marella cruise ship cabins

Marella Discovery Complete Cabin Guide - What is the best Cruise Cabin?

We have now spent a total of 28 nights on board the Marella Discovery Cruise Ship  and have enjoyed every one! We and other members of our family have stayed in a variety of cabins and suites during our time on board.

There are a total of 920 cabins on board and in this post we cover the standard cabins – inside, outside, and adapted cabins, compare standard and deluxe balcony cabins and also cover a variety of suites. We also had the privilege of having a look around the most expensive suite on the Marella Discovery Cruise Ship too. By the end of this post you will be able to see which type of cabin is for you!

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Outside Cabin Marella Discovery Cruise Ship

We spent 2 weeks in an outside cabin on our Marella Discovery Seeking the Northern Lights cruise . Outside cabins cover an area of 14 m2 and can be found on decks 2 and 3. All have a port hole or picture window, can sleep up to 4 persons, and have ensuite shower and toilet. Our video below shows you around an outside cabin, and you can also read our detailed post here .

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Inside Cabin Marella Discovery Cruise Ship

There are 124 inside cabins on the Marella Discovery Cruise Ship and are found on decks 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8. Inside cabins cover an area between 12 and 13 m2 with some sleeping two and some cabins can accommodate 4. If you want a little extra room there are some inside plus cabins, which have the same facilities but are just a little bigger with a surface area of 15 m2.

Adapted / Accessible Cabin Marella Discovery Cruise Ship

There are 12 adapted cabins in total on the Marella Discovery, 6 on deck 2, 3 on deck 3, 3 on deck 7.

If you have a mobility scooter we have found that with some cruise lines like P&O and Princess you have to book an adapted cabin. However, we have travelled with Paul’s Dad John on 3 occasions with Marella and we were able to book standard cabins that we then parked the mobility scooter outside. Depending on your needs of course this may be an option, but do have this conversation with Marella Cruises or your travel agent as they will need to document all the specific details of the particular scooter or wheelchair you will be using on board.

We managed to have a look around an adapted cabin whilst we were leaving the ship, so do come and have a look around too!

Balcony Cabins Marella Discovery Cruise Ship - Standard v Deluxe

When our budget allows we book a balcony cabin and you can read all about our reasons why here . However balcony cabins do come in different shapes and sizes and in our video here we describe the difference between a standard and a deluxe balcony cabin on the Marella Discovery cruise ship.

Junior Suite Marella Discovery Cruise Ship

We spent two weeks in a junior suite on deck 8 during our Naples to Dubai Repositioning Cruise . The main differences when you get into the suite categories are obviously bigger cabins with the Junior Suite having a surface area if 21 m2. We also had a shower over a bath which is different to the standard and deluxe which just has a shower cubicle.

In this type of cabin and above passengers enjoy Premier Service extras. These include, express check-in, free pressing service – up to 3 items per person in the first 24 hours onboard. free continental breakfast in bed – 1 per person, per week.

It was a great cabin with a large balcony and we would happily stay in this type of cabin again. Have a look around in our video below.

Calypso Suite on the Marella Discovery Cruise Ship

The Calypso Suite is one of 5 executive suites on board, they can be found on deck 8 and this suite sleeps 4. There is a separate living area, queen size sofa bed, separate shower and bath, and the total surface area is 47 m2. A large balcony accommodates a table, chairs and two large sun loungers.

Have a look around the Calypso Suite in our video below.

Royal Discovery Suite on the Marella Discovery Cruise Ship

Last but not least is the most expensive cabin on board The Royal Discovery Suite

This luxurious cabin covers a huge 92m²! It has a seperate living area, kitchen/bar area, king size bed in a separate bedroom, walk in wardrobe, huge whirlpool bath and a baby grand piano!

The balcony is large too and your neighbours are the officers of the bridge.

Come and have a look around!

If you want to binge watch all the videos together we have now put this complete cabin guide together here!

We hope you have found our complete guide of the cabins on the Marella Discovery cruise ship useful. It is a great ship and we know we will be back on board again one day.

Visit our Marella Cruise information Page for more cruise tours, advice and reviews!

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TUI Marella Explorer Cabins – A complete guide to choosing a cabin with kids and without

If you are planning or taking a cruise with TUI Marella you may be wondering what the cabins are like on board their Marella Explorer or Marella Explorer 2 ships for families.

We have recently cruised with Marella on their Explorer ship around the beautiful Adriatic coast .

In this guide we take a look at the range of different cabins available across its 10 cabin decks on the Marella Explorer:

Inside Cabins

Outside cabins, balcony cabins.

• Cabins with Premier Service (Family Balcony Rooms and Suites)

Tip – Check the deck plans before you book as we were glad we did before we booked as not all cabins are the same and some locations and cabins in the ship are better than others.  Some cabins have bigger balconies than others whilst others can be located close to public spaces, restaurants etc which can be noisy. 

We paid the extra £50 per cabin to reserve our exact cabins of choice rather than have cabins allocated to us once we checked in and for a family we wanted to ensure that our cabins were adjacent to each other and not have our two cabins at different ends of the ship or across different decks.

As you will find on the majority of cruise ships, inside cabins are typically the cheapest and smallest cabins.  When looking for a cruise its usually the low headline price of these inside cabins that first captures your attention to look at a cruise in the first place.

The inside cabins on the Marella Explorer are on decks 4, 5, 8, 9, 10 and 12, measure 16m2 and as the name suggests they are on the inside of the ship, so there are no windows or natural light into the cabin.  However, through the clever use of large mirrors in the cabin make it seem more spacious.  Many people choose these cabins during cruising in colder climates where you might not use your balcony as much and save the typically £500-£700 upgrade cost from this cabin to one with a balcony.

There are three types of inside cabin available on the Explorer – the first can fit two passengers with two singles which can also be made into a queen bed.

For families they also offer a four berth cabin consisting of twin beds and extra fold down beds.  When we started our cruise search, we did nearly book this given the low cost but after seeing them I wouldn’t recommend these especially if you have a tween and teen like us.  You would literally have no space in your cabin and it would be quite claustrophobic for a 7 night cruise.  If your budget allows, there are a limited amount of interconnecting inside cabins on the Marella Explorer which would work out better for a family.

There is another alternative when it comes to inside cabins, on the Marella Explorer they also have family inside cabins located on decks 8 and 10 measuring 19m2 and can sleep up to five.  These cabins have a fixed double bed and a sliding door partition which leads to a double sofa bed and single fold down bed where the children would sleep.

Their outside cabins on the Marella Explorer are slightly larger at 17m2 than the inside cabins but what I liked was that they came with a porthole window on lower decks or picture window on higher decks, providing a view of the sea and natural light into the cabin.  These cabins can be found on decks 4,5, 8 and 9 with the cabins on the higher floors costing more.

For families they offer cabins that can fit four passengers with two twin beds which can be pushed together to make a queen as well as a sofa bed and an extra fold down bed.  Although Marella state these rooms can fit four people it would be a very tight squeeze similar to their inside cabins, especially with older children and you would literally be sleeping on top of each other.

The Explorer also offers a larger outside cabin on deck 8 and 9 which measure in at 20m2.  Strangely, although these are bigger rooms that their standard outside cabins they can only sleep 3 people consisting of a twin bed that can also be a double along with a sofa bed.

If you are looking for some personal outside space on your cruise then the balcony cabins are for you – we are so glad we chose these for our first cruise with Marella and are worth every penny of the upgrade cost.

Within the balcony category there are three different cabins available, a balcony cabin, large balcony cabin and a family balcony cabin.

Standard Balcony Cabins

The standard balcony cabins are on decks 8,9 and 10 and are typically the cheapest of the cabins onboard that also provide some outside space.  At 17m2 square they are larger than the large balcony cabins but the balconies are smaller.  Inside the cabin you have a fixed queen bed and a sofa bed.

Large Balcony Cabins

We recently stayed in two large balcony cabins on the Marella Explorer on their Adriatic cruise, which are found on decks 9, 10 and 12.

Located on deck 10, I was really pleased with these cabins which I thought were perfect for families with older children.  What I really liked was that fact that the balconies in our cabins were interconnecting providing a huge amount of outside space and joining two cabins into one.  You can view a video tour of our large balcony cabins here .

Compared to booking a suite where the kids would have been sleeping on a sofa bed and we would all be sharing one bathroom, booking two balcony cabins came in at a much lower cost than booking one suite, so its well worth looking at this combination for a family.

Like the standard balcony cabins, these rooms can fit 3 passengers in either a twin or queen bed along with a single sofa bed.  Bathrooms are similar to what you would find across the rest of the cabins onboard apart from the executive suite.  What we did like and one of the reasons why we chose the Marella Explorer was that the showers had glass doors rather than the old fashioned shower curtains that can still be found in many cabin bathrooms across cruise lines.

Although the cabin at 16m2 is slightly smaller than a balcony cabin, what you are gaining is a significant amount of outdoor space offering lots of space to relax.  The balconies in these cabins will be some of the largest non-suite balconies that you will find on any cruise line.  Our balconies were large enough for 2 sunlounges, table and 2 chairs and a hammock.

Given the significant upgrade cost per cabin for a large balcony cabin – typically £700 it would have been a welcome addition if the bathrooms had the Clarins toiletries found in the suites instead of the cheap wall mounted toiletries found in the shower cubicle.

Family balcony cabin

If you want to be all in the same cabin as a family and not be on top of each other, then it’s well worth looking at their family balcony cabins which are located on the aft (back of the ship) on decks 8 and 10.

At 20m2 they can sleep up to five people, although it would be more comfortable as four and feature a sliding door that divides the room for privacy.  If you are looking at these family cabins, then you will need to book early as there are only 14 cabins available and they tend to sell out quickly.  If you are travelling with younger children these cabins are also the closest to the children’s splash pool area at the back of the ship.

The family balcony cabins also offer additional perks including

• Express check-in
• Priority luggage delivery
• Complimentary pressing service for up to 3 items per person in the first 24 hours after embarkation
• In-cabin dining – complimentary continental breakfast in bed

You can tell the suites onboard the Marella Explorer as their cabin doors are different to the rest of the cabins onboard.  Once you step inside you can see they are a step up from the standard cabins and really spacious, which should be given the costs of the suites which can add an £1,700 upgrade cost for a family of four. Although the bathrooms are no bigger than what you would find in a standard cabin, they do feature upgraded toiletries –  Clarins, one of my favourites.

Like the family balcony cabins, the suites on board the Marella Explorer also offer additional perks including

Junior Suite

The junior suites are 22m2 and are found on deck 10 and 12 and can sleep up to three people in the twin or queen-sized bed along with a sofa bed. What makes the junior suites different to the other cabins on-board is that the bed faces the patio doors onto the large balcony.  Like the large balcony cabins, the balconies in the junior suites a fantastic, furnished with two sunbeds, coffee table and chairs and a hammock.

Executive Suite

The executive suites are the most expensive, spacious and most spectacular cabins on board the Marella Explorer – it wouldn’t look out of place in a hotel on-land.  These 10 executive suites are also by far the biggest rooms, measuring in at 49m2 ensuring that a family of four can sleep in this cabin and still have space to spare, the only downside is that the kids would be sleeping on a sofa bed.

