marella caribbean cruise reviews

• Marella Cruises (formerly Thomson)

Full review of Discovery 2 cruise - Flavours of the Caribbean and Pride of Panama

By Dysongs , February 25, 2020 in Marella Cruises (formerly Thomson)

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Just back from the Caribbean cruising on Marella Discovery 2 - she's a beautiful ship! We visited Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, Cuba, Cozumel Island, Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica.

My full lengthy review describes many of our experiences of the cruise - especially if you are Coeliac like me and require a gluten free diet. There are loads of pictures as well, so if you like a good read then head over to  http://www.dysongs.net/Holiday2020/Our2020cruise.pdf

There could well be some answers to your questions particularly if you are going on Discovery 2 soon in this part of the world.

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Thank you Dysongs

A very entertaining read! We are doing the Pride of Panama cruise in April and you have certainly further whetted my appetite! And I fully agree with your comments regarding people who recline seats on airplanes - one of my biggest gripes when travelling!

Thank you VWGolf. I have just filled out my TUI feedback and suggested that if the Captain of the aircraft spent 5 seconds on the mic during his main announcement and asked everyone to ask before reclining seats it might save a few punch ups like there nearly was in the back of our flight back from Montego Bay! At least then people might think first about reclining their seats before just chucking them back and spilling hot coffee over the poor person sitting behind!

1 hour ago, Dysongs said:  if the Captain of the aircraft spent 5 seconds on the mic during his main announcement and asked everyone to ask before reclining seats it might save a few punch ups like there nearly was in the back of our flight back from Montego Bay! At least then people might think first about reclining their seats before just chucking them back and spilling hot coffee over the poor person sitting behind!

Totally agree but unfortunately there are some people who just don't  have any consideration for others

I so agree with this there was an incident on a Dreamliner back from our far east cruise last year it was so bad that the police were waiting. The cabin steward asked if we would swap to sit at the back of the reclining buddha. I told him in no uncertain terms NO

Or perhaps to lock seats into the upright position?

Yes my main gripe about flying. I think Jet2 may have non-reclining seats on their planes. Someone in the row in front of my sister-in-law recently, reclined his seat for the full journey, so he had more space to stretch his arms to read his newspaper!

People who recline don't ask because they know the answer is likely to be NO.

Thank you for your informative review. 

Kittyonions

Thank you Dysongs for spending the time to write such an excellent and accurate review. We did this cruise in early January, and had similar weather to you ( we were not expecting such strong winds in the carribean. If anyone is interested, I would recommend  spending the day on the beach at HardRock Cafe in Montego Bay. It’s only a 10 minute walk from the cruise port, and the charge is just $4 for the use of sunbeds, umbrellas and a lovely pool. Or the beach if you prefer.  Thanks again for the review.

Thank you Kittyonions. I think the Caribbean sea is always a bit rough during the early months of the year. I wish I'd known about the Hard Rock Cafe beach when we were there. I had dismissed Montego Bay previously as a port, but was pleasantly surprised by how beautiful it was when we looked around on our 2nd Saturday. I

What a fantastic blog brought back memories of three wonderful Pride of Panama cruises with Marella 

My husband is a gigging guitarist with VitalSigns and having done many Marella cruises has made friends with many of the musicians and often plays with them Your drummer should have joined in the BandJam Dave has a couple of times.

He couldn't stop laughing when you talked about the Sound Engineers as far as he is concerned there isn't a good one on any Marella ship - they come from college with 'qualifications' and all they really need are 'ears' as he puts it. Also the shows and sets are done repeatedly so there is no excuse - why can't get they get the balance right and when they do save the settings? He thinks cos they have to look busy or they'd be out of a job!!!

Thanks again great blog

GREAT to hear this!!!! I laughed out loud too and totally agree!!! Yes I wish Keith could have played a part by playing drums with the jam! Wishing Vital Signs all the very best from Uptown Traffic - www.uptown-traffic.com Keep on gigging - its what we live for!!!!

