DAY 119 Aug 2024
Time at Port: from 7:30 AM to 11:59 PM
This incredibly popular resort town sees over a quarter of a million people each summer and for good reason! If zipping down thrilling slides at waterparks and shopping for handcrafted souvenirs in bustling markets is your thing, you’ll love Marmaris. Cool off at the beach, top up your tan and explore natural beauty at the national park, or ancient history at Marmaris Castle.
Things to do in Marmaris:
Aqua Dream Water Park
For those hot summer days when you’re ready to cool off, Aqua Dream Water Park is full of fun, thrilling slides, pools and parties. With something suitable for kids of all ages, as well as a range of options at the cafeteria, you’ll easily spend a whole day at this water park.
Atlantis Water Park
In a perfect location on the seafront and next to the shopping centre, Atlantis Water Park is teeming with thrilling slides, numerous areas especially for kids and a wave pool, as well as mini golf, a private beach and restaurants and bars.
Grand Bazaar
The biggest public shopping centre, Marmaris Grand Bazaar has thousands of items for sale in its vicinity. From traditional Turkish crafts that make excellent souvenirs to clothes, accessories, shoes and jewellery, you’ll find whatever you’re looking for here.
Marmaris Castle
Marmaris Castle is a goldmine of Turkish history, hosting an archaeological museum within the fortress. Explore the terraces and colourful gardens and discover fantastic photo opportunities, as well as grab some souvenirs and refreshments at nearby shops.
Marmaris National Park
Turkey’s most visited natural area, Marmaris National Park boasts over 514 types of plant as well as fascinating animals, such as wild boar, red falcon, lynx and bears. You’ll find numerous hiking trails as well as a small, quiet beach for a dip.
Istanbul
DAY 321 Aug 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Istanbul’s history dates back thousands of years, making it an incredibly culturally enriching destination to visit. With warm and welcoming locals excited to show you around, you’ll explore breath-taking mosques with vibrant mosaics, find handcrafted souvenirs at lively markets and enjoy aromatic mezes and fresh seafood as well as locally produced wine. There’s a lot to see here, but be sure to simply explore this wonderful city to truly soak up the culture.
Things to do in Istanbul:
Basilica Cistern
One of the city’s most popular attractions, the Basilica Cistern was built in 532 and is the largest surviving cistern in Istanbul. The number of columns and the impeccable symmetry is a staggering sight and a must see, making a great escape on hot summer days.
Blue Mosque
Built between 1609 and 1616 during the rule of Ahmed I, the Blue Mosque is named for its hand-painted blue tiles on the interior walls, and the blue lights that illuminate it at night. A walk around this impressive structure is truly awe inspiring- don’t forget to adhere to the dress code though.
Dolmabahce Palace
This magnificent structure took 13 years to build and was the administrative centre of the Ottoman Empire. Take a tour of the entire palace or different sections and discover the exquisite decoration (particularly the 4.5 tonne chandelier) and the painting museum.
Hagia Sophia
Often considered the eighth wonder of the world, the Hagia Sophia was actually built three times after being destroyed, with the third and final structure being built 532-537 AD. Now, it is a museum filled with Christian and Muslim art, as well as breath-taking architecture.
Misir Carsisi
Selling countless varieties of Turkish delight, Mısır Çarşısı Market (also known as Spice Bazaar) is a fantastic place to find souvenirs, spices, snacks and stories from warm, friendly vendors. Whether you’re looking to buy or not, exploring the market is a great way to be immersed in the culture and atmosphere of Istanbul.
Sultanahmet Square
Sultanahmet Square is where you’ll find the tourist hotspots of Istanbul all in one place. Located in one of the most historical parts of the city, you’ll find the largest cistern, two stunning mosques and numerous places to enjoy authentic cuisine.
Topkapi Palace
Topkapi Palace possesses a colourful history with many sultans living there since 1481. A visit here will give visitors insight into the fascinating stories of the Ottoman Empire, through collections of armour, weaponry, pottery, jewellery and more.