The master bedroom features a queen size bed and separate walk in wardrobe.  The spacious living room contains the sofa bed and dining area.  The bathroom is just as spectacular and spacious with dual vanities and large walk-in shower.  Balconies are huge with padded sun loungers, table and chairs and a hammock.

Do The Cabins on The Marella Explorer have a fridge?

Yes, in our large balcony cabin we had a small fridge which was great for keeping drinks cool.

Do The Cabins on The Marella Explorer have air conditioning?

Yes, all cabins have air conditioning, although it was quite old fashioned with a manual thermostat in the cabin.

Do The Cabins on The Marella Explorer have a safe?

Yes, all cabins on the Marella Explorer have a safe which are free to use.  They are modern but a little on the small side so it would struggle to fit a small laptop.  Our safe was located in the wardrobe but on inside cabins they can be found behind the mirror above the desk.

Do The Cabins on The Marella Explorer have TVs?

Yes, all cabins have modern flat screen TV’s, ours was interactive showing the cruise map, lots of channels and information similar to what you would find on the Navigator app.

Do the cabins on have Kettles?

Yes, with Marella being a British cruise line all of the cabins come with a kettle and tea and coffee making facilities.

Do the cabins have hairdryers?

Yes, all cabins on the Marella Explorer have hairdryers although the quality is not the best so you may want to bring your own.

What plug sockets are in the cabins on the Marella Explorer?

Connectivity in the cabins in most of the Marella cabins is pretty poor, especially when most families have so many pieces of technology with them to charge.  In our cabin was a single EU plug socket in the corner shelving and one US plug socket on the desk and forget about USB sockets, there were none to be found.  So remember to pack an adapter, we took the EU/US adapters which also allowed us to charge multiple devices and also to charge via USB.

Do the cabins on have irons?

No, you won’t find any irons in any of the cabins on the Marella Explorer.  The ship does offer a competitively priced laundry service where they will press your clothes or if you stay in one of the cabins above with premier service you will get 3 items of clothing pressed complimentary.

TUI Marella Explorer - Restaurants and Dining Guide

Hotel review: fairmont windsor park.

Do inside cabins have a fridge

yes they do

Is there a royal suite on this ship.

Not on the Explorer – that is on the Discovery

Very informative. Many thanks for posting 😊 we have booked two standard balcony room adjacent to each other. Would they be able to have the balcony’s connected? They are not interconnecting rooms?

Thank you so much . Very well executed cabins. Will surely book Mediterranean cruise soon

Brilliant really helpful thank u.

How much to upgrade from an inside cabin to an outside cabin.

It depends on availability but an upgrade from an inside to balcony cabin is typically circa +£700, outside cabins a little less than this.

Been on this ship . Love it Love it Love it. Oh Love it . Back on later this year .

Hi, we have booked a large balcony room on Deck 9, room 9096. Not keen on being opposite a linen/storage cupboard, does anyone have any idea where they are located? Many thanks

Do all balcony cabins have fridges in for medication. Or do we need to book one

What decks would be deemed the quietest from decks 8 9 & 10

We have just stayed for our 1st cruise on Marella explorer. Outside cabin on deck 4. It was absolutely beautiful, best holiday for years.

How do u find what excursions there are

I’m heading on your cruise in june9th, we fly from Dublin to Corfu, we have our tickets already, can I book a cabin now, and do I ring TUI in England

Just back from my first ever cruise on Marcella explorer had the most fantastic time staff were so helpful and very nice didn’t want to go home saving for my next won can’t wait to go another won my husband had a wonderful time as well thank you for all the wonderful memories x

Hi, do marella2 have tea making facilities and hair dryer.

Hi, yes they do

Probably worth mentioning that not all cabins have fridges. Inside cabins only have them if you ask and need them for medications….

We have just got back from our Cruise on the Marella Explorer. And the entire ship has a greqt amosphere. Very friemdly and helpful ceew.

Do suit cabins have a fridge

Very helpful. Suggestion please for a birthday a la carte restaurant dinner. Thx 😊

aim so looking forward to my trip on Marella explorer . As aim traveling on my birthday 20th January . aim 60 and my wife as never been on a cruse before so she side she would try it out just for me. ( I CAN”T WAIT )

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New Ship - Marella Voyager Cabins

Marella Voyager Cabins

There is a new addition to the Marella fleet from Summer 2023 - Marella Voyager. If you are planning to book a cruise on this new ship, here are details of available cabins The ship is going into dry dock prior to entering service so details may change and images are only representative. I will, of course, update once I have further information and photos.

Marella Voyager Deck Plans

*All images courtesy of Marella Cruises.

There are 952 cabins on Marella Voyager including a mix of Singles, Inside Cabins, Outside Cabins, Balcony Cabins, and Suites. Some cabins benefit form Marella Premier Service.

What is Marella Cruises Premier Service?

For those staying in certain cabins and suites, Marella Cruises offer their Premier Service which includes exclusive benefits.

These include:

Priority check-in

Continental Breakfast in bed (one per person, per week), 

Complimentary pressing (only during the first 24 hours on the ship, 3 items per person limit),

Concierge service for dining/tours reservations. (Suite Guests). 

Every cabin on Marella Voyager has the following amenities:

Air-conditioning,

Flatscreen TV,

Wardrobe space,

Tea and coffee-making facilities

Solo Cabins on Marella Voyager

Single inside cabin (sleeps 1-2).

Single Inside Cabin on Marella Voyager

Perfect for the solo travels, Marella Voyager’s Single Inside Cabins measure approximately 12m2. There are two single beds which can be combined to make a small Queen double bed; bedside cabinets with lamps, TV, mirrored vanity/dressing table with chest of drawers and chair. There is also an ensuite bathroom featuring a shower, toilet and vanity. The cabin has all of the same amenities shown above. No single supplement applied.

Single Inside Cabins are located on decks 4 & 5

Single Outside Cabin (Sleeps 1-2)

Single Outside Cabin on Marella Voyager

Measuring approximately 14m2, the Single Outside Cabin is ideal for the solo traveller (or friends who want their own space). Perfect if you want to enjoy a Seaview, as these cabins benefit from a picture window. There are two single beds which can be combined to make a queen-sized double if preferred. No single supplement applied.

Single Outside Cabins are located on Decks 4 & 5

Inside Cabins on Marella Voyager

Inside cabins (sleeps 2-4).

Inside Cabin sleeping max of 4 on Marella Voyager

Inside cabins on Marella Voyager measure approximately 16m2 and are furnished with two single beds that can be configured as a queen bed (some also have two wall-mounted pull-down Pullman berths to sleep 4 in total). There is an ensuite bathroom featuring a shower, toilet and vanity. There are also some inside cabins for solo occupancy (actually sleeping up to 2 guests).

Inside Cabins are located on Decks 4, 5, 8, 9, 10 & 12

Outside Cabins on Marella Voyager

Outside Cabin on Marella Voyager

Outside Cabin (Sleeps 2-4)

Outside Cabins measure approximately 17m2 and feature either a porthole (decks 4 & 5), or a window (decks 8 & 9), They have two single beds convertible to a Queen sized bed (some have an additional pull down Pullman bed); bedside cabinets with lamps, single sofa bed, (plus 1 wall-mounted fold-down bed where applicable), TV, mirrored vanity/dressing table with chest of drawers and chair. There is an ensuite bathroom with a shower and a WC.

Outside Cabins are located on Decks 4, 5, 8, 9

Balcony Cabins on Marella Voyager

Standard balcony cabin (sleeps 3).

Standard Balcony Cabin on Marella Voyager

Measuring approximately 17m2, the Standard Balcony Cabin can sleep up to three guests. They have two single beds convertible to a Queen sized bed with an additional pull down Pullman bed; bedside cabinets with lamps,TV, mirrored vanity/dressing table with chest of drawers and chair. There is an ensuite bathroom with a shower and a WC. The cabin benefits from a furnished balcony with two deckchairs and a low table.

Standard Balcony Cabins are located on Decks 8 & 9

Large Balcony Cabin (Sleeps 3)

Large Balcony Cabin on Marella Voyager

The Large Balcony Cabin measures approximately approximately 16m2 but with the added advantage of a large balcony measuring around 9m2. Although they are Large Balcony Cabins they still only sleep 3 (the ‘large’ referring to the balcony itself which is of a more generous size than the standard balcony). Each Large Balcony Cabin has two single beds which can be configured as a double Queen-sized) Bed, bedside cabinets with lamps, TV, single sofabed, mirrored vanity/dressing table with chest of drawers and a chair, en-suite bathroom (single-sink vanity, WC/shower), and wardrobe, the cabins benefit from a spacious generously furnished balcony.

Large Balcony Cabins are located on Decks 8 & 9

Family Cabins on Marella Voyager

Family inside cabin (sleeps 5).

Family Inside Cabin on Marella Voyager

An extremely popular cabin for groups travelling together, the Family Inside Cabin measures approximately 19m2 and has a partitioned sleeping area with a fixed double bed, leading to an area with double sofa bed and a single pull-down bed. There is an ensuite bathroom featuring a shower, toilet and vanity.

Family Inside Cabins are located on Decks 8 & 10

Family Balcony Cabin with Premier Service (Sleeps 5)

Family Balcony Cabin on Marella Voyager

Room for all the brood in this generously proportioned cabin, and you are still able to keep your privacy. Measuring a spacious 20m2, the Family Balcony Cabin has a partitioned sleeping area with a fixed double bed, leading to an area with double sofa bed and a single pull-down bed. There is an ensuite bathroom featuring a shower, toilet and vanity, plus a furnished balcony.

Premier Service benefits:

Family Balcony Cabins are located on Decks 8 & 10

Suites on Marella Voyager

If you really want to splash out (and spread out) why not consider booking a suite on Marella Voyager? There are three types of suites available: the spacious Junior Balcony Suites, the much coveted Executive Suites and the prestigious Voyager Suites.

Balcony Junior Suite Cabin with Premier Service (Sleeps 3)

Balcony Junior Suite on Marella Voyager

Measuring a generous 22m2, the Balcony Junior Suite Cabins offer spacious accommodation for up to three guests. Each Balcony Junior Suite Cabin has two single beds which can be configured as a double Queen-sized) Bed, bedside cabinets with lamps, TV, single sofabed, mirrored vanity/dressing table with chest of drawers and a chair, en-suite bathroom (single-sink vanity, WC/shower), and wardrobe, the cabins benefit from a spacious and generously furnished balcony.

Balcony Junior Suites are located on Decks 10 & 12

Executive Suite Cabin with Premier Service (Sleeps 4)

Executive Suite on Marella Voyager

These two-roomed Executive Suites measure approximately 32m2 and are situated in a prime position (forward-Midships). The Executive Suites have a main bedroom with a queen-sized bed and a walk-in wardrobe. The living room is fitted with a double sofa bed, and opens out onto a balcony that has loungers, a table and some chairs.

Executive Suites are located on Deck 10

Voyager Suites with Premier Service (Sleeps 4)

Voyager Suite on Marella Voyager Image is a representation and actual suites decor may differ.

These exclusive suites (there are just two on board) are the ultimate cabin choice on Marella Voyager. Measuring 42m2, each of the luxuriously appointed Voyager Suites have two rooms - a bedroom with two single beds, convertible to a Queen and a living room which features a double sofa bed. This room opens out onto a large private sundeck furnished with 4-seat dining table, and 2 premium sun loungers.

