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.
Accommodation
Your cabin is included in the price of the cruise.
Choose to fly from a variety of airports included within the price.
Hotel
A hotel stay is include in this cruise. See the itinerary for details of the hotel. Transfers to and from the hotel are included.
Meals
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks from the buffet and main dining restaurants are all included. Meals from the specialty dining restaurants are additional.
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.
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.
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.
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
Customer reviews for Marella Explorer 2
4.5
Based on 364 reviews
Cabin
4
Service
5
Excursions
4
Dining
4
Activities
4
Value for money
5
Entertainment
4
Marella Explorer 2 Cruise Review 8-15 May 2025
Booking our cruise through Iglu was a smooth and efficient process, making the start of our holiday easy and stress-free. The journey itself was with TUI, whose correspondence throughout was adequate, ensuring we were kept informed of important updates. One such update involved a flight time change—from an original 07:15 departure to 09:15 from East Midlands Airport—which, thanks to TUI’s timely notification, caused no inconvenience.
Upon arrival at the airport, long queues were expected, but having booked assisted travel, we experienced a relatively swift check-in process. The flight departed on time, offering a short and comfortable 2. 5-hour journey to Dubrovnik Airport. While border control was efficient, the baggage carousel proved busy, leading to a longer-than-expected wait for our luggage. However, once retrieved, our bags were handled promptly and delivered to the ship without issue.
Accommodation: Royal Suite, Cabin 1048
After a brief wait for our cabin to be prepared, we took the opportunity to enjoy a light lunch before heading to our suite. Having researched the Royal Suite in advance, we were eager to compare it to our previous experience in the Royal Cabin on Discovery 2. The suite was undeniably spacious and beautifully wood-paneled, offering a lounge, two toilets, a large bedroom, and a dining room with a six-seater table. Additionally, it featured a galley equipped with a large American fridge and microwave—though the size of the fridge felt excessive for our needs. A small enhancement would have been having the fridge stocked with beers and soft drinks upon arrival.
One of the suite’s standout features was its large balcony, complete with a hot tub. While an enticing amenity, the overall condition of both the balcony and hot tub left room for improvement. The hot tub lacked steps for easy access, requiring manual filling via a tap—a process that took approximately an hour, meaning we only used it a few times. Additionally, the balcony layout posed a few trip hazards, making movement less convenient.
A notable downside was the bed. Instead of a comfortable setup, the mattress rested on what appeared to be a corrugated sheet, leading to an unexpectedly uncomfortable sleep—disappointing for such a high-tier cabin.
Overall, the Royal Suite provided an elegant and spacious setting, but certain aspects—particularly the hot tub and bed arrangement—could benefit from thoughtful refinements to elevate the experience. The lack of USB ports was another peculiarity, with the only available ports built into the bedside lights, which required the lights to remain on to function properly. Not convenient for nighttime charging.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the cruise itself was well-organised, with efficient service from both TUI and airport personnel. With a few improvements, the suite has the potential to deliver a truly luxurious experience.
Moving onto Dining.
* We had a wonderful experience on The sister ship Discovery 2 in the Surf and Turf restaurant. These specialist dining carry an additional charge. We were excited about having the same experience on Explorer 2. Unfortunately we were very disappointed in our choice of Portherhouse Steak for two. The first serving arrived cold and was sent back. The repeat order was hot but had a unappetising colour and the meat tough in parts. However we did book special dining in The Kora La Asian restaurant which was excellent. Having had a wonderful chateaubriand in The Dining Club we booked again for a second time to enjoy a wonderful Tournedos Rossini. This made up for our disappointment with Surf and Turf.
* Buffet Having enjoyed a great buffet on Discovery 2. We were somewhat disappointed on the layout and stand of food. We chose not to use it often. Preferring the dining room.
