DAY 1 - 04 May 2023
Time at Port: from 6 AM to 8 PM
It’s easy to see why Dubrovnik is one of the best highlights on a Mediterranean cruise. In 1979, the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautifully preserved ancient architecture that you’ll love to spend hours exploring. Fans of the hit series Game of Thrones will particularly love to recreate their favourite scenes filmed here, while history and art enthusiasts will adore the fortresses and museums.
Things to do in Dubrovnik:
Bellevue Beach
This small and intimate beach provides a quiet getaway from the crowds. Relax in the sun watching the locals play water polo, before taking a dip in the crystal clear waters and exploring the nearby cliffs and caves.
Sunj Beach
If you are looking for something relaxing but also to spend some time exploring, head along the sandy beaches and rocky paths where you’ll find Sunj beach. Here the waters range from beautiful crystal blue to alluring green where you can swim and relax under the sun with a wide range of bars to pick from.
Lokrum Island
A short ferry ride from Dubrovnik Old Town, Lokrum Island is a fantastic place for a day trip. With a beautiful botanical garden planted in the 19th century, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery and spots for swimming in the sea, you’ll love exploring this tiny island.
Lovrijenac Fortress
At 37 meters above the sea, Fortress Lovrijenac offers impressive views across the landscape. Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, the fortress played an important role in protecting the Old City, which visitors will learn about as they explore the grounds.
Muralles de Dubrovnik
Covering 1,940 metres with 6 fortresses, the Walls of Dubrovnik are a must visit for Game of Thrones fans and lovers of architecture. Visitors can join walking tours of the walls which take approximately two hours and offer unrivalled views over the city from the forts.
St John Fortress
One of the most important forts in the Walls of Dubrovnik, it now houses the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, containing artefacts, paintings and documents telling the history of city. The aquarium, meanwhile, is where you’ll find marine life that thrives in the waters off Croatia.
Kotor
DAY 2 - 05 May 2023
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
Nestled among the mountains, Kotor provides the setting for a picturesque cruise holiday. A walk around Old Town Budva will take you past timeless architecture, while San Giovanni Castle has the best photo opportunities. Kotor is not just for relaxing and scenic strolls though, with Aquapark Budva providing a fun-filled day for all the family. Don’t forget to stop by the many charming eateries in between for an authentic taste of Kotor cuisine too.
Things to do in Kotor:
Jaz Beach
If you are looking for a secluded beach tucked away in serenity by beautiful rock coves, head to Jaz Beach where you’ll be able to sunbathe and relax.
St Tryphon’s Cathedral
After being restored numerous times following earthquakes, St Tryphon’s Cathedral continues to represent the expertise of Roman architecture. With many stunning artefacts and decorations, this cathedral is well worth exploring.
Lovćen National Park
A short drive from Kotor, Lovćen National Park is home to imposing mountains including the spectacular Mount Lovćen standing 1,749 metres high. With no shortage of outdoor adventures to discover, visitors will love quad biking and zip lining in particular.
Old Town
With countless boutiques, authentic eateries, and bars as well as a quaint museum teeming with ancient artefacts, Old Town Budva is a delightful place to explore. Enjoy dessert from a charming bakery, admire the view from the citadel and bask in the peace and quiet.
San Giovanni Castle
After climbing 1,350 stairs to a height of 1,200 metres you’ll find this impressive fortress built between the 9th and 19th centuries. With Byzantine and Venetian roots, this structure is beautifully preserved and teeming with fascinating history to discover.
Aquapark Buvda
Nestled in lush surroundings with views over the town nearby, Aquapark Budva is perfect for spending a hot afternoon cooling off. The park features multiple pools and waterslides to suit a range of ages, as well as a restaurant, bars, shops and lockers.
At Sea
DAY 3 - 06 May 2023
You will be at sea on day 3 while travelling from Kotor to Ravenna.
Ravenna
DAY 4 - 07 May 2023
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Trieste
DAY 5 - 08 May 2023
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 10 PM
Koper
DAY 6 - 09 May 2023
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 5 PM
Although the largest town in Coastal Slovenia, Koper is a hidden gem that, at first glance, may seem like a simple port city. But at the heart of this destination is fascinating medieval history just waiting to be unravelled, with the Praetorian Palace being a real highlight. Easily covered on foot, a simple stroll around the city will take you to ancient architecture, traditional taverns, shopping and wine cellars.