Voyager Suites are situated on Deck 10

The Best Cabins on Marella Voyager

The best cabins for families without doubt are the Family Balcony Suites on Decks 8 and 10 (although do bear in mind the comments below regarding location.

Aft cabins on Deck 10 would normally be called Sunset Suites on other ships and will offer views of the wake, plus fabulous sunsets and sunrises.

The most luxurious suites are the two Voyager Suites.

Cabins to Avoid on Marella Voyager

In my opinion, there really is no such thing as a bad cabin, just wrong location. Ensure you check out the deck plans to determine where cabins are situated, and decide if they fit your preferences. For example families might like to be close to the pools or kids clubs, whilst this might be too noisy for solo cruisers.

At this stage it is difficult to say for sure if any cabins on the new ship will have any noise or obstructed views so these comments have been based on a review of the deck plans and feedback from guests on similar ships.

Cabins to Avoid on Deck 5

Forward cabins on Deck 5 are directly below the Broadway Theatre so could be subject to some noise, although most shows end by 11 pm.

Cabins to Avoid on Deck 8

Forward cabins on Deck 8 are directly above The Broadway Show Lounge (theatre), whilst aft cabins are above the Squid & Anchor pub. These cabins may be subject to noise. However, if you are a night owl, you are quite likely to be enjoying yourselves in the very same venues and therefore this wouldn’t necessarily be a problem.

Aft cabins are also below the kids pool and kids club so you may here some noise from these areas.

Cabins to Avoid on Deck 9

Generally Deck 9 is considered a desirable deck being sandwiched between two accommodation decks. However some Aft cabins are adjacent to the kids clubs and kids pools so may experience more footfall and noise accordingly.

Cabins to Avoid on Deck 10

Deck 10 is home to some of Marella Voyager’s larger cabins and suites. However it is worth noting that some cabins are below the pool and there may be some disturbance when sun loungers are set out or moved.

Whichever cabin you choose you are sure to enjoy a fabulous cruise on Marella Voyager.

Be sure to check out my dedicated Marella Cruises Page for updates and check out my Marella Voyager Highlights and Marella Voyager Restaurant Guide

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Is Marella Cruises Good for Solo Travellers?

• Last Updated 27 August 2024

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Wondering what travelling with Marella Cruises is like for singles and solo travellers? After spending a week cruising solo, here’s my honest review…

It didn’t take me very long at all to realise I was going to love cruising solo ! Standing on my cabin’s balcony, looking out to sea and realising that the biggest decision I’d have to make that day was which book to read first – and which patch of sunshine to lie in whilst reading it!

This was a week of doing exactly what I wanted, when I wanted, without once feeling guilty or compromising. Lots of self-indulgent me-time – and, unlike my usual solo travels, all of it completely hassle-free and organised by someone else!

Marella Cruises was a great option for my first solo cruise. They’re known for their social scene and fun vibes, and there were loads of social activities and meet-ups, so I never felt lonely. But at the same time, the vibe onboard was super relaxed and nothing felt too full-on or mandatory – so I was able to spend lots of time chilling out in exactly my own way, too. In short, the best of both worlds!

In this post, I’ve tried to cover every detail of the experience as a solo traveller with Marella Cruises. If you’re considering booking your first solo cruise – or you’ve already booked one and want to know what to expect – this post is for you. Bon voyage!

Marella Cruises Singles Cabins

Is there a single supplement on marella cruises, meetups and events for solo travellers, what are the other solo travellers like on a marella cruise, solo dining on marella cruises, how to meet people as a solo cruiser, how to make the most of your solo cruise.

Disclaimer – my recent trip with Marella Cruises was part of a press trip. However, this blog post wasn’t requested by them and I’m writing it purely because I want to! As always, all words and opinions are my own.

Marella Cruises for Singles and Solo Travellers

Below, I’ve shared my experiences as a solo traveller onboard the Marella Explorer . This was on the 7-night Aegean Shores itinerary in Greece; but after chatting to fellow solo cruisers and the onboard Guest Experience Coordinators, this seems to be the typical experience for singles and solo travellers across all Marella Cruises…

Some cruise ships have specific, smaller single-occupancy cabins onboard for solo travellers. Marella Cruises do have specific cabins for solo travellers (single cabins), but they’re exactly the same as regular cabins.

You can usually choose from a Single Inside or Single Outside cabin and they’re the same size and setup as the standard Inside or Outside Cabins, with double or twin beds.

The solo cabins weren’t built for this purpose, but they are set aside especially for single travellers. This has been done so that solo cruisers don’t have to pay a hefty single supplement as you do on other cruise lines.

Top tip: There are a very limited number of solo cabins and they can sell out fast, so book as far in advance as you can.

The quick answer to this question is no – but it’s complicated! Unlike some cruise lines, there’s no Single Supplement for solo travellers on Marella Cruises.

This is because they have a small number of single cabins set aside on each ship (see above). You pay for the cabin as a whole rather than a “per person” price, so there’s no supplement.

However, a single cabin is more than half the price of a standard cabin for two people – so it feels like the single supplement is built into the cost of the room. It’s still a lot less than the single supplement on many cruise lines (which sometimes charge up to 100% of the cruise fare as a supplement).

Here are a couple of examples to give you an idea of price comparisons (packages are All Inclusive as standard and include flights/transfers):

• Aegean Shores * itinerary, Marella Explorer, 9 May 2025. A Single Inside Cabin is currently £1852, while an Inside Cabin for two people is £1340pp (£2679 total). *this is the itinerary I did.
• Paradise Islands itinerary (Caribbean), Marella Discovery, 6 February 2025. A Single Inside Cabin is currently £2101, while an Inside Cabin for two people is £1510pp (£3019 total).
• Atlantic Islands itinerary, Marella Voyager, 3 April 2026. A Single Inside Cabin is currently £1854, while an Inside Cabin for two people is £1216pp (£2432 total).

Top Tip: Marella Cruises often runs special discounts for solo travellers so keep an eye out for those. Right now, solo cruises can save £150 on  all sailings up to April 2026 using code SOLO150.

Life Aboard Marella Cruises as a Solo Traveller

Worried you’ll get lonely on a solo cruise? Don’t panic, because Marella Cruises is one of the best cruise lines for looking after solo travellers.

When I arrived onboard, there was  a special solo cruiser welcome letter in my cabin,  inviting me to a lunch meet-up:

So, on the first full day of the cruise, I headed along to the Solo Traveller Lunch in the main dining room. The event (and all the others) was organised by the ship’s two Guest Experience Coordinators. Aga and Lois were absolutely lovely, and clearly have a lot of practice at getting conversation flowing between a group of strangers. It didn’t take long before we were all chatting and getting to know one another over lunch.

That same evening, we met for pre-dinner drinks in one of the onboard bars (and a quick meet and greet with the ship’s surprisingly dishy captain!), before heading down to dinner together.

After that, we met for drinks and dinner every night of the cruise. We didn’t all join every night, because none of the events were mandatory, but it was lovely to have the option of company over dinner.

Some of the solo travellers also met up by the pool during the day or to explore the port towns together. Personally, I preferred to chill and do my own thing during the day, then meet everyone up with the group in the evening to swap stories about what we’d been up to each day!

Good to Know: It’s worth noting that there was nothing organised for the first night onboard so I had to dine alone. I didn’t mind at all, but if you’re feeling nervous about travelling solo this is something to be aware of.

At 37, I was the youngest of the group of solo cruises by about two decades. Our group was mostly ladies aged from around mid-sixties to mid-eighties. There was also one man in his late fifties, but he only came to the first meetup (I think we scared him off!).

Obviously, this was just my experience during a one-week cruise. Marella Cruises appeal to a huge range of travellers – there was a big mix onboard and lots of young adults (mostly couples). Several of the other ladies in the group were seasoned solo travellers – they told me that there’s usually a better mix of genders, but that the ages do tend to be older on the whole.

If you’re in your twenties, that might put you off. But I enjoy chatting to anyone and everyone, and I had a blast with my solo ladies. We were usually the ones laughing (aka cackling) the loudest in the bar every night!

Also – the two Guest Experience Coordinators were much younger (I’d guess twenties) and they came to every meet-up, so if you are younger you’ll likely still have someone your own age to chat to.

Some cruise ships have a communal dining table for solo travellers, so you’re forced to choose between dining at the buffet or dining with a group of strangers.

Not so with Marella Cruises, thankfully. You’re free to sit at a table on your own if you prefer, even in the main dining room.

Top tip: There might be a bit of a wait, and you can’t pre-book a table in the main restaurant, so try heading for dinner either as soon as it opens or after about 7:30pm.

If you don’t want to dine alone, the solo travellers meet for drinks in the early evening every day – and usually head for dinner together afterwards.

If you don’t get on with the other solo cruisers, or you’d rather dine at a different time or in a different restaurant, no one will force you to dine with the group! I dined with the solo traveller group for 5 out of 7 evening meals: there was no meetup on our first night, so I dined alone, and I also paid for one of the speciality restaurants as a special treat for myself.

Top tip: If you find yourself dining solo and feel a little self-conscious about it, try taking a book with you. I always find reading a good distraction when I’m dining alone.

Tips for Cruising Solo with Marella

1 – Go to the meet-ups. As I’ve shared above, Marella Cruises organise daily meet-ups for solo travellers. If you’re feeling nervous, remember that everyone is in the same boat as you – and the Coordinators do a great job of getting everyone chatting! If you miss the first one, don’t worry: you’ll still be more than welcome at the next.

2 – Consider booking a few excursions. I found most of the excursions onboard my Marella Cruise to be very reasonably priced. They were also a great way to meet people – I was chatting to strangers in no time whilst wine tasting in Crete!

3 – Join in with the activities and classes. There seemed to be something going on almost every minute of the day on my Marella Cruise. From dance classes to pool-side quizzes, there’s something for everyone – and these activities provide the perfect setting for making friends. Go along to a class at the gym, give aqua aerobics a go on the pool deck, or try your hand at shuffleboard!

4 – Hang out on the deck or in the bars. Marella Cruises are known for their social scene, which means that many people book with the intention of meeting fellow cruisers. During my cruise, I found there were always people wanting to chat, especially on the pool deck and the adults-only

You just need an open mind and to be ready and willing to get chatting, and making friends onboard can be surprisingly easy. BUT if you want to do your own thing, none of the social activities are mandatory – you’re free to laze around with a book or headphones on in peace!

First of all – embrace the me-time! I LOVED chilling out alone, doing my own thing, and being entirely selfish for a week! How often do you get to spend all day doing exactly what you want?

Secondly, here are a few of my tips to make the most of your time onboard a Marella Cruise:

Book the spa. I thought the spa was very reasonably priced: on my cruise, it was £99 for unlimited access for 7 days. If you want to relax and make the most of your me-time, it’s WELL worth paying for spa access. And this is also another great place to meet fellow cruisers!

Splurge on a balcony. Balcony cabins obviously cost a bit more, but if you have the budget I’d highly recommend booking one. They come with hammocks and/or sunloungers and make a fantastic place for some quiet, secluded me-time. Click here to watch my video for a cabin tour.