Bodrum
DAY 523 Aug 2024
Time at Port: from 12 PM to 6 PM
Located on Turkey's breathtaking southwest coast, Bodrum is a popular coastal city that's home to an array of extraordinary sights, from the Castle of St. Peter to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, The Mausoleum of Halicarnassus which was constructed in 4th century BC. For those that love to relax in the sun, Bodrum also has a selection of beautiful beaches that span the surrounding peninsula.
Things to do in Bodrum:
Bodrum Castle (Castle of St. Peter)
The Knights of St. John constructed the historical fortification known as Bodrum Castle (or the Castle of St. Peter) in 1402. This picturesque castle is situated on a narrow rocky peninsula, and consists of French, Spanish, German, Italian and English towers, making it distinctive in design.
Bodrum Ancient Theatre
The Theatre at Halicarnassus, often referred to as the Bodrum Ancient Theatre, is a Greco-Roman theatre in Bodrum, Turkey, that dates back to the fourth century BC. Accommodating up to 13,000 guests, the theatre is said to have been constructed in a similar manner as the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. With stunning panoramic views of the Bodrum peninsula, it's certainly one of the most beautiful sights in downtown Bodrum, 3 kilometres from Gumbet, and 10 minutes by Dolmus.
Zeki Müren Arts Museum
Located in the centre of Bodrum, it showcases the Turkish actor and singer’s costumes and paintings. An icon in the country, he was often referred to as the Elvis of Turkey. A unique and popular place to visit whilst in Bodrum, the Zeki Muren Arts Museum is situated on a street of the same name - showcasing the popularity of the star.
Heraklion, Crete
DAY 624 Aug 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
As Crete’s largest city and popular for its association with many popular Greek myths and characters such as Minos, Daedalus, Ariadne, Theseus and the infamous labyrinth, it’s no wonder Heraklion boasts numerous museums teeming with artefacts found across the island. One of the most notable sites is the Palace of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city and home to grizzly tales of the minotaur, while the modern landscape is thriving with vibrant nightlife, shopping and dining.
Things to do in Heraklion, Crete:
Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos
Both a research centre and an aquarium that the whole family will love, Cretaquarium features numerous tanks dedicated to ocean ecosystems around the world, including the deepest depths, the tropics and more. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore at their own leisure.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
One of the best museums in the world for Minoan art, Heraklion Archaeological Museum covers over 5,500 years of Crete’s history. Featuring intricate artefacts and relics from the Minoan civilization, discover the ancient history of the island at this informative museum.
Historical Museum of Crete
Covering the 4th century AD up to WWII, the Historical Museum of Crete features intricate sculptures, iconic paintings and ancient ceramics, as well as the reconstruction of a Cretan rural home. Visitors will also find a café with indoor and outdoor seating.
Palace of Knossos
Also known as The Labyrinth, Knossos is Crete’s largest Bronze Age archaeological site, and Europe’s oldest city. Take a tour of this fascinating site, said to have once been home to a terrifying Minotaur, as well as the palace of King Minos.
Rhodes Town, Rhodes
DAY 725 Aug 2024
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 7 PM
Rhodes Town comprises of an old and new town, each with their own unique charms. While the Old Town is like stepping back into the medieval ages, boasting Ottoman and Italian architecture, the New Town is a hub of vibrant nightlife. The combination of both old and new makes for a fantastically varied cruise holiday, catering to all interests. Explore an ancient palace and medieval ruins during the day, dine at an authentic seafood tavern in the evening, and dance the night away.
Things to do in Rhodes Town, Rhodes:
Archaeological Museum of Rhodes
Situated in the medieval Hospital of the Knights of Rhodes, the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes is a striking building to explore, and the artefacts within make it especially key to visit. Visitors will find mosaics, sculptures, statues and spoils of war.
Elli Beach
The closest beach to Rhodes town, Elli Beach is a popular place to spend a sunny day. With plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas as well as waterfront restaurants and bars, you’ll have everything you need to relax, along with a diving platform to quickly cool you off.
