Choose to fly from a variety of airports included within the price.
Drinks
Most drinks are included within the price of the cruise. Premium drinks can be included by upgrading to the "Premium Al Inclusive" package. See details of what is included in each below.
Premium All Inclusive
All inclusive
Tips
All tips and service charges are included in the cruise price. You are not expected to tip unless you want to.
Entertainment
Choose from a variety of things to entertain yourself including restaurants, bars, theatre, pools and much more.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the cruise.
Port Fees & Taxes
No surprises. All port fees and taxes are included in the price.
Extras
Wi-fi
WiFi internet access isn’t included in the cost of your cruise, so if you want to get online then you’ll need to pay an additional fee. Marellla have a variety of options for getting online. See below.
Speciality Dining
Specialty restaurants allow travellers to enhance their dining experience during the cruise. This is a great way to add variety to your holiday or celebrate a special occasion. You can pay for meals in the special dining restaurants onboard.
Excursions
If you would like to do any excursions/tours while docked these will be an additional charge. Excursions/tours can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package. Alternatively these can be bought while on the ship but may be more expensive than pre-booking.
Parking
Car parking at the port or airport for the duration of your trip is not included within the price of the cruise. Port/airport parking can’t currently be booked with us online but please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add this to your package. An approximate cost for parking is between £12 - £20 per car per day. Alternatively we can arrange transfers from your home to the departure airport/port.
Insurance
Have the peace of mind that you're covered. Contact us after you have made the booking if you would like us to add this to your package.
Transfers (home to port)
Transfers from your home to the port or airport aren't included but we can help organise coach transfers, taxis etc to make your life easier. Please contact us after you have made the booking if you would like to add these to your package.
Visa
Visas are not provided by us or the cruise operator. Visas and other travel documents have to be obtained by the individual passengers prior to sailing.
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for Marella Explorer 2
4.5
Based on 533 reviews
Cabin
4
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
4
Activities
4
Value for money
4
Entertainment
4
Food was amazing no matter where you went to eat. Really pleased wth it. The service was 2nd to none aswel. Everyone happy n friendly.
All staff were exceptional too
couple
2-5 cruises
17 Jan 2026
Very poor
couple
10+ cruises
16 Jan 2026
New Year cruise to Canaries and Madeira. We joined Explorer 2 in Tenerife. Ship clean and presentable in most areas. All staff very sociable, smiley and hard working. The captain was very visible and extremely sociable. Nothing was too much trouble for anyone. Special shout out for our cabin stewards Edmar, Cyrell and Mar. These stewards went above and beyond to ensure all our cabin needs were met. Well done. A thoroughly enjoyable cruise.
couple
10+ cruises
16 Jan 2026
The cruise itself was an excellent experience over all,. Leaving port on both Xmas Eve & New Year Eve was a disappointment as we were given to understand that we would be able to observe fireworks around the ports on both occasions. Staff, entertainment were both excellent. However, the lack of TUI staff at both airports created mass confusion & late flights. In fact this has made us very wary of holidaying with TUI in future.
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.
Talk to a Cruise Expert
Our cruise experts will help you pick the perfect cruise line, ship and destination.
We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
It’s time to say goodbye to the UK (for now) and hop on a flight somewhere exciting! With flights available from a variety of major UK airports, meeting your cruise ship somewhere exciting ahead of your adventure at sea has never been easier! Details on your outbound flight will be available closer to your departure date.
La Romana
DAY 1
18 Mar 2025
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 8 PM
A city that's situated on the coast of the Dominican Republic, La Romana offers beautiful views of the Chavon River and boasts a recreation of a 16th century Mediterranean village. Alongside watersports and the recreated village, other attractions in La Romana include Duarte Central Park and the Cotubanamá National Park.
Things to do in La Romana:
Duarte Central Park
Founded in 1929, the Duarte Central Park is a tranquil park in the heart of La Romana. With shops, arts and crafts vendors, boutiques and benches, this park is a wonderful place to explore whilst in La Romana.
Cotubanamá National Park
Spread across La Romana and La Altagracia, Cotubanama National Park is home to subtropical forests, caves, beaches and picturesque mangroves. A beautiful place to hike, this expansive national park makes up an area of over 790 square kilometres.
Altos de Chavón
One of the most extraordinary attractions in La Romana, Altos de Chavon is a recreation of a Mediterranean village from the 16th century. A popular museum, it houses an archaeological museum, amphitheatre and a cultural centre.
At Sea
DAY 2
19 Mar 2025
Time at Port: TBD
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
St. John's, Antigua
DAY 3
20 Mar 2025
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Not only is St. Johns the capital of Antigua, but it’s a major port in the Caribbean. A bustling city with a captivating history, it’s full to the brim with attractions, including a farmers market, colourful architecture and picturesque beaches. Particular landmarks within the city include Fort James, the Museum of Antigua and Barbuda and the popular Zemi Art Gallery.
Things to do in St. John's, Antigua:
Fort James
Located in the harbour of St. John's, Fort James was built to guard the city from French Invasion. Constructed in the 18th Century, by the British, this fascinating fort is a must see during your stop off in the capital.
Art Gallery
Whilst in the capital, make sure to stop off in Zemi Art Gallery. Located in Redcliffe Quay, the art gallery showcases an array of local artwork, including traditional Antiguan and Barbadian art. Popular with both locals and tourists alike, this colourful art gallery is a unique attraction within the city.