Don’t be afraid to explore the port on your own. The daily newsletter and TUI’s Navigate app have lots of suggestions and helpful advice for each new port, and it’s usually very straightforward to get on and off the ship – ask staff for tips if you’re not sure. One of my fellow solo travellers was too nervous to get off the ship by herself and I really felt she’d missed out. That said – if you are nervous, booking one or two excursions means you can get out and explore without needing to organise it all yourself!

READ MORE: 7 Tips for Your First Cruise Solo

Marella Cruises for Solo Travellers: Quick Recap

• However, the supplement is somewhat built into the room price instead.
• First-day meet and greet for solo travellers and daily evening drinks meet-ups, organised by the Guest Experience Coordinators.
• No mandatory shared tables at dinner, even in the main dining room.
• LOADS of activities, classes, and entertainment to choose from – many of them great ways to meet other travellers.
• Shore excursions are reasonably priced (compared with other cruise lines) and a great way to meet other cruisers.
• But there are still loads of options if you just want to be on your own, enjoy some me-time, and relax!

7 Reasons to Take a Cruise Solo

My Tips for Cruising Solo

Marella Explorer Review

I’d love to hear about your experiences as a solo traveller with Marella Cruises! Scroll down to leave a comment…

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Viking Polaris cruise ship review: A comfortable ship for adventurous cruising

Editor's Note

Viking Polaris is the ship that bucket list dreams are made of.

The sturdy, 378-passenger ship in the Viking fleet is rated Polar Class 6, so it can take you to the ends of the Earth, no problem. It's tricked out with Zodiacs, two submersibles, kayaks and a speed boat, so remote islands and narrow bays won't keep you from close encounters with wildlife and nature.

Checking off worldwide wish-list destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic and the Great Lakes also comes with style. The ship boasts four onboard restaurants and a breathtaking spa that's open to all. Cabins are cozy and spacious with seating nooks by floor-to-ceiling windows, large (for a ship) bathrooms with heated floors and thoughtful touches for the perfect adventure, like a drying closet and two sets of binoculars.

Public lounge areas are so inviting, with comfortable seating and light-filled spaces thanks to tons of windows, that you'll be glad to kick back with a book, a puzzle or a drink after an incredible experience ashore. And the crew members do all they can to make you feel right at home, remembering your name and greeting you warmly whenever they see you.

Viking might be inspired by Nordic sailors of yore, who explored the world in their bare-bones longships — or the rugged 20th-century explorers whose portraits line the walls of the ship — but Viking Polaris' creature comforts would make all those hardy men and women rethink their travel choices. You won't regret yours if you choose to make this gorgeous little ship your home base for vacation adventure.

Overview of Viking Polaris

At 30,158 tons, Viking Polaris is small by ocean ship standards. The biggest megaships are eight times larger. But it's actually the largest vessel in the adventure-focused subset of ocean ships known as expedition ships , and it holds an unusually large number of passengers for such a vessel: 378 spread across 189 cabins and suites.

This means that while you'll enjoy the intimacy and personalized service of a small ship when you're on board, not to mention the additional onboard venues the extra space allows, you will need to wait your turn when going ashore in some destinations such as Antarctica, where only 100 people are allowed onshore at each landing site at a time.

In addition, the ship is for adults only; you must be 18 years or older to sail. Not that you should expect a bunch of partying 20-somethings on board. Viking caters to a 55+ crowd, and the majority of its guests are retirees in their 60s and 70s. The cruise line also has a huge fan club. More than half the guests on my Antarctica cruise were repeat passengers who adore Viking's ocean and river cruises, and you'll find that to be true on most sailings.

Related: Viking Explorer Society cruise loyalty program: Everything you need to know

Viking positions its expedition vessels between the over-the-top, completely all-inclusive luxury ships that go to off-the-beaten-path places such as Antarctica and the hardier, no-frills classic expedition ships. It focuses on a comfortable onboard environment with accessible adventure options.

The ship is upscale, but not ornate or stuffy, and its public spaces are inviting rather than impressive. Think of the ship as the living room designed by your friend with good taste instead of the formal sitting area where you're afraid to touch the expensive decorations.

Many amenities are included in the fare — Wi-Fi; all dining, wine and beer with lunch and dinner; a gorgeous thermal suite with a pool and hot and cold therapies; kayak and special operations boat tours; two-layer jackets to keep; and boots and waterproof pants to borrow in polar cruise regions — but you will still need to pay extra for cocktails (either a la carte or with a beverage package), gratuities, spa treatments and submarine rides.

Of the 250-plus crew members on board, 20-plus are expedition staff: scientists, specialists (biologists, geologists, naturalists, etc.), mountain guides and kayak guides. They are on board to scout and set up landing sites, lead kayak tours, conduct science experiments from the ship, spot wildlife, and give lectures about the flora, fauna and geography of the area. They're generally helpful individuals, happy to answer your questions and take photos of both guests and wildlife to share.

The ship has seven passenger decks, with the lowest, Deck A, the Zodiac and special operations boat loading zone, and the highest, Deck 6, being an open deck. (The highest Deck 7 is off limits except during the weather balloon release party.) The ship is small and it doesn't take long to get anywhere, though it does take a few days to get the hang of where things are on board and how to get from point A to point B. Unlike on many ocean cruise ships, you might need to walk down passenger corridors to reach certain lounges.

The ship is unusual in that it has an operational science lab on board where the ship's research scientists collect data to share with its global partners (such as NOAA and the University of Western Australia). In addition to the Zodiacs and kayaks common on expedition ships, Viking Polaris also carries two six-passenger yellow submersibles (playfully named George and Ringo — get it?) and a Special Operations Boat (a 12-seater speed boat with surprisingly comfortable seats and easy boarding).

All these vessels are stored in The Hangar, a water-level storage area that speeds up the deployment time of all the ship's watercraft. Here, too, the cruise line has created a spacious and comfortable boarding area that functions without gangways and with the latest biosecurity technology, such as a boot washing machine. The setup makes it easier to both get on and off ships and keep Antarctica clean.

Related: The 3 types of Viking ships, explained

What I loved about Viking Polaris

The nordic spa.

You don't expect a full-blown gorgeous spa when you're adventuring to Antarctica, but Viking Polaris provides not only a beautiful facility but also one that brings the destination in. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the salon and thermal suite area allow you to watch for whales or seals as you enjoy a pedicure or soak in a hot tub.

Even better, the thermal suite is free for anyone to use, so if you get chilled on a wet kayak ride, you can warm up again in the heated pool or pamper tired muscles with a mix of hot and cold therapies. (If you've never dumped a bucket of cold water on your head after 15 minutes in a dry sauna or rubbed snow on your body in a steam room, I highly recommend trying it.)

The two-room fitness center is also larger than I expected for an expedition ship and enabled me to keep up my workout routine every morning.

Big kudos go to the spa staff, who are super sweet and helpful. Igor tailored my personal training session to my specific requirements and body needs, rather than giving me some standard plan. Joksim led a surprisingly intense (for a cruise ship) yoga session and then gave me an incredible massage a few days later, working out every knot from my neck to my feet.

If nothing else, stop by the spa reception desk daily to grab an inspirational quote — almost like a fortune cookie — from the bowl of colored cards. It will set the tone for your day.

Safety protocols

I admit I was a tad nervous about the thought of sailing to a place as remote as Antarctica. What if we got stranded ashore during a landing? What if the Zodiac broke down halfway back to the ship?

While any expedition cruise involves a certain degree of risk, the Viking crew members put me at ease with the knowledge that they've prepared for every possibility. Two of the expedition guides even led a briefing about the ship's safety protocols. We learned that the team brings ashore a ton of survival gear at every landing, including tents, thermal blankets, food and water rations, a desalination machine, a satellite phone, crevasse extraction equipment and even a portable toilet. (The latter is only used for true emergencies, so use your cabin bathroom before you head off the ship.)

Zodiac, SOB and submarine drivers are always in radio contact with each other and the ship, and they stay far away from marine animals and icebergs (which could potentially tip over and cause trouble). The crew gives guests clear instructions about how to get in and out of the ship's boats and someone is always there to give a hand.

All cruise ships in Antarctica follow the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators' rules for safe and environmentally responsible tourism. Viking Polaris's crew takes IAATO protocols seriously and works diligently to keep Antarctica pristine.

They sanitize boots going to and from shore, as well as the walking poles they provide, and advise guests against bringing anything unnecessary (snacks, tissues, etc.) to shore so nothing unsanitary ever touches the ground on landings. They even checked and vacuumed all the expedition gear we brought from home, including hats, gloves, goggles and camera bags.

The ship itself is built with all kinds of redundant systems, water-tight doors, and fire-detecting and -fighting equipment. It also carries "ice cubes," large floating boxes filled with group survival gear for up to five days should the ship have to be abandoned.

It's unlikely that something will go wrong on your cruise, but it's comforting to know that the ship and crew are totally prepared for nearly any emergency.

Every cruise line will tell you its crew is the best, but the friendliness and helpfulness of Viking Polaris' crew are palpable from the moment you step on board. Crew members you never met somehow know your name and say hello every time you pass them on board. My cabin stewards always pop out when we walk down the hallway and ask us about our day. They didn't even bat an eye when my travel companion and I had to try on five expedition jacket sizes to find the right fit.

The dining staff goes above and beyond; Santosh asked us what food we liked on the first day, and had our Indian chickpea curry waiting for us the very next day. One member of the dining team not only fetched a specific flavor of ice cream from the galley for my friend but brought her a second bowl the following day without being asked. The restaurant manager personally reached out and sent me a plate of desserts the day I was sick and holed up in my cabin.

Whenever there are a lot of people wildlife watching on the outer decks, a crew member always seems to turn up with cocktails or spiked warm beverages. What seemed like the entire housekeeping team showed up to the cruise's dance party one evening and unabashedly boogied down to get guests on the dance floor.

The expedition team members are always happy to answer questions, take your photo or lend a helping hand, and their lectures are always funny and engaging, even if the topic is dry. I was also impressed at the way they set expectations and rules for the guests in a lighthearted, digestible way without getting preachy or patronizing.

The crew absolutely set the tone for a friendly onboard ambience and it makes the long trip that much more enjoyable.

What I didn't love about Viking Polaris

Lack of announcements.

I've been on enough high-end cruises to know that the nicer ships don't like to pipe announcements into your cabin. However, I'd love a bit more communication from the bridge on Viking Polaris.

We missed the captain's one daily announcement almost every evening because we were inside our room and couldn't hear it. It's only when one of us would say, "Is someone talking in the hallway? Oh, wait, it's the captain!" that we would make a mad dash across the room to open the door to catch the last 15 seconds of whatever he was saying about the weather and the sail ahead.

I'd love a bell or some kind of alert to open our door, even if the announcement itself isn't piped into the room.

I was also surprised to note that Viking crew members almost never make the "whales off the starboard bow" announcements to alert passengers to wildlife viewing opportunities. I was chagrined when I learned that I had missed some active whales because I was attending an indoor briefing and had no idea that anything interesting was happening out of doors.

Schedule feature in the app

I love a good cruise ship app ; it makes navigating a ship and the daily schedule so easy. Viking's app has many useful features, including your ship's deck plans, the daily activity schedule, the ability to make reservations and even a photo download section.

However, I heard the same complaint over and over about one aspect of the app: There is no schedule view that allows you to superimpose your reservations (spa, dinner, landings, boat rides) with the onboard activities.

