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.
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.
Ship Facilities
Marella Explorer - By Marella Cruises
Family FriendlyGood For CouplesOver 50sInformal
Year: 1996
·
Refurbished: 2018
·
13 Decks
·
Max capacity: 1924 people
Cabins on the Marella Explorer
Select cabin
Inside
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 10/12
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 4/5
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
Inside (4 berths) - Deck 8/9
Inside Adapted
Single Inside Cabin
Outside
Outside (2 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
Outside (3 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside (3 berths) - Deck 8/9
Outside (4 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside Adapted
Single Outside Cabin
Balcony
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (2 berths)
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (3 berths)
Balcony Cabin (2 berths)
Balcony Cabin (3 berths)
Family Balcony
Suite
Executive Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Service
Junior Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Service
Select cabin
Inside
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 10/12
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 4/5
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
Inside (4 berths) - Deck 8/9
Inside Adapted
Single Inside Cabin
Outside
Outside (2 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
Outside (3 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside (3 berths) - Deck 8/9
Outside (4 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside Adapted
Single Outside Cabin
Balcony
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (2 berths)
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (3 berths)
Balcony Cabin (2 berths)
Balcony Cabin (3 berths)
Family Balcony
Suite
Executive Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Service
Junior Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Service
Select cabin
Inside
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 10/12
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 4/5
Inside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
Inside (4 berths) - Deck 8/9
Inside Adapted
Single Inside Cabin
Outside
Outside (2 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
Outside (3 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside (3 berths) - Deck 8/9
Outside (4 berths) - Deck 4/5
Outside Adapted
Single Outside Cabin
Balcony
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (2 berths)
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (3 berths)
Balcony Cabin (2 berths)
Balcony Cabin (3 berths)
Family Balcony
Suite
Executive Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Service
Junior Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Service
View images
Balcony Cabin - Large balcony (2 berths)
Make your balcony cabin experience even sweeter with some extra living room
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Customer reviews for Marella Explorer
4.3
Based on 271 reviews
Cabin
4.4
Service
4.6
Excursions
4
Dining
4.4
Activities
4.1
Value for money
4.5
Entertainment
4.4
Excellent cruise line.
family
10+ cruisesSingle Outside Cabin
6 Sep 2024
Good service from Iglu.
couple
2-5 cruisesOutside (2 berths) - Deck 8/9
5 Sep 2024
Excellent service and very friendly atmosphere.
couple
2-5 cruisesJunior Suite Cabin with Balcony and Premier Servic
5 Sep 2024
A lovely holiday. Everything was very well organised from start to finish. Would recommend this holiday to friends and family. Wonderful entertainment and very good food and service. Also excursions were very good.
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
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.
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Corfu
DAY 1
31 May 2024
Time at Port: from 7:30 AM to 11 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.
At Sea
DAY 2
01 Jun 2024
Take time to enjoy all the amazing facilities the ship has to offer
Thira, Santorini
DAY 3
02 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 7 AM to 6 PM
Known for unrivalled views, sparkling blue sea and iconic bleached-white architecture, Santorini is a truly unforgettable destination. A stroll down one of the many cobbled streets and along the volcanic-sand beaches is the perfect way to spend a romantic evening, while kids and families will love taking the plunge from a caldera cruise and exploring the colourful markets. Finally, don’t forget to delve into Santorini’s past at the many museums on offer.
Things to do in Thira, Santorini:
Archaeological Museum
Located in the centre of Fira, the Archaeological Museum of Thera is a must visit for insight into the civilizations that came before present day, featuring artefacts from the Archaic, Roman, Geometric and Hellenistic periods, including Byzantine works of art.
Thira
Thira, as the capital of Santorini, is the gem of the area and boasts fantastic nightlife and restaurants with mouthwatering food. Here you can feel and be part of the action as it all takes place.
Museum of Prehistoric Thera
Home to the artefacts found at multiple archaeological sites such as Akrotiri, some of these excavations were discovered as early as 1867. Visitors will find numerous temporary and permanent exhibitions offering insight into the prehistoric age of Thira.
Santorini Cable Car
Before the cable car, tourists to Santorini would have to climb the winding stairs to the capital or ride by mule. Now, this mode of transport offers stunning sights of the land and sea on the way up, as well as access to the volcano.
Santorini Volcano
If you are looking to get a better look at the local geography, Santorini Volcano is a fantastic place to start with regular boat trips to look at the powerful effects that a volcano can have on the local environment.
Rhodes Town, Rhodes
DAY 4
03 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 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.
Mykonos Town, Mykonos
DAY 5
04 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 6 PM
Whether you’re in the mood for stretching out on an idyllic beach, itching to explore the maze of streets in search of seafood, or even looking to dance the night away at a seaside superclub, Mykonos has something for everyone. History buffs will be fascinated by the archaeological site of Delos, while Mykonos Windmills provide the perfect holiday snap. A romantic dinner along Little Venice is a must for couples- especially at sunset.
