Launching on 3rd June 2023 Voyager will be joining the Marella Cruises fleet.
Her maiden season will see itineraries to the Mediterranean and Caribbean regions.
The fifth vessel in the Marella fleet, Voyager, is currently undergoing a transition in dry dock to become part of Marella. We are scheduled to embark on Voyager in July, and here is what we know so far...
History
Originally built in 1997 as 'MV Mercury' for Celebrity Cruises, the ship underwent a name change to 'Celebrity Mercury' in 2008. In 2011, she became part of the TUI Cruises fleet through a joint venture with Royal Caribbean Cruises Limited, the parent company of Celebrity Cruises, and was then renamed Mein Schiff 2. In January 2019, the ship underwent another name change and began operating as Mein Schiff Herz until April 6, 2023 when she was handed over to Marella Cruises.
Stats
Marella Voyager has a length of approximately 264 meters (866 feet) and a capacity to accommodate around 1,900 passengers.
Decks: 13
Cabins: 952
Restaurants: 16
Bars: 10
Pools: 1
Lifts: 10
Check out Marella Voyagers itineraries here.
Dining
The ship offers several dining options, including a main dining room, buffet restaurant, and specialty dining venues. Passengers can choose from a variety of cuisines and enjoy meals in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere. Marella Voyager also has several bars and lounges where guests can relax, socialise, and enjoy beverages.
The creation of the diverse menus on the ship involved over 250 hours of recipe development, including a four-day tasting experience conducted by a skilled team of seven chefs and 10 front-of-house staff members.
To cater to the growing demand for plant-based, vegan, and meat-free options, more than 37 new vegetarian and vegan dishes will be available on board. Approximately 25% of the new menus will feature vegetarian dishes, while 15% will be dedicated to vegan options, ensuring a wide variety for all guests. The menu will include treats such as specialty vegan ice cream, lemon tarts, and even a vegan version of the beloved Sunday Roast, featuring a full vegan roasting joint made from oats.
The ship's exclusive Silver Fork restaurant will offer a delightful twist on traditional UK classics, creating a playful dining experience by elevating or deconstructing dishes. The restaurant concept and a menu featuring 25 dishes were developed over a period of 12 weeks. The menu features key British foods with a modern twist.
On deck 11 you can find Abuela's. Open for lunch and dinner, Abuela's offers a menu of classic Mexican options, like tacos and nachos.
Another highlight of Voyager's food and beverage offerings is The Kitchens, a new concept that showcases eight different eateries, each bringing British classics to life and highlighting flavours from Indian, South Asian, Greek, and Arabic cuisines. The Kitchens will also feature a bespoke dessert area, tantalising guests with visually appealing and delicious temptations.
Entertainment
Entertainment options on Marella Voyager are diverse and cater to various interests. The Broadway Show Lounge hosts Broadway-style shows, live music performances, and comedy acts. Additionally, Marella favourites such as the Squid & Anchor and the Exchange feature live music, quizzes, and other activities. For those who enjoy a bit of excitement, the Electric Rooms Bar, Lounge & Club on deck 12 offers a dance-floor and casino.
Alternatively The Exchange on deck 8 will be hosting themed nights for £14.95 per person:
'The Exchange hosts... The Heist There's more to this 19305-themed bar than meets the eye - if you can find it, that is. The location is a little hush-hush. But if you tip us the nod, we'll get on the old dog and bone and see if we can get you an entry code. After keeping a lid on it to avoid being shut under the "defence of the realm" act, London's social scene is slipping out of the shadows and into the spotlight at The Exchange. But keep your eyes and ears open as everything is not always as it seems. Join the crowd for a 90-minute immersive experience which includes live music, three exclusive premium cocktails/mocktails and a few surprises. Participation is encouraged but not compulsory, and you may be seated with some of the locals. Keep an eye out for your invitation, it will be delivered to your cabin. Big group? No problem. Book as many tables as you need. This venue is for anyone aged 18 and over.'
It's not confirmed if this is available on every cruise but once we have further details this article will be updated.
Relaxing & Recreation
Marella Voyager offers an outdoor pool, along with whirlpools and sunbathing areas. The ship also has a gym, spa, and beauty salon for those looking to relax and rejuvenate during their voyage. Other onboard facilities include a jogging track, mini-golf course, and a dedicated kids' club to keep younger passengers entertained.
Accommodation
In terms of accommodations, Marella Voyager offers a variety of staterooms and suites to suit different budgets and preferences. These include inside cabins, ocean-view cabins, and balcony cabins, providing guests with comfortable and well-appointed spaces to relax and unwind.
The Voyager Suite cabins offer Premier Service as well as unique decor. Each suite is themed around a particular port – cabin number 10042 is based on St Lucia, while cabin number 10046 takes inspiration from Santorini. These cabins measure up to 35m², with enough room for four people. They come with a sofa bed and two single beds, which can be combined into a queen-sized number. In the bathroom, there’s a shower and a WC, while the balcony flaunts a table, chairs and loungers.
What's included with Marella?
A Marella Cruise offers exceptional value by encompassing a wide array of inclusions within its price. All Marella Cruises offer an all-inclusive experience, incorporating the following elements as standard within the cruise fare:
Flights, luggage and transfers
Cabin
Food & snacks. Specialty dining also available.
Drinks - soft drinks, a range of cocktails, selected draught beer and ciders, certain spirits and aperitifs, as well as glasses of prosecco and house wine. Premium upgrade available.
Entertainment - theatre and live music.
Recreation - gym and pool.
Kids Clubs
Gratuities
Final Thoughts
If you're seeking a mid-sized cruise ship that offers a wide range of amenities in an all-inclusive package, Marella Voyager is an excellent option for travellers. Whether you're interested in exploring beautiful Mediterranean ports, relaxing on Caribbean beaches, or discovering the stunning landscapes of the Baltic region, Marella Voyager offers a comfortable and enjoyable cruising experience.
Check out Marella Voyagers itineraries here.
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