That might not seem like a big deal, but expedition cruises are surprisingly busy. On any day, I might have scheduled a landing and a kayaking tour, but don't want to miss the science lecture back on the ship. I was constantly flipping back and forth between the two separate schedules, trying to time my bookings correctly.

Other cruise line apps have a "favorite" feature, where you can select the onboard activities you don't want to miss and add them to a personal calendar that also contains your bookings and reservations. I'd love to see Viking add this as a feature to its app.

Viking Polaris cabins and suites

On Viking Polaris, you'll either stay in a balcony cabin or a suite. Regular and deluxe balcony cabins are essentially identical, except that the deluxe version is on decks 3 and 4 and comes with additional priority reservations, while the regular version is on the lower Deck 2.

Lower-category suites (junior suites and penthouses) are also on Deck 4, while the top-tier suites, Explorer Suites and the one Owner's Suite, are on Deck 6.

The ship only has two Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant/wheelchair-accessible cabins; both are junior suites on Deck 4.

If you're accustomed to ocean cruising, you'll notice that the balconies on Viking Polaris are not your standard verandah external to the ship. Instead, they are a style employed by many river ships (and some new Royal Caribbean , Celebrity Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages ships), where the entire external wall of your cabin is made up of two glass window panes. With the touch of a button, the top pane slides down (like a car window) and your room becomes the balcony, with fresh air wafting in. You can even lean on the lip of the bottom pane of glass, or rest your coffee cup on it, as if it were a balcony railing.

Blackout shades can also come down at the touch of a button, but if you just need to block the sun a little, a gauzy curtain can be drawn across manually.

This style of room works well in cold polar regions where you are unlikely to sit out on a balcony for long, but do want to bring in fresh air from time to time or take a photo without a window in the way.

I was a big fan of our 215-square-foot Deluxe Balcony cabin because it felt cozy without being cramped. In Viking style, its design has Scandinavian influences with blond woods, fairly minimalist furnishings and a homey (rather than hotel-like) feel.

My favorite aspect of the cabin was the small L-shaped leather couch, tucked into a corner behind the shelving unit that separates the sleeping area from the sitting/desk area. Instead of feeling like the sitting area is smaller than the ones found on other ships, it becomes an inviting nook where you can curl up with a book while admiring the view. The coffee table comes in handy when you order room service.

The desk/vanity across from it looks like a simple tabletop but has two secrets. One is, the top lifts to reveal a storage area for jewelry and other small items, and two is that its X-shaped legs are useful for removing stuck-on expedition boots (move the chair so you can stick your foot through the top of the X and use it as leverage to pull the tight boot off).

The sitting area is smaller than you might expect because more space is smartly devoted to the dressing area on the other side of your bed. Here, you'll find an L-shaped wardrobe with two hanging racks, two large drawers, two small drawers, a top shelf, two small shelves, a cubby for shoes and the safe. A hair dryer, bathrobes and slippers are provided for your onboard use.

The two sides of the closet open from the middle and can be tricky to pull open. One cruiser reported draping hand towels over the top to keep the doors slightly ajar to make them easier to open with her arthritic fingers.

The wardrobe is spacious, but my travel companion and I brought so much extra gear for our two-week Antarctica cruise (more medicine than I usually bring, long underwear and thick wool socks, etc.) that we maxed out the drawer space in the cabin and would have been happy with an additional drawer or two. For example, I kept all my warm-weather accessories (hats, gloves, goggles, etc.) in a bag on the closet floor because I didn't have a drawer to store them.

Next to the wardrobe is a brilliant addition on Viking's part — a drying closet. Cruisers on Viking Polaris keep all of their Viking-provided outdoor gear (boots, waterproof pants, two-layer jackets) in their cabins. If they, or other items, get wet on outings, you hang them up in the drying closet and push a button to turn on the heat, and they dry out before your next adventure ashore.

Pro tip: Check the drying closet regularly to make sure the heating element is still on. It does turn off eventually, and you'll need to hit the button again if your drenched belongings aren't dry yet.

Other nice touches in the cabin include a carafe of water, a minifridge with complimentary soft drinks refilled daily, a Nespresso coffee machine, a corkscrew, small snacks (bags of nuts and milk chocolate), two pairs of binoculars for use during the cruise and a few books themed to polar exploration. The room's phone is on the desk, as are Quiet Vox headsets for use on tours (these aren't used much in Antarctica).

The twin beds can be pushed together into a king, and the woolen throw blankets at the ends are a nice touch, especially if you want to snuggle on the couch with the window open. The movable nightstands each have one drawer and an outlet with a 110-volt, 220-volt, USB and USB-C outlet, as well as a wireless charging station. Each side of the bed has a reading light and a bedside light on the leather headboard.

The 55-inch interactive TV is hung on the wall opposite the bed. It has live TV channels, as well as free on-demand movies, a Viking channel to watch lectures and briefings you missed, and information about your cruise, personal schedule and onboard account. You can also make dinner, spa and shore excursion reservations via the TV.

I would have loved a couple of metal hooks on the wall, but you can bring your own because the textured walls are magnetic (but not the wood veneers outside the bathroom).

The bathroom is lovely, both for the spacious shower with a long ledge for storing toiletries or propping up a foot when shaving and for its heated floors (good for warming your toes and also for drying wet gloves). The glass shelves are small, but two generous drawers and shelf space below should accommodate all your toiletries.

Viking provides its own Freya brand of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand cream and body lotion in large 2.7-ounce bottles, as well as 30 SPF sunscreen, two sun-protection lip balms, shower caps, vanity kits and bar soap. In the bathroom, you'll also find a shaver outlet, tissue box, cups and a toothbrush holder.

Related: Viking cruise cabins and suites: A guide to everything you want to know

Viking Polaris restaurants and bars

Viking Polaris is a small ship with a big appetite; it features four distinct dining venues plus room service. Meals at all restaurants on Viking Polaris are included in your cruise fare.

The restaurants are inspired by the cruise line's Norwegian heritage, so you'll find more smoked fish and Scandinavian pastries than you will on most other cruise lines. For a true Norwegian dining experience, you'll want to spend time at Mamsen's, where you can nibble on Norwegian specialties, such as waffles topped with brown cheese and hot dogs on flatbread.

Note that while vegetarian dishes are available at every meal on board, Polaris is definitely a ship that focuses on meat more than vegetables and vegetarian proteins. Gluten-free diners appear to be well taken care of; the bakery even posts a list of all the gluten-free bread products available (including pancakes, waffles and pizza).

On Viking Polaris, beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner are complimentary. During special events, such as sailaway on embarkation day, or arrival at Antarctica, the crew might come around with trays of complimentary cocktails. You can choose to purchase the Silver Spirits beverage package if you plan to order more than a drink or two daily, or you can pay for individual drinks a la carte.

Restaurants

On expedition voyages, the World Cafe buffet venue is the most popular eatery. It's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and is appealing for its variety of meal choices and its casual dress code. When you're in and out of cold-weather layers, sometimes you simply don't feel like dressing up for a formal meal.

Breakfast has everything you need to fuel up for the day, from healthy options like a made-to-order omelet station, yogurt, fruit and muesli to more decadent choices like pastries, breakfast bread pudding and pancakes. True to Viking's Nordic tradition, morning options also include a selection of smoked fish, deli meats and cheeses. Waiters will bring you tea, hot chocolate and juice; each table is already set up with coffee.

At lunch, you'll find a selection of hot food, usually including a carving station with a featured protein, a soup, pasta and some kind of fish and vegetarian option. The salad bar has a good selection of fixin's (though it's lacking in protein) plus a few cheeses daily.

Carbo-load at the bakery, where you'll find breads (including soft pretzels), pizza (try the Norwegian goat cheese version), daily hot sandwiches, cookies and other desserts. Don't miss the gelato stations with toppings bar or the made-to-order counter with new dishes daily, such as a fajita bar.

If you don't see what you're looking for, don't hesitate to ask one of the dining staff either behind the buffet counter or walking the seating area. Crew members brought us plain grilled chicken to top a salad, a vegetarian "meatball" when the meatless options were lacking and coconut gelato when it didn't appear at the ice cream bar.

Dinner is a similar affair with hot options, pizza, a made-to-order counter (often a noodle soup), a Caesar salad bar with additional pre-prepared salads and desserts, including a nightly warm option (like peach crumble or bread pudding) and Coldstone-style mix-in ice cream rolls. The main addition is a nightly sushi bar and seafood buffet (lots and lots of crab legs) in the back by the Aquavit Terrace on the port side of the ship.

I loved that if you're lingering over a meal toward the end of service, a waiter will come by and alert you that the buffet is closing, so you can grab seconds or dessert before it's too late.

On the far starboard side of the World Cafe is the Grill. It serves sandwiches by day (multiple types of burgers, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches and tuna steak) and cooked-to-order meats at night (steak, brisket, burgers, swordfish). You can ask for sides from onion rings and French fries at lunch to roasted potatoes and asparagus at night, or forage for accompaniments from the rest of the buffet.

We spoke to a few diners who said the default is to cook the meats well, so if you prefer yours medium or rare, be very clear about that.

Viking Polaris' two sit-down restaurants are The Restaurant and Manfredi's, both on Deck 1 and only open for dinner. The Restaurant is a typical cruise ship main dining room with a menu split into always-available classics and the daily dinner menu that changes each evening. It's a three-course meal (though you could order more) with starters, mains with sides and dessert.

The daily menu might include leek and potato soup or beef tartare as a starter, seared sesame-crusted tuna or roasted veal medallion for a main, and peanut butter cheesecake for dessert. Note that many of the menu items at The Restaurant will also be available at the World Cafe upstairs.

Always-available dishes include Caesar salad and chicken soup, beer-marinated chicken and New York strip steak, an iced vanilla parfait and a cheese plate.

Manfredi's is the ship's Italian restaurant and the hottest dinner reservation on board. It's less accommodating of walk-ins so make your bookings early. If you have a special occasion to celebrate, you'll want to do it here.

The menu is divided into many sections and can be overwhelming at first, but it's not as complicated as it looks. Starters include antipasti, caprese salad, beef carpaccio and asparagus topped with a poached egg. You also have a choice of two soups. The pasta selection is not to be missed, especially the gnocchi in a gorgonzola cream sauce. You can ask for half or full sizes and enjoy the handmade pasta as a starter or main.

Main dishes come in two varieties. Piatti unici come as complete dinners with a protein and vegetable side, while secondi piatti are only the protein and you choose your sides. For example, I ordered the sliced grilled duck breast and it came plated with a salad, but if I'd ordered the Florentine steak or grilled tuna, I would want to also order some sauteed mushrooms or new potatoes with truffles and rosemary.

Don't worry — you can order sides even if you choose a pasta or pre-assembled dish as your main.

Desserts include tiramisu, panna cotta and pistachio cake, as well as a selection of gelato. I'd recommend the pistachio cake with a scoop of vanilla gelato.

Most cruisers can make one reservation at each restaurant prior to the cruise, but suite guests can make two to four pre-cruise reservations per venue, depending on the suite category booked. Anyone can make additional reservations online or try their luck with a walk-in if there's space available. We've heard it's easier to get seats at The Restaurant than at Manfredi's.