The shows were of a professional standard and the crew worked hard to put on a different show each night. Overall the staff were friendly and professional at all times. Room service was great with friendly staff
Overall it was an enjoyable cruise visiting some lovely places. As a bonus the weather was kind
Would we cruise with Marella again. The jury is out.
couple
10+ cruises
16 May 2025
3rd trip on Explorer 2 , cabin let experience down on this occasion as we found it difficult to sleep through the engine noise and vibration. Did hope that it would settle unfortunately it just got worse. Never experienced this before. Food and shows were excellent. Ports of call had plenty to explore.
group
6-10 cruises
10 May 2025
It was great, probably one of our best cruises yet. Most of them are very good, this was excellent. We have been on this ship 3 or 4 times, usually on a "Repositioning Cruise". We went with friends who are very good company and this made it even better. No problems. The only thing we found - this also happened on our last Marella "Voyager" Cruise - was the slow service in the Latitude 53, Vista and Tapas Restaurant's. Up to and over 2 hours for evening meals. Lovely to sit and chat over dinner but often we missed the start of the 1st show in the Broadway Lounge. Obvious that other tables arrived after us were served first. Is there a shortage of staff?
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.
Talk to a Cruise Expert
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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.
Sail Three Seas & 7 Nt Dubrovnik Stay, 5 September 2024 (14 nights)
Your itinerary
Sam A.
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Fly from the UK
DAY 1
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.
Dubrovnik
DAY 1
05 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 4 AM to 9 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.
At Sea
DAY 2
06 Sep 2024
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!
Valletta
DAY 3
07 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
Malta’s capital, Valletta is steeped in history and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. A simple stroll through the Baroque-style streets will take you back in time to 1566 when the city was completed, while a range of museums and monuments provide an in-depth retelling of the past. Its intimate size makes it easy to explore the highlights on foot and discover many hidden gems such as botanical gardens, boutiques and eateries.
Things to do in Valletta:
Malta 5D
This new-generation theatre provides an immersive journey through the history and culture of Malta, featuring 3D films, moving seats, water and air blasts and even leg ticklers. Fun for all ages, Malta 5D is the most unique way to discover Malta!
Manoel Theatre and Palazzo Manoel
Tucked away on a quiet street, the Manoel Theatre is a hidden gem of fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Whether you’re taking a tour of the theatre or enjoying a musical performance, visitors will fall in love with its elegance and grandeur.
St Johns Cathedral in Valetta
St John’s Co-Cathedral is considered one of the best examples of traditional Baroque architecture in Europe and features memorials dedicated to knights covering the floor and ceiling as well as the stunning Caravaggio’s painting.
Grand Master's Palace
Built between the 16th and 18th centuries, the Grandmaster’s Palace is an iconic piece of Maltese heritage, housing the President’s office and a museum where visitors can enjoy an audio guide to get to know the history behind the impressive armoury.
National Museum of Archaeology
Covering the history and mythology of Malta, the National Museum of Archaeology is a must visit for those looking to discover ancient artefacts. This highly informative museum is where you’ll find the renowned Sleeping Lady, Venus of Malta and more.
Upper Barrakka Gardens
At the end of a busy day of exploring, the Upper Barrakka Gardens are just what you need to wind down and relax in the capital. Offering unrivalled views of the city, these gardens date back to 1661 and are home to beautiful statues and plaques.
Messina, Sicily
DAY 4
08 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 5 PM
Messina is a coastal city located in the north-east of Sicily and overlooks the homonymous strait, which separates the region from the rest of the Peninsula. Founded by the Greeks in the 8th century BC, a few years before Rome, it is said that the strait was the home of Scylla and Charybdis, two sea monsters described by Homer in the Odyssey. In Messina you can admire the Duomo, the Astronomical Clock and the rich Regional Museum which houses works by famous artists.
Things to do in Messina, Sicily:
Messina Cathedral
The Cathedral of Messina was consecrated in 1197 and stands in the Piazza del Duomo. Its peculiarity is the different architectural styles that distinguish it: in fact, Romanesque, Norman, Gothic, Neo-Gothic and Baroque elements coexist.