Museum
Learn about the fascinating history of Antigua and Barbuda at this historic museum. Housed within a 1747 court house, it’s a prominent building within the town that has an array of exhibits to explore.
At Sea
DAY 4-10
21 Mar 2025
Time at Port: TBD
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Funchal, Madeira
DAY 11
28 Mar 2025
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
This lush, green city found in the south of Madeira is a haven of relaxation, outdoor activities and beautiful gardens. For the most adventurous, visitors will love diving in the crystal-clear sea, catching some waves and even swimming with dolphins, while those looking to take things at a slower pace can enjoy whale watching. One of the most popular events in Funchal is the yearly New Year’s Eve Fireworks display, which is one of the largest in the world.
Things to do in Funchal, Madeira:
Funchal Cathedral
Found in the city centre, Funchal Cathedral is an impressive Gothic-style monument, popular with locals and visitors alike. Take a look inside to learn about the fascinating history of the architecture, including the altarpiece ordered in 1510 to 1515.
Monte Cable Car
For unrivalled panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the vast landscape, Monte Cable Car will take you to one of the best vantage points in Funchal. The fifteen-minute journey is a relaxing ascent towards Monte, with a souvenir photo at the end of the journey.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Occupying 70,000 square meters, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna from all corners of the world. You will get lost in the tranquil beauty of this garden, enjoying the space with black swans, colourful koi and vibrant peacocks.
Quinta do Palheiro Ferreira
Thanks to Madeira’s fertile soil, many tropical plants thrive here and Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro’s gardens are an excellent showcase of this. The most notable collection are the camellias, first planted by the Count of Carvalhal.
At Sea
DAY 12
29 Mar 2025
Time at Port: TBD
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Alicante
DAY 13
30 Mar 2025
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 5 PM
Alicante offers everything you need for the perfect city break, whatever your interests may be. For the party animals there’s legendary nightlife with countless bars and discos and people to dance with. For the beach-goer, Playa del Postiguet is within close proximity to the city promenade and has perfect facilities for a full day on the beach. For the best views, be sure to head up to Santa Bárbara Castle with your camera and take some snaps that you’ll always remember.
Things to do in Alicante:
Archaeological Museum of Alicante
Combining both prehistoric and modern finds, the Archaeological Museum of Alicante boasts five separate galleries housing numerous audio and visual exhibits. Visitors will find artefacts from Iberian cultures, plus the Roman and Middle Ages.
Basilica of Santa Maria
The oldest active church in Alicante, the Basilica of Santa Maria is in a Valencian Gothic style and a must for any architecture enthusiast. The main entrance is an impressive Baroque sculpture, while the interior includes a golden 18th-century Rococo style main altar.
El Barrio
The Old Town of Alicante has many staircases and winding streets, perfect for a bit of exercise, but also to bring you to the heart of the city. Live like a true local and discover some of the finest tapas bars, vibrant cottages and quirky antique art shops.
Playa del Postiguet
Alicante’s main beach is hugely popular for its close proximity to the city’s promenade and ample facilities. On this sand beach you’ll find many facilities including toilets, showers and snack bars, while the water is great for swimming and paddle boating.
Santa Barbara Castle
At the heart of Alicante is the city’s most iconic landmark, Santa Bárbara Castle. You can make the journey 160 meters up on foot, by elevator or by car and bus to discover more about the ancient castle, and admire the sweeping views of the marina.
At Sea
DAY 14
31 Mar 2025
Time at Port: TBD
While sailing between destinations, you’ll have time to take a moment and enjoy everything your cruise ship has to offer; with stunning food prepared with the freshest ingredients, fantastic entertainment opportunities, and plenty of places to lounge around, an enjoyable day at sea awaits!
Palma, Majorca
DAY 15
01 Apr 2025
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.
Fly to the UK
DAY 15
Time at Port: TBD
It’s time to hop on a plane! This is when you’ll be flying to the UK; the details of your flight will be available to you closer to your embarkation date. So, don’t panic if you’re not seeing any specifics right now, you’ll always have ample time to make any connections you might need to and enjoy every part of your cruise itinerary.
Premium All Inclusive
Premium All Inclusive
Everything included in the standard all inclusive offering plus a selection of premium cocktails, spirits and coffees.
How to book
Select either the All Inclusive or Premium All Inclusive option while booking online.
Included
Premium Spirits
Premium Cocktails and Mixed Drinks
Premium Lavazza coffee
Fresh Fruit Juices
Beers
Ciders
House wine
Cocktails
Spirits
Soft Drinks (by the glass)
All inclusive
All inclusive
This package allows guests to enjoy a wide range of alcoholic and alcoholic drinks.
How to book
Select either the All Inclusive or Premium All Inclusive option while booking online.
Included
Beers
Ciders
House wine
Cocktails
Spirits
Soft Drinks (by the glass)
AI review summary
Cruise
Many customers loved the cruise, describing it as enjoyable, great, fantastic, and excellent.
Entertainment
Many customers expressed appreciation for the fantastic entertainment provided by the ship, praising its quality and value for money.
Ship
Many customers remarked that the ship was clean and tidy, with the crew being pleasant and efficient.
Food
Many customers raved about the food, describing it as excellent, great, fantastic, and delicious.
Cabin
Many customers expressed appreciation for the spacious cabin, well-looked-after by Jordan and Bayu.