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This was our first time on a cruise and we really enjoyed it. The boat was big enough to not feel crowded in any of the restaurants or bars, the only area we never got to sit at or use was the pool on the top deck because that was packed 100% of the time. The food was very good in all the restaurants, we particularly enjoyed the Italian. The staff had been trained to always greet you when you were passing by and they seemed genuinely friendly people and happy to be there. We have to give a particular mention to our 3 cabin stewards who on the first day introduced themselves and asked us our names, thereafter they greeted us by name every time we saw them and looked after us fantastically. Our cabins were immaculate and we had a beautiful different towel animal on our bed at night. Nothing was too much trouble for them, they were Vicky, Kyow and Larren, all 3 of them are great ambassadors for Marella. The entertainment was to a very high standard, we are not 'show' people but thought we should give it a go and went on 3 different occasions and was pleasantly surprised ! All in all it was a great holiday, the excursions were well planned and we took advantage of going out every day on a different one, seeing the sights and all of the local guides employed knew their stuff. The only thing I wouldn't do again is purchase the premium drinks package as neither of us drink spirits and the standard wines in all the restaurants were to such a high standard that it wasn't necessary, but you live and learn and this was our first cruise, so we didn't know what to expect.
Had a great time on my first cruise. all the staff were very friendly and helpful especially Vicky, Kyaw and Larren who had the dubious task of cleaning up my room. Sangita who gave me a great massage in the Spa and Jemma who served me my meals in the Piccadilly restaurant and was always smiling and attentive
Good cruise overall with happy friendly staff across the board. Nice to see the officers and crew eating in the buffet along with the guests as I feel that made for a more relaxed but still professional atmosphere. Would cruise with TUI again. My only gripe is the whole subbed/towel reservation. I would ban the whole thing - appalling how people do it and job subbed.
Wow, things are changing with Marella, from start to finish, someone in charge has got the whole team working as one, to bring you complete Satisfaction, Enjoyment and Happiness, which comes to you via the Fantastic Crew, in the shape dedicated Service, Beautiful food, Entertainment, Destinations and and waking up most mornings at a new destination, and as we say in England, if you can't beat them!!!!!
