Marella Cruises, the UK-based cruise line operated by TUI Group, has announced that several ships will be departing its fleet in the coming months as part of a broader strategic realignment. The move comes amid ongoing efforts to modernize the fleet, optimize operational efficiency, and respond to evolving passenger expectations in the post-pandemic cruise market.
The vessels set to exit the Marella Cruises fleet include Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, and Marella Explorer 2. These ships, once popular with British holidaymakers for their mid-sized comfort and family-friendly amenities, have been identified for decommissioning or transfer due to age, rising maintenance costs, and a shift toward more modern, eco-efficient vessels.
TUI Group stated that the decision reflects their commitment to enhancing sustainability and streamlining their cruise operations. “As part of our continued efforts to deliver exceptional cruise experiences while meeting our environmental responsibilities, we have taken the difficult decision to withdraw select vessels from the Marella Cruises fleet,” the company noted in an official statement.
Marella Discovery, originally launched in 1996 as Splendour of the Seas for Royal Caribbean, was acquired by Marella in 2016. Its sister ship, Marella Discovery 2, joined the fleet a year later. Both have served reliably, offering itineraries across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Canary Islands. Meanwhile, Marella Explorer 2, launched in 1995 as Celebrity Century, was introduced to the Marella lineup in 2019 as the brand’s adult-only ship.
Passengers and industry insiders have expressed mixed reactions to the news. While some loyal customers lament the farewell of familiar ships, others welcome the company’s focus on fleet renewal. “These ships have given us years of incredible holidays, but it’s exciting to see Marella investing in the future,” said one longtime customer.
TUI Group has hinted that the fleet changes will make way for newer vessels, potentially equipped with advanced technologies that reduce emissions and improve onboard guest experiences. Although no specific replacements have been announced, the company is expected to reveal updates later this year regarding fleet additions or charter partnerships.
The decision also aligns with broader trends across the cruise industry, where many lines are phasing out older ships in favor of newer, more sustainable options. Emission regulations and changing customer expectations are increasingly shaping fleet compositions, with energy efficiency and environmental compliance becoming central concerns.
Marella Cruises reassured current and future passengers that all affected itineraries would be honored or adjusted accordingly, with alternative sailings and refund options made available. The cruise line emphasized that customer satisfaction and transparency would remain a top priority during the transition.
As Marella Cruises prepares for the next chapter in its evolution, the departure of these vessels marks the end of an era. However, the company remains steadfast in its goal of delivering innovative and memorable cruise experiences, signaling a continued investment in the future of leisure travel on the seas.