Introducing TUI Discovery! Do you recognise this vessel? That’s probably because it’s previously been known as Royal Caribbean’s Splendour of the Seas! Thomson have now bought the Splendour and renamed her as the TUI Discovery.
If you’ve read our guide to Thomson cruises, you already know who Thomson are ideal for and what is unique about them.
But what can you expect to find on board Discovery? What are the facilities like? Where is there to eat?
Well read on to find out more!
Ship Stats
She is the biggest in Thomson’s fleet, weighing in at almost 70,000 tons and carrying 1830 passengers! Here’s a quick overview of what she has to offer:
Want to know more about the Thomson line? Read our guide here.
Entertainment
Discovery’s entertainment has plenty to offer and has plenty of unique facilities.
Everyone will love the rock climbing wall with its great views of the ship and ocean – except perhaps those who are afraid of heights…
But for those that are afraid, just head on over to the mini golf, and play a game with 9 holes. Just be careful not to shoot those golf balls overboard!
Like all other Thomson ships, there are two swimming pools and the Discovery has them indoor as well as outdoor. The adult only Solarium has a lounging area to relax by the indoor pool. It’s the perfect place to relax without your kids! The four whirlpool baths on deck 9 are also yet another way to achieve that holiday bliss. You can also take a break at the Ocean Spa and Health Club, with a series of different treatments available.
The outdoor movie screen allows you to sit back and relax with a film, drink in hand, under the stars! If you’d prefer more of a spectacle, head to the Broadway show lounge. It has a capacity of 800+ and shows include everything from West End productions to Comedy acts flown in from the UK.
The casino offers fruit machines, roulette and blackjack, and the attached bar is also conveniently open till late. If you’ve never played before, don’t worry – the croupiers can give you some gaming lessons before you get your money out.
Discovery’s on-board gym features the fleet’s largest gym and you’ll be pleased to know that the video arcade isn’t just for kids! Venture there to try out the interactive arcade or go to the internet room to catch up with your friends and family at home.
The Broad Street shops feature plenty of small boutiques for you to browse. They are open only whilst the ship is at sea, but offer clothes, perfume, makeup and gifts.
Dining
The dining on Discovery is the best in Thomson’s fleet! With 7 different dining options to choose from, you certainly won’t get bored of the food!
The restaurants include two a la carte menus, which will feature pan-global cuisine for a cover charge. The Main Restaurant even spans two floors!
Discovery is also the first Thomson ship to enjoy the Chef’s Table – an exclusive dining experience where you watch your chef prepare your food right in front of you. Make sure you book your place as spaces are limited. A cover charge will also apply.
The Lido Restaurant will be available for a more informal buffet dining experience with the menu featuring staples such as fish, meat and pasta, with regular themed food nights such as Asian or Mexican.
You can also grab a quick light bite from the Snack Bar, or enjoy a deli style meal in the Café.
This ship isn’t short of bars either – (as it boasts 8!) They include the Atrium Bar, the Lounge Bar and the Cocktail and Piano Bar. The latter is what it says on the tin – as you can enjoy a drink whilst the resident pianist entertains you!
If you want to relax with a glass of your favourite tipple, head to the Sky Bar, which has great views from the highest point on the ship. We recommend you visit here at twilight to view that perfect sunset!
The Pool Bar means you can grab a snack or drink whilst enjoying the sun, or go to the Coffee Port for a cappuccino and a cake.
Family Friendly Facilities
As with all Thomson ships, there will be Thomson’s Kids’ Club. Children aged three to eleven can have fun in PJ parties, movie nights, play games or go to the Bridge to meet the captain.
For full info about the Children’s club, read our guide to Thomson here!
The ship also has plenty of kids facilities, such as the video arcade, kids play area and the entertainment options (such as golf and the theatre) are also suitable for children.
The lounge bar will also feature family game shows!
Amenities
Standard rooms come with a hairdryer, fridge and safe (which is available at an additional charge.)
Tea and coffee making facilities are also available.
Reception is open around the clock and the medical centre is open between 8am-10am and 6pm-8pm.
The ship also has a Destination Services team, to help you work out which ports you would like to go to and which excursion is the best for you.
As with all Thomson cruise ships, all your gratuities are included in the price you pay! So you don’t have to open your wallet constantly for additional extras.
Have a look at some of our Thomson deals here.
The TUI Discovery will be based in Palma, Majorca and flies from 19 regional airports. You can look at the itineraries, which include “highlights of the Mediterranean,” “cosmopolitan classics” and the “magic of Spain” here!
Do you fancy sailing on Discovery? What do you think of the ship? Let us know in the comments below!
