cruise ship marella explorer 2

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Marella Explorer 2

Former names: skysea golden era, ms century, celebrity century.

Cruise line Marella Cruises

• Dubrovnik (Croatia, Port Gruz)
• Montego Bay (Jamaica)
• La Romana (Dominicana)
• Palma de Mallorca (Majorca Island Balearic Spain)

Marella Explorer 2 current position

Marella Explorer 2 current location is at West Mediterranean (coordinates 39.86364 N / 8.55491 E) cruising en route to ITQOS. The AIS position was reported 3 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Marella Explorer 2

Marella Explorer 2 current cruise is 9 days, one-way from Palma de Mallorca to Dubrovnik . Prices start from USD 1551 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 30 Apr, 2024 and ends on 09 May, 2024 .

Specifications of Marella Explorer 2

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Marella Explorer 2 Itineraries

Marella explorer 2 review, review of marella explorer 2.

The 1995-built (as "Celebrity Century") cruise ship Marella Explorer 2 was previously operated as "SkySea Golden Era". It is one of the Century-class vessels, with sisterships Mein Schiff 1 (former Celebrity Galaxy, since 2018 Marella Explorer 1 ) and Celebrity Mercury (fka Mein Schiff 2/Schiff Herz, since 2023 Marella Voyager ). The vessel was sold to "Marella Cruises" (TUI's UK brand) in 2018.

The vessel (IMO number 9072446) is Malta- flagged  (MMSI 249054000) and registered in  Valletta .

History - construction and ownership

Marella Cruises (formerly Thomson Cruises UK) is a British passenger shipping company and trademarked travel brand owned by TUI Group. The company entered the cruise market in 1973 via Thomson Holidays (now TUI UK), but due to rising fuel costs, this service was terminated in 1976. Thomson Cruises restarted passenger shipping operations in 1995. The Thomson brand was renamed to "Marella Cruises" in 2018. Marella's parent company (TUI Group) owns hotels, the sister-companies TUI Cruises, Marella Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, the travel brands International Expeditions and Zegrahm Expeditions, also aircraft and the airlines Corsair International (France), TUI Airways (UK), TUI fly Nordic (Sweden), TUI fly Belgium, TUI fly Deutschland, TUI fly the Netherlands.

This 1900-passenger ship was built for the Royal Caribbean's subsidiary company Celebrity Cruises , renamed to "Celebrity Mercury" in 2008 and joined TUI fleet in 2009 after an extensive drydock refit . The reconstruction project resulted in adding 314 cabin balconies, 14 new suites, 10 new cabins, new specialty restaurant (Murano, with glass-blowing performances), larger spa, upgraded (Millennium-class) shipboard amenities and services.

The ship entered Marella's fleet  (TUI's UK brand) in late-2018. In March 2018, TUI Group announced that to Marella UK will be transferred SkySea Golden Era (and not Schiff 2/Schiff Herz), with scheduled delivery in December 2018.

January 2014 news reports from France (including the CDF website) said Century will join the CDF fleet in 2015. CDF was an RCG-Royal Caribbean brand operating the French market with 2 ex-Celebrity vessels - MS Zenith and MS Horizon . The news said Century will replace Zenith, which will join Pullmantur (RCG's brand in Spain). For 2014, CDF expected to carry ~100,000 passengers, and with the Century they expected to serve ~120,000 customers in 2015. Program 2015's updates also included new shore excursion packages (3- to 5-tours, depending on itinerary) priced just EUR 100 per package.

Initially was announced that in March 2019, the old Schiff 2 (Herz) will be transferred to Marella and operated as "Marella Explorer 2". However, in March 2018 was announced that it stays in TUI fleet under the new name "Mein Schiff Herz" (announced in April).

Explorer 2 joined Marella's fleet as the 4th liner transferred from other RCG-owned brands. The vessel was preceded by Marella Discovery (2015, former Splendour of the Seas), Marella Discovery 2 (2017, former Legend of the Seas) and TUI Explorer, now Marella Explorer (2018, the old Mein Schiff 1).

The ship features fleet's first kids' pool, innovative entertainment program, 10 dining venues. Another first for Marella is the tasting menu-type restaurant in one of the brand new yet-unnamed venues, described as "an intimate space, suited for couples or friends".

The Indigo flagship bar is ship's focal point. A new high-end London style bar venue (named Aperitif) links Kora La and Surf and Turf restaurants. Other features include The Scoops (ice-cream parlour with bicycle-themed quirky seating), The Lounge (new venue with colour-changing bar and brightly-coloured piano), Hot Stone Grill (specialty dining venue / at fee).