Many thanks he will He also set up a Shadows tribute band called FootTappers which is very popular They play instrumentals obviously but only musos could sit through two sets so they now have a singer for the girls who only sings Cliff songs done with the Shadows 

I'll check out your website thanks

Great website and so funny that you mention the Saddoes Tribute band - you and Dave ought to meet When's your next cruise?

Next Cruise???? Gosh that will be at least a couple of years away!!!

I'm very impressed you have looked thru the website and gleaned that little morsel!!!

Always good to meet other musos, we all seem to be in one big family who have our common appreciations and I think being in a band reveals teamwork that could teach some big companies a thing or two!.

I live in West Berkshire. If you are close we might be able to meet up at some point?

Re read again and looking forward to our turn on the 10th March.

Praying I don't get a recliner in front of me.

have enjoyed it very much.

I'm not a musician but I do love my music. I would dearly love to have a heavy metal covers band on a cruise but sadly I can't see that happening. Why do cruise companies think that everybody wants to listen to generic pop music? People in the 50+ age bracket do like to rock!

God forbid. 🙉

• 2 weeks later...

Thanks for a great read and for including the Good the Bad and the Ugly!

Also for the generous use of photographs to help the narrative.

I liked how you and your bandmates supported the ship bands by your presence and enthusiasm.

I'm a Brit, living in the USA now for 34 years and I came here via being a drummer on a Royal Caribbean cruise ship. I salute you and your band for still having the music flow through your veins and for keeping you young, which is evident in your writing and how you roll with the punches.

Have you uploaded any or all of your 4K videos to Youtube? If so could you provide a link for us?

Regarding Havana which unfortunately got soaked while you were there- I'm including a link to one of my CC reviews where I have 2 warm dry days and maybe have a different impression, helped by the weather.

Its a 34 page review but you can get right to Havana on page 8...

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Reviews 2.9.

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Viola and Angelica

01/24 My friends and Me visited the Marella store on Vittorio Emanuele and me were amazed by the professionalism of the two consultants. their names are Viola and Angelica. Despite the fact that it was the end of the day and everyone was tired, they gave us a lot of time and attention, took the time to show us different combinations of clothes and helped us buy exactly those things that, as it turned out later, we needed. Thanks to them for this. When I come to Milan again, the first thing I will do is visit this store and, I hope, meet some nice girls.

Date of experience : 18 January 2024

We cruised within the caribbean on the…

We cruised within the caribbean on the Voyager 14/1/2024 to 28/1/2024. The ship, staff and entertainment were fantastic. We have sailed over 20+ cruises and couldnt believe the quality and service we received. We will certainly be sailing again with Marella. Plus the Aircraft and transfers were very well managed. Wifi is a little slow and flaky in areas and so streaming is not reliable but it doesnt hurt to put these devices down and enjoy the sunshine. Email/whatsapp/facebook worked fine.

Date of experience : 14 January 2024

Our first cruise with Marella

Our first cruise, and definitely will not be our last, everything was so organised, spotless, and all the staff so helpful and friendly, the food was all wonderful! I cannot praise it enough!

Date of experience : 15 December 2023

I sent a return following all the…

I sent a return following all the instructions on the email I received from customer service. Can see that UPS delivered it to them - they claim they don’t know where it is - firstly they told me I’d used the wrong return address ( they sent it to me) then they told me my reference was invalid ( they sent that to me as well) . Have rung every day and all they say is I will receive an email but never do. Will never order from them again and will be raising the dispute through my bank as I paid via credit card ( thank goodness). Worst customer service experience ever - no one has a clue.

Date of experience : 26 June 2023

Paid for Marella Dress and never received it

I placed an order with Marella on 6th of December. Payment was taken immediately. It is now the 3rd of January and the dress still hasn’t arrived. I am told there was an issue with my order with the warehouse/UPS on the 6th of December? Now almost a month and more ignored emails than I can remember later there is still no parcel and the dress is also now on sale! I keep asking for a refund but can’t be given one??? Marella today still states on their website (3rd of January) that we need to place orders before the 12th of December to be sure to receive them before Christmas!

