Marella Explorer deck plans

Marella Explorer (1996-built as "Celebrity Galaxy", formerly "Mein Schiff 1" and "TUI Explorer", last refurbished in 2021) was the oldest TUI Cruises vessel of the Century class. She was followed by Marella Voyager (ex-Celebrity Mercury, Mein Schiff Herz) and Marella Explorer 2 (ex-Celebrity Century). In 2017, the ship was sold to Thomson Cruises (later renamed Marella Cruises) and entered service as “TUI Explorer,” before being renamed "Marella Explorer." TUI Cruises, the vessel’s former operator, is a joint venture between TUI AG (Germany’s largest travel corporation) and the RCG-Royal Caribbean Group, the world’s second-largest passenger shipping company (after Carnival).

Marella Explorer’s deck plan features 962 staterooms accommodating 1,924 passengers (maximum capacity 2,681), served by 900 crew. The vessel has 13 decks (10 accessible to passengers, 6 with cabins), 10 restaurants and bistros, 10 bars, 3 lounges, 2 swimming pools (plus one for children), 3 Jacuzzis (outdoor whirlpools), and 10 elevators.

Complimentary dining venues on Mein Schiff 1 (included in all TUI cruise fares) were Anckelmannsplatz, Atlantik Klassik, La Vela, Cliff 24, and GOSCH Sylt. Specialty restaurants available at an additional charge included Blaue Welt, Surf & Turf, and Richards.

Marella Explorer 2021 refurbishment review

The ship underwent a 4-week drydock refit in December 2021 at Navantia’s Puerto Real Shipyard in Cadiz, Spain, managed by Trimline. The project involved 80 specialists, including upholsterers, decorators, tilers, joiners, welders, electricians, and floor layers.

Refurbishments covered the Latitude and Vista restaurants, Indigo Bar & Casino (with an interactive LED dance floor), The Mediterranean Bar, The Attic (Library), The Hideout (teen club), Broadway Show Lounge, Cinema, Squid & Anchor pub, Umi Sushi, The Lounge, Bar 53, Coffee Port, Snack Shack, Cruise Holiday Store, and Destination Services (lobby area). The Pool Deck was also renovated. In addition, 60 staterooms were recarpeted, and the entire lighting system was replaced with a high-efficiency solution (~15% more efficient than standard LED).

Marella Explorer 2019 refurbishment review

From October 11 to November 6, 2019, the vessel was drydocked at DAMEN Shiprepair in Brest, France. The USD 25 million project was overseen by CCS (COLUMBIA Cruise Services Ltd) and focused on technical maintenance, machinery upgrades, and interior updates. The Hideout (teen lounge on Deck 14) was enhanced with AstroTurf, tiled outdoor flooring, and new furniture, including loungers, deckchairs, and bar stools.

Marella Explorer 2018 refurbishment review

From April 20 to May 13, 2018, the liner was drydocked at Navantia Shipyard in Cadiz, Spain. The 4-week project was managed by Trimline Ltd, a Southampton-based cruise ship outfitting company.

The refit included new carpeting (45,000 m² / 17 mi), over 60 km (37 mi) of new data cables, and 650 Wi-Fi access points. A total of 35 venues and public spaces were redesigned and refurbished. Among the new venues introduced were the Flagship Bar, Disco Club, Indigo entertainment complex, and Champneys Spa (the first at sea). The new spa featured a Finnish sauna (with floor-to-ceiling windows), a full-service Thermal Suite, and Treatment Suites with private showers and saunas. Spa cabanas were also added to the adults-only Veranda (Deck 14).