Decks and Cabins

Of all Marella Explorer 2 staterooms (907 total), ~40% have private steop-out balconies. All cabins are with individual air-conditioning, wardrobes, smart HDTV, hairdryer, tea-coffee-making facilities, en-suite bathrooms. Accommodation types include:

• Indoor (16 m2, fleet's largest), Outdoor (17 m2), Single Indoor / Outdoor cabins (Decks 4, 5, 8, 9)
• Balcony cabins (17 m2), 14x Family Balcony (20 m2; decks 9, 10, 12, each with 2 twin beds)
• Suites - Balcony Junior Suite (22 m2) and Executive Suite (49 m2)

The boat has 13 decks , of which 10 are passenger-accessible and 6 are with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Marella Explorer 2 has a total of 10 dining venues, including Surf and Turf, Kora La, The Terrace, and Snack Shack. The Kora La features Oriental-style lanterns and paintings paired with a pan-Asian menu of noodle dishes and curries. This is a fine dining addition and there is a small premium to eat here.

Dining venues onboard are located on decks 5, 6, 7 and 11. Follows the complete list of Marella Explorer 2 restaurants and food bars.

• Latitude 53, situated on two decks, 5 and 6, is the main waiter service restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows and gold-and-grey color scheme.
• Vista on Deck 5, situated in Latitude 53. In the evening, it transforms into an Italian restaurant for regional favorites prepared with authentic ingredients.
• The Dining Club on Deck 5 is a fine dining restaurant which serves experimental cuisine. There is a charge to dine here. In 2019 was introduced the "Great Musical Afternoon Tea" - music-themed dining experience that includes white-gloved waiter service, gourmet dishes and signature beverages. The menu includes items like tiger bread (aka Dutch crunch / Giraffe bread ), double-decker sandwiches, beef tenderloin, yakitori (Japanese skewered chicken), homemade desserts (scones, clotted cream, NYC cheesecake), 6 different brand teas, cocktails, champagne. Great Musical Afternoon Tea is at surcharge (GBP 15 per person) and reservations are required.
• Kora La on Deck 7 has oriental-style lanterns and paintings paired with a pan-Asian menu. Passengers pay a cover charge to eat here.
• Surf and Turf Steakhouse on Deck 7 specializes in all things meat. Its menu includes mains like lobster, grilled chicken, and pork chops, but the highlight is the 28-day-aged steaks. There is a chopping board artwork as well as leather booth seating. Cover charge is applied for dining here.
• Snack Shack on Deck 11 is a laidback eatery featuring food stalls, oversized deckchairs, and beach huts. It offers grab-and-go snacks and lunches along with a drinks station.
• The Market Place on Deck 11 is a buffet restaurant where guests can watch the chefs prepare dishes from around the world. It is made up of different food stalls.
• "Beach Cove" serves barbecue specialties providing "on the beach" al fresco dining.
• Nonna’s is an Italian trattoria (pizzeria-type restaurant) serving traditional made-to-order Italian pizzas (oven-baked) and pasta.
• The Terrace (Deck 11).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

A couple of the largest new features aboard the 13-deck Marella Explorer 2 include the flagship bar, club and casino Indigo (situated at the top deck), and the first at sea Champneys Spa. Indigo is home to the longest bar onboard the ship and features the Broadway show lounge able to accommodate 1,000 guests. The Broadway street lounge is on Decks 6 and 7, which also house other entertainment facilities. The venue hosts cocktail-making sessions and demos. Entertainment facilities include Indigo Club with a DJ booth and dance floor, and Indigo Casino with card tables and slot machines.

The swimming pool is on Deck 11, which also homes the Oceans Gym and Champneys Spa. The wellness complex also includes a Finnish Sauna (with floor-ceiling windows), full-service Thermal Suite, treatment suites (with showers and mini saunas), spa cabanas (on the adults-only Veranda Deck).

Follows the complete list of Marella Explorer 2 lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults.