Date of experience : 03 December 2022

I would give ZERO stars if l could

Placed an order on 14 December 2022 - this order was then cancelled (for no apparent reason) and when l phoned on 22 December to ask why, as the items were still showing as in stock, l was told if l still wanted the items l would need to reorder them. I duly reordered and paid for the items again. On 4th January 2023 l chased the order again as still no confirmation of despatch. I was told that this would be followed up. I then had an email that same day to say the goods had been despatched and with a tracking number. I have tracked this daily to see the same message “Label created” but no further progress. Like others I have emailed but received no satisfactory response. I have called several times to bee told they would check with the warehouse / UPS to find out where my items were. These items are still showing as in stock on the website. After a lengthy phone call today where l asked them to resend the items as they are in stock, l have since received an email telling me that l have been refunded. This sounds dodgy to me! Is there something going on with the company? I am reluctant to place any further orders with them and would not recommend anyone else do so at this time.

Date of experience : 13 January 2023

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We have never been on a cruise before and would like any information, tips ect would be much appreciated

They are far from all the same - https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/articles.cfm?ID=1803

Also search the best prices on line, good place to start is http://www.vivavoyage.co.uk and compare prices.

Thank you so much for your reply

Very helpful

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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10 Adult-Only Cruise Lines, Ranked By Passenger Review

• Looking for an adults-only cruise experience? Check out cruise lines like Virgin Voyages and P&O Cruises, which offer exclusive, luxurious getaways without kids.
• Norwegian Cruise Line and Marella Cruises have adult-only spaces and activities, perfect for adults seeking relaxation or adventure at an affordable cost.
• For couples seeking a romantic escape, Princess Cruises and Holland America Line offer adult-only havens, serene decks, and luxurious amenities, ensuring an unforgettable getaway.

Want to spend some quality time with a partner without worrying about the kids and their chaos? Or, planning a seafaring escapade with a gang of grownups or retirees? There are many cruise lines that cater exclusively to adults (above the age of eighteen), offering an incredible, luxurious, and experience-filled seaside holiday.

Children are not allowed on board certain cruise lines, like Virgin Voyages, which offer an entirely adult-only adventure. However, other cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, have adult-only spaces and recreational opportunities on board , so adults can enjoy themselves without the interruption of children. Why wait? Check out these adult-only cruise lines with the best reviews and plan the next unforgettable vacation complete with amenities, entertainment, and recreation, and, of course, without the kids.

All cruise line ratings in this article have been sourced from cruisecritic.com , a TripAdvisor company. The cruise lines listed in the article are either all adults-only, have adult-only cruise ships, or offer cruises with designated adult-only areas and activities.

Related: 16 Best Cruise Lines In The U.S. (Ranked By Rating)

P&O Cruises

Rating: 3.5/5.

P&O Cruises is a British cruise line with seven ships in its fleet, two of which, Arcadia and Aurora, are only for adults . With outstanding amenities and activities created with guests 18 years of age and older in mind, both of these ships offer the ultimate seafaring escapes. With multiple fine dining options, bars, and entertainment areas, in addition to pools, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, and spa services, these ships offer everything an adult needs for an amazing cruise getaway. To top it all off, both ships take passengers to some of the world's most breathtaking locations, and the cruise line has a 3.5 rating .

• Amenities and Activities: Fine dining venues, The Playhouse cinema, theater, bars, library, art gallery, Masquerade, Vanderbilt’s card room, lounges, pools, whirlpools, spa
• Destinations: Canary Islands, the British Isles, Norway, Iceland, U.S., Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and Canada
• Minimum age required: 18 years

Norwegian Cruise Line

Rating: 3.6/5.

One of the most affordable cruise lines for 2023, ranked by cost , the Norwegian Cruise Line is yet another great choice for adults looking for a fun-filled or relaxing vacation on the waters. The 3.6-star cruise line has three adult-only spaces (18 and older) on its ships, including the Vibe Beach Club, Norwegian Viva, and Posh Beach Club (different spaces on different ships), all of which have decks, bars, hot tubs, and numerous other adult-specific facilities. Additionally, there are sundecks reserved for adults, single-occupancy studio cabins on the ship, fitness centers, casinos, and late-night entertainment options like bars, nightclubs, live shows, dance parties, and much more!

