DAY 1 - 22 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 6 AM to 10 PM
On the coast of the largest Balearic island, this sun-soaked seaside city dates back to the 13th-century and is a must visit for any adventurer. A simple stroll will take you on a journey back in time, past breath-taking architecture, medieval history, bustling markets and to an endless array of authentic eateries. With so many hidden gems amongst iconic landmarks, places like Casa Antiguo are the best bet for a true taste of Palma culture.
Things to do in Palma, Majorca:
Le Seu Cathedral
Found in the heart of Palma, La Seu is a stunning Catalan Gothic style cathedral, with renowned architect Antoni Gaudí contributing to its intricate design. Featuring 61 stained-glass windows, the building flooding with coloured light inside is simply a must.
Castell de Bellver
Built in the 14th century, Bellver Castle is surrounded by lush pine woods and houses an insightful museum of Palma’s municipal history. Visitors will love taking a walk around the moat before admiring the view out over the city and bay from the rooftop.
Casco Antiguo
The quaint, winding cobbled streets of Casco Antiguo are the perfect place to lose yourself in the culture of Palma. Discover gothic bookshops, antique boutiques and must-see tourist sites such as La Seu and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.
Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art
Showcasing a wide range of art throughout history, Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art is a must visit to discover the cultural heritage of Mallorca. With works by Picasso, Magritte and more, you’re bound to find your new favourite piece.
At Sea
DAY 2 - 23 Oct 2022
You will be at sea on day 2 while travelling from Palma, Majorca to Palermo, Sicily.
Palermo, Sicily
DAY 3 - 24 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
Palermo is the capital of Sicily, as well as the fifth Italian municipality by population. The city has a long history: it was in fact founded by the Phoenicians at the turn of the 7th and 6th centuries BC and was subject to the conquests of various populations, including Romans and Saracens. Numerous buildings are recognised by the State as national monuments due to their historical and artistic features, such as the Cathedral and the Martorana Church.
Things to do in Palermo, Sicily:
Capella Palatina
The Palatine Chapel is located within the larger Palazzo dei Normanni complex. It is a basilica with three naves in Norman-Byzantine style and its construction began in 1129 at the behest of King Roger II of Sicily.
Capuchin Abbey and Catacombs
The Convent of the Capuchins, dating back to the 16th century but built on previous structures, is located in the Cuba district of Palermo. The basement houses the Capuchin Catacombs, where it is possible to admire the body of the little Rosalia Lombardo.
La Martorana
The Church of the Martorana is located in the historic centre of Palermo and boasts a Sicilian-Norman architectural style with Baroque influences. It is part of the circumscription of the Italian-Albanian Church and officiates the liturgy according to the Byzantine rite.
Monte Pellegrino
At Monte Pellegrino you can admire the Sanctuary of Santa Rosalia, patron saint of the city of Palermo, dating back to the 17th century. It was built on the remains of pre-existing religious buildings and is located inside a rock ravine.
Palazzo dei Normanni
The Palazzo dei Normanni is the oldest royal residence in all of Europe. Also declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2015, in the past it was the residence of the sovereigns of the Kingdom of Sicily, imperial seat and of the Sicilian Parliament.
Palmero Archaeological Museum
The Archaeological Museum of Palermo was established in 1866 and owes its name to Antonio Salinas, a Palermo archaeologist who directed the structure. You will be able to admire numerous finds of the peoples that have characterised centuries of Sicilian history.
Palermo Cathedral
The Cathedral of Palermo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2015, is the most important religious structure in the city. The current structure, built in the 12th century, presents different architectural styles with Norman and Islamic influences.
Capri (Naples)
DAY 4 - 25 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
The small and charming island of Capri is located in the Gulf of Naples, south-west of the Sorrento peninsula, to which it was once connected. Its coasts boast numerous caves and quarries alternating with steep cliffs. Capri is divided into the municipalities of Capri and Anacapri, and there is a total of about 14,000 inhabitants. The Blue Grotto, the Gardens of Augustus, the Villa San Michele and the Monte Solaro are some of the places of interest that are worth a visit.