• The Lounge (Deck 6) has a color-changing bar, ring-shaped seats, and hot-pink piano.
• Bar 53 (Deck 5) is a bar situated next to Latitude 53, perfectly placed for pre-dinner drinks.
• The Shack (Deck 12) offers cool-down drinks between sunbathing. It is above Snack Shack and overlooks the pool.
• Indigo Bar (Deck 12) features fleet's longest bar. Cocktail-making sessions and flare demonstrations take place here.
• "19th Hole" is a clubhouse bar with golf buggy-seating and two golf simulators. Here are served craft beers and golf-themed cocktails.
• The sophisticated "Flutes" (bubbles bar) caters for Champagne and Prosecco wine lovers and is the best bar for pre- and post dinner cocktails.
• "Broadway Show Lounge" is on two decks (6 and 7) and has a capacity of 1,000 people. It offers waiter service and brand-new shows.
• Indigo Casino (Deck 12) is ship's gambling lounge fitted with gaming tables and slot machines. Indigo Club is in the middle of Indigo.
• Aperitif (Deck 7) is a stylish bar with Champagne and Prosecco on the menu. It is a great spot to head for a drink before or after meals at one of the specialty restaurants.
• "Squid and Anchor Pub" (Deck 7) is Marella's first ship pub. There are 2 bars to pick from, one of which deals in premium whiskies and gins, that are chargeable. The spot is home to quiz nights and a live band.
• "Scoops" is a vintage-looking ice-cream parlor serving gelato. The seating is quirky and includes a collection of bike seats sit that face out to sea. A charge is applied here.
• "The Coffee Port" (at a fee) serves Lavazza and gourmet sweets. It overlooks the Atrium and offers live piano performances.
• "Movies by Moonlight" (Cinema) offers family-friendly movies, plus extra screenings during the high season.
• "M Club" is ship's Kids Club, with games from M Crew (ship-exclusive character).
• Broad Street Shops are ship's boutiques stocked with travel essentials, duty-free merchandise, perfumes and cosmetics, jewelry, gifts, and souvenirs.
• Photo Studio & Kiosks (Deck 6) provides professional photoshoot. Photo kiosks allow passengers to view and buy photos made by the liner's photography team.
• For "Champneys Spa" Marella Cruises partnered with Champneys Luxury Health Spa Resorts (UK brand). Passengers can book premium treatments (facials, body wraps, massages) and also use the Beauty Salon. Champneys Spa is Marella fleet's largest and also includes Relaxation Room, treatment rooms (with bathtubs), made-for-two suites, adults-only Sauna Room (with floor-ceiling windows), Steam Room, modern Fitness (Oceans Gym).
• The outdoor swimming pool (Deck 11) is split in two by a show stage for live entertainment and other daily scheduled activities. Pool Bar serves the pool deck with various beverages (including frozen cocktails). Three whirlpools surround the swimming pool.
• The Veranda is an adults-only venue and has Balinese beds and cocoon chairs.
• At the Sports Court can be played basketball-volleyball and mini-football.
• Minigolf and Table tennis is on the top deck (called Sports and Family Deck).

Since November 2022, Marella UK (via partnership with OneSpaWorld Holdings/health and wellness company) provides ocean-inspired wellness products and services on all its ships. The range of OneSpaWorld's services includes Ocean Body Treatments (massages and polishes), Ocean Facial, Ocean Salon Services. On Marella ships, OneSpaWorld uses premium beauty brands like Elemis, L'Oreal, Kerastase. The brands owned by OneSpaWorld include Mandara Spa, Bliss Spa, Chavana Spa, Glow Spa.

Itineraries

Marella Explorer 2 itinerary program was initially based on Adriatic and Mediterranean 7-day cruises leaving roundtrip from homeport Naples Italy .

During winter 2019-2020, the liner was deployed to the Caribbean and homeported in Bridgetown (Barbados) with 3x roundtrip itineraries visiting the islands St Lucia, Aruba, Saint Vincent.

Following the Coronavirus crisis, in 2021 Marella Explorer 2 was scheduled to restart operations in July (2021) with homeporting in Newcastle upon Tyne, England and itineraries themed as:

• 3-night "A Taste Of Scotland" ( cruise to nowhere /coastal navigation/portless itinerary)
• 6-night "British Treasures" (Invergordon, Lerwick, Dundee)
• 7-night "Gaelic Getaway" (Belfast, Greenock-Glasgow, Kirkwall, Dundee)
• 7-night "British Delights" (Greenock-Glasgow, Holyhead Wales, Dundee, Edinburgh)
• 8-night "Celtic Explorer" (Belfast, Greenock-Glasgow, Invergordon, Edinburgh)
• 11-night "Coastal Charms" (Dover, Portsmouth, Liverpool, Belfast, Torbay, Le Havre-Paris)
• 12-night "Icelandic Adventure" (Lerwick, Iceland - Reykjavik, Isafjord, Akureyri, and Kirkwall)

Followed the winter 2021-2022 Caribbean season with homeporting in  Montego Bay Jamaica .

