Marella Cruises Excursions - Your Questions Answered

If you are planning a Marella Cruise you may be tempted to take one of their organised excursions. Whilst it isn’t the only way to explore new destinations, it is convenient and has the advantage of protection should you return late to the ship. I won’t be looking at individual excursions in this article, as there are so many different destinations. However here are the answers to some general questions you may have.

Do Marella excursions include comfort breaks/toilet stops?

I’m asked this surprisingly frequently. Yes, most excursions include scheduled comfort breaks at suitable locations such as cafés, rest stops, or attractions with facilities. The frequency depends on the excursion length and itinerary. Guides usually advise when and where breaks will occur. If you need a stop urgently, inform your guide, and they will do their best to accommodate.

Can I leave an excursion early?

In most cases, once you’ve joined an excursion, you’re expected to stay with the group until the end. If you wish to leave early, you’ll need to make your own way back to the port at your own expense. Always inform your guide if you plan to leave. I did once forgo a carpet factory visit in Kusadasi, Turkey, but that was in walking distance of the ship.

Are Marella excursions accessible for guests with mobility issues?

There will usually be a selection of accessible excursions on Marella

Marella offers a selection of accessible excursions, but not all tours are wheelchair-friendly. Check excursion descriptions for accessibility details or speak with the onboard excursions team for advice.

Do Marella excursions include free time?

Many excursions include free time for independent exploration, shopping, or relaxation. The amount varies depending on the itinerary. Your guide will inform you of meeting points and return times.

Can I book excursions in advance?

Yes, you can book excursions online before your cruise via the Marella Cruises website or through the Marella Cruise Control app. You can also book onboard, but some popular excursions may sell out.

What happens if my excursion is delayed?

If your Marella excursion is delayed your ship will wait.

Don’t worry - If a Marella-organised excursion is delayed, the ship will wait for you. This is a key benefit of booking excursions through Marella rather than going independently.

Can I cancel an excursion?

You can cancel an excursion, but cancellation policies vary. Some may be refundable if cancelled within a certain timeframe, while others may be non-refundable. Check the terms at the time of booking.

Can I book more than one excursion in a day?

Where possible Marella’s website will allow you to book multiple excursions within one day. Obviously, if your excursions overlap you will be unable to book both.

Can I still book an excursion on a Cruise & Stay package?

Yes. You can view excursions for holiday destinations through Marella’s website website or holiday extras page.

Can I leave my children onboard while I go on an excursion?

Since there is no babysitting service onboard the ships, parents should always take their children with them when on excursions and never leave them onboard unaccompanied.

What time do excursions depart and return?

Departure times depend on the port arrival time and the excursion length. You’ll be informed of your exact departure time when you book, and it will also be printed on your excursion ticket.

If you dock early, then your tour might depart as soon as clearance is given (sometimes as early as 7 am).

Return times allow plenty of time before the ship departs. If your excursion runs late, the ship will wait for you.

How long do Marella excursions last?

Excursion durations vary depending on the type of tour:

Short excursions: 2–3 hours (e.g., city tours, panoramic drives).
Half-day excursions: 3–5 hours (e.g., cultural sightseeing, beach trips).
Full-day excursions: 6–8 hours (e.g., in-depth tours, scenic countryside trips).

Exact timings are listed in the excursion details when booking and confirmed on your ticket.

Are maps provided during excursions?

Some excursions include basic maps, especially for city tours or those including free time. If a map is provided, it will usually highlight key sights and meeting points.

If you need a map, ask your guide or check the Marella Navigator App for possible digital maps. Alternatively, think ahead and print out maps before you depart.

How much do Marella Excursions Cost?

Cost of excursions vary. Photo by Colin Watts on Unsplash

Marella Cruises offers a variety of shore excursions, with prices varying based on factors like destination, duration, and activity type.

Here’s a general overview:

Short Excursions (2–3 hours): Prices typically range from £20 to £60 per person.
Half-Day Excursions (3–5 hours): These are often priced between £32 and £118 per person.
Full-Day Excursions (6–8 hours): Expect costs ranging from £50 to £150 per person, depending on the itinerary and inclusions.

