Josie Klein explores Marella Cruises by Tui’s newest recruit, launched in June 2023
Overview: Marella Voyager was the fifth ship to join Marella Cruises’ fleet when it took its maiden voyage in June. The vessel was originally built for Celebrity Cruises and launched in 1997, but was transferred to the Tui Cruises fleet in 2019 before being retired, renamed and relaunched. The 14 -deck ship accommodates 1,912 passengers and is the largest in the fleet by gross tonnage.
Cabins: The 901 cabins range from single cabins for solo travellers to family cabins, which can sleep up to five people, all with simple, neutral decor. Balcony cabins have space for two outdoor chairs and a table, while large balcony cabins include a chaise longue and a hammock. The ship also features 51 suites, including some with decoration inspired by two of the line’s favourite ports of call – Santorini and Saint Lucia.
Food and drink: There are 17 dining venues on Marella Voyager, the most of any Tui ship. New concept The Kitchens is a food hall made up of eight stations, including The Gravy Boat, which serves traditional roast dinners and yorkshire pudding wraps; Banyan Leaf, which offers Asian curries; and Athena’s, where passengers can enjoy Greek-style pittas with houmous and tzatziki.
Those eating in the main restaurant Latitude 53, which is included in the cruise fare, can enjoy the floor-to-ceiling views as they dine. Speciality restaurant Kora La has made a return, serving pan-Asian dishes, while new restaurant Silver Fork puts a twist on British classics, and offers a tasting menu.
The 10 onboard bars include Flutes, a piano bar, where ‘push for bubbles’ buttons call waiters to your table, and Aperitif, a trendy pre-dinner drink spot. Then there’s The Shack, which is great for cocktails by the pool, and The Arts House, a creative hub by day which turns into a lively bar at night.
Facilities: New for this ship is The Exchange, an adult-only bar on deck eight. Passengers can pop into the 1920s-style speakeasy for a cocktail, or book the immersive theatre. There is a £14.95 charge for the latter, which includes three premium cocktails and 90 minutes of entertainment. There are clubs for children of all ages, as well as a kids’ pool. There is also mini golf, an indoor cinema and Oceans spa, where treatments start at £19.
USP: Most of the action happens on deck 11, with the pool as the central hub and Snack Shack serving light bites to grab and go. For over-18s seeking some peace and quiet, deck 14 is home to adult-only relaxation spot The Veranda with private cabanas available to hire. Those who like to dance can pop down to deck 12 and into the Electric Rooms Bar, with its huge neon signs and LED dancefloor.
Book it: An eight-day Magic of Spain cruise costs from £1,270 per person, based on two adults sharing an Inside Cabin. The round-trip departs Palma on June 8, 2024, and calls at Gibraltar, Cadiz, Malaga, Almeria and Alicante.
tui.co.uk/cruise
PICTURES: Tom Fallon
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