Things to do in Capri (Naples):
Anacapri
Anacapri is one of the two administrative municipalities of the island of Capri. It rises on the slopes of Monte Solaro, and is where the Blue Grotto and Villa San Michele are located. Visitors shroud take the time to tackle the Phoenician steps in order to then enjoy the stunning views below.
Blue Grotto
The Blue Grotto, whose beauty has been praised many times by many poets, is undoubtedly the best known spot in the island of Capri. The enclosed cave owes its name to the shade of blue that the pool of water takes on, thanks to the light that filters through a partially submerged opening.
Gardens of Augustus
The Gardens of Augustus make up a gorgeous city park on the island of Capri. It is an extensive botanical garden, hosting many different plants typical of the area. It also offers a breathtaking view of the Faraglioni rock formation, and the bay of Marina Piccola.
Marina Piccola
Marina Piccola is one of the tourist hot spots on the island of Capri. Located on the opposite side of the main port and not far from the gardens of Augustus, most visitors love to take a dip in its crystal clear waters and gaze at the view of the Faraglioni rock formation.
Monte Solaro
Mount Solaro, at 589 meters high, is formed by the same limestone of which the entire island of Capri is made. A hike here enables visitors to see around a thousand different species of plants, and the rare blue lizard, the only one of its kind in the world.
Ville San Michele
Villa San Michele is located in the municipality of Anacapri, in the north of the island. It owes its name to the ruins of a 10th century chapel dedicated to San Michele. The villa is also home to a majestic statue of a sphinx looking out to sea, which dates back to the reign of Ramses II in the 13th century BC.
Mount Vesuvius
The profile of Naples would not be the same without Mount Vesuvius that dominates the city skyline. Versuvius is known for the violent eruption of AD 79, which became famous for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum, and was witnessed by Pliny the Younger.
Pompeii
The history of Pompeii begins in the 9th century BC, when the area was inhabited by the Opici people - an ancient Latin population. Today the town is famous because of the eruption of Vesuvius, which occurred in 79 AD, which led to its total destruction.
National Archaeological Museum
The opening of the historic National Archaeological Museum of Naples took place in 1816. Built by Ferdinando I of Borbone, at the time king of the Two Sicilies, it boasts the richest collection of works and archaeological finds with regard to Roman history.
Herculaneum
The tremendous eruption of Vesuvius, in 79 AD, not only destroyed Pompeii but also the ancient city of Herculaneum. The archaeological excavations of this city can be visited today and, since 1997, are part of the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Piombino
DAY 5 - 26 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 7 PM
Piombino is the second Tuscan port after Livorno, perfect for quickly reaching the Island of Elba. It is thought that the first human settlements date back to the Etruscan civilisation (between the 8th and the 2nd century BC), as evidenced by the tombs discovered at the nearby Populonia and Baratti. In fact, you can visit the Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia in the company of a guide, to discover the necropolises and acropolis.
Things to do in Piombino:
Gulf of Baratti
The Gulf of Baratti owes its name to the town of the same name located on the coast. The area is known for its Etruscan burial mound - testimony to the ancient civilisation of central Italy - which today are part of Baratti and Populonia Archaeological Park.
Archaeological Museum of Populonia
The Archaeological Museum of Populonia is home to numerous finds from prehistoric and ancient times. One particularly special item among these is a silver amphora dating back to the 4th century AD, which is believed to have come from the city of Antioch after being lost during a shipwreck.
Populonia Archaeological Park
Established in 1998, Baratti and Populonia Archaeological Park is part of the whole of the Val di Cornia Parks. Here you can explore the ancient city of Populonia, the only Etruscan urban settlement on the sea.