• Amenities and Activities: Beach clubs, bars, fine dining venues, entertainment venues, dance parties, live shows, studio cabins, adult-only decks, nightclubs, Broadway and West End shows, deck parties
• Destinations: Alaska, Bahamas, Caribbean, Europe, Canada, Hawaii, New England, South Pacific
• Minimum age required: 6+ months

Marella Cruises

Rating: 3.7/5.

While the Marella cruise line is not just for adults, its cruise ship, Marella Explora 2, is designed just for adults and is only available to those who are at least 18 years old . The ship can accommodate almost 1,900 guests and has excellent adult-only onboard amenities, including ten bars, nine restaurants, and a pool, as well as entertainment and fitness classes. The cruise line has a rating of 3.7 and offers an all-inclusive experience, meaning that, for a low price, visitors can take advantage of meals, drinks, flights, transfers, luggage, tips, and even service charges.

• Amenities and Activities: Spa and beauty salon, The Veranda, The Coffee Port, Mini Golf, pool, multiple dining venues, bars, West End-style shows, fitness classes, a large spa, a chic bar-club-casino
• Destinations: Canary Islands, Atlantic, Caribbean, Mediterranean

Saga Ocean Cruises

This UK-based cruise line caters to the mature population ( those 50 and older with a partner over 40), giving them a trip filled with thrilling adventures and a taste of active adulthood before retirement. The cruise line specializes in running small-ship voyages and features great adult-only all-inclusive amenities, including free Wi-Fi, meals, drinks, premium spirits, fitness centers, jazz music, cabaret-style entertainment, and more. With just two ships in its fleet, Saga is a small cruise line, yet it offers mature guests a boutique cruise experience and has a 3.7 rating .

• Amenities and Activities: Return UK chauffeur service, fine dining, all-inclusive drinks, own balcony accommodation, included excursions, free Wi-Fi, multiple entertainment venues, lectures from guest speakers, theater productions, recitals, fitness classes, swimming pools, hot tubs, spa
• Destinations: Baltics, Canaries, British Isles & Ireland, Mediterranean, Europe, Iceland, Greenland, Caribbean, Americas
• Minimum age required: 50 years (40 to second passengers)

Related: 10 Best US Virgin Islands Cruises For Seafaring Escapades

Carnival Cruises

Rating: 3.8/5.

Carnival Cruise Line features Serenity Adult-Only Retreat , a serene paradise tucked away from busy venues and family-friendly action, making it a good option for adults. For travelers 21 years of age and older, entry to the area is free. There, visitors can unwind on loungers, daybeds, and whirlpools while soaking in the beautiful scenery. Couples can also consider Carnival Cruises because of its 3.8 rating and a fantastic selection of adult-only areas and activities, such as multiple bars, nightclubs, a spa, a casino, and many others. Plus, its Half Moon Cay is an exotic stopover .

• Amenities and Activities: Cloud 9 Spa, SkyRide, Serenity, The Golden Jubilee, multiple dining venues, bars, cafes, casino, entertainment venues, studio, theater, comedy club, karaoke, live shows, movies
• Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Europe, Canada, Hawaii, Transatlantic, Transpacific, Australia, Asia, South Pacific
• Minimum age required: 12 months

Princess Cruises

For couples seeking an unforgettable getaway, Princess Cruise Line , with a 3.8 rating , is unquestionably the best option, offering a variety of romantic experiences in addition to The Sanctuary, an adults-only haven (for 18 years and older) . All Princess Cruises ships have this tranquil top deck area called Serenity, where adults can enjoy themselves without children. It has luxurious lounge chairs, a spa-like atmosphere, and Serenity Stewards. For an incredible experience, cabanas are also available. Lotus Spa treatments also add to the fun factor. Couples visiting Princess Cays, the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas , can also enjoy a romantic escape in an adults-only Sanctuary Bungalow.

• Amenities and Activities: Discovery at Sea Program, spa, multiple dining venues, bars, gaming, destination-themed activities, culinary demonstrations, wine tastings, auctions
• Destinations: Alaska, Australia, Asia, New Zealand, Canada, California, New England, Caribbean, Hawaii, Japan, Europe, Mexico
• Minimum age required: 6 months or 12 months, depending upon the cruise

Holland America Line

Rating: 3.9/5.