For 2022, the ship was homeported in Dubrovnik Croatia for 7-day roundtrip itineraries:

• "Adriatic Affair" (Rijeka Croatia, Ravenna, Koper Slovenia, Venice, Split Croatia)
• "Adriatic Delights" (Zadar Croatia, Trieste, Venice, Ancona, Split Croatia)
• "Sail Three Seas" (Valletta Malta, Messina Sicily, Taranto, Corfu, Kotor Montenegro)
• "Greek Mystique" (Chania Crete, Piraeus-Athens, Katakolon-Olympia, Corfu, Kotor Montenegro)

Marella Explorer 2 - user reviews and comments

Photos of marella explorer 2.

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Other Marella Cruises cruise ships

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Marella Explorer 2 Wiki

The ship's powerplant is based on MAN B&W marine diesel engines (models 9L48/60 and 6L48/60) with combined power output 29,25 MW (39225 hp).

The vessel has Meyer Werft Papenburg yard/hull number 637, volume 72458 GT-tons, DWT-deadweight tonnage 7260 tons, max draught 8,1 m.

In the period 2015-2018, the ship (named "SkySea Golden Era") served the newly-established China-based company "SkySea Cruise Line" (a joint venture of the RCCL-Royal Caribbean and Ctrip International Ltd). In late 2014, RCCL decided to sell the vessel to Ctrip for USD 157 million. The ship was transferred in April 2015 and started operations in China. In the period 2015-2018, the liner completed nearly 300 voyages and carried around 0,5 million passengers.

The Marella ship Explorer 2 was christened on March 30, 2019. The naming ceremony was held in Port Malaga (Spain) . Vessel's godmothers are Mary Moreno (executive chef with TUI-Marella since 2015) and Paula Clark (cabin manager with TUI Cruises since 2004). The newly refurbished liner started its Inaugural Cruise (for Marella) from homeport Palma de Mallorca on April 2 (2019).

Next table shows maiden voyage's itinerary (7-day "Treasures Of The Mediterranean") as port sequence and arrival/departure times.

Marella Explorer 2 refurbishment 2019 review

The ship's last drydocking was in 2023 (October 31 to November 26) and was conducted at Navantia (Cadiz). The project was for general maintenance works, class inspections, and technical overhauls.

The drydock conversion of SkySea Golden Era into Marella Explorer 2 was done at Navantia Shipyard ( Cadiz Spain ) in the period January 26 - March 27 (2019). Before that, the vessel visited COSCO Shipyard ( Zhoushan China ) for general maintenance before the 1-month long repositioning (via Suez Canal ) to Europe (Mediterranean).

The 8-week drydock project involved ~1520 people (contractors, partners, Marella's crew, ~300 Trimline specialists) and 190,000+ manhours. The project included new carpeting shipwide (~43 km2 / 16 mi2 carpets were laid), ~70 km (43,5 mi) of network cables, installing a total of 640 WiFI points, complete repainting (hull and superstructure), glass refurbs, cabin upgrades, rebranding. The liner was also loaded with 9,5 tons of Marella Cruises-branded merchandise and ~1000 crew uniforms and show costumes.

New (added during the refit) venues were Clubhouse Bar, 19th Hole (two golf simulators, golf buggy-seating, craft beers, golf-themed cocktails), Flutes (wine bar), Nonna's (Italian trattoria for traditional pizza and pasta), The Beach Cove (BBQ dishes). Topdeck's Veranda (VIP sunbathing area) was doubled in size (in comparison to the sistership Marella Explorer 1 ). A new cabin category was also introduced (Royal Suite, sized 102 m2 / 1100 ft2).

The 2019 drydocking project was managed by Trimline Ltd (marine interior refurbishment specialist) and also included the redesign and refreshing of most onboard venues and public areas - Lido Marketplace (restaurant), Indigo Club, both Coffee Ports (USB ports added), Squid and Anchor Pub, Broadway (show bar lounge), Latitude 53 (restaurant), Vista (MDR/dining room).

Since January 26, 2019, ship management services are provided by the Hamburg -based company CCS (Columbia Cruise Services Ltd).

During drydock 2020 (done at Damen Shiprepair Amsterdam by Trimline), all staterooms were renovated (ceilings and walls repainted) including their bathrooms. Some Suites received new wood floorings. Market Place Buffet Restaurant (Deck 11) was updated with a new, more durable resin flooring.

SkySea Golden Era ship review

Starting roundtrip itineraries from homeports China in May 2015, Celebrity Century became "SkySea Golden Era" - fleet's first (and only) vessel. In 2018, the liner was homeported in Xiamen and Shanghai , operating on roundtrips to Japan (visiting Miyakojima and Naha Okinawa ), Vietnam (visiting Da Nang and Halong Bay ) and the Philippines.

