.
Barbados is a thrilling destination – and Marella is your perfect partner to enjoy it.
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If you found this interesting, please share!
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.
