TUI may be best-known for package holidays, but its Marella Cruises, formerly Thomson Cruises, has emerged as a popular choice for vacationers seeking exhilarating ocean adventures. With five ships sailing to over 100 destinations, including breathtaking spots across the Caribbean and Mediterranean, Marella Cruises offers inclusive experiences packed with family-friendly activities.
What sets Marella apart from other cruise lines is its all-inclusive approach, where airfare, transfers, meals, drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic), and even gratuities are covered within the cruise fare. Given its popularity among British travelers, most sailings depart from continental ports, ensuring seamless access to sun-kissed getaways.
Passengers can expect ships equipped with diverse amenities catered to families, such as escape rooms, pools, cinemas, rock climbing walls, and vibrant evening entertainment. For those desiring tranquility away from children, Marella offers adults-only cruises. For the summer of 2026, for example, Marella Discovery will cater exclusively to adults, providing serene sailing experiences.
Marella's vast fleet includes river cruises operated by TUI, which also maintain the all-inclusive philosophy. The river cruises navigate historic European waterways, like the Rhine and Danube, and even the renowned River Nile, with amenities often including wifi and selected excursions.
Among the standout sailings is Marella Voyager's week-long cruise through the Canary Islands. Departing on December 13, 2025, this cruise provides much-needed winter sun with various enchanting destinations such as the volcanic terrain of Arrecife, Lanzarote, and the lush botanical gardens of Funchal, Madeira. With 17 dining options onboard, including the British-themed Silver Fork restaurant, this cruise guarantees both culinary explores and refreshing outdoor activities ranging from mini-golf to swimming.
For those intrigued by the Caribbean, Marella Discovery presents the Exotic Islands cruise, setting off from Barbados on April 13, 2025. This week-long excursion leads travelers through hotspots like Aruba and Grenada, alongside quaint spots like Curacao. Aboard the Discovery, guests can enjoy not only stunning shore excursions but also double pools, outdoor cinema, and rock-climbing walls. The ship's show lounge entertains guests with West End-standard performances, ensuring evenings are as vibrant as the Caribbean sunsets.
On November 5, 2025, another appealing option is offered by Marella Discovery 2 with the Aegean Wonders cruise, embarking from Cyprus. Over eight days, travelers will enjoy cultural and scenic experiences with stops at Crete's historical sites and Malta's narrow streets. This ship, renovated recently, features modern aesthetics and retains various conveniences similar to its sibling Marella Discovery.
The Marella Explorer offers another unique itinerary: the Adriatic Explorer cruise from Corfu. This cruise, departing on July 18, 2025, highlights historic landmarks including the iconic Dubrovnik. With ten restaurants and bars onboard, passengers can indulge in culinary delights ranging from high-end spaces to casual dining options.
For guests searching for serenity and sophistication, Marella Explorer 2 will operate exclusively for adults. Sailing from Dubrovnik on June 12, 2025, travelers can explore ancient Greece, with stops at Athens and Olympia, providing both rich history and luxurious onboard amenities like the high-end Champneys Spa and various themed dining experiences.
For those who favor river cruising, TUI Ria offers the Rhine Gems cruise, departing April 4, 2026. Passengers can enjoy stunning views of historical cities across Germany and Switzerland within the span of one week. With stops in places like Basel and Mannheim, there's both local culture and fine wine to savor onboard.
The TUI Bahareya provides yet another option, concentrated on the majestic Nile, where history meets luxurious relaxation. Departing from Luxor on November 4, 2025, passengers will explore various temples and tombs, including those dating back to the era of the ancient Egyptians. Every voyage aboard Bahareya guarantees immersive experiences, with trips led by experienced Egyptologists alongside relaxing amenities, including top-deck pools and regional cuisine.
These selected cruises from TUI not only focus on fulfilling travelers' wanderlust with spectacular journeys but also cater to diverse interests and preferences, offering everything from family-friendly adventures to tranquil adult-only retreats. Such all-encompassing experiences position Marella and TUI among the top choices for holidaymakers globally, promising unforgettable voyages filled with discovery and relaxation.