What’s included in the excursion price?

Excursions typically include transport, guide services, and entry fees where applicable. Some may also include food, drinks, or equipment (e.g., snorkelling gear). Check the excursion details for specifics.

How Do I Book a Marella Excursion?

You can book your Marella excursion online.

Online Before Your Cruise

Log in to the Marella Cruises website or Marella App.
Browse available excursions for your itinerary.
Select and pay for your chosen tours.
Your booking confirmation will be sent to you.

Onboard the Ship

Visit the Destination Services Desk to book in person.
Use the Marella Navigator App to book digitally.
Book early, as popular excursions can sell out.

Last-Minute Bookings

If there’s availability, you may be able to book on the day. Check for any waiting lists if an excursion is fully booked.

How do I pay for shore excursions onboard?

Any excursions booked onboard during your cruise will be charged to your on-board account.

How will I receive my excursion tickets?

If you have booked an excursion online you’ll receive confirmation of your tour via email which you’ll require as proof that you have booked your excursion. This is your e-ticket so you need to take this with you.

For selected excursions you may be required to complete additional information, this will be provided to you onboard if necessary. Please ensure you read all the information relating to the tours you have chosen.

What Happens on Excursion Day?

Before Departure:

You’ll receive a ticket in your cabin with details of your meeting time and place.
Meeting points are usually onboard in a lounge or on the pier.
Bring essentials like your excursion ticket, cruise card, comfortable shoes, water, and any required ID.

At the Meeting Point:

Guides will check your ticket and ID.
You may receive stickers or lanyards to identify your group.
Once all participants have arrived, you’ll disembark together.

During the Excursion:

Your guide will lead the tour, providing insights and pointing out key attractions.

Depending on the tour, you might travel by coach, minibus, boat, or on foot.

Comfort breaks (toilet stops) are usually included in longer tours.

If there’s free time, you’ll be given a meeting point and return time.

Returning to the Ship:

Excursions return well before departure time to ensure no one is late.
If a Marella excursion is delayed, the ship will wait for you.
If you leave the tour early, you must make your own way back.

What happens if I Get Lost?

Take precautions in case you get lost. Photo by Robert Ruggiero on Unsplash

Important: Ensure you make a note of port contact details before you leave. It might also be advisable to carry your passport/Id with you (often required by border controls anyway).

If you haven’t got a good memory for faces, take a quick photo of your guide for reference if needed.

If you get separated or lost during a Marella excursion, here’s what you should do:

Stay Calm and Look for Your Group

Don’t panic—excursions typically stay within well-defined areas, and your guide will usually keep an eye out for lost guests.
If you’re separated in a crowded area, retrace your steps to a known landmark or meeting point where the group was last.

Contact the Guide or Excursion Team

Look for your guide: Most guides wear identifying clothing (like a vest or lanyard) or carry a sign with the excursion’s name.
If you can’t find your guide, look for a Marella representative or any local tour operators who may be assisting with your group.

Stay at a Safe Location

If you can’t find your group, stay where you are to avoid getting further lost.

Or

Head to a designated meeting point (mentioned in your excursion details) if you’re unsure where to go.

Use Your Phone (If Possible)

If you have a local SIM card or a phone with internet access, you may be able to contact your guide directly (the contact number is typically included on your excursion ticket).
Alternatively, you can use Google Maps or port information to help you navigate back.

Inform the Excursion Team Upon Return

Once you’re reunited with the group, make sure to let the guide or tour leader know you got lost so they can help you avoid the situation in the future.

In the Event of Serious Issues

If you’re truly lost and cannot locate the group, contact Marella’s onboard staff for immediate assistance. They’ll help liaise with the local tour team to reunite you with your group.

Tips to Avoid Getting Lost

Wear a name tag or write down the meeting point and time on a piece of paper.
Stick with your group and always check in with the guide if you plan to go off on your own during free time.

Marella Cruises - Excursions Frequently Asked Questions