Things to do in Koper:
Hrastovlje Village
For a quaint, peaceful escape from the city, Hrastovlje Village is home to scenic views of rolling hills, vineyards and traditional Istrian architecture. Here, you’ll find the 13th-century Church of the Holy Trinity, as well as art galleries, hiking and cycling.
Koper City
This pebble beach is located just a short distance from the cruise terminal, making it an easy place to visit and soak up the sun. With plenty of lounging chairs available as well as a restaurant, café and showers, Koper City Beach has everything you need for a relaxed day out.
Praetorian Palace
As one of the most integral structures in Koper, the Praetorian Palace is an impressive landmark that will take visitors on a journey of the town’s history. Built in the 15th century, it represents a Venetian Gothic style and serves as a Tourist Information Centre from where you can take tours.
Split
DAY 7 - 10 May 2023
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
As Croatia’s second-largest city, Split is an integral tourist hotspot in the Adriatic Sea. The unique setting of coastal mountains and bright blue ocean makes for the perfect backdrop to a cruise holiday, while the city itself has a very homely, local feel. Stroll past high-rise, rustic apartments and discover the many hidden gems and highlights such as Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you in awe.
Things to do in Split:
Diocletians Palace
As one of the most well-preserved sites of Roman architecture in the world, it’s no wonder this fortress is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Now home to many shops, restaurants and apartments, the palace is a beautiful place to wander, day or night.
Krka National Park
Home to breath-taking waterfalls and lush, thriving forest, Krka National Park is a must visit for lovers of the outdoors. Discover over 800 species of plant life, over 200 species of bird and 18 species of bat, as well as the tiny island of Visovac.
Peristil Square
The central square of the palace, Peristil Square was once the perfect space for opera theatre and now provides the scenery for a delicious cup of coffee. Towering above is the 57-metre belfry where, once climbing the steps, visitors will find gorgeous views across town.
St Duje's Cathedral
This excellent example of beautifully-preserved ancient Roman architecture is where you’ll find the bell tower, treasury and even a crypt. Built in the 4th century, it houses many artefacts, sculptures , carvings and murals.
Marjan Hill
For breath-taking views out across the city, Marjan Park is the place to be. The walk up from Old Town Split is fairly easy, and visitors will find a café as well as the lookout point. From here, you can continue the hike to the Church of St Nicholas, a beautiful, small stone church.
Campanile Bell Tower
Built in 1100 AD, this beautiful Romanesque bell tower stands at 60 metres tall with sweeping views of the city and mountains. Though this landmark may not be for the faint of heart, climbing the many steps is well worth it to admire the landscape at the top.
Klis Fortress
A must visit for fans of the hit series, Game of Thrones, Klis Fortress is well worth a visit just for the spectacular views alone. With over two thousand years of history, the ruins are fascinating to explore for all ages and provide fantastic photo opportunities.
Dubrovnik
DAY 8 - 11 May 2023
Time at Port: from 4 AM to 8 PM
It’s easy to see why Dubrovnik is one of the best highlights on a Mediterranean cruise. In 1979, the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beautifully preserved ancient architecture that you’ll love to spend hours exploring. Fans of the hit series Game of Thrones will particularly love to recreate their favourite scenes filmed here, while history and art enthusiasts will adore the fortresses and museums.
Things to do in Dubrovnik:
Bellevue Beach
This small and intimate beach provides a quiet getaway from the crowds. Relax in the sun watching the locals play water polo, before taking a dip in the crystal clear waters and exploring the nearby cliffs and caves.
Sunj Beach
If you are looking for something relaxing but also to spend some time exploring, head along the sandy beaches and rocky paths where you’ll find Sunj beach. Here the waters range from beautiful crystal blue to alluring green where you can swim and relax under the sun with a wide range of bars to pick from.
Lokrum Island
A short ferry ride from Dubrovnik Old Town, Lokrum Island is a fantastic place for a day trip. With a beautiful botanical garden planted in the 19th century, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery and spots for swimming in the sea, you’ll love exploring this tiny island.
Lovrijenac Fortress
At 37 meters above the sea, Fortress Lovrijenac offers impressive views across the landscape. Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones, the fortress played an important role in protecting the Old City, which visitors will learn about as they explore the grounds.
Muralles de Dubrovnik
Covering 1,940 metres with 6 fortresses, the Walls of Dubrovnik are a must visit for Game of Thrones fans and lovers of architecture. Visitors can join walking tours of the walls which take approximately two hours and offer unrivalled views over the city from the forts.
