Marella Discovery: A Complete Guide 2025
Marella Discovery: A Complete Guide for 2025
DECK PLANS | RESTAURANTS | CABINS | BARS | ENTERTAINMENT
As I found out whilst researching an article about Which Marella Ship is the Best, Marella Discovery is one of the most beloved ships in the Marella Cruises fleet, proving age is just a number.
Although the oldest ship in the Marella fleet, Marella Discovery offers an unforgettable experienced for holidaymakers looking to explore stunning destinations in style. With its all-inclusive offering, spacious cabins, and top-tier entertainment, it has become a favourite among UK travellers. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, here’s everything you need to know about Marella Discovery.
An Introduction to Marella Discovery
Originally launched in 1996 as Splendour of the Seas under Royal Caribbean, the ship was later acquired by TUI and rebranded as Marella Discovery in 2016. This transformation brought a fresh, modern look with a focus on all-inclusive cruising, meaning most food, drinks, and even tips are included in the fare. Currently she is the favoured family-friendly ship. However, from Summer 2026 she will be rebranded as an adult-only ship. I have included family features available until then
Marella Discovery Vital Statistics
Gross Tonnage: 69,130 tonnes
Length: 264 metres (866 feet)
Width: 32 metres (105 feet)
Passenger Capacity: 1,830
Crew: Approximately 753
Decks: 11
Entered Service: 1996 (as Splendour of the Seas with Royal Caribbean); joined Marella in June 2016.
With a capacity of around 1,830 passengers and 915 cabins, Marella Discovery is a mid-sized ship that strikes a balance between offering a lively atmosphere and an intimate, relaxed feel.
Marella Discovery Deck Plans
The deck plans are accurate at time of writing, but subject to change - especially for Summer 2026 when Discovery becomes an Adult-Only ship. Obviously areas given over to families currently (kids clubs etc.) will be converted into other spaces, yet to be announced.
Ship Highlights & Features
Marella Discovery is packed with features designed to entertain, relax, and indulge its passengers. Here are some of the standout offerings:
Dining & Cuisine
Marella Discovery boasts a variety of restaurants catering to different tastes. Some of the top options include:
Islands - This is Discovery’s buffet restaurant serving a range of dishes and snacks, including carvery and show-cooking stations.
47° – The ship’s stylish main restaurant, offering a mix of international and British dishes.
Gallery 47° – Located on the upper level of 47°, this venue specialises in Italian cuisine.
Snack Shack – A great option for grab-and-go food, serving burgers, wraps, and sweet treats.
Surf & Turf Steakhouse – A speciality restaurant offering premium steaks and seafood (extra charge applies).
Kora La – A sophisticated Asian restaurant with a menu full of flavour-packed curries and stir-fries (extra charge applies).
Sushi Bar - Tucked inside Kora La, this is one of the ship's speciality restaurants serving a range of sushi and sashimi.
The Glass House - This recently updated trendy beach club-style venue features couple-sized Balinese beds. By day, it serves deli-style light bites like rotisserie chicken, salads, and paninis. In the evening, the menu shifts to tapas, sharing boards, and international meat skewers.
Coffee Port - Contemporary coffeehouse perfect for a relaxing cappuccino and sweet treat. Note drinks here are complimentary as part of the Premium All-Inclusive upgrade. Otherwise will be charged to your onboard account.
Entertainment and Bars
No cruise is complete without entertainment, and Marella Discovery delivers with live shows, music, and interactive experiences:
Marella Discovery offers a vibrant array of entertainment venues and bars, ensuring guests have a variety of options for relaxation and enjoyment. Here’s an overview of the key spots on board:
Entertainment Venues
Broadway Show Lounge: This expansive venue boasts plush seating and accommodates over 800 guests. It’s the ship’s primary hub for live performances, featuring 11 unique shows, including the high-tech dance production “Beatz Interactive,” which showcases LED-lit costumes. 
Movies by Moonlight: Located on Deck 9, this outdoor cinema experience allows guests to enjoy films under the stars, providing a unique and memorable evening activity. 
Breakout Challenge: Siren’s Spell: Situated on Deck 3, this interactive escape room-style experience challenges participants to solve puzzles and unravel mysteries within a set timeframe. 
Bars and Lounges
Bar Eleven: Perched on Deck 11, Bar Eleven offers panoramic sea views, making it an ideal spot for pre-dinner cocktails. As the evening progresses, it transforms into a lively disco, providing a dynamic atmosphere for late-night entertainment. 
Squid & Anchor: This venue brings the feel of a traditional British pub to the high seas. Guests can enjoy live music, participate in quizzes, and savour a selection of beers and spirits in a cozy setting. 
Atrium Bar: Located in the ship’s central atrium, this bar offers a relaxed ambiance with live musical performances, making it a perfect spot for socialising and unwinding. 
Live Room: A lively venue featuring live music performances and a dance floor, perfect for evening entertainment. 
Casino: A plush casino offering a range of gaming options for guests looking to try their luck. 
Leisure & Relaxation
For those looking to unwind, the ship offers multiple areas to relax and rejuvenate:
Oceans Spa and Beauty Salon: Indulge in a range of treatments, from massages to beauty therapies, designed to relax and rejuvenate. 