Monaco (Villefranche)
DAY 6 - 27 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Barcelona
DAY 7 - 28 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
This vibrant seaside city is home to unforgettable architecture and creative scenes from renowned artists. The buildings you’ll find here are unlike anything you’ve ever seen, such as Park Güell and Casa Batllo, while foodies will be spoilt for choice with 20 different Michelin star restaurants. At the end of a busy day of shopping enjoy the energetic nightlife, or relax on the beach with newfound friends. Whatever your interests, Barcelona has the perfect itinerary for you.
Things to do in Barcelona:
Las Ramblas
Visiting Las Ramblas is an absolute must when in Barcelona. Visitors can experience the weird and the wonderful, from the Museu de l’Erotica to the Miró Mural, in between trying a range of authentic tapas bars and cafes before a much needed siesta.
Sagrada Familia
Although the Sagrada Familia is not technically complete, it’s still an impressive sight to behold. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this spectacular Basilica hosts many masses, events and a place to simply marvel at in wonder.
Barcelona City History Museum
Home of the cultural heritage of Barcelona, the Barcelona City History Museum manages several sites of interest including archaeological sites and historic houses. Visitors will discover the Roman colony, prehistoric Spain, Barcelona’s Jewish community and more.
Park Guell
Comprising of vibrant gardens and beautiful architecture, Park Güell was designed by Antoni Gaudí and officially opened in 1926. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its outstanding showcase of Gaudí’s genius design, Park Güell makes a wonderful place to go for a walk.
Casa Batllo
Another one of Antoni Gaudí’s masterpieces, Casa Batllo is a truly eye-catching building to explore. Visitors are able to explore this fantastic showcase of the designer’s work, and even enjoy live music and other events on the roof terrace.
Casa Mila
This modernist building was the last residence to be designed by Antoni Gaudí and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the building with an audio guide, and even enjoy rooftop shows on a romantic evening.
Sant Sebastia
One of Barcelona’s oldest beaches, Sant Sebastià Beach features everything you need for a fantastic day in the sun. With indoor and outdoor pools, changing rooms and amenities for lounging, visitors can go for a dip, enjoy an ice cream and find dinner all in one area.
Camp Nou Stadium
With capacity for over 99,000 people, Camp Nou is the largest stadium in Spain and cathedral to the Catalans’ second religion- the beautiful game! Visitors can catch an exciting game of football here or take a guided or un-guided tour of the grounds.
Palma, Majorca
DAY 8 - 29 Oct 2022
Time at Port: from 6 AM to 10 PM
On the coast of the largest Balearic island, this sun-soaked seaside city dates back to the 13th-century and is a must visit for any adventurer. A simple stroll will take you on a journey back in time, past breath-taking architecture, medieval history, bustling markets and to an endless array of authentic eateries. With so many hidden gems amongst iconic landmarks, places like Casa Antiguo are the best bet for a true taste of Palma culture.
Things to do in Palma, Majorca:
Le Seu Cathedral
Found in the heart of Palma, La Seu is a stunning Catalan Gothic style cathedral, with renowned architect Antoni Gaudí contributing to its intricate design. Featuring 61 stained-glass windows, the building flooding with coloured light inside is simply a must.
Castell de Bellver
Built in the 14th century, Bellver Castle is surrounded by lush pine woods and houses an insightful museum of Palma’s municipal history. Visitors will love taking a walk around the moat before admiring the view out over the city and bay from the rooftop.
Casco Antiguo
The quaint, winding cobbled streets of Casco Antiguo are the perfect place to lose yourself in the culture of Palma. Discover gothic bookshops, antique boutiques and must-see tourist sites such as La Seu and Es Baluard Contemporary Art Museum.
Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art
Showcasing a wide range of art throughout history, Es Baluard Museum of Modern & Contemporary Art is a must visit to discover the cultural heritage of Mallorca. With works by Picasso, Magritte and more, you’re bound to find your new favourite piece.
