Home / Marella Cruises / Marella Explorer / Iconic Islands from Luton

Visiting:

Europe

Mediterranean

Prices Available

25th July 2025

£1517

View deal

Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises – formerly Thomson Cruises - is to add a fifth ship to its fleet in 2023. Having parted with Marella Celebration and Marella Dream during the pandemic, the line is to acquire Mein Schiff Herz from the parent TUI Group and convert it into Marella Voyager.

The new addition, originally from the same Celebrity Cruises Century-Class as Marella Explorer and Explorer 2, will feature two new venues for Marella – a Mexican diner and a secret speakeasy bar.

1924

Passengers

900

Crew

1996

Launched

2018

Last refit

76998t

Tonnage

264m

Length

32m

Width

21kts

Speed

Decks

GBP

Currency

Overview

All Inclusive Cruise
All Tips Included
Return Flights Luton
Transfers
Financial Protection

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Corfu

<p>Corfu town today is a vivid tapestry of cultures—a sophisticated weave, where charm, history, and natural beauty blend. Located about midway along the island's east coast, this spectacularly lively capital is the cultural heart of Corfu and has a remarkable historic center that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site in 2007. All ships and planes dock or land near Corfu town, which occupies a small peninsula jutting into the Ionian Sea.Whether arriving by ferry from mainland Greece or Italy, from another island, or directly by plane, catch your breath by first relaxing with a coffee or a gelato in Corfu town's shaded Liston Arcade, then stroll the narrow lanes of its pedestrians-only quarter. For an overview of the immediate area, and a quick tour of Mon Repos palace, hop on the little tourist train that runs from May to September. Corfu town has a different feel at night, so book a table at one of its famed tavernas to savor the island's unique cuisine.The best way to get around Corfu town is on foot. The town is small enough so that you can easily walk to every sight. There are local buses, but they do not thread their way into the streets (many now car-free) of the historic center. If you are arriving by ferry or plane, it's best to take a taxi to your hotel. Expect to pay about €10 from the airport or ferry terminal to a hotel in Corfu town. If there are no taxis waiting, you can call for one.</p>

Day 2

At Sea

Relax and make the most of the myriad of facilities available on board the ship, from fantastic entertainment to delicious and diverse dining options.

Day 3

Santorini

Set amidst the azure waters of the Aegean Sea, Santorini beckons with its legendary tales of volcanic eruptions and ancient civilizations. Its iconic whitewashed buildings perched atop dramatic cliffs paint a picture of timeless beauty. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with warm summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for sun-seeking travelers. Escape the tourist crowds by exploring charming villages like Oia, where narrow streets wind through traditional Cycladic architecture. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the island's famed Assyrtiko wine, cultivated from grapes grown in volcanic soil, creating a unique and unforgettable flavor profile.

Day 4

Rhodes

Rhodes, once home to the Colossus, one of the ancient world's wonders, is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and architectural marvels. The island's climate is a perfect blend of warm sunshine and gentle sea breezes, ideal for exploring its abundant natural and architectural sights. Cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises and MSC make a point of showcasing Rhodes not just for its sun-soaked beaches but for its less frequented villages and ancient ruins that capture the essence of the island’s past splendor. A unique attraction here is the Palace of the Grand Master, a medieval castle that was once the stronghold of the Knights of St. John, offering visitors a glimpse into the chivalric and strategic importance of this island at the crossroads of civilizations.

Day 5

Mykonos

The island of Mykonos, where the mythic winds were said to be tamed by Apollo himself, is a destination that cruise lines like Celebrity and MSC expertly highlight for its serene beauty and vibrant local life. With a climate that blesses the island with sun-drenched days and cooling breezes, it is perfect for those who wish to explore at a leisurely pace. This place escapes the usual clamor of mainstream spots, offering an unspoiled glimpse into the lifestyle that has been preserved over the ages. Unique to Mykonos are the iconic windmills from the 16th century, standing as silent sentinels over the town, providing a picturesque backdrop that is as photogenic as it is historic.

Day 6

Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Bustling with vibrant energy, Heraklion beckons with tales of ancient glory. Once the heart of the Minoan civilization, this coastal city echoes with the whispers of its storied past. The Mediterranean climate offers a balmy embrace, ideal for leisurely strolls through its labyrinthine streets. Far from the trodden paths, Heraklion reveals the soul of Greece, where locals gather in tavernas to share stories over meze and ouzo. Amidst the sun-drenched landscapes, the Palace of Knossos stands as a testament to Minoan ingenuity, inviting travelers to unravel its mysteries and bask in the glory of antiquity.

Day 7

Katakolon

<p>Katakolon could not seem less of a cruise port if it tried. A tiny enclave clinging to the western Peloponnese coast, it's a sleepy place except when ships dock. But it's a popular cruise destination because of its proximity to Olympia. Ancient Olympia was one of the most important cities in classical Greece. The Sanctuary of Zeus was the city's raison d'être, and attracted pilgrims from around the eastern Mediterranean, and later the city played host to Olympic Games, the original athletic games that were the inspiration for today's modern sporting pan-planetary meet. At the foot of the tree-covered Kronion hill, in a valley near two rivers, Katakolon is today one of the most popular ancient sites in Greece. If you don't want to make the trip to Olympia, then Katakolon is an ideal place for a leisurely Greek lunch while you watch the fishermen mend their nets, but there's just not much else to do there.</p>

Day 8

Corfu

Day 1

Corfu

Day 2

At Sea

Day 3

Santorini

Day 4

Rhodes

Day 5

Mykonos

Day 6

Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Day 7

Katakolon

Day 8

Corfu

Ship Details

Marella Cruises

Marella Explorer

As one of the largest ships in the fleet, Marella Explorer serves up top-notch eateries, a large spa, unmissable entertainment, and a swanky bar, club and casino space – all polished with a modern, contemporary finish.