A review of Marella Explorer

Days become shorter and colder, the sun gets weaker, winter arrives and thoughts turn to warmer climates bringing forth questions, where do I go, how do I get there, can I afford it. There is an endless choice but one to consider is a cruise on Marella Explorer.

One cold February morning has me boarding a TUI flight for Tenerife, under 4 hours later I am in the sunshine, breathing in warm air as the mercury climbs through the high teens. The coach is waiting, luggage on board we head north to Santa Cruz where the ship is docked. Covid rules still in place documentation is inspected at the port followed by check in and then finally boarding the ship to find my cabin, 8106, a spacious inside on deck 8.

Time for a much needed glass of Rosé in one of the numerous bars whilst waiting for my case to arrive. Inspecting the daily Cruise News sheet, I note a coffee meeting for solo passengers the following morning. Returning to the cabin my case has arrived, soon unpacked time to take stock of what the cabin offers. Large double bed, bedside cabinets with reading lights, telephone, dressing table unit with drawers, hair dryer, flat screen tv, safe, 2 wardrobes with enough hanging and shelf space for a long voyage plus that all important item, kettle with milk and coffee sachets. The bathroom is the usual toilet and wash basin unit but I’m surprised how large the shower unit is with door, soap tablets and soap dispenser are supplied.

I very quickly discover that a smart phone is an essential, most things being accessed via the Marella Navigate App., such as booking excursions, speciality restaurants, restaurant menus, ships map and much more. However, if you don’t have such a phone don’t despair, there is still the guest services desk and you can ask for a menu in the restaurants. One excellent feature are the health scanners that check your temperature. Approach the scanner, scan your cruise card and it takes your temperature, if it is high you are required to return to your cabin and await a call from the ships doctor. This is a daily requirement and if you haven’t done it by 6pm a letter is posted under your cabin door reminding you.

That evening I dine in the main dining room, Latitude 53. Food was excellent and already I am starting to settle in. It’s been a long day so an early night and time to try that big double bed.

Next morning, 6.30am, shower and dressed I make my way to deck 12 to view the sunrise as we approach our first port of call, La Gomera and its capital, San Sebastian. The town is about a mile from the ship and the only way to get to the town is to walk. On this occasion I decide to remain on board and explore the ship which prior to being transferred to the Marella fleet operated as Mein Schiff for TUI Cruises and prior to that as Celebrity Galaxy for Celebrity Cruises for whom it was launched in 1996. It is indeed an excellent ship having a large following and it’s easy to see why, 10 eateries, numerous bars, good selection of entertainment venues including the 850 seat Broadway Theatre where the main shows are held.

Time to meet the other solo passengers in Coffee Port on deck 6. The meeting is hosted by a member of staff who very quickly has us all chatting to one other. It’s agreed we will gather later for pre dinner drinks in the Squid and Anchor on deck 7, this becomes a regular occurrence over the next 7 days giving the group an opportunity to get to know one another better and discuss the day they have had.

One of the popular dining venues with the group is ‘Vista’, part of Latitude 53 the main restaurant, it specialises in Italian cuisine and is included in the basic fare. The food is excellent, the menu offering a varied choice. Following dinner, it’s show time in the Broadway Theatre and the shows I attended were as good as any I have seen at sea. One deserves a special mention, Jon Fisher as Gary Barlow. Looks, mannerisms, voice, he really was an excellent tribute act.

Following a day at sea it’s a 10am arrival into one of my favourite ports, Funchal, Madeira. 325 miles from the African coast and 250 miles north of Tenerife, discovered by Portuguese sailors in 1419 this autonomous region has now transformed into a year round holiday resort boasting a 1,000,000 visitors annually. Most people relate Madeira to its famous wine and flowers but there is much more to this beautiful island.

The capital, Funchal, is a mix of colours from numerous plants and flowers adorning its many gardens, squares and public places. Step into the back streets leading to the old town where pavements are tiled in mosaic design, discover Funchal Cathedral, a late Gothic style building begun in 1500 and consecrated in 1508. The nearby Igreja do Colégio Jesuit church with its black wood, white walls and wondrous interior. Feeling adventurous, board the cable cars affording magnificent views of Funchal as you climb the 1837ft to Monte, near the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, at Caminho das Babosas, then return to Funchal on one of the famous toboggans reaching 30mph on its downhill slide.

Something more leisurely, board the Ho- Ho buses (Hop on/Hop off) take in small towns and villages, the beauty of the countryside, hidden coves and beaches. Spend time in the seaside village of Camara de Lobos where Sir Winston Churchill was inspired to paint the area.

Time to return to the ship for that pre-dinner drink and chat with the others about their day followed by dinner in, yes, you’ve guessed, ‘Vista’ followed by the evening show, starring comedian Scotty Miller.

Next day is a sea day, time to relax in the sun by the pool after yesterday’s adventures, listen to the music, take a dip, indulge in a glass of chilled Rose and look forward to arriving in Lanzarote.

Next morning sees us arriving into Arrecife capital of Lanzarote. As expected, the sun is shining on this island which boasts a desert like climate with very little rain. The day is spent exploring the sea front area whilst others visit the home of César Manrique, a famous Spanish artist and architect who set up the Manrique Foundation for the improvement of Lanzarote art. Visit the grounds and large villa that was purchased by Omar Sharif in the 1970’s but, which he lost over a game of Bridge prior to moving in. The stakes were high and he didn’t realise he was playing a Bridge Champion. After losing he never returned to the island. The gardens are now home to the Lagomar Restaurant, one of the islands most exclusive. To the south of the island is Playa Blanca with beautiful beaches and pristine harbour dominated by super yachts.

Sailing early evening we head for the island of Fuerteventura known for its wonderful beaches. Each year the island is host to the World Windsurfing Championships.

Next day is Gran Canaria and the port of Las Palmas, unfortunately the last port on our cruise, where has the time gone. The port certainly lives up to its name ‘The Palms’, tastefully designed buildings, the waterfront, a wonderful park area boasting bars and restaurants, sun shining from an azure blue sky has the mercury climbing into the high 20’s. Yachts, sleek cabin cruisers mingle with ships of the Spanish Navy and a sea going Customs Cutter. A wonderful port to sit, relax, take in the sun and watch the world go by.

Tonight, is our last night and personally I am sorry to say farewell to my new friends whose company I have so enjoyed. Eating in Latitude 53 the food as usual was excellent washed down with several glasses of chilled Rosé. Dinner done, farewells said, time to pack the last items in the case for the homeward journey.

Time to look back and ask the question, who is Marella Explorer suitable for. This mid-size ship will appeal very much to the British market, families and silver haired generations alike.  This is an all inclusive cruise ship that has much to offer, 10 dining areas, numerous bars and entertainment venues, it will surpass the expectations of many with its facilities and general ambience, Will I cruise on this ship again, I certainly hope so.

Alan Fairfax

Click to see video of Marella Explorer taken by Alan