Essential Guide to Marella Transatlantic Cruises: Everything You Need to Know

What to Know About Marella Transatlantic Cruises Before Booking

Marella Transatlantic cruises, often called “repositioning cruises,” typically operate during seasonal transitions when ships move between European and Caribbean itineraries. These voyages offer several distinct advantages compared to standard cruises. First, they usually come at more competitive price points per day than traditional sailings. Second, they feature multiple consecutive sea days, providing a true oceanic experience and ample time to enjoy the ship’s facilities. Before booking, understand that these cruises are one-way journeys requiring return flights from your destination port. Marella typically includes these flights in their packages, often with pre-or-post cruise hotel stays to accommodate travel logistics. Weather can be variable when crossing the Atlantic, particularly during shoulder seasons, so passengers should be prepared for possible rough seas on certain days of the journey.

Popular Destinations Featured on Marella Transatlantic Cruise Itineraries

Marella’s transatlantic voyages connect Europe with the Americas through carefully planned routes featuring captivating ports of call. Eastbound crossings typically depart from Caribbean destinations like Barbados, Jamaica, or the Dominican Republic, making their way toward Mediterranean ports such as Malaga, Palma, or Corfu. Westbound journeys often begin in European cities like Southampton, Barcelona, or Palma de Mallorca before heading to Caribbean paradises. Many itineraries include stops at Atlantic islands that serve as natural waypoints, with the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands being frequent highlights. Some specialized voyages may incorporate visits to less common destinations like Bermuda, the Cape Verde islands, or ports along the eastern seaboard of the United States, offering passengers diverse cultural experiences during their ocean crossing.

What All-Inclusive Typically Covers on Marella Transatlantic Cruise Packages

Marella stands out in the cruise industry for its genuine all-inclusive approach to transatlantic voyages. Standard packages include accommodation, all meals across multiple dining venues, and a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the ship. Entertainment options—from theatrical shows to live music and cinema screenings—are included without additional charges. Basic tea and coffee, as well as standard room service during specified hours, typically come as part of the package. Unlike many competitors, Marella builds gratuities into the upfront price, eliminating the surprise of automatic daily service charges. However, passengers should note that specialty dining venues may carry supplemental fees, as do premium beverage brands, spa treatments, retail purchases, shore excursions, and internet access packages. For transatlantic journeys specifically, packages often include return flights and transfers between airports and the ship, providing a more comprehensive travel solution.

Which Marella Ships Operate Transatlantic Cruises and Their Onboard Features

Marella deploys several vessels from its fleet for transatlantic crossings, each with distinctive features and atmospheres. Marella Explorer and Marella Explorer 2 are among the most frequently used ships for these voyages. Both feature modern amenities including multiple pools, extensive spa facilities, and numerous dining venues. Marella Explorer accommodates approximately 1,900 passengers with family-friendly facilities, while Marella Explorer 2 operates as an adults-only vessel with around 1,800 guests, offering a more sophisticated environment. The slightly smaller Marella Discovery and Marella Discovery 2, accommodating around 1,800 passengers each, may also operate select transatlantic sailings and include amenities like rock climbing walls and outdoor movie screens. Regardless of which ship you choose, transatlantic voyages benefit from the vessels’ stabilizers, various indoor activity spaces, and multiple entertainment venues—crucial for the multiple sea days these itineraries entail.

Typical Durations for Marella Transatlantic Cruises

Marella Transatlantic cruises typically span between 14 and 21 days, significantly longer than standard vacation cruises. This extended duration accommodates both the actual ocean crossing—which requires 5-7 days of continuous sailing—and the various port calls before, during, and after the crossing. The most common format is a 16-night journey featuring 7-8 sea days interspersed with 8-9 port days. These longer durations allow for a more immersive cruise experience and provide excellent value when calculated as a daily rate. For travelers with time constraints, Marella occasionally offers shorter segments of these voyages, allowing passengers to enjoy a portion of the transatlantic experience. The lengthy nature of these cruises tends to attract passengers with flexible schedules, including retirees, remote workers, and those seeking a truly relaxing, unhurried vacation experience away from the typical week-long cruise format.

Pricing and Value Considerations for Marella Transatlantic Cruises

Marella Transatlantic cruises typically offer strong value compared to standard itineraries, with prices reflecting the longer duration and included amenities. Inside cabins generally start around £999-£1,299 per person, while ocean view cabins range from £1,199-£1,599. Balcony accommodations, particularly desirable for the scenic sea days, typically cost between £1,499-£2,199 per person. Suites with additional space and amenities start from £2,299 and can exceed £3,500 for premium options.

---

Cabin Type	Typical Price Range (per person)	What’s Included
Inside	£999-£1,299	All-inclusive package, return flights, transfers
Ocean View	£1,199-£1,599	All-inclusive package, return flights, transfers
Balcony	£1,499-£2,199	All-inclusive package, return flights, transfers
Suite	£2,299-£3,500+	All-inclusive package, premium amenities, priority services, return flights, transfers

---

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

These transatlantic voyages represent particularly good value when considering the daily rate, which often works out lower than on shorter cruises. The inclusion of flights and transfers in most packages further enhances the value proposition, saving passengers the complexity and additional expense of arranging separate transportation across continents. For optimal pricing, booking during promotional periods or selecting sailings during shoulder seasons (April-May or October-November) typically yields the best deals, though weather conditions may be more variable during these times.

Marella Transatlantic cruises offer a distinctive way to experience ocean travel, combining the adventure of crossing the Atlantic with the comfort and convenience of an all-inclusive cruise package. With varied itineraries, comprehensive inclusions, and fleet options to suit different preferences, these voyages appeal to travelers seeking a more immersive cruise experience. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of days at sea or the value these extended journeys represent, understanding the specifics of Marella’s transatlantic offerings helps ensure your ocean crossing meets your expectations and travel needs.