The Veranda: Discover this adults-only sunbathing area located behind the gym, offering a tranquil space to unwind. 
The Glass House: Relax in this indoor pool area featuring ample seating and a calm atmosphere, perfect for a quiet retreat. 
Whirlpools: Take a soothing dip in one of the ship’s whirlpools, ideal for relaxation after a day of activities. 
Outdoor Cinema: Enjoy movies under the stars at the poolside outdoor movie screen, providing a unique cinematic experience.
Sun Decks – Plenty of space to soak up the sun while enjoying ocean views.
Indoor Pool - This pool is perfect when the weather isn’t being kind or you want to keep out of the sun. Solarium with glass retractable roof.
Main Pool - This outdoor pool is the entertainment hub of the pool deck, with music, quizzes and games. Plenty of loungers for those that just want to grab the rays.
Sports & Activities
Marella Discovery offers a wide range of leisure activities and relaxation facilities to ensure a fulfilling and rejuvenating experience for all guests. Here’s an overview of what you can expect on board:
Rock-Climbing Wall: Challenge yourself on the ship’s rock-climbing wall, suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers. 
Mini-Golf Course: Enjoy a fun round on the 18-hole miniature golf course, perfect for families and individuals alike. 
Sports Deck: Participate in activities like table tennis and shuffleboard, or join a morning fitness session to start your day energetically. 
Dance Classes: Learn new moves and enjoy themed dance lessons, including Virtual Dance sessions featuring professionals like Anton du Beke. 
Trivia Quizzes and Games: Engage in a variety of quizzes, bingo sessions, and interactive games designed to entertain and challenge.
These facilities and activities are designed to cater to a variety of interests, ensuring that every guest finds something enjoyable and relaxing during their voyage on the Marella Discovery.
Cabins & Accommodation
Marella Discovery offers a variety of cabin options to suit different preferences and budgets. In November 2022, several cabin categories underwent refurbishments to enhance guest comfort. Here’s an overview of the available accommodations:
Inside Cabins
Located on decks 2 and 3, these cabins feature twin beds that can convert into a queen-size bed, air conditioning, en suite bathroom with shower, flatscreen TV, hairdryer, safe, tea and coffee making facilities, and ample wardrobe space. 
Outside Cabins
Situated on decks 2 and 3, these cabins offer all the amenities of Inside Cabins, plus a porthole or picture window for natural light. 
Deluxe Cabins
Found on decks 7 and 8, Deluxe Cabins received a full refurbishment in November 2022. They come with floor-to-ceiling windows, twin beds convertible to a queen-size bed, a sitting area with a sofa bed, and an en suite bathroom with shower. These cabins can accommodate up to four guests and measure approximately 20m². 
Balcony Cabins
Marella Discovery Balcony Cabin. Image: TUI
Located on deck 6, these cabins were also refurbished in November 2022. They feature a private balcony, twin beds that can convert to a queen-size bed, and an en suite bathroom with shower. The size ranges between 13 and 14m², suitable for two guests. Suites
For a more luxurious experience, the ship offers various suites, including Junior Suites, Grand Suites, Family Suites, and the Royal Suite. These accommodations provide additional space, separate living areas, enhanced amenities, and larger balconies. Suite guests often enjoy extra perks such as express check-in, priority luggage delivery, and complimentary pressing services.
Marella Discovery offers a range of suites designed to provide enhanced comfort and luxury. Here’s a detailed overview:
Royal Suite
The Royal Suite is the most spacious and luxurious accommodation on the Marella Discovery, measuring approximately 92 square metres and accommodating up to four guests. It features a separate living room with a sofa bed, a bedroom with a king-size bed, and an en suite bathroom equipped with a whirlpool bath and a shower. Additional amenities include a baby grand piano and floor-to-ceiling glass doors leading to a private balcony.
Family Suites
Marella Discovery Family Suite
Located on Deck 8, Family Suites are approximately 32 square metres and can accommodate up to seven passengers. These suites comprise a master bedroom with a double or queen-size bed, a second bedroom with twin beds (convertible to a double or queen-size) and two upper bunk beds, and a living room with a double sofa bed. The suite includes two bathrooms—one with a whirlpool bathtub and another with a shower.
Grand Suites
Also situated on Deck 8, Grand Suites offer around 32 square metres of space and sleep up to four guests. They feature twin beds that can convert to a queen-size double bed, a sitting area with a sofa bed, and a bathroom with a shower over a bath. Guests can enjoy sea views from the private balcony.
Family Junior Suites
Family Junior Suites, located on Deck 8, measure approximately 39 square metres and can accommodate up to six guests. These suites include one bedroom with twin beds, a living area with a double sofa bed and additional twin beds that can convert to a queen-size double bed, and an en suite bathroom with a shower. A private balcony with double doors provides outdoor space.
Junior Suites
Junior Suites on Deck 8 offer about 21 square metres of space and sleep up to four people. They come with twin beds that can convert to a queen-size double bed, a sitting area with a sofa bed, and a bathroom with a shower over a bath. These suites also feature a private balcony.
