Strictly Adults-Only – For Marella’s New Ship!

It has just been revealed Marella Cruises new ship the Explorer 2 will be adult-only when it launches in May 2019. It will be offering 11 new itineraries and seven ports of call from next summer. The vessel previously operated as Celebrity Galaxy as a sister ship to Century and Mercury, first entering service at the end of 1996. The 71,545 tonnes ship will  be based at a new homeport of Naples with itineraries to include stops in Venice, Rome and Dubrovnik with the summer 2019 programme going on sale the 5th April 2018.

So with four new ships announced in the last couple of years, it seems Marella Cruises have plans to rapidly expand. Which is a far cry from 1973 when they initially entered the cruise market but due to rising fuel costs the venture was terminated in 1976. Then in 1995 re-entered back into the cruise market after seeing the success of their competitor Airtours with their Sun Cruises brand.

The decision to go all inclusive is expected to appeal to passengers who are younger and new to cruising too, Marella has stated.

Managing Director of Marella Cruises Chris Hackney said: “We are really pleased to announce Marella Explorer 2 as an adults-only ship from next summer, sailing from our brand new home port of Naples, offering customers yet more choice and flexibility.

We continue to look at ways to offer something different to our current customers who have come to enjoy our ships and friendly service on-board and those who may be thinking about booking a cruise for the first time.”

It seems to me Thomson/Marella have taken over the strap-line ‘for people who don’t do cruises’, especially with the increase in the market of people who are new to cruising. Thomson or TUI have had such a presence and success in the overseas holiday market over the years and this this is now reflecting through their cruise portfolio. Customers like the idea of the all inclusive concept, entertainment that is suitable for all ages and tastes and no extras such as gratuities and drinks as they are included.

The advantage Marella have over the competitors in the cruise market is that they have their own airline which can offer regional flying from all over the UK, which is a great convenience especially for people that live in Scotland and the North East. So with Marella Cruises holding approximately 1% market share of the worldwide cruise industry, where will they be in 5 years time? Well with the addition of 4 ships which are double the size of their current fleet, watch this space.

What do you think of Marella Cruises? Have you sailed or will you be sailing with them in the future?