If you have a large group, you can reserve the private dining room between The Restaurant and Manfredi's. It seats 12 at one long table and is surrounded by racks housing the ship's wines. It's ideal if you want to have a rowdy group dinner without disturbing other diners, but it's a poor choice if you enjoy the scenery during dinner as the room has no windows.

Open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks, Mamsen's is a cute cafe serving Norwegian specialties inspired by the recipes of the mother of Viking's founder. The stars of the show here are the Norwegian waffles you can top with sweet brown cheese, berry compote or chocolate sauce, hot dogs served on flatbread, pea soup and open-faced sandwiches.

Viking's expedition ships do not serve a fancy afternoon tea like its ocean ships do, but you can find scones with clotted cream and jam served here in the afternoon.

As a special treat, the dining staff might host a barbecue lunch on the top deck (6) on a day when the weather is sunny. It's a fun, festive alfresco meal, but you won't get much notice and might have to adjust your landing times if you don't want to miss it.

Our barbecue was a meaty affair with chicken wings and pork ribs as an appetizer and a choice of steak or sea bass, with baked potatoes and cole slaw, as a main. We were initially told there was no vegetarian option, but the server came back saying they could get a veggie burger from the grill. If you're looking for something lighter or more vegetable-forward, the World Cafe remains open.

Room service is complimentary and available around the clock. Your room steward will leave you a breakfast card to hang outside on your door knob, for delivery between 6 and 10 a.m. Choices include beverages, fruit, yogurt, cereal, pastries and bread, cold cuts and cheeses, eggs, pancakes and breakfast meat.

The all-day menu is in a leather binder on your cabin's coffee table. It's a limited menu, which includes salads, soups, mains (steak, poached salmon, southern fried chicken), sandwiches (caprese, beef or veggie burger), spaghetti, a cheese plate and dessert (vanilla cheesecake or bourbon pecan brownie). You can call your order in on your in-room phone.

Everyone agrees that the fried chicken and the chicken noodle soup from the room service menu are not to be missed.

I'm not much of a drinker, but the bars and lounges on Viking Polaris are so comfy and inviting that I found myself looking forward to a pre-dinner cocktail or evening hangout in one of the ship's bars more than I do on other cruise lines. Viking guests can either purchase drinks a la carte or buy the Silver Spirits beverage package. All passengers can order complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at lunch and dinner.

The cocktail menus at the bars are composed of standard drinks, but bartenders can make you your favorites off menu if they have the ingredients. We successfully ordered Pimm's Cups and Lemon Drops, but a Dark n Stormy and Moscow Mule were no-go's because the ship does not carry ginger beer. (And here I thought a Dark n Stormy would be a perfect Drake Passage drink!)

My favorite bar for atmosphere is The Hide on Deck 1. It feels like a speak-easy because you can only access it from Deck 2's forward stairwell or elevator.

You open a heavy door that looks like it belongs on a submarine to enter a dimly lit space with slanted windows on either side with views close to the water line. The clusters of couches and easy chairs invite confidences with newfound friends, while the oversized cushion chairs by the windows will tempt you into an afternoon nap, lulled by the rocking of the ship. The large columns at the front of the space actually house the anchor chains.

It also has a speakeasy-style bar, serving liquor-forward drinks (either your favorite liquor straight or on the rocks or with a light mixer, like soda water). You won't find wine, beer or daiquiris here. The small bar is only staffed for a limited time each evening after dinner.

For views, you can't beat the two-deck Explorers' Lounge on decks 4 and 5. Both levels face the front of the ship with floor-to-ceiling windows and wraparound views. When you want to look for whales but don't want to brave the wind, the Explorers' Lounge is a great choice. The bar is on the lower level, but both levels offer cozy seating, both facing the windows and in conversation nooks.

An equally cozy spot is The Living Room on Deck 5. It has a bar but serves more as a comfortable hangout space with a library, digital game tables, puzzles and a large TV showing Viking channels.

As is common on this ship, glass windows run the length of both sides of the space so you're never far from the scenic views. Events like team trivia take place here. The Living Room's bar opens early, should you be looking for coffee drinks from an espresso machine, and closes mid-evening.

The Aquavit Bar between the World Cafe and Aquavit Terrace serves diners at the buffet restaurant, as well as guests relaxing in the aft solarium space. It closes at the same time that dinner shuts down.

The Viking Bar on Deck 1 is your pre-dinner drink spot when you have a reservation at The Restaurant or Manfredi's. It's only open during dinner hours, from 5:30 (half an hour between the restaurants open) to 9 p.m.

If you need a quick cuppa or to refill your water bottle, self-service coffee/tea/water stations are located around the ship. You'll find them on Deck 2 outside The Aula and outside Expedition Central and in the World Cafe.

Viking Polaris activities and entertainment

As the crew likes to say on Viking Polaris, the ship has no official entertainment staff because the outdoors is providing the main entertainment on an expedition cruise. The ship's Grand Central station for outdoor adventure activities is The Hangar. That is where you will board the ship's Special Operations Boat or Zodiac boats (rigid inflatable motorized rafts) for cruises, landings and to be taken to waiting kayaks and submersibles (named Ringo and George because the subs are yellow).

The Hangar is arranged so it's as easy as possible to board the Zodiacs. No gangways are employed. Instead, you step from an open door onto a step in the Zodiac and then into a boat, with at least two crew members assisting you in and out every time. The Hangar also employs a state-of-the-art boot brushing and sanitizing machine (imagine walking your feet through car wash bristles) to make it easy to clean boots on the way to and from polar landings.

Viking does not schedule polar plunges for safety reasons (both yours and Antarctica's), so you will not cross that activity off your bucket list on a Polaris sailing.

Even though your focus will be on shore and sea excursions, you'll still find plenty to do on board.

Viking puts an emphasis on enrichment and education, and you'll find yourself often in The Aula, the theater based on a famous Norwegian lecture hall. It has a giant video screen that can roll up like a garage door to uncover the huge windows behind it. Warm throw blankets in every row are a cozy touch.

Here, the expedition team will give daily briefings about weather conditions and upcoming landing sites, give talks on the area's wildlife or culture, and show documentaries and videos related to the destination.

Some talks (including an entertaining one on nautical superstitions) are held in the Hide. Arrive early because seats are limited, and latecomers might have to stand in the back or sit on the floor.

The ship also has a science lab, and guests can participate in real experiments and data collection during their voyage. You can find an interactive map and often an expedition team member to talk to at Expedition Central on Deck 2.

But it's not all serious edutainment. A dance party with some complimentary cocktails is held in The Living Room one evening and a music variety show takes place in The Aula.

On the more relaxing side, Viking Polaris has a world-class Nordic Spa with a gorgeous thermal suite. The thermal suite features numerous hot and cold therapies (including a snow room, sauna and a hot tub with an open window to the polar breezes outside), a therapeutic pool and stunning views through floor-to-ceiling windows. It's the perfect place to warm up after a cold Zodiac ride or landing, so it can get crowded in the afternoon.

Book a mani-pedi or style session at the salon, and you'll also be able to take in the views while you're pampered.

Spa treatments have a Nordic twist, but you'll find all the massages, facials and body treatments you could want. Try the Hygge massage in a warm "sand" bed — it's a Viking specialty. My Nordic stone massage was one of the best massages I've ever had, and my masseur, Joksim, knew what my stressed-out body needed and worked out all my knots. Ladies should note that many of Viking's spa therapists are men if that's something that makes you uncomfortable.

The two-room fitness center is small by big-ship standards, but it still manages to fit three treadmills, two elliptical trainers, two stationary bikes, an erg, resistance machines and weight benches with free weights. In the group exercise space, you can take classes, use the yoga and bosu balls on your own, or access a range of digital exercise classes on the large-screen TV.

The gym is most crowded early in the morning before the day's briefings, lectures and expedition activities get going. If you want to work out with the crew, time your workout for prime dinner hours.

The ship has multiple outdoor spots for nature gazing and alfresco relaxation. The Bow on Deck 3 is a great forward-facing spot to look for whales or watch the ship's arrival at a landing area. It's adjacent to the Shelter, a covered spot to take refuge from the wind or rain (and occasionally snag an Irish coffee on a special occasion).

The Finse Terrace on Deck 2 aft, outside The Aula, has two fire pit areas for serious chilling.

The Aquavit Terrace on Deck 5 aft has a warm pool surrounded by lounge chairs and covered by a retractable glass roof. The glass window at the end of the pool opens up, so you can swim out to an uncovered section of the pool. On either side are two outdoor tubs — one hot, one cool. There's nothing better than soaking in a hot tub on a sunny Antarctic day with snow-covered mountains and icebergs all around you.

The promenade on Deck 5 is a lovely place to walk, though you'll have to go down to Deck 4 and back up again at the front of the ship to complete the loop. Deck 6 is an open deck where you can lounge on warmer itineraries or scan for wildlife on cold ones.

If you want to buy gorgeous Norwegian sweaters like the expedition crew wears, adorable penguin beanies and the softest stuffed puppies, visit the Nordic Shop on Deck 3 midship when it's open. It also sells items you might have forgotten, such as toothpaste or hand warmers. The hottest items here are the Antarctica patches you can attach to your Viking-provided jacket. If you want one, come when the shop opens as they can sell out.

Guest services include a medical center on Deck A, a travel consultant (to book your next Viking river, ocean or expedition cruise) on Deck 3 across from the shop and guest services desks on Deck 1 outside Manfredi's.

Guest launderettes on decks 3 and 4 have washers and dryers, irons and ironing boards, and detergent is provided. Be sure to set a timer and remove your items promptly. The launderettes are popular on long cruises.

Viking Polaris itineraries and pricing

Viking Polaris currently spends the North American winter in Antarctica and the summer in the Great Lakes , transitting between the two in the spring and fall. The one-way repositioning voyages take passengers along the coast of Chile, through the Panama Canal, along the Eastern Seaboard of the U.S. and Canada then into the St. Lawrence Seaway.

In 2026, the ship will spend the summer months sailing Iceland and Greenland cruises in the Arctic instead of the Great Lakes.

Viking expedition cruises tend to be long, and many itineraries are combinations of multiple cruises that could be booked separately. Travelers pressed for time can book a seven-night Great Lakes sailing, but the shortest Arctic and Antarctic cruises are at least 12 nights. Many itineraries are two weeks or longer. To sail between Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in the Great Lakes to Ushuaia, Argentina, at the southern tip of South America takes just over 60 days.

A 12-night Antarctic Explorer cruise starts at $11,995 per person in the lowest-tier Nordic balcony cabin. A weeklong Great Lakes cruise starts at $5,995 per person. A 12-night Arctic sailing starts at $13,995. Fares go up for more popular sail dates and for larger and higher-category cabins.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

What to know before you go

Required documents.

Required documents will vary depending on your cruise destination, but you will definitely need a passport.

If you're traveling to Antarctica or the Arctic, you will need a medical form signed by a doctor, clearing you to travel. Submit that at least 30 days prior to sailing. You must also fill out a form pre-cruise to request the correct size of jacket, pants and boots for your expedition.

Viking automatically adds a $17 gratuity per guest, per day, to your onboard bill. It is shared among the room stewards, waiters, galley staff and housekeeping. If you must change the amount, you can do so at Guest Services; you're always welcome to leave additional tips in cash or hand them to your favorite crew members.