On March 29, 2018, SkySea Cruise Line announced the boat's last voyage. The 4-night (roundtrip Shanghai itinerary August 29 - September 2, 2018) visited Japan ( Hakata-Fukuoka City ). The last cruise featured unique onboard events, including Champagne Reception party, Farewell Dessert, commemorative gift (for each passenger), onboard discounted shopping coupons, 10% booking discount for past passengers. "SkySea Voice" (shipboard singing competition show) had its grand finale on the 4-day voyage August 25-29.

SkySea Golden Era had a total of 907 cabins, of which 75 were Suites. The cabin grades were 26. Dining venues included The Grand Restaurant (main dining room), The Murano Restaurant, The Islands Cafe (Lido buffet restaurant), Veranda Grill (poolside grill bar), Sushi Bar, Sunset Bar. The list of lounges and bars included Rendezvous, The Crystal Room (disco nightclub), Cova Cafe, Martini, Michael's, poolside bars, Hemisphere (nightclub). The ship had Aqua Spa, 4 jacuzzis, 2 swimming pools.

Onboard entertainment was of good quality and adult-oriented. Inaugurated on January 24, 2018, the SAMAJAM was a new music show introduced on the ship. It was interactive (allowing audience participation) and allowing private booking (providing customized performances during corporate events at sea / held on the ship). The new show was scheduled on every SkySea cruise in 2018.

Celebrity Century's first cruise was on December 20, 1995, initially named "GTS Century". In April 2006, the ship stayed 5 weeks into drydock at Fincantieri's shipyard. This was the company's most expensive refurbishment (refit and upgrade). During the refit, the vessel received 14 new suites, 10 new staterooms and to 314 rooms were added balconies. The ship also received its "Murano" specialty restaurant (French cuisine) and the spa complex was expanded.

Prior to the SkySea service, Celebrity Century was refitted and refurbished in Singapore . Among the changes done was renewing the ship's restaurants (to offer meals more appetizing to Chinese tourists), new trampoline, mini-golf course. The ship had fleet's only "AquaSpa Cafe" (healthy food choices). Fun fact is that the liner was the setting for the episode "Ship of Fran's" from the series "The Nanny" season 3.

Celebrity Century was the first cruise ship with an ice bar - called "Martini Bar and Crush". It's very attractive with a liquid wall that freezes (forming a crystalline appearance) and the bar counter freezing into stone. The liquor behind the bar is in a solid ice block. Century also has a cigar bar and the Michael's Club - with hand-rolled cigars, port wine, and fine cognacs.

Celebrity Cruises parent company RCCL (Royal Caribbean) sold at the end of 2014 the ship to the Chinese travel company Ctrip for the price of USD 157 million. The ship joined the fleet of Exquisite Marine (a Ctrip Holdings subsidiary) in April 2015. Among the deckplan changes on the "Chinese ship" were new restaurants, new ice bar, added trampoline and a mini-golf course.

Ctrip is China's leading travel agency, and also one of the largest travel brands in the country. The company's business is in transportation ticketing, accommodation reservation, travel tour packages, corporate travel deals. Ctrip is also a cruise booking agency, holding over 10% of China's cruising market.

SkySea Holdings was founded in 2013 with Stone Capital - a Shanghai-based private equity company that invests for China's wealthiest families and entrepreneurs. However, the company was not announced until the RCI partnership. Both RCCL and Ctrip each have a 35% stake, while the remaining 30% is held by Stone Capital. SkySea Cruises is managed by Min Fan (Ctrip's Vice Chairman, President, and co-founder) who is the company's CEO and Chairman. Management staff comes from both RCCL and Ctrip. Ctrip provides the marketing network, technical expertise, customer base and travel agency services, while RCCL handles cruise operations and crew management.

RCCL's SkySea brand targeted China's middle- to high-level cruising market, focusing on 30- to 60-year-old consumers. The company had plans to add a ship a year (acquiring older vessels from other companies) and eventually to order a newbuild . In 2014 (1 year before SkySea Cruises started operations) the number of Chinese cruise ship tourists reached 90 million.

In Spring 2017, SkySea Cruise Line added South Korea as a departure port option to ship's Shanghai homeport program. Passengers had the option to board the ship in Busan , cruise to Japan, disembark in China (Shanghai) and from China take a home flight back to South Korea.

SkySea Golden Era refurbishment 2017 review

On November 16, 2017, SkySea Cruises announced the completion of the ship's drydock (October 25 through November 11) done at COSCO Shipyard (Zhoushan, China). For this renovation project, SkySea partnered with CSSC (China State Shipbuilding Corporation) and G-Art (interior design and renovations).

