Marella Cruises

Marella is the cruise brand of TUI, the European travel giant behind TUI holidays and airlines. It sailed for years as Thomson Cruises and was renamed Marella Cruises in 2017, when the parent company consolidated its brands. The line has always been about straightforward, good-value cruise holidays for British families and couples, sold as packages with flights on TUI aircraft.

The fleet is five mid-size ships acquired from other lines and refitted: Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager. Each carries around 2,000 guests. Marella Explorer 2 is adults-only, and the line has been adding more adults-only sailings across the fleet in response to demand, while Marella Voyager and other ships remain family-friendly.

Rather than sailing from Southampton, most Marella cruises start at fly-cruise bases such as Palma de Mallorca, Corfu and Tenerife in Europe, and Barbados, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean, with flights from airports across the UK.

Marella is laid-back and unpretentious, a cruise that feels like an all-inclusive resort holiday. Passengers are almost entirely British, from families on the family ships to couples and retirees on adults-only sailings. Dress is casual, with smart evenings rather than strict formal nights. Entertainment, food and humor are geared to British tastes. Because it is part of TUI’s UK holiday business, cruises are typically sold as packages with UK flights, transfers and sometimes hotel stays, which makes them convenient for UK residents and awkward for anyone starting from North America.

Main restaurants and buffets serve British and international comfort food with open or flexible seating. Specialty dining is the main extra cost, with venues such as the Surf & Turf steakhouse and an Asian-themed restaurant on several ships. Snack bars, pizza and afternoon treats are included. Food is reliable holiday fare rather than gourmet.

Evenings bring West End-style production shows, tribute acts, live music, quizzes and themed parties, all aimed at a British audience. Daytime includes pool games, talks, fitness classes and deck activities. Adults-only ships lean toward quieter lounges, live music and wellness.

Marella’s family ships run kids clubs with activities by age group, busiest during UK school holidays. Children are not allowed on adults-only ships and sailings, so check the ship and date if traveling as a family.

Cabins are compact to mid-size, from interiors and sea views to balconies and suites, reflecting the ships’ origins with other lines. Suites add perks such as priority boarding and premium drinks. Family cabins are available on the family ships.

Marella’s fares include drinks as standard, covering a wide range of house spirits, wine, beer, soft drinks and coffee. Premium brands and some specialty drinks cost extra, and suite guests get upgraded inclusions.

Tips are included in Marella fares, so there is no daily service charge. Extra cash tips for exceptional service are optional.