A quick guide to Marella ships by size and age, to help you decide which one is right for you if you’re considering a cruise with Marella Cruises.
One of the biggest decisions you’ll make when booking a cruise is choosing the right ship. It’s often straightforward if only a few ships are sailing to your chosen destination, but if you’re cruising in a popular area it can be more of a challenge. That’s where knowing the differences between them really helps.
Read on for information about the ships in the Marella Cruises fleet so when it’s time to book, you’ll have a clear idea of which ship is the best fit for you.
A little bit about Marella
Marella Cruises is a British cruise line offering holidays across Europe, the Caribbean, and Asia.
Operated by the TUI Group, many of their ships started life with other cruise lines including Celebrity and Royal Caribbean, before being reimagined for a British audience.
Marella is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, offering great-value cruises with some of the best entertainment at sea.
How many Marella cruise ships are there?
Marella currently has five ships in its fleet, ranging from mid-sized to large, each with its own character and style.
- Marella Discovery
- Marella Discovery 2
- Marella Explorer
- Marella Explorer 2
- Marella Voyager
Overview of Marella ships
Here’s an overview of each ship in the Marella Cruises fleet, including size, age, and key details.
| Ship Name | Passenger capacity | Year Built | Joined Marella fleet | Guest decks | Length | Tonnage (GRT) |
| Marella Discovery | 1830 | 1996 | 2016 | 11 | 264m | 69,130 |
| Marella Discovery 2 | 1836 | 1995 | 2017 | 11 | 264m | 69,472 |
| Marella Explorer | 1924 | 1996 | 2018 | 13 | 262.5m | 76,998 |
| Marella Explorer 2 | 1814 | 1995 | 2019 | 14 | 246m | 71,545 |
| Marella Voyager | 1912 | 1997 | 2023 | 13 | 264m | 77,303 |
If you’re still deciding which Marella ship is right for you, these quick FAQs cover the key differences between them.
What is the biggest Marella ship?
Marella Voyager is the largest ship in the fleet by gross tonnage. As the newest addition, she has 14 decks, 901 cabins, 17 dining venues, and 10 bars.
How old are the Marella ships?
The oldest ship in the fleet is Marella Discovery, which was originally built for Royal Caribbean and sailed as Splendour of the Seas. She joined the Marella fleet in 2016.
In 2022, some of her cabins were refurbished to give them a fresh new look.
Which is the newest Marella cruise ship?
Marella Voyager is the newest ship in the fleet. She features 10 bars and restaurants, an indoor cinema, a casino, a swimming pool, and a show lounge, all brand new and beautifully finished.
Does Marella have any adult-only ships?
Yes, Marella Explorer 2 is an adult-only ship. She offers many of the same facilities as the rest of the fleet, including bars, restaurants, a show lounge, a swimming pool, whirlpools, and an ice cream parlour.
So, if you want to avoid children on your cruise holiday, or maybe have a break from your own, Marella Explorer 2 is a good option for you.
The last word
Whether you’re looking for a lively ship packed with entertainment or something smaller and more laid-back, Marella has a ship to suit every type of cruiser.
If you’re still deciding which one’s right for you, you might enjoy these posts next:
- Marella Explorer 2 cabin review
- Marella Discovery cabin review
- Marella dress code: what to pack for your cruise
Just got back from a cruise around the Western Med on Voyager. First time on a cruise and now hooked! Loved every single minute of it, the ship, the cabin, the friendliness of the staff, the service, the food and the atmosphere on board. Loved it so much, we’ve booked again for next year.
Hi Rob, Glad you had a great time. It’s addictive isn’t it! Emma
We have just been on discovery 2,
First time cruising absolutely brill our ports of call around Italy staff brilliant, had acupuncture while on board pain-free first time In fifteen years brilliant holiday..
Hi Denise, that’s great to hear. Glad you enjoyed it. Emma
Good Morning, booked yesterday to cruise the Adriatic next Friday (30th) on Marella Explorer.
Not cruised with Marella before although we are seasoned cruisers. I’m still excited as, new ship, new ports and new friends to make. Really looking forward to a new experience (with a totally open mind!).
Hi Barri, that’s great, hope you have a fabulous time. Emma
Loved Discovery, the staff, the pools, entertainment was brilliant. Just had 10 days on Celebrity Silhouette and not impressed. Will definitely go back to Marella.
Hi Anne, that’s great to hear. Glad you had a great cruise. I’m looking a a Marella one at the moment. Might just have persuaded me 🙂 Emma