First Time Marella Cruise Guide
New to cruising? Discover what to expect on a Marella cruise, including ships, cabins, dining, entertainment, destinations and simple tips for your first cruise holiday.
A simple first time cruise guide for travellers considering Marella Cruises.
Is Marella Good For First Time Cruisers?
Marella Cruises are a popular choice for first time cruisers thanks to their relaxed style, easy going atmosphere and wide choice of sunshine destinations.
If you have never cruised before, Marella can be a comfortable way to try your first cruise holiday. The ships are relaxed, friendly and easy to enjoy, with restaurants, bars, entertainment, pools and destination led itineraries.
A Marella cruise gives you the chance to visit several places in one holiday without repacking every few days. You can spend the day exploring a new port, then return to the ship for dinner, entertainment and a relaxed evening onboard.
Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, group of friends or solo traveller, Marella offers a simple and approachable cruise experience that suits many first time guests.
What To Expect On Your First Marella Cruise
A cruise holiday can feel different from a hotel stay, but most first time cruisers quickly settle into the rhythm of life onboard.
Multiple Destinations
Wake up in different ports and explore new places without changing hotels throughout your holiday.
Relaxed Onboard Life
Enjoy pools, lounges, restaurants, bars, entertainment and quiet spaces across the ship.
Flexible Dining
Choose from casual dining, buffet options and restaurants depending on your mood and ship.
Evening Entertainment
After a day ashore, enjoy live shows, music, lounges and relaxed evenings onboard.
Choosing The Right Marella Ship
Each Marella ship has its own style, so choosing the right ship can make your first cruise feel much easier.
Marella Discovery
A relaxed and popular ship with dining, entertainment, pools and family friendly facilities.
Explore Marella Discovery →
Marella Discovery 2
A good option for first time cruisers wanting entertainment, sunshine itineraries and an easy going feel.
Explore Marella Discovery 2 →
Marella Explorer 2
Marella’s adults only ship, ideal for couples and travellers wanting a more grown up cruise experience.
Explore Marella Explorer 2 →
Choosing Your First Cruise Cabin
- Inside cabins can offer good value
- Outside cabins give you a window or sea view
- Balcony cabins are great for extra space and private views
- Suites can add more comfort for special occasions
- Midship cabins may feel more central onboard
- Booking early usually gives better cabin choice
Popular Destinations For A First Marella Cruise
The right destination can make your first cruise feel even more enjoyable, especially if you want sunshine, scenery and easy ports.
Canary Islands
A good first cruise choice with warm weather, island scenery and shorter flight times.
Explore Canary Islands →
Mediterranean
Ideal for culture, sunshine, coastal cities, beaches and classic cruise ports.
Explore Mediterranean →
Caribbean
A tropical option for beaches, island hopping, winter sun and relaxed cruise days.
Explore Caribbean →First Time Cruise Tips
These simple tips can help you feel more prepared before your first Marella cruise.
Plan Your Days, But Stay Flexible
It helps to look at the itinerary before you travel, but one of the best parts of cruising is being able to choose how active or relaxed each day feels.
- Check port days before you travel
- Leave time to enjoy the ship
- Try different dining venues
- Plan a mix of exploring and relaxing
Make The Most Of The Ship
Your ship is part of the holiday. Take time to explore the decks, lounges, restaurants, bars and entertainment venues early in your cruise.
- Explore the ship on your first day
- Look out for evening shows
- Try both casual and sit down dining
- Use sea days to relax properly
First Time Marella Cruise FAQs
Helpful answers for anyone considering their first Marella cruise.
Are Marella Cruises good for first time cruisers?
Yes, Marella Cruises are a good choice for many first time cruisers thanks to their relaxed atmosphere, easy going ships and choice of sunshine destinations.
Which Marella ship is best for beginners?
Marella Discovery and Marella Discovery 2 are both popular choices for first time cruisers, while Marella Explorer 2 is a good option for adults only cruising.
Will I get bored on a cruise?
Most guests find there is plenty to do, including dining, entertainment, pools, lounges, activities, port visits and time to relax.
What cabin should I choose for my first cruise?
Inside cabins can be good value, outside cabins offer a view and balcony cabins are ideal if you want private outdoor space.
Can I get help choosing my first cruise?
Yes, you can request a cruise quote and we can help narrow down suitable ships, destinations, cabins and dates.
Related Marella Cruise Guides
Explore more Marella cruise planning pages, ships and destinations.
Marella Family Cruises
Discover family friendly Marella cruises with entertainment, flexible dining and sunshine destinations.
View Family Cruises →
Marella Adults Only Cruises
Explore Marella adults only cruises for couples, friends and travellers wanting a grown up experience.
View Adults Only Cruises →
Get A Cruise Quote
Tell us your preferred ship, destination, cabin type and dates and we’ll help find suitable cruise options.
Request A Quote →Planning Your First Cruise?
Tell us your preferred destination, dates, cabin type and budget, and we’ll help find suitable Marella cruise options.
Get A Cruise Quote