Orologico Astronomico
The Astronomical Clock of Messina is an integral part of the city's Cathedral. It was built in 1933 at the behest of Archbishop Angelo Paino during the restoration of the bell tower and is freely inspired by the one in Strasbourg.
Piazza del Duomo
The Piazza del Duomo is one of the central points of Messina: here you can admire the Duomo, the Astronomical Clock and the Statue of the Immaculate Conception, a white marble sculpture created by the sculptor Giuseppe Buceti between 1757 and 1758.
Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani
The Church of the Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani rises between via Cesare Battisti and via Garibaldi on the remains of a pagan temple. The beginning of the construction dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries and boasts a clear Byzantine style with Arab-Norman influences.
Messina Regional Museum
The Regional Museum of Messina was established in 1806 and since then illustrates the figurative art of Messina from the 12th to the 18th century. You can admire the Resurrection of Lazarus, a famous painting by Caravaggio, and several works by Antonello da Messina.
Taranto
DAY 5
09 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 5 PM
Once a thriving Greek-Spartan colony in the Hellenic age, this lively port has been inhabited since the 8th century BC. Here you can visit a fortified Aragonese castle, wander through the picturesque town or even venture further afield on a shore excursion in the surrounding province of Puglia, laden with olive groves, Baroque architecture carved from marble, and bordered by some of the best white-sand beaches in the Med.
Things to do in Taranto:
Castello Aragonese
Situated in the centre of Taranto, Castello Aragonese is a prominent fort which was constructed in the 15th century. Built on the site of ancient Greek fortifications, this extraordinary fort was designed to defend Naples from invasion.
Palazzo Pantaleo
On Vico Civico in Taranto lies the beautiful and historic Palazzo Pantaleo. A unique example of a well preserved 18th-century structure in the centre of Taranto's ancient city, it boasts a stunning view of the breathtaking Mar Grande sea.
Ponte Girevole
Italy's Mar Grande and Mar Piccolo are connected by a waterway via the historic swing bridge, Ponte Girevole. Connecting the city's newer neighbourhoods with the Old Town, this marvel of engineering was built in 1887.
Corfu
DAY 6
10 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 5 PM
One of Greece’s most verdant islands and perfect for a family holiday with charming architecture, an impressive fort and a 16th century church, Agios Spyridhon. Mount Pantokrantor rears up in the north of the island and all around the edges are sandy beaches and small villages. Whether you’re here to top up a tan on the stunning Loggas Beach or eager to discover the gorgeous monuments, Corfu has something for everyone.
Things to do in Corfu:
Agni Bay
This hidden gem will provide the perfect getaway from bustling crowds. If you’re looking to relax in a quaint fishing village, enjoy traditional Corfiot cuisine on the waterfront and take a dip in the vibrant waters, Agni Bay is the place for you.
Loggas Beach
Surrounded by imposing cliffs, Loggas Beach – otherwise known as Sunset Beach – is one of the most beautiful spots in Corfu. You won’t find wild water sports here, instead you’ll witness breath-taking sunsets and take a dip in the warm, gentle water.
Saint George Church
Built in 1840 for British troops serving in Corfu, the Church of St George now hosts only two services each year, as well as occasional exhibitions. With views out over Garitsa Bay, this church resembles an ancient Greek temple and provides great photo opportunities.
Vlacherna Monastery
Found on a tiny islet close by to the airport of Corfu, Vlacherna Monastery dates back to around the 17th and 18th centuries. The beautifully preserved building is a great photo opportunity particularly at sunset, and the perfect place to take a romantic stroll.
Kotor
DAY 7
11 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 4 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.
Dubrovnik
DAY 8
12 Sep 2024
Time at Port: from 4 AM to 9 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.
Dubrovnik Hotel Stay - 7 nights
DAY 8-14
Hotel Options Available in Online Booking
Hotel details are not available on this page, but you can view available hotel options in the ‘Extras’ (third) step of the online booking process.