St John Fortress
One of the most important forts in the Walls of Dubrovnik, it now houses the Maritime Museum and Aquarium, containing artefacts, paintings and documents telling the history of city. The aquarium, meanwhile, is where you’ll find marine life that thrives in the waters off Croatia.
I’d like to Say a Big Thank you to Captain Kostas and his Crew and All the Amazing Staff and to all the Entertainers onboard Explorer 2 where we Spent Christmas & New Year. The Food was always well presented and Lovely. Can’t fault anything apart from Bringing us Back Lol. All Joking aside nothing was too much trouble for anyone on this Ship. Visiting the Beautiful Caribbean so what more could anyone what accept to go again Thank you so much
We really had a good holiday we loved the ship entertainment shows was good. apart from one singer from one of the bars on an evening he played a guitar and sung Irish songs and they were a bit depressing we weren’t the only ones it got on your nerves after a bit but we would rather listen to a band be able to get up and have a dance also they only brought one out side entertainer per week on P&O you have a couple of acts over two weeks staff we’re really friendly cabin was fine bath room could do with an up date
We have been on 8 cruises with various operators (princess, Royal Caribbean, Cunard, Holland America, P&O ), and not been with Marella before, but were recommended to do so by a friend who used to work in the industry. We were not disappointed: ship very clean and tidy, with a fresh contemporary feel and unfussy (no expensive artwork), nice furniture throughout; cabins immaculate, with a larger bathroom than most, notably with a glass shower screen, rather than a curtain. Crew welcoming, professional and always cheerful. Entertainment first rate, food standard excellent, (but with buffet selection smaller than some) and more than enough bars with a wide range of cocktails available; we had the premium drinks package for £7 a day, which was great value. Transport to and from the ship was extremely efficient; we were given cabin tags at the UK airport for the suitcase, Naples was not as chaotic as we feared (we travelled mid-week), with a 5 minute walk to the coaches. Luggage was loaded on to the coaches for us, and appeared at our cabins within an hour of boarding. Boarding efficient and quick, a couple of minor issues ( a twin room set up as a double) rapidly and efficiently sorted out. return journey equally good; luggage was left outside the cabins the night before leaving, the next time we saw it was on the baggage claim in the UK. Didn't use any of the ship's excursions, so can't comment on these. Excellent value for money with all tips and drinks included, we would definitely use Marella again.
Overated short measured on premium drinks package glasses not filled up properly always waited till you had a third left and topped up by a third not always convinced you got the drink from the premium package cabin steward great helpful and friendly Restaurant windows dirty so any pictures taken were blighted.
Did the Mediterranean Gems cruise from Naples in August. Had a great time, the ship was lovely and the staff were exceptional, very friendly and attentive. Our balcony cabin was great and very good value. All the ports of call were interesting and were very well organised. Our first Marella cruise and would certainly recommend to family and friends.
Tours very well organised & tour guides very knowledgeable. Food very disappointing (was looking forward to plenty of seafood choice but nothing much on offer) Most restaurants on ship fully booked by existing passengers upon boarding. Service/bar staff always very friendly and helpful but ran out of inclusive beer on day 4! Cabin service very limited - couldn't deliver a pizza for dinner! Evening theatre entertainment top notch.
Can’t praise Iglu and Marella highly enough. From booking with Iglu to walking into our balcony cabin everything was perfect. There were plenty of Marella staff to welcome us at the airport and the organisation at port was excellent. The ship was recently refurbished and generally was good. The layout of The Market Place food was a bit random and had a quite limited selection but we always found something to eat. Lattitude 53 was excellent. All in all an excellent cruise which was marvellous value for money. Would definitely cruise with Marella again.
Marella Explorer 2 is a great entry level cruise option, fully inclusive so takes all the worries away. Good itinerary with public transport easily accessible so you can avoid the tours. Entertainment is varied enough though suited to the mass market ... particular mention of the Cruise Director who sang an amazing Sinatra esq set. If you want super posh this isn’t for you but if fun in the sun is your thing you cannot go wrong. Ideal for traveling with young adults (plenty of families) right up to those of retirement age but noticeably a slightly younger average than some cruise lines. Waist line hasn’t recovered yet from the good food - we stuck to the inclusive restaurants, so no need to upgrade.
* 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.