Things to do in Mykonos Town, Mykonos:
Little Venice
This row of 18th century fishing houses looks out onto the crystal clear sea, providing beautiful views both day and night. Though they aren’t fishing houses anymore, the shops, restaurants and bars that have replaced them still give a very enchanting waterfront experience.
Beaches
Boasting plenty of sun-kissed beaches, including Fokos and Kapari beaches, there's plenty of space and options for a relaxing day on the sand by the blue sea.
Paraportiani Church
Paraportiani Church is one of the most photographed churches in the world, and it’s easy to see why. The whitewashed structure stands out vibrantly against the ocean backdrop, creating fantastic photo opportunities and a romantic place to take a stroll.
Mykonos Windmills
Featured on many postcards you’ll find in Greece, the Mykonos Windmills are an iconic sight of the island. Once vital to the economy, the seven windmills are now a beautiful spot to take photos and explore- particularly at sunset.
Matoyianni Street
Day or night, Matoyianni Street is bustling with shopping, dining and bars. It’s the perfect place to find handmade souvenirs, such as jewellery and even sandals, as well as other designer boutiques. Visitors will also love the live music here!
Delos Archaeological Site
This small island is one of the most prominent archaeological sites in Greece, and is simply teeming with mythological and historical insights. Visitors will marvel at the artefacts exhibited here, including sculptures of Apollo and Artemis.
Souda
DAY 6
05 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 8 AM to 4 PM
Situated close to the popular town of Chania, Souda in Crete is a quaint seaside town with just over 5,000 inhabitants. Although it’s a small town, it’s filled with restaurants, bars and plenty of attractions to see when you stop off here, including the nearby Vlites mountain peak that gives breathtaking views over Souda Bay, the Archaeological Site of Ancient Aptera and the extraordinary Museum of Typography.
Things to do in Souda:
Vlites Mountain Peak
If you’re looking for incredible views of the town, head over to the Vlites mountain peak. Surrounded by greenery, this mountain peak might be a bit of a walk away from the town, but the panoramic views you’ll get over the town makes it well worth the effort during your stopover here.
Archaeological Site of Ancient Aptera
One of the most significant Greek archaeological sites is Aptera, which is situated in western Crete. 13 kilometres east of Chania, close to Rethymno, the Aptera Archaeological Site is surrounded by the Souda Bay to the north and the beautiful White Mountains to the south. Through excavations, the Aptera Archaeological site keeps making important new discoveries, and every year more visitors are drawn to this historic attraction.
Museum Of Typography
Located in nearby Chania, the Museum of Typography was created by Yannis Garedakis, who has been collecting an array of artefacts for more than 30 years. Opened in 2005, the museum is full of tools showcasing the development of European typography.
Olympia (Katakolon)
DAY 7
06 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 9 AM to 6 PM
The sleepy seaside village of Katakolon is perhaps one of the biggest tourist highlights of Greece, thanks to its close proximity to Ancient Olympia. With sparkling turquoise waters, numerous traditional tavernas and the warmth of a friendly, local community, Katakolon is the perfect place to explore on foot in the sunshine, where you’ll find museums, bars, restaurants and souvenir shops, as well as horse-drawn carriage rides and even a Beer Bike!
Things to do in Olympia (Katakolon):
Olympia Museum
Home to over 463 ancient works, this museum is rich with fascinating history and culture of Ancient Greece. Featuring exhibits covering the second millennium BC until the 5th century AD, you’ll find pieces that were used throughout the ancient Olympic Games.
Archaeological Site of Olympia
Featuring excavations from the Bronze age to the Byzantine era, this huge site provides an impressive insight into the history of Ancient Greece. You'll find sites such as the Ancient Stadium where the Olympic Games were held, the Temple of Hera, and the Temple of Zeus.
The Temple of Zeus
The beautiful ruins of The Temple of Zeus is a major historical site. Despite it being destroyed it still is a fantastic portal to the past giving you a major insight into the gods of old.
Archimedes’ Museum
This fantastic free museum is dedicated to the physicist, engineer, inventor and astronomer, Archimedes of Syracuse. Home to just some of his inventions and reconstructions, it’s well worth a visit, especially for those curious about his expert creations.
Archaeological Museum
Just a short walk from the archaeological site, the Archaeological Museum hosts artefacts that were discovered in Olympia. With over 3,500 years of history to discover, this small but fascinating museum will take you back in time to Ancient Greece.
Corfu
DAY 8
07 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 7:30 AM to 11 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.
Taranto
DAY 9
08 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 11 AM to 4 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.
Messina, Sicily
DAY 10
09 Jun 2024
Time at Port: from 9 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.
Valletta
DAY 11
10 Jun 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.