Just back from a week's med cruise on this ship. First time on a smaller ship and loved it. Yes you feel a bit more sea movement but that is out weighed by the many pluses. Easy to find you're way around, food excellent, crew excellent, cleanliness excellent....... you will always find those who moan about everything so take these reviews with a pinch of salt if you read negative stuff and don't be put off by the few. Marella cruise offered excellent value for money, previously used P&O but we felt this cruise was better on many levels. The organisation getting from airport to ship etc was seamless making it hassle free. Only down side was flight out from Bristol had to divert to Gatwick on the way out due to a technical problem but things like that happen and it's out of their control and it was dealt with efficiently, re boarded a replacement plane at Gatwick and still made the ship in time. Heard others moaning they expected to be escorted like children through Gatwick, totally unrealistic given the situation, others moaned they didn't have enough time to spend their food vouchers given to them and then spent their food voucher on 3 boxes of quality street instead of proper food, some people are plainly stupid. Overall very impressed.
I went on the cruise on 19th October with 6 friends and we had an amazing time! The food was excellent, drinks, amazing, all beautifully served; cabins were clean and we were looked after exceptionally well; entertainment was of a high standard particularly the dance/singing group in the Broadway theatre. We loved joining the choir with Matthew Ibbotson; in all, a superb cruise. I must commend the following - Fernando and Arlind in 47 restaurant, table 112. Hari and Romy at breakfast, Presida, Alesoar and Umbara for cabin 2529, Natasha and Roshirlyn in gallery 47,and all the wine waiters on deck 9. (Sorry if I've spelt some names wrong!) I'd come again any time! Ann Martyn (Mrs)
The ship had excellent crew and relationship between passengers and crew was wonderful . The food and drink was in abundance so no one goes hungry in 24 hours brilliant and honestly this is the best ship I have been to of the three ships I used. I am booking to go on Marella Discovery 2 again next year October. Music entertainment however needs to make us all involved young and old aged like ABBA etc.
We are “ seasoned” cruisers but this was our second cruise with Tui. Flew to Palma on 28/9/19 to join the ship for a 14 night cruise, the itinerary was great. The ship was the friendliest we have ever been on, Captain and staff were great, especially our cabin stewards, Supaman ( that’s how he spells it) and Pac-Man, brilliant pair! I didn’t think the food in the buffet for breakfast and lunch was of a particularly high standard but you won’t starve on a cruise ship! The meals in the restaurant 47 were really very good. The quality of all inclusive drinks was a bit hit and miss, bit watery at times. Tui, you need to sort out exactly what a formal night is and stop the title “ Dress to Impress” guests don’t really know what’s expected of them. The entertainment team were great but Tui could do with paying for some “ acts”, like other ships. There should have been more transfers into the towns, some we were made to pay. A particularly nice touch was a water carafe in each cabin and the water machine was just along from our cabin, lovely cold water! We filled ours up every day, so I don’t know why people complain about no bottled water, if Tui provided it, people would take two sips and just leave the bottle anywhere, would be a waste. All in all, a lovely cruise but Tui, you need to improve on meeting your guests at Palma ( for directions to coaches) and transfers. Marella Discovery 2 is a beautiful, clean ship with brilliant crew!
We did a 14 night cruise on 28th September visiting Portugal, Spain, Italy and southern France. We had so much fun with such a great bunch of people. The food was excellent, the bands and musicians fantastic, and the staff so happy and friendly. We came home exhausted from late nights but on such a high. We would definitely choose Marella Cruises again.
SAILED ON DISCOVERY 2 ON 28th SEPTEMBER FOR WEEK AROUND SOUTHERN SPAIN AND PORTUGAL, WE HAD A FANTASTIC TIME. THE SHIP WAS VERY CLEAN AND THE STAFF WERE VERY FRIENDLY. EVERYTHING ABOUT THE CRUISE WAS FIRST CLASS WOULD DEFINITELY RECOMMEND THIS CRUISE
We sailed from 21st September 2019. Literally the best holiday we have ever had! The food was amazing from Islands to Gallery 47 to 47' and not forgetting the snack shack! The entertainment team were fantastic, Alex, Carly, Daisy and Sean you made us laugh til it hurt! The shows in Broadway were brilliant and the resident bands Syncsession and High waves were also fab. Can't wait to cruise again!
