Marella Cruises, TUI’s UK cruise line, is introducing 70 new shore excursions across its Caribbean programme for the 2026 winter season. The additions include a ride on one of the world’s steepest zip lines in St Maarten, a wind-powered land yacht experience in Bonaire and a steelpan music workshop in Tobago.
The excursions are available to book for winter 2026 sailings and are intended to give passengers more opportunities to explore destinations during port calls. They will be offered across the line’s three Caribbean-based ships: Marella Discovery, sailing from La Romana in the Dominican Republic, and Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager, both operating from Bridgetown, Barbados.
Marella Cruises CEO Chris Hackney explained that the itineraries were designed to maximise time in port and provide experiences that offer a deeper connection with local culture. He noted that early demand had been strong, particularly for the Flying Dutchman zip line in St Maarten, where more than 60% of places had already been sold. Other new activities include salsa lessons in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and steelpan sessions with local musicians in Tobago.
Among the new options is the Flying Dutchman experience in St Maarten, which begins at the historic Rockland Estate. Passengers take the Sky Explorer chairlift to Sentry Hill, the island’s highest point, before descending the steep zip line at speeds of up to 56 mph. The excursion also includes a second zip line and the Schooner Ride, an inflatable-ring descent along a winding track. The pre-booking price is GBP 98 per adult.
In St Kitts, the Sugar City Trolley Train offers a guided journey through Basseterre, with stops at National Heroes Park and the Cenotaph, as well as views of the former sugar factory and the grounds of Government House. The excursion costs GBP 38 per adult and child.
The Sounds of Ponce and Salsa Experience in Puerto Rico combines a guided drive through the city with an introduction to its musical heritage. Passengers can learn about the local influences behind salsa before taking part in a beginner-friendly workshop featuring traditional instruments and dance. Prices start at GBP 79 per adult and GBP 69 per child.
In Tobago, the Home of Steelpan experience introduces passengers to the instrument’s construction and tuning before offering an opportunity to play alongside local musicians. The programme includes a live performance and a visit to Fort King George, which overlooks Scarborough and the coastline. The pre-booking price is GBP 59 per adult.
Another addition is an expedition to Cueva Ventana, or Window Cave, in Puerto Rico’s Arecibo River Valley. Accompanied by a guide, passengers explore the cave’s chambers, learn about its pre-Columbian heritage and local legends, and have the opportunity to observe the surrounding wildlife. Prices are GBP 88 per adult and £79 per child.
Marella Cruises is also offering a 7-night, all-inclusive Tropical Isles round-trip sailing aboard Marella Discovery, with flights from London Gatwick to La Romana operated by TUI Airways. The itinerary includes calls at San Juan and Ponce in Puerto Rico, Charlotte Amalie and Frederiksted in the US Virgin Islands, and Isla Catalina in the Dominican Republic. Prices start at GBP 1,541 per person for the departure on January 12th, 2027.
The new excursions can be booked through the Destination Services desk onboard or via Marella’s Cruise Control platform before departure. Prices are subject to change and availability, with the quoted cruise fare based on information provided by TUI on October 29th, 2026.