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What's Included on a Marella Cruise?

  • Writer: George and Dan
    George and Dan
  • 1 day ago
  • 4 min read

Updated: 39 minutes ago

Cruise ship deck with a large red logo against a blue sky. Text reads: What's Included on a Marella Cruise?

Marella Cruises is one of the best-value cruise lines out there, offering all-inclusive holidays packed with perks. Unlike some cruise lines where you have to budget for extras, Marella includes flights, transfers, tips, food, drinks, and entertainment as standard. That means no hidden costs - just a stress-free cruise where you can focus on enjoying your holiday.


If you're thinking about booking a Marella cruise, here’s exactly what you get for your money!


What's Included on a Marella Cruise?


All-Inclusive as Standard


Yes, every Marella cruise is all-inclusive. No matter which ship or destination you choose, the fare covers your food, drinks, flights, transfers, entertainment, and even gratuities.


This means you don’t have to worry about budgeting for extras or unexpected charges once you’re onboard. Unlike some cruise lines that advertise low fares but charge for every little thing, Marella’s pricing structure is transparent and simple. What you see is what you pay, making it an ideal option for first-time cruisers or those who just want a hassle-free holiday.


Flights & Transfers


Your Marella cruise fare includes return flights and transfers between the airport and the ship, making your journey seamless. If you book a cruise-only fare, you can arrange your own flights, but most people prefer the hassle-free package deal that comes with flights and transfers included.


Airplane wing against a cloudy sky with sunlit clouds below. Calm and serene atmosphere, with a logo on the wingtip.

Marella, being part of TUI, offers flights from various UK airports, making it easy to find a departure point that suits you. Once you arrive at your destination, the transfers are smooth, ensuring you get from the airport to the ship with minimal fuss. This is especially great for those who prefer a stress-free travel experience.


Food – Loads of Free Dining Options


Marella includes a range of dining options in your fare, including:


Main Dining Rooms – Enjoy table service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with changing menus daily.


Elegant dining room with white tablecloths, set tables, and red napkins. Central staircase, blue patterned carpet, warm lighting, serene ambiance.

Buffet Restaurants – Open almost 24/7, perfect if you like to eat at different times.


Casual Eateries – Places like Snack Shack serve grab-and-go options like hot dogs, burgers, and sandwiches.


Speciality Restaurants – Some fine dining options like Surf & Turf and Kora La charge extra, but they’re still affordable.


Illuminated "Surf & Turf Steakhouse" sign on a glossy tiled wall, with a warm, inviting glow highlighting the embossed letters.

The quality of food on Marella ships is excellent, catering to all tastes and dietary requirements. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available at all venues, ensuring everyone can enjoy a great meal. Unlike some cruise lines that charge for additional restaurants, Marella provides a variety of included options, meaning you can dine somewhere different every night without spending extra.


Drinks – A Proper All-Inclusive Package


Marella Cruises goes beyond the basics and includes a huge selection of drinks in your fare, including:


  • Draught beers & cider

  • Wine by the glass

  • Branded spirits & aperitifs

  • Cocktails

  • Soft drinks & fruit juice

  • Mocktails

  • Basic teas & coffees


Red cocktails with striped straws on a table with a cocktail menu and Lavazza sugar packets. Bright, cozy setting with colorful carpet.

Want even more choice? You can upgrade to the Premium Drinks Package for just £12 per person, per day, which adds:


  • Premium spirits like Bombay Sapphire & Captain Morgan

  • Mojitos & Aperol Spritz cocktails

  • Lavazza coffee from The Coffee Port

  • Bottled water & soft drinks in cans


Compared to other cruise lines that charge £100+ per day for drinks, Marella’s all-inclusive offering is brilliant value!


Entertainment – West End-Style Shows & Live Music


Marella includes loads of entertainment at no extra charge:


  • Broadway-style shows in the ship’s theatre

  • Live music in various bars and lounges

  • Themed parties & quizzes

  • Comedy acts

  • Cinema screenings on select ships


Empty theater with rows of cushioned seats and small round tables, facing a stage with deep blue curtains. Dim lighting creates a calm ambiance.

Each Marella ship has its own entertainment team that works hard to put on engaging performances every night. If you enjoy music, dance, and theatre, you’ll love the quality and variety of shows available. There’s also entertainment throughout the day, with quizzes, game shows, and interactive activities ensuring there’s always something going on.


Activities – Pools, Mini Golf & More


All Marella ships offer free activities like:


  • Swimming pools & hot tubs

  • Mini golf

  • Jogging track & gym

  • Arts & crafts workshops


Cruise ship deck at sunset with pools, lounge chairs, and blue tables. City skyline in background. Relaxing atmosphere.

Some extras like the spa, casino, and professional photos cost extra, but there’s plenty to do for free.


Kids' Clubs – Free Fun for the Little Ones


If you're cruising as a family, kids' clubs are included in the fare. They offer:


  • Supervised play areas

  • Movie nights & quizzes

  • Face painting & pyjama parties

  • Video games & interactive activities


Tips & Gratuities – No Hidden Charges


Unlike most cruise lines, Marella includes tips and port fees in your fare. You won’t be charged daily gratuities or pressured to tip extra. Even in speciality restaurants, you won’t see a tip line on your bill!


Cashless Payments Onboard


Marella operates a cash-free system, and everything is charged to your cabin account. The onboard currency is British Sterling (£), and you settle your bill at the end of your cruise with a debit or credit card.


What’s NOT Included?


While Marella Cruises is one of the most inclusive lines, there are a few optional extras:


❌ Wi-Fi – Available for purchase, but not included in the fare.

❌ Excursions – Shore tours start from around £30-£40 per person.

❌ Speciality Dining – Optional fine dining experiences available for a small fee.

❌ Spa & Beauty Treatments – Massages, facials, and beauty treatments cost extra.

❌ Room Service & Mini-Bar – Available at extra cost.


 

Is Marella Cruises Worth It?


Absolutely! Marella Cruises offers one of the most all-inclusive experiences at sea, making it great value for money. With flights, drinks, tips, and entertainment included, you can relax knowing there won’t be any surprise costs. If you want a hassle-free cruise where you can just unwind and enjoy, Marella is a fantastic choice!

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