Think You Know Marella? Here’s What’s New Onboard – and Why You’ll Love It Even More
For seasoned cruisers who’ve already sailed away with Marella, it’s no secret why so many keep coming back. The friendly crew who remember your name. The familiar feel of a British brew on the balcony. The ease of an all-inclusive getaway where every little detail is taken care of.
But even if you think you know Marella like the back of your hand, the line is full of surprises in 2025 – with new dining options, upgraded entertainment, themed sailings, and fresh itineraries that prove it’s never the same cruise twice.
So, whether you’re a Discovery regular or an Explorer fan through and through, here’s why your next Marella cruise might just top them all.
The Newest Ship, Voyager, Brings a Whole New Vibe
If you haven’t yet sailed on Marella Voyager, it’s time to check her out. Launched in 2023, she blends everything loyal Marella fans love with exciting new venues and ideas.
Abuela’s is a brand-new Latin-inspired restaurant, serving up zesty tacos and grilled meats with a fiesta of flavour.
Silver Fork puts a modern twist on British classics – think fish & chips reimagined as small plates with posh presentation.
The Arts House is a new creative hub where you can sip a drink while sketching, crafting, or getting stuck into a paint-and-sip session.
Plus, the pool deck has had a serious glow-up with daybeds, a new layout and even more room to soak up the sun.
New Drinks, New Deals – Still All-Inclusive
Marella’s all-inclusive package is one of the best at sea – and it’s just got even better. Fans of the Premium drinks package will now find new cocktails and premium spirits added to the menu, along with fizz on tap and iced coffee treats available throughout the day.
Rumour has it, even more vegan and alcohol-free options are being added to menus across the fleet – ideal if you’re after wellness vibes without missing out on the fun.
Evenings are Getting a Glow-Up
The entertainment team has stepped things up, too. While old favourites like the Broadway Show Lounge still pack out nightly, newer additions like silent discos, theme nights, and interactive pub quizzes are making evenings at sea even more memorable. Not to be missed is The Exchange - a secret speakeasy on Marella Voyager.
Plus, on select itineraries, you might even stumble upon a ‘Captain’s Treat’ night – a surprise top-deck party, complete with fairy lights, cocktails, and maybe even a conga line…
Themed Cruises: A New Way to Cruise with a Twist
Want to shake up your usual sailing? Marella’s ever-popular themed cruises are back with even bigger acts, new genres and an all-adults atmosphere. Whether you’re into throwback anthems or country twang, these sailings promise wall-to-wall entertainment, immersive fun and a completely different vibe at sea.
Highlights include:
Electric Sunsets: A throwback sailing packed with 80s, 90s and noughties acts, live DJs, and full-on nostalgia.
Comedy Cruises: Laugh-out-loud line-ups featuring top names from the UK comedy circuit.
Foodie Voyages: Cruises with tasting menus, wine pairings and guest chefs hosting exclusive events.
Mind, Body & Soul Sailings: Think sunrise yoga, spa workshops, and wellness-focused menus for a cruise that’s as relaxing as it is rejuvenating.
These themed sailings are perfect for loyal guests who’ve “done it all” and want something new to look forward to – and they often sell out fast.
Here’s what’s coming up:
🎶 Electric Sunsets: 90s vs 00s
📅 1–4 November 2025 (3-night sailing)
🚢 Marella Voyager
🛳 Route: Palma → Valencia → Cartagena → Málaga
🌟 Line-up includes: B*Witched, The Honeyz, DJ SASH!, Urban Cookie Collective, Ibiza in Symphony, and more
💃 Theme nights, silent discos, top-deck DJ sets, and plenty of nostalgia
🎟️ Book it here
🤠 Country Rhythms – Short Break
📅 5–9 February 2026 (4-night sailing)
🚢 Marella Explorer 2
🛳 Route: Málaga → Gibraltar → Arrecife → Las Palmas
🎤 Entertainment: The Dolly Show, A Country Night in Nashville, Nashville DJ parties, and live country bands
👢 Activities: Line dancing, karaoke, themed dress nights and more
🎟️ Book it here
🤠 Country Rhythms – Extended Sailing
📅 5–10 February 2026 (5-night version)
🚢 Marella Explorer 2
🛳 Route: Málaga → Gibraltar → Arrecife → Las Palmas → Santa Cruz de Tenerife
🌵 Same high-energy line-up, with an extra night in the Canary Islands sunshine
🎟️ Book it here
Itineraries with a Twist
Think you’ve done the Med to death? Think again. Marella is expanding its itineraries with overnight stays, hidden gems, and longer port times, giving you more freedom to explore without rushing back onboard.
New ports in Montenegro, Albania and the French Riviera are appearing more regularly, and for those craving faraway sunshine, Caribbean fly-cruises continue to offer unbeatable winter sun with direct flights from regional UK airports.
And don’t forget: Marella’s popular Adults Only sailings are back too – perfect if you’re after some grown-up indulgence and a more relaxed pace onboard.
The Marella Magic? It’s Still There
Of course, some things haven’t changed – and that’s just how returning guests like it. You’ll still be greeted with a warm smile and a welcome drink. The cabins are comfy, the crew are genuinely lovely, and you still won’t have to worry about tipping, paying in dollars, or queuing for the buffet.
Because at its heart, Marella is still that feel-good cruise line made for British travellers, with great value, friendly vibes and no-fuss holidays that make life easy from start to finish.
So… is it time to come back onboard?
Whether you’re sailing solo, heading off on a multigenerational family trip, or reuniting with cruise pals you met onboard last year, Marella’s latest updates are proof that even your favourite cruise line can still surprise you.
If you’ve been dreaming of your next cocktail on the pool deck or the sound of the sailaway horn as the sun sets, maybe now’s the time to book that next adventure – and fall in love with Marella all over again.