What's it really like on an adults-only cruise with Marella?
Cruising has long been synonymous with a romantic escape. Jack and Rose (minus the iceberg), anyone? From the motion of the ocean to Champagne at the drop of a sailor's hat, a couple's holiday is easy breezy at sea.
Lounging side-by-side on a sun-drenched deck, roaming different rom-com-worthy destinations and never worrying about splitting the bill; loved-up wanderers have it good on an all-inclusive cruise.
Enter Marella Cruises*, which boasts five ships all suitable for couples, with the vessel Marella Explorer 2* catering exclusively for adults.
Whether you're newlyweds, long-time partners or just in need of some time to reconnect, a cruise offers a wide range of grown-up experiences, from romantic spa treatments to child-free escapes. Here's what cruising as a couple with Marella is really like.
Find your perfect couples' cruise: search the current offers on adults-only itineraries* with Marella Cruises*.
Back to mine?
Marella cabins* cater to diverse budgets, so whether you're on a shoestring or splashing the cash, you'll find a romantic nook for two.
If you want a vista, there are cabins with sea views and outdoor space so you can enjoy dreamy sail-away moments from your own private balcony. Couples celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary might also consider upgrading to a suite for a little extra luxury and room to, erm, spread out.
Every Marella cabin is equipped with the essentials, too, whether you opt for an inside cabin or a suite with a balcony. Expect air conditioning, a TV, hairdryer, safe and tea and coffee-making facilities (romance is surely bringing your partner a brew in bed).
Wardrobe space means you can pack all the seduction 'fits you fancy; or maybe just that jazzy jacket you know they hate.
If music be the food of love...
Forget painfully planning a decent date night. Cruise ships provide a veritable smorgasbord of fun date night experiences mere moments from your room, for free!
Think West End-style shows, live music or dancing into the early hours. And remember, Marella Cruises are all-inclusive*, so you can order drinks all night long, from cocktails to beer, without ever fretting about rising costs. Even tips are included, so no worries about looking tight, either.
For something more low-key, unwind over a glass of bubbly at Flutes Champagne bar, enjoy a relaxed drink in a Brit-style pub or, on Marella Explorer 2, head to The 19th Hole, a golf-themed bar complete with simulator and pro hosts. Ball jokes to yourself, please.
There's also no shortage of grown-up entertainment like wine tastings and slower-paced evenings with quiet music and time to talk.
Table for two
Going for dinner is a stalwart of the dating game for good reason, and nowhere is this easier than on a cruise ship. Couples can enjoy a wide range of dining options* from buffet breakfasts to à la carte dinners, and no two nights need to be the same.
If you want an upgraded evening on a Marella cruise, there are speciality restaurants across the fleet: pan-Asian cuisine at Kora La, classic Italian at Nonna's, and premium steaks at Surf & Turf.
For a more intimate experience, head to The Dining Club, Marella Explorer 2's fine-dining restaurant, or Silver Fork on Marella Voyager*, where refined British cuisine is served.
Relish a seven-course tasting menu with wine flights or swing by Platter with its stylish sharing boards of charcuterie and cheese (also paired with wines).
Sister ship Marella Discovery* brings its own flair with The Glass House for tapas and skewers in a beach-club setting, and 47°, a two-tier restaurant with sea views and even a Great Musical Afternoon Tea.
Elsewhere across the five vessels, there's fresh pasta at Vista, casual bites at Snack Shack, and tacos and nachos at Abuela's, the fleet's only Mexican restaurant (only on Marella Voyager).
Another perk of cruising à deux is that dress codes range from relaxed to smart, with the option to dress up on formal nights if the mood strikes. You do you.
Wander-lust
One of the biggest perks of cruising is the chance to tick off multiple destinations in one trip, all without the argument-inducing hassle of repacking or organising transport.
Current itineraries on adults-only Marella Explorer 2 include scenic stops in Croatia*, Slovenia*, Italy*, Montenegro*, Greece*, Sicily* and Malta*, for instance.
Whether you're wandering through Split's old town, relaxing on the sandy beaches of Corfu or exploring the ancient home of the Olympic Games (don't forget your selfie on the old starting line), there's something for every kind of couple.
Shore excursions include bike and walking tours, speedboat rides, food and drink tasting sessions, and much more, ideal for pairing your shared interests with local discovery.
Cruise & Stay* options are also available, so you can add on a hotel break before or after your sailing and extend the adventure.
No kids, please
For couples looking to leave the noise behind, Marella Explorer 2 is your best bet: it's exclusively for adults. That means no kids' clubs, splash zones or early bedtimes; just relaxation and plenty of peace.
This ship comes with a spa and fitness centre offering couples' treatments and private sauna suites. For al fresco let's-stare-into-each-other's-eyes moments, The Veranda is a stylish outdoor terrace with Balinese beds and drinks served straight to your lounger, perfect for long, lazy sea days.
Dining and entertainment on Marella Explorer 2 are also tailored to an older crowd, with sophisticated bars, laid-back live music and indulgent menus. It's ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries, or just escaping the day-to-day.
I do (again)
A cruise (especially an all-inclusive one) is undeniably a stress-free way to begin married life. For starters, you don't need to fight over where to go; you'll swing by a lot of cool places on your trip. With all food, drinks and tips included, plus 20 kg of luggage allowance and flights and transfers thrown in on Marella voyages, there's minimal chance for friction.
There are also packages available for couples looking to renew their vows at sea. Choose from Silver, Gold or Platinum, with services conducted by the ship's Captain or Senior Officer.
These can include a bouquet, buttonhole, Champagne toast, afternoon tea, a professional photo and even a special dinner at the Captain's table. Want to go all out? Arrange upgrades such as chocolate-dipped strawberries in your cabin or a private spa session.
Should you?
In short, cruising as a couple means no cooking, no planning and no stress, just quality time together. Whether you want to pack your days with excursions or spend them stretched out on a sunbed with an umbrella-adorned cocktail in hand, there's the freedom and flexibility to do it your way.
And with all-inclusive perks, romantic extras and dedicated adults-only sailings*, Marella makes it easy to celebrate your relationship at sea, no matter what stage you're at.
Ready for a romantic break at sea? See the latest offers on itineraries with Marella Cruises.
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