Holland America Line, another of the best cruise lines for couples , is a big draw for affluent adults who don't mind spending money on luxuries. Famous for Alaska cruises, it also visits Australia, Mexico, Canada, and Antarctica, among numerous other destinations. With excellent adult-specific amenities such as spas, bars, fine dining, cooking classes, and mixology workshops, this 3.9-rated cruise line primarily caters to adults (though children are welcome but are rarely on board). The shore excursions range from animal encounters to bike tours and even helmet diving, making the trip exciting and adrenaline-pumping.

• Amenities and Activities: Multiple dining and entertainment venues, bars, clubs, live entertainment, cooking classes, mixology workshops, spa
• Destinations: Americas, Bahamas, Transatlantic, Canada, Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii

Related: 10 Tips For Minimalist Packing Before Taking A Cruise

Royal Caribbean International

Even though Royal Caribbean is known for providing enjoyable family and child-friendly cruises, this cruise line has many cruises that are ideal for adults, too , such as Oasis and Quantum! Since all Royal Caribbean cruise ships feature venues and areas exclusively for adults, they are perfect for a kid-free cruise vacation. So, whether one is looking for a relaxing experience, there is an adult-only (18+) Solarium , or they want to try their luck in a game, there is a casino, or they are interested in nightlife, exquisite cuisine, or drinks, Royal Caribbean has everything to please adults, plus a 3.9 rating .

• Amenities and Activities: Premium in-stay facilities, 20+ dining venues and bars, casinos, pools, hot tubs, The Solarium, spa, lounges, entertainment venues, open-air AquaTheater, live shows, late-night comedy shows, karaoke, bar-raising cocktails
• Destinations: Caribbean, Jamaica, Bermuda, Bahamas, Mexico, Cozumel and Cancun, Alaska, Europe, Asia, North America, South Pacific, Transatlantic, World Cruise

Virgin Voyages

Rating: 4.1/5.

With three ships in its fleet —the fourth is about to launch by the end of 2023— Virgin Voyages is an all-adult cruise line catering to only over 18-year-old guests. The cruise line offers a range of amazing amenities to entertain its guests, like free Wi-Fi, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, 20+ dining venues (inclusive in fare), and activities such as drag queen brunches, epic dance parties, late-night comedy shows, and more. Alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and shore excursions are paid amenities. The best attraction is for 18- to 21-year-olds, as they can drink on board in international waters (illegal in the USA) . Plus, the cruise line sails to amazingly beautiful destinations and has a 4.1 rating , making Virgin Voyages one of the best in the world ranked by reviews .

• Amenities and Activities: Free Wi-Fi, 20+ dining venues, multiple lounges, bars, and clubs, spa, fitness center, nightclub, multiform theater, casino, live performances, DJ nights, drag queen brunches, dance parties, comedy shows
• Destinations: Caribbean, Europe, Australia, South Pacific, Transatlantic, Asia, and the Middle East

Viking Ocean Cruises

Rating: 4.6/5.

Considered the world's leading small-ship cruise line, Viking offers adult-only ocean cruises that are jam-packed with all-inclusive luxuries and culturally immersive experiences. Along with its river cruises , the cruise line is well-known for its brand-new Octantis expedition cruises, which visit the Great Lakes and the Great White Continent . Viking cruises provide enticing amenities, like free Wi-Fi throughout the ship, verandas for every cabin, destination-focused dining, one free shore excursion at each port, Nordic Spa, and much, much more, that make an adult sea vacation both relaxing and indulgent. In addition, the amenities and services rank the cruise line first in Best Cruise Lines for Couples at travel.usnews.com and have a 4.6 rating at cruisecritic.com .

• Amenities and Activities: Multiple lounges, performance theater, movie theaters, pools, library, cultural enrichment program, guest lectures, destination performances, cooking classes, destination-focused dining, Nordic-inspired spa, salon, fitness center
• Destinations: Europe, Scandinavia, America, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asia, Australia, world voyages