I asked, and it is acceptable to tip expedition staff, in addition to waiters, bartenders and room stewards. Spa treatments do not automatically add a gratuity to your bill, but you can leave a tip when you're signing after your treatment.

Wi-Fi is included in the cost of your cruise. Viking uses a VSAT satellite terminal to provide the connection, and it was impressively good. I was able to make several WhatsApp Wi-Fi video calls back home from Antarctica, and though the image wasn't perfect, I could still show my kids penguins swimming off the side of the ship.

Carry-on drinks policy

Viking has a generous alcohol policy. All passengers are allowed to bring alcohol and other beverages on the ship with them, and they won't be charged a corkage fee, regardless of whether they drink their beverage in their room or in a lounge or restaurant.

Smoking policy

Viking Polaris is a nonsmoking ship, and you cannot smoke indoors or on most outdoor decks. The only place you're allowed to smoke cigarettes, cigars and e-cigarettes is in the designated smoking area outside on the starboard side of Deck 6.

If you're cruising in polar regions, you should also be aware that smoking is not allowed ashore anywhere in Antarctica or in Svalbard in the Arctic.

Viking Polaris has two self-serve launderettes on decks 3 and 4. Each features multiple washers and dryers you can use free of charge; detergent is provided. Irons and ironing boards are also available, but you can only use them in the launderette.

Alternatively, you can send out clothes to be washed and dried, pressed or dry cleaned for a fee. A bag is provided in your room, and you can select regular two-day service or same-day service for a 50% surcharge. Prices are per item, not per bag.

If it's been a while since you've used communal laundry rooms, you will need to dig deep and remember your college laundry etiquette. Set a timer on your cellphone so you can switch your laundry promptly. Fail to do so and another guest is likely to dump your wet laundry onto the ironing board.

We overheard several heated discussions about who had rights to which dryers and when. Don't wait until the last day of your trip to do your washing, as that's when the launderettes are the busiest.

Electrical outlets

Viking Polaris is a 21st-century ship, so you can expect more than just one outlet. Each nightstand features a three-part power strip with a U.S. 110-volt, European 220-volt, USB and USB-C outlet, as well as a wireless charger, should your phone have that capability (mine did not). Note that when you plug a charger into the 110-volt outlet, it blocks the regular USB outlet, but not the USB-C.

The desk area has two 110V and two 220V sockets. There's also a 220V outlet outside the bathroom, should you wish to plug in your own nightlight, and a shaver outlet inside the bathroom.

The onboard currency is the U.S. dollar. You won't be paying for much — mainly souvenirs, drinks and spa treatments. You'll be asked to provide a credit card, and your onboard bill will be charged to that account.

Drinking age

The drinking age on board is 21, regardless of where Viking Polaris is in the world.

Expeditions are casual affairs. You will be so anxious about bringing the correct polar gear that onboard attire is almost an afterthought.

Daytime attire on the ship is a mix of casual outfits based on the weather (jeans, slacks, sneakers, etc.) and adventure attire (leggings, fleece vests or jackets, athletic pants). One guy on our Antarctica sailing was often seen in a tropical shirt and shorts. The spa's changing areas are small, so you'll also see people walking the ship in their bathrobes or workout wear on their way to and from the Nordic Spa.

If you don't want to change for dinner, your casual daywear is appropriate at the World Cafe in the evening. No one will blink if you show up in a fleece jacket and hiking pants or athletic leggings and a top. Only swimwear, PJs and true exercise attire (like a sports bra with bike shorts) would not be acceptable. And, yes, we did witness a guest being ever-so-politely encouraged to leave the World Cafe when he showed up in his bathrobe.

Related: Antarctica gear guide: What you need to pack for a trip to the White Continent

If you wish to dine at The Restaurant or Manfredi's, you are supposed to step it a notch. Viking considers evening dress in the restaurants "elegant casual" — aka, no jeans. The suggested attire is slacks and a collared shirt for men and nice slacks, a skirt or dress for women. However, we saw diners dressed more casually (fleece jackets and jeans) in both restaurants, and no one said a word.

Viking Polaris does not have any formal evenings, so leave your cocktail dresses, suits and neckties at home.

Bottom line

If you want to visit the ends of the earth without giving up creature comforts, Viking Polaris is the perfect ship for you. Its large-for-expedition size means the ship is loaded with attractions, from multiple restaurants and lounges to an expansive spa, spacious cabins and dedicated spaces for enrichment activities. Its state-of-the-art Hangar allows travelers of all abilities to access off-ship adventure and its expedition team to set up water- and land-based activities as quickly as possible.

However, if you want to spend as much time as possible off the ship in polar regions, you might do better, especially in Antarctica, with a ship that carries closer to 100 passengers. The trade-off is that you might have to choose a ship that has fewer frills and amenities than Viking Polaris.

Plus, it's unclear that any expedition ship has a crew as friendly, knowledgeable and helpful as the folks who work aboard Polaris. They make the trip more special than any ship designer or rare penguin could ever do.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

10 Reasons to Cruise with Star Clippers

This post may contain affiliate links. if you click one, i may earn a commission at no cost to you. as an amazon associate, i earn from qualifying purchases..

Dreaming of a holiday that combines the romance of traditional sailing with the comfort of modern luxury?

Look no further than Star Clippers, a unique cruise line that offers an unparalleled sailing experience on some of the world’s most impressive tall ships.

I was lucky enough to be invited to sail on Star Clippers’ flagship, Royal Clipper. Here are ten reasons why I think this is a cruise line to consider for your next voyage…

1. Sail on the World’s Largest Tall Ships

Star Clippers boasts an impressive fleet of vessels that will take your breath away.

The crown jewel of their collection is the Royal Clipper, recognised by the Guiness Book of Records as the largest fully-rigged sailing ship in the world. This magnificent vessel is a sight to behold, with its towering masts and intricate rigging system that harkens back to the golden age of sail.

The design of Star Clippers’ ships is a masterful blend of traditional sailing aesthetics and modern engineering. As you approach these majestic vessels, you’ll be struck by their sleek lines and gleaming woodwork. The multiple masts, adorned with both staysails and square sails, create a silhouette that stands out dramatically against the horizon.

2. Experience Authentic Sailing Adventures

One of the most thrilling aspects of cruising with Star Clippers is the opportunity to experience genuine sailing. These ships aren’t just for show; they’re designed to harness the power of the wind and provide passengers with a true sailing adventure.

The ships feature both staysails and square sails, managed by an advanced roller-furling system that allows for efficient sail handling. This means that, weather permitting, you’ll spend a significant portion of your journey under sail power alone.

There’s nothing quite like the moment when the engines are cut, and the ship surges forward powered only by the wind filling its sails. You’ll feel a connection to the sea and the elements that’s simply not possible on a traditional cruise ship.

3. Enjoy Intimate and Exclusive Cruising

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer size and crowded nature of large cruise ships, you’ll appreciate the intimate atmosphere on a Star Clippers cruise. With a much smaller passenger capacity compared to traditional cruise liners, these ships offer a more personal and exclusive experience.

The Royal Clipper, for instance, accommodates just 227 passengers, a far cry from the thousands you might find on a mega-ship. This smaller scale means you’ll never feel lost in the crowd. You’ll have the opportunity to get to know your fellow passengers and the crew, fostering a sense of community that’s often missing on larger ships.

This intimate setting also provides a unique opportunity to meet interesting people from various countries. Whether you’re sharing stories over dinner or discussing the day’s adventures on deck, you’re sure to make lasting connections with like-minded adventurers from around the world.

4. Access Unique Ports and Destinations

One of the significant advantages of Star Clippers’ smaller ships is their ability to access ports and destinations that are off-limits to larger cruise liners. This means you’ll have the opportunity to explore lesser-known gems and avoid the crowds often associated with popular cruise destinations.

Star Clippers’ tender boats are able to sail right onto the beach. So with your ship anchored off-shore, there’s really no limit to the size of the post you can visit, whether it’s a large port like Civitavecchia (for Rome) or a tiny island in Southeast Asia.

Star Clippers’ itineraries often include a mix of well-known locations and hidden treasures. Whether you’re cruising the Caribbean, exploring the Mediterranean, or venturing to exotic destinations, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective on both famous landmarks and off-the-beaten-path locales.

5. Indulge in Luxurious Amenities

While Star Clippers offers an authentic sailing experience, it doesn’t skimp on luxury. These ships seamlessly blend the charm of traditional sailing vessels with the comfort and amenities of a modern luxury cruise.

On board, you’ll find a range of facilities designed to enhance your comfort and enjoyment. The Royal Clipper, for instance, boasts a unique water sports marina at the stern. This platform can be lowered to sea level, providing easy access for swimming, snorkelling, and other water activities right from the ship.

Other amenities might include multiple swimming pools, a spa for indulgent treatments, well-stocked libraries for quiet relaxation, and comfortable lounges for socialising.

The cabins, while maintaining a nautical charm, are equipped with modern conveniences to ensure a comfortable stay.

It’s worth noting that while these ships offer luxury, they do so in a way that’s in keeping with the sailing ship aesthetic.

Don’t expect the flashy, over-the-top amenities you might find on mega-ships. There are no crystal staircases here! Instead, Star Clippers provides a more refined, understated luxury that complements the authentic sailing experience.

6. Savour Gourmet Dining Experiences

Dining is an essential part of any cruise experience, and Star Clippers doesn’t disappoint in this regard. Despite the smaller size of the ships, the quality of the culinary offerings is top-notch.

Typically, Star Clippers ships feature a single main dining venue, creating an intimate and sociable atmosphere for meals. This setup encourages passengers to mingle and share stories of their day’s adventures over exquisite meals.

The menus on Star Clippers cruises are crafted to reflect the destinations you’re visiting, often incorporating local flavours and ingredients. You can expect a range of international cuisines. Fresh seafood is often a highlight, given the nautical setting.

Star Clippers cruises are ideal for those with any kind of special dietary requirement. As a vegan, I was made a special menu just for me each evening. And when it came to the breakfast and lunch buffet, a crew member was always available to greet me personally and show me which options were suitable.

While the dining options may be more limited compared to larger ships with multiple restaurants, the focus is on quality rather than quantity.

The intimate dining setting, combined with the high standard of cuisine, creates a memorable gastronomic experience that’s an integral part of your Star Clippers adventure.

7. Participate in Unique Onboard Activities

Star Clippers offers a range of unique onboard activities that you won’t find on typical cruise ships. These activities are designed to enhance your sailing experience and provide unforgettable memories.

One of the most thrilling activities is the opportunity to climb the mast. Under the supervision of crew members, you can ascend the rigging for a bird’s eye view of the ship and the surrounding sea. It’s an exhilarating experience that gives you a true sailor’s perspective.

For a more relaxed activity, you can lounge in the bowsprit netting, suspended over the waves at the very front of the ship. It’s a perfect spot for sunbathing or watching for marine life.

Star Clippers also offers educational opportunities that align with the sailing theme. You might have the chance to attend navigation classes, learning the basics of plotting a course using traditional methods.

In the evenings, star gazing sessions take advantage of the clear skies away from light pollution, allowing you to marvel at constellations and learn about celestial navigation.

These unique activities contribute to the overall sailing experience, allowing you to be as involved or as relaxed as you choose during your journey.