• The dry-dock included routine maintenance works, as well as adding 2 new conference halls (meeting rooms) on decks 7 and 12.
• "SkySea Board Room" (Deck 7) has max capacity 50 seats.
• "SkySea Conference Room" (Deck 12) has capacity 100 seats.
• Grand Restaurant was renovated with a new Chinese theme.
• A new beauty salon was opened via a partnership with PhiSkin. Ship's retail shops were expanded. A new pharmacy was added as a retail offering.

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Marella Explorer 2 Deck Plans & Reviews

Marella Explorer 2

Activities & entertainment

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Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Ship Review

We cruised for 1 week on the Marella Explorer 2 in May 2019. This was our 4th Marella cruise , previously cruising on the Celebration , Dream and Discovery .

In our Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Ship review, we show you around the bar’s, lounges, restaurants, pool decks and discuss the food and dining options. We also show you around two types of cabins, a balcony and outside cabin and inform you of the navigate app and discuss the different WiFi packages that are available on board.

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Bars and Lounges –

The 19th hole bar.

Found on deck 7 this golf themed bar is a new concept to Marella. This bar has memorabilia and trophy’s adorning the walls with the decoration resembling Ronny Corbetts trousers, think we are showing our age now! There is comfortable seating including two golf buggies that have been converted in to tables and chairs, where you can enjoy your speciality golf themed cocktails.

The big bonus for avid golfers are the two state of the art golf simulators, which include the longest drive, closest to the pin plus many more on the famous golf courses from around the world. Free demos were available or for a additional cost could be hired by the hour with the golf instructors.

We are not into golf but did try a few drinks in here and its fair to say its not like anything else we have encountered on a cruise ship, excellent service and a fun environment.

Flutes – The Champagne Bar on the Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Ship

If bubbles are your thing then you will love Futes! A very classy champagne bar with the the added bonus of the giant LED screen that stretches up from the floor below. The LED screen is mesmerising and when you add the classical pianist to the mix this is a beautiful place to sit and relax. This is also where you’ll find one of our favourite waiter’s Kamal, who provides exceptional service and has the biggest smile!

Aperitif Bar

Found on deck 6, this is a great place for a pre dinner drink situated in between the speciality restaurants, Kora La and Surf and Turf. We were very well looked after by Alexandra here who we met on the Marella Discovery last year!

The Indigo Bar , Lounge and Casino

This was are favourite bar on the ship and where we spent a lot of time. Found right at the front of the ship on deck 12 the floor to ceiling windows offer you the best views. Spacious with lots of seating its a excellent place to literally watch the world go by.

In the mornings it is a quiet place to sit for a chat or just read your book and come the afternoon you can get some gentle exercise with line dancing classes or test your general knowledge with the daily quiz. Our favourite time was definitely sunset when the live musical entertainment kicked in. There is  something very special about listening to great music while watching a beautiful sunset and we were treated to a few of these!

The standard of the the live entertainment in this lounge was excellent. We were treated to many performances and really enjoyed the variety that was on offer.

If you fancy a flutter its also the home of the casino situated to the right hand side of the lounge. Four tables and a dozen or so slot machines are there to keep you occupied. For all you night owls this is the place to be for a late night boogie with the resident DJ spinning your favourite tunes and is also the home of the silent disco which is hilarious. If you’ve never been to one its a must and we even managed to get Paul’s 84 year Dad John to give it a go, and he had a great time!

Squid and Anchor Pub

Marella call this the pub at sea and its easy to see why, a wide variety of seating from sofas to bar stools and a small dance floor. This is the home of band jam where all the musicians from around the ship come together to form a cruise super group sometimes with hilarious effect. They really are a very talented bunch, with musical director Tom Beech at the helm you know your in for a good time.

In here you will also find interactive game shows and quizzes, it can be a fun place to be. You will also find the Whiskey and Gin Bar which unfortunately is only included in the premium All Inclusive drinks package.

From here there is also access to an outside area at the aft of the ship, this is where you will find one of the smoking areas.

Here is an example of the standard drinks menu in the Squid and Anchor.

Pin for future reference!

Broadway Show Lounge

This lavish Broadway Theatre had things we liked and things we didn’t. There were lots of steps so if you had mobility issues, as Paul’s Dad John does then you had no choice but to sit at the back. This was a real shame as the theatre shows are one of the things that John loves and you definitely do get a different experience if you are nearer the stage.

There is also no waiter service but you can collect drinks on the way in , drinks choices included bottled beer, presecco, some wines and a few different cocktails so not a brilliant choice. However, you could bring your drinks that you had ordered at the other bars and there were little tables in front of the seats so you could place your drinks there too.