Premier Service
Guests staying in suites benefit from Premier Service, which includes priority check-in, a free pressing service up to 3 items per person in the first 24 hours onboard, and complimentary continental breakfast in bed once per person per week.
Solo Cabins
For solo travellers, Marella Discovery provides Single Inside and Single Outside Cabins, ensuring comfort and convenience without the need to pay a single supplement. 
Please note that while many cabins have been refurbished recently, it’s advisable to confirm the specific features and availability when booking, as details may vary.
Family-Friendly Features
Marella Discovery is well-equipped to provide families with a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience, offering a variety of activities and facilities tailored to guests of all ages.
Family Accommodation
The Marella Discovery offers several family-friendly accommodation options designed to provide comfort and convenience for families of various sizes. Here are the key options:
Family Suite
Location: Deck 8
Capacity: Accommodates up to 7 guests
Master bedroom with twin beds that convert to a queen-size double bed
Second bedroom with twin beds and two upper bunk beds that fold down from the wall
Living area with a double sofa bed
Bathrooms: Two bathrooms—one with a whirlpool bath and one with a shower
Size: Approximately 32 m²
Additional Features: Private balcony
Family Junior Suite
Location: Deck 8
Capacity: Accommodates up to 6 guests
Bedroom with twin beds that convert to a queen-size double bed
Living area with a double sofa bed and twin beds that convert to a queen-size double bed
Bathrooms: One bathroom with a shower
Size: Approximately 39 m²
Additional Features: Private balcony
Deluxe Cabin
Marella Discovery Deluxe Balcony. Image: TUI
Location: Decks 6 and 7
Capacity: Accommodates up to 4 guests
Twin beds that convert to a queen-size double bed
Sitting area with a sofa bed
Bathrooms: En suite with a shower
Size: Approximately 15 to 16 m²
Additional Features: Private balcony
These accommodations are thoughtfully designed to cater to families, providing ample space and amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable cruise experience.
Family-Friendly Activities
Rock-Climbing Wall: Families can challenge themselves on the onboard rock-climbing wall, suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Mini-Golf Course: Enjoy a fun round on the 18-hole miniature golf course, perfect for family bonding and friendly competition.
Sports Deck: Participate in activities like table tennis and football tournaments, or join in on fun quizzes and early evening shows during sea days.
Kids’ Clubs and Teen Facilities
M Club (Ages 3-11): This complimentary kids’ club offers daily sessions with activities such as arts and crafts, quizzes, and mini discos, ensuring younger guests are entertained throughout the cruise.
Mini M Club (Under 3 Years): Parents can accompany their little ones to hour-long stay-and-play sensory sessions, featuring story time and arts and crafts, fostering early development and fun.
The Hideout (Teens): A dedicated space where teenagers can relax, socialize, and enjoy age-appropriate activities in a laid-back environment.
Dining Options
The ship offers a variety of dining venues catering to diverse tastes, with family-friendly options available. Buffet lunches feature favourites like pizza and spaghetti bolognese, ensuring even picky eaters find something to enjoy.
Additional Amenities
Baby Centre: Equipped with dedicated feeding and entertainment spaces for infants, the Baby Centre also offers “babytainment” classes, including activities like baby ballet and nursery rhyme sing-alongs.
Family-Friendly Shore Excursions: When in port, families can embark on excursions designed to be engaging and suitable for children, adding an educational aspect to their adventure.
These comprehensive facilities and activities ensure that families have a diverse range of options to make their cruise aboard the Marella Discovery both enjoyable and memorable.
Important Note: From Summer 2026, Marella Discovery is becoming the fleet’s second adult-only ship and therefore unsuitable for families.
Destinations & Itineraries
Marella Discovery sails to some of the most breathtaking destinations around the world from regional airports across the UK. Common routes include:
Mediterranean Cruises – Stops in Spain, Italy, Greece, and Croatia.
Caribbean Adventures – Sun-soaked destinations such as Barbados, St. Lucia, and the Dominican Republic.
Canary Islands & Madeira – Perfect for year-round sunshine and stunning landscapes.
With fly-cruise packages available, travellers can conveniently reach their departure ports from UK airports.
Why Choose Marella Discovery?
Stunning 5 Storey Atrium on Marella Discovery. Image: TUI
All-Inclusive Experience – Flights, food, drinks, and tips are wcovered in the price.
Family-Friendly – Kids’ clubs, entertainment, and pools make it a great choice for families.
Diverse Dining Options – A mix of casual and fine dining experiences.
Exciting Entertainment – Live shows, music, and activities for all ages.
Great Value – Compared to other cruise lines, Marella Cruises offers excellent value with fewer hidden costs.
(See my comparison Marella v P&O Cruises)
Final Thoughts
Marella Discovery is a fantastic cruise ship for those seeking an affordable yet premium experience. Past guests particularly love the layout of the ship and the stunning five-storey atrium with glass lifts.
Whether you’re after adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, this ship has something to offer. With its friendly atmosphere, all-inclusive perks, and exciting destinations, it’s no surprise that it remains a favourite among British holidaymakers.
Have you sailed on Marella Discovery? Let us know your thoughts!