just back from magic of spain one week out of palma first time on marella fleet wow they really have got what it takes so clean and professional with everything they do entertainment absolutely 1st class and the food was exceptional hot and great variety!!!!!!!having cruised on other lines for a few years now and having found marella thats it only this company will do they have restored my faith in cruising and will hopefully be booking another cruise soon
First the positives. Impressed with the crew and especially the captain who was informative, friendly and understandable. The ship was kept clean and nothing was too much trouble . Some of the entertainment was excellent but got to say the shows were poor mainly due to two or three of the main singers not being very good. Now the negatives. The food in the buffet restaurant was good. The food in the main restaurant and Italian was at best average but often poor and often cold or just warm. Queing for a drink was often a chore and even though the waiters were excellent it often took 15 to 20 minutes to get the drink. The ship often docked in industrial ports and so you couldn't just have a gentle stroll off ship you had to get on a coach to the nearest beach. The tui excursions need reviewing. The first trip was effectively a trip part way up Mount etna to a winery. Saw nothing of the volcano. So paid £50 each for a wine tasting which we don't drink. Not impressed. Second trip to amalfi coast and pompei was too long sat on a coach and not enough time at either site. Had to pay an extra £15each for the boat trip which was the only real way of seeing the coast and no time in the town. Again at pompei we were herded into a restaurant for a meal(another £16each) for an undercooked pizza and only had 1 and half hours round pompei.. Late back to ship. Not impressed. Trip to sanbergino and seina was a nightmare. 2&half hours on coach. 45 minutes round town. Nowhere near long enough. Another hour on a coach and 2 & half hours around seina again nowhere near long enough and another 2 hours on the coach back to ship. Late again last back on board. Not impressed. Cancelled last trip to gerona as was fed up sitting on a coach. But was told we had to visit medical centre to confirm we couldn't travel. Why?. But had a lovely day in Rose's. Finally was lest an invoice for £2 in cabin for tui charity contribution which was voluntary. So we ignored this. But was highly embarrassed when leaving ship to be sent back up to pay £2 for bill _£1.50 for a bottle of water which we were unaware of. Again not impressed on an all inclusive ship.
We were first time cruisers so was unsure what to expect. We were not disappointed. The captain and his team run a very smooth operation with excellent staff in all areas. Customer satisfaction is their top priority. All areas of the ship were spotless and they take hygiene very seriously with numerous hand sanitizers, both in the restaurant entrances and exists on all the toilets. Restaurants: 47 degrees first class, Gallery 47 (Italian) again first class. Snack shack very good for food on the go. The Surf and Turf was exceptional, well worth the supplement. Was a little disappointed with the Island Buffett Restaurant, but maybe our expectations were set too high. If you have food allergies/intolerances don’t be shy in talking to the respective Head Chefs/Maitre’ds..we did as my Husband has many allergies and in all eateries they were excellent, even to the point of preparing individual menus for him. Our cabin steward was very friendly and helpful. You are spoilt for choice when it comes to entertainment, both day and evening, there is something for everyone. The 2 swimming pools were lovely. Plenty of bars to choose from and around the pool the waiter service for dink’s is excellent. Some personal thank you’s go to: Randy, Marlon, Josico, Suparman and the Executive Head Chef. Would we cruise again.....Absolutely .
Went on this ship for the first time in June and was very impressed. Lovely cabin, wonderful crew, great entertainment, delicious food....so good that I went again this month! Again faultless apart from the itinerary, which I did not think was as good. That said I have booked a further two cruises for 2020!! Superb value for money.
* Please note - Itineraries calling into Venice and Dubrovnik will incur a small tourist tax per person, this will be added to your onboard account during the cruise.
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Note: On 13 January 2018, new European legislation is being adopted in the UK which as result will mean that we may change our required method of payment at our discretion, irrespective of how any deposit or prior payment was made.