Lavish costumes and a massive digital screen at the back of the stage really was impressive, as was the vocal and dancing performances of the show team.

Do also check out our Bars and Lounges guide here where we tour the areas described above.

Food and Dining Options

Latitude 53 restaurant.

The main dining room covers decks 5 and 6. Situated right at the back of the ship it offers excellent wake views. There is something very calming watching the wake of the ship as you enjoy your dinner. This restaurant is beautifully decorated with a winding staircase that links the two floors with a grand piano being the centre piece at the top of the stairs.

The food and service was excellent every time we visited and unlike some main dining rooms there was plenty of room between the tables. We really could not fault it here with the food high spots being an amazing lamb shank, a succulent beef wellington and an excellent selection of soups plus the best chocolate moose we have ever tasted!

The upstairs of Latitude, on the left hand side of the dining area converts into a Italian inspired restaurant in the evenings but we never managed to try it but were told by other passengers that it was very good.

To be honest we were really nervous about sitting on the Captain’s table but ended up having one of the best nights. If you are ever invited then make sure you accept the invitation too!

The Market Place – The buffet restaurant on the Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Ship

The Market Place can be found on deck 11 and is open from 6 30 am for breakfast right through to 1 am for your late night snacks. Breakfast options include a full English to continental. A tea and coffee station including juices is also available. The restaurant is very spacious with lots of seating and also has a lovely out side area called the Terrace for those that prefer to dine alfresco.

Even at the busiest times there were always seats available. Lunch and dinner offered a decent choice if you didn’t fancy the waiter service restaurant but do make sure you check out both sides as sometimes different options can be found. there is also a self service beer cider and wine dispenser if you fancy a little tipple with your meal, the night buffet had a selection of burgers fries salads and curries plus a few puddings to send you off to bed with a sugar rush.

We found plenty to eat here but did not feel there was the amount of choices that we have had on our previous Marella experiences.

The Beach cove

If cooked meats and a wide array of salads is your thing then the Beach Cove is definitely for you. There is also a selection of cakes and cookies for you to enjoy. This restaurant is on the pool deck in an enclosed glassed area, it has lots of seating and even swing sofas. It is a great place to sit to have your morning cuppa.

Nonna’s Pizza and Pasta Restaurant

Found on the pool deck in the opposite corner to the pool bar is Nonna’s. It is a pizza pasta restaurant with a difference. Open for lunch and dinner you can help yourself to slices of pizza from the the many on offer. You can then decide from the list provided what type of pasta dish you would like, just choose your pasta type, sauce and ingredients and within minutes you have a lovely fresh bowl of pasta presented to you. It really was excellent and is all part of the all inclusive. The only complaint we had is that we didn’t try this until near the end of our cruise and so wished we had found it earlier!

Snack Shack

Found on the pool deck opposite the Beach cove, this snack bar offers traditional fish and chips, burgers and chicken wings. There is also a good selection of salads and sandwiches and fresh fruit which you can take away if you choose to do so. Set with a beach theme, tables are in beach huts it gives a real seaside feel, and the food is very good too!

Speciality restaurants

There are 3 speciality restaurants on board the Marella Explorer 2 cruise ship. The Surf & Turf Steakhouse, The Kora La and the Dining Club and more information about these, plus a tour of the restaurants mentioned above can be found in our Food and Dining Guide here.

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Pool decks on the marella explorer 2 cruise ship.

The main pool deck can be found on deck 11. It has two pools separated by a small raised walk way which weather permitting is used for day time entertainment and sail aways. There is also a stage where the resident bands perform daily, again weather permitting. As well as the two pools you’ll find another raised area which houses the four hot whirlpools these always seemed popular regardless of the weather.

The pool bar has a large seating area that is in the shade and ideal place for those who are not so keen on the sun. The bar opened at midday and with plenty of waiters also around the pools it was never an issue getting a drink. There is a self service coffee and tea station to enjoy too.

You can also find Scoops on the pool deck that sells ice cream and waffles but this was at a extra cost and to be fair never seemed that popular. There were lots of sunbeds but as with any ship there never seems to be quite enough on a sea day but we always managed to get one when we wanted one. Come night fall and the movies under the stars kicks in with blankets and hot drinks on offer.

One floor up is the upper pool deck where you will find the smoking area and more sunbeds. Here is where you will also find the Shack Bar. Tucked away in the corner of the upper pool deck, it is bright yellow so hard to miss. Open during the day and an ideal spot for a sail away, we always had great banter with the staff here and watching them try to hone there juggling skills always made us laugh!