Palace of the Grand Master of the Knight of Rhodes
Another must visit UNESCO World Heritage Site in Rhodes, the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights is a beautifully preserved site filled with art, mosaics, furniture and décor. Explore this structure for a glimpse into the past of Rhodes.
Rhodes Town Medieval Town
Rhodes Town comprises of an old and new town, each with their own unique charms. While the Old Town is like stepping back into the medieval ages, boasting Ottoman and Italian architecture, the New Town is a hub of vibrant nightlife. The combination of both old and new makes for a fantastically varied cruise holiday, catering to all interests. Explore an ancient palace and medieval ruins during the day, dine at an authentic seafood tavern in the evening, and dance the night away.
Roloi Clock Tower
If you’re looking for the best views across Rhodes, Roloi Clock Tower is the place to be! Since being restored over time its architecture is of a Baroque style, and with a rewarding free drink after making the climb to the top.
Marmaris
DAY 826 Aug 2024
Time at Port: from 7:30 AM to 11:59 PM
This incredibly popular resort town sees over a quarter of a million people each summer and for good reason! If zipping down thrilling slides at waterparks and shopping for handcrafted souvenirs in bustling markets is your thing, you’ll love Marmaris. Cool off at the beach, top up your tan and explore natural beauty at the national park, or ancient history at Marmaris Castle.
Things to do in Marmaris:
Aqua Dream Water Park
For those hot summer days when you’re ready to cool off, Aqua Dream Water Park is full of fun, thrilling slides, pools and parties. With something suitable for kids of all ages, as well as a range of options at the cafeteria, you’ll easily spend a whole day at this water park.
Atlantis Water Park
In a perfect location on the seafront and next to the shopping centre, Atlantis Water Park is teeming with thrilling slides, numerous areas especially for kids and a wave pool, as well as mini golf, a private beach and restaurants and bars.
Grand Bazaar
The biggest public shopping centre, Marmaris Grand Bazaar has thousands of items for sale in its vicinity. From traditional Turkish crafts that make excellent souvenirs to clothes, accessories, shoes and jewellery, you’ll find whatever you’re looking for here.
Marmaris Castle
Marmaris Castle is a goldmine of Turkish history, hosting an archaeological museum within the fortress. Explore the terraces and colourful gardens and discover fantastic photo opportunities, as well as grab some souvenirs and refreshments at nearby shops.
Marmaris National Park
Turkey’s most visited natural area, Marmaris National Park boasts over 514 types of plant as well as fascinating animals, such as wild boar, red falcon, lynx and bears. You’ll find numerous hiking trails as well as a small, quiet beach for a dip.
Fly to the UK
DAY 12
Customer reviews for Marella Discovery
4.2
Based on 214 reviews
Cabin
4.3
Service
4.4
Excursions
4
Dining
4.3
Activities
4
Value for money
4.3
Entertainment
4.2
Lovely ship, not too big so easy to get around, refurbished cabin was lovely. Staff were amazing, especially our cabin stewards -Lee, Pande and Ricardo, on deck 8, thank you for being lively people and looking after us so well every single day. The destinations were so varied we enjoyed every one. We were expecting the cruise to be good but it exceeded our expectations - it was outstanding. Big thank you to Captain Chris for "arranging" a rocket launch in Cape Canavarel - it was literally out of this world.
couple
6-10 cruisesInside Plus (4 berths) - Deck 7/8
3 Aug 2023
Great trip, shame about the engine fire that meant the route was changed. Marella dealt with this by keeping up good communication, giving refunds and then a cabin upgrade. Awesome.
couple
2-5 cruisesOutside (2 berths) - Deck 2/3
26 Jul 2023
Great.
couple
10+ cruisesBalcony Cabin
2 Jul 2023
From the start to the end off the holiday was enjoyable. House maids, bar staff, waiters- everyone was excellent.
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.