This is where you will also find the Veranda a quieter sunbathing area. Here you can book private cabanas via the spa for £99 a day for a couple which included spa access too. If you just want access to the spa for the day it costs £15pp per day but you can come and go as you please from 8am- 10pm.

This is where you will also find one of two cows on board!

The Promenade Deck on the Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Ship

One of our favourite places on a cruise ship is the promenade deck and this one did not disappoint. A quiet place in the day to sit and read your book and a perfect spot for a sunset at sea!

Deck 9 Balcony Cabin

We booked a balcony cabin and were allocated cabin 9194. Having a balcony cabin was a real treat and even though the weather was not kind to us on our cruise we spent a lot of time on our balcony. We were very happy in this cabin, watch our cabin tour video below to find out why.

Outside Cabi n Deck 4

We were travelling with Paul’s Dad and Brother and they stayed in an outside cabin on deck 4. Watch our cabin tour here.

Reception and customer service

We can not fault the service we received on board and we must give a special mention to Stefan on reception who was very patient with us when we had issues with accessing our WiFi. As mentioned above Captain Richard was a real character and his nonchalant addresses did make us laugh. Elaine the social hostess was great fun too and the service we received in the bars and restaurants was excellent.

Cruise News and the Marella Navigate App

The cruise news daily paper is delivered to your room every day on the Explorer 2. However, there is also a App which is free to use called the Navigate App. This app is only available to download onto your phone or tablet when you get on the ship. Here we explain how it works.

WiFi Packages

If you want to stay connected at sea then there are a number of WiFi packages available on board. Here we describe the options available.

We would like to thank Marella Cruises for providing complimentary WiFi during our stay that enabled us to share our experience on all our social media channels.

Pin it for future reference!

We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise on the Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Ship. It is a great ship with a fabulous crew.

Our cruise was all inclusive which takes away the worry of going over your budget. We didn’t feel the need to up grade to the Premier all inclusive package but that option is available to you if you wish to do so.

We have booked our 5th Marella Cruise and we are back on the Discovery this November. We are booked on the Red Sea Quest 2 visiting Jordan and Dubai and pretty excited about visiting a new part of the world for us and also cruising the Suez canal.

For more information about cruising with Marella, check out our Marella Page here or click through to their cruises page here to find out what cruise itinerary would suit you!

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Marella Explorer 2 Overview

Why cruise on this ship.

Marella Cruises' newest addition, the Marella Explorer 2, joined their fleet in summer 2019. Read more to discover more about this state of the art ship.

Value for Money

Delivers unparalleled experiences without compromising on affordability

Understand why that Value For Money

Marella Cruises – formerly Thomson Cruises - is to add a fifth ship to its fleet in 2023. Having parted with Marella Celebration and Marella Dream during the pandemic, the line is to acquire Mein Schiff Herz from the parent TUI Group and convert it into Marella Voyager.

The new addition, originally from the same Celebrity Cruises Century-Class as Marella Explorer and Explorer 2, will feature two new venues for Marella – a Mexican diner and a secret speakeasy bar.

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Marella explorer 2 itineraries, 9 night mystic isles, 7 night adriatic affair, 7 night sail three seas, 7 night adriatic delights, 7 night greek mystique, 8 night spanish sunsets 1, 9 night spanish sunsets 2, 7 night canarian flavours, marella cruises fleet.

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New to TTG?

Marella cruises unveils first ‘trade-wide’ incentive to woo third-party agents.

Marella Cruises’ first-ever “trade-wide” booking incentive is offering top-selling cruise agents the chance to win a place on a Caribbean sailing next year. 

The “Make it on Marella” incentive winners will sail on adult-only ship Marella Explorer 2 from the Tui-owned line’s new homeport at La Romana, Dominican Republic, 

Marella Explorer 2 will call into St Maarten, Dominica, Antigua, British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic during the sailing. 

The trip will be hosted by Marella Cruises and Tui staff, who will “immerse” agents in the line’s product offerings. 

To enter the competition, agents must log as many Marella Cruises package bookings as possible on a digital form set up by the line before 31 December .

The 20 top-selling agents – plus five “wildcard” places – will join a seven-night Colours of the Caribbean itinerary departing on 11 March 2025. 

Chris Hackney, Marella Cruises managing director, said: “It’s important that we give our trusted travel agents a unique trip to immerse themselves in the product whilst also experiencing one of our new Caribbean homeports for 2025 in La Romana, Dominican Republic.” 

In recent months, Tui has bolstered its trade sales team to provide more support to independent travel agents selling its products, including Marella Cruises. 

It has admitted it has neglected independent agents to Jet2’s gain in the past. 

Kuoni to launch bookable website allowing agents to name their own price and commission

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