8. Enjoy Attentive and Professional Service

The smaller size of Star Clippers’ ships allows for a more personalised level of service. With a lower guest-to-crew ratio compared to larger cruise ships, you can expect attentive and professional service throughout your journey.

The intimate nature of the ship means that crew members can get to know passengers individually, often anticipating needs and preferences.

The crew on Star Clippers ships are not just there to provide service; they’re an integral part of the sailing experience. Many crew members are skilled sailors, and their passion for the sea often shines through in their interactions with passengers.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself chatting with crew members about sailing techniques or the ship’s impressive rigging system!

I spent a good ten minutes chatting to the barman who made me a cocktail, because nobody else was at the bar. The said he loves how he’s able to chat to the guests and that it was never possible when he worked on the big cruise ships as there was no time.

9. Experience a Blend of Adventure and Relaxation

A Star Clippers cruise offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. For those seeking excitement, the authentic sailing experience provides plenty of thrills. You can get involved in sailing activities, participate in water sports, or explore exciting ports of call.

On the other hand, if relaxation is more your style, there are ample opportunities for that too. You can lounge by the pool, soak up the sun on deck, or find a quiet corner to read a book from the ship’s library. The gentle motion of the ship and the sound of the waves create a naturally soothing environment.

Many passengers find that the pace of life on a Star Clippers cruise is more relaxed compared to larger ships. There’s less pressure to participate in constant activities or stick to rigid schedules.

Instead, you’re free to shape your day as you see fit, whether that means joining in on sailing activities or simply watching the world go by from a comfortable deck chair. Whether you’re an active adventurer or a dedicated sun-seeker, you’ll find your perfect balance on board.

10. Benefit from Excellent Value for Money

While Star Clippers cruises may seem expensive at first glance, they offer excellent value for money when you consider the unique experiences they provide.

Compared to other luxury cruise lines, Star Clippers often comes in at a competitive price point, especially when you factor in the exclusive nature of the sailing experience.

I was shocked at how cheap the drinks are onboard. A glass of wine or beer is just €3.50 and fancy frozen cocktails are €7.

If you wish to offer a gratuity, the suggested about is €8 per night, which is around half of the average on a standard cruise ship.

It’s important to remember that the value of a Star Clippers cruise goes beyond just the price tag. The authentic sailing experience, access to unique ports, intimate atmosphere, and personalised service all contribute to creating unforgettable memories that are, in many ways, priceless.

The Bottom Line

A Star Clippers cruise offers a truly unique way to explore the world. From the thrill of sailing on the world’s largest tall ships to the intimate and luxurious on-board experience, there are countless reasons to choose Star Clippers for your next holiday.

Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast or simply looking for a cruise experience that’s a cut above the ordinary, Star Clippers provides an adventure that combines the romance of the past with the comforts of the present.

So why not set sail on a journey that promises not just a holiday, but a genuine maritime adventure?

For a closer look at what to expect onboard, check out my Star Clippers vlog…

Related Posts:

• 9 Differences Between Star Clippers and Regular Cruise Ships
• Star Clippers Cruise Review
• Everything I Wore On A Star Clippers Cruise (Dress Code Guide)

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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Virgin Voyages Room Service Menu

Virgin Voyages room service menu is a set menu. You can order whatever you want. All you need to pay is a $5 delivery fee.

Here are all the menus:

Please note prices and items can change so please check with your cruise line when ordering.

Ship Eats No Stomach Left Unturned (Breakfast Menu)

You can order through the SAILOR APP or Dial EXT 604271 or 604272

Ship Eats No Stomach Left Unturned (Food Menu)

11am – 5am

Mini Bar & Retail Menu

Drinks menu.

Morning or eve up to you

Cruise the waves designed by Digital Burst Media

• River Cruising

GCT M/S Tikhi Don - St. Petersburg to Moscow

By usnavyguy , June 24, 2012 in River Cruising

Recommended Posts

This is a review of a St. Petersburg to Moscow river cruise from 5/31/2012 - 6/14/2012 with Grand Circle Travel. I'll divide the review into sections starting with the ship so folks can jump to those sections of interest & ignore what isn't pertinent to them. For an excellent discussion on pre-trip planning, visa issues, comments on various cruise lines, this link:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1559518

will give you all the details you need. I'll not repeat it here.

So, let's get to the specifics:

Ship : Tikhi Don is owned by Grand Circle Travel (GCT) and is one of two ships, the other being M/V Rossia they operate between Moscow & St. Petersburg. All the cabins are identical: 146 square feet with one window that opens, situated on 3 decks. The only difference is location on the ship. The cabins were clean as were the attached bathrooms. Storage space was adequate for two weeks. There is one 120V and one 220V electrical outlet in the cabin as well as a 115V electrical outlet in the bathroom. I purchased a 4 outlet power strip specifically for this trip to plug in rechargeable digital camera batteries as well as a cell phone. The ship has an elevator near the reception desk forward that services Decks 1, 2, and 3. There is a double stairway in the after end of the ship that runs from the Main Deck to Decks 2, 3, and 4. All other stairways are external and serve all 4 decks. We had about 206 passengers embarked and about 100 staff, so the ratio of staff to cruisers was pretty high. It seems that all river ships operating in Russia carry about 200 or so customers which make them quite a bit larger than the average European waterways river ship. Since they have far fewer bridges to deal with in terms of height, and water depths are somewhat deeper than European rivers, they can and do take advantage of that to leverage a larger number of customers. That doesn't make it bad; it just makes it different. Tikhi Don draws about 9 feet of water which I suspect is about average for a Russian river cruiser. The ship has two bars, one on the 3rd deck forward (Tsar Bar) and one on the 4th deck aft (Presidents Bar). The restaurant is located on the 2nd deck aft and is used for the breakfast buffet and the sit down daily lunches & dinners. One disadvantage to my way of thinking was the sit down lunch. When we've cruised on Viking, they offered a light buffet lunch in the bar/lounge and a sit down lunch in the restaurant. That gave one some options which weren't available with GCT. Again, not necessarily bad; just different. Each cabin is equipped with a flat panel LCD TV with various satellite channels available depending upon the location of the ship at the time. There also were 3 different movie channels showing a different movie each day. Since we didn’t watch TV, I can only surmise it must have worked okay as we did not hear any complaints. While each cabin has individual air conditioning controls, they didn’t appear to function very effectively and the cabin remained around 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit at all times. There is a separate heating unit mounted beneath the window on the outside bulkhead which proved very useful on some of the colder mornings we experienced during the cruise. The cruise covers 829 miles between St. Petersburg and Moscow, and consists of several lakes, rivers and canals including the transit of 16 locks.

Travelers: One significant difference I noted was the average age of the passengers was somewhat older than we had previously experienced with Viking in Europe. I would guess that average age was around mid-70s; some younger, and some a good bit older. We had several veterans of WW2 embarked and I can only hope I'm as spry as they were when I'm that age. They also are very loyal to GCT. Those folks who had previously traveled 3 or more times with GCT or their companion company, Overseas Adventure Travel were identified with a gold name badge. I'd estimate that at least 50% of the embarked travelers fell into this category. This was a very seasoned group of world travelers. Few on the trip were making their 1st river cruise and even fewer were traveling with GCT for the 1st time (we fell into that category). The tours generally involved quite a bit of walking and a not so slow pace, but most everyone managed to keep at it, and few opted out of the walking tours. I'll discuss those in more detail later in this post.

Ship Staff: The staff was quite young (mid to late 20s mostly), inexperienced, but always willing to help. Their command of English was generally very limited although I expect that will improve as the season wears on. Their English was way better than my Cyrillic so they get an A+ for effort. The cruise is managed by a Cruise Director who spoke idiomatic English. The ship's Captain was the most personable Captain I have ever sailed with on a cruise ship. He spoke good English, greeted all the travelers as they debarked for each tour, met each traveler at the gangplank when they returned, and along with the Cruise Director and Hospitality Manager stood on the pier and waved goodbye to every bus that departed. I'm used to the Captain putting in a brief appearance at the Welcome & Farewell Cocktail parties, then disappearing for rest of the cruise. This was a novel & most welcome change.

We were divided into 6 groups of about 32-35 people, assigned a Tour Director who worked exclusively with that group for the entire cruise. Very occasionally for an optional tour, the groups would be combined to keep the numbers about the same, but basically, you functioned within your assigned group. The Tour Directors all had majored in foreign languages at the University and had anywhere from two to as many as eight years with GCT. They all spoke idiomatic English and did a great job of keeping track of their charges. I liken managing U.S. tour groups to herding cats and these folks were always cheerful, ready to answer any question, and resolve any problem. The wait staff in the dining room had limited English, but knew enough to converse with the passengers with regard to the menu & was a hustling young group of Russians. They were extremely pleasant to deal with.

Food on Board: In general the meals were quite good. Breakfast was served buffet style and one always had the opportunity to order an omelet or eggs of any style. There also was a special breakfast order each day. They also included the European breakfast meats and other items common on European river cruise ships. Service was quick and efficient. Restaurant seating included tables for 2, 4, 6 or 10 passengers so there was a wide variety of seating. Lunches & dinners would be best described as Russian modified for American taste. As I remarked previously, all lunches were sit down, formal service with soup, entre (including a vegetarian selection). Salad bar and dessert. Dinners consisted of an appetizer, followed by a soup course, entre (again including a vegetarian choice), and dessert. At dinner, there was always available salmon or chicken breast with a baked potato and steamed vegetables for those who did not fancy the main course. Food was served hot when appropriate and cold when in order. Service was friendly and efficient. Even with 200 people sitting down to eat, there was no sense of “steam table” cooking. With the exception of two meals ashore, all meals were served onboard. In the event of an evening tour such as the Moscow circus or the St. Petersburg ballet, an early dinner was served to those attending the event, followed by a late night heavy snack following return onboard. While I did not eat very many lunches, my wife tried most of them and said the food was very good. We found the dinners to be tasty and a nice introduction to Russian cooking, including the famous Russian stroganoff which is not served over noodles as it is in the U.S., but over spaetzle or mashed potatoes which we were told is common in Russia. Early bird coffee was available from 6:00-7:00AM and also throughout the day at the coffee station on the main deck. Lunch was served at either noon or 1:00PM depending on the tour schedule, with dinner at 7:00PM.

Onboard Activities: There was never a shortage of things to do onboard, but all were voluntary so you could participate in as few or as many as you wished. They featured the usual port talks, introduction to the Russian language, lectures on Russian handicrafts, vodka tastings, blini parties, pelmeni (dumpling) cooking class, and hand painting of Russian Matryoshka (nesting) dolls. We also noted several spontaneous bridge, cribbage, and canasta card games in progress at various times.

There is a large, well stocked gift store on the ship, operated as a separate concession. My wife found the prices for souvenirs of all types were generally better than souvenir shops ashore. They accept major credit cards or roubles. You cannot charge items from the store to your shipboard account.

Tours: There were a limited number of optional (extra cost) tours available. In St. Petersburg, that included:

Rivers & Canals of St. Petersburg

Yusopov Palace

St. Petersburg Ballet

Peterhof Gardens

In Petrozavodosk: Karelian Folk Show

Zlatoust Singers

Jewish Heritage of Moscow

Tretyakov Gallery

You can view the details of these optional tours on the GCT website: http://www.gct.com

under the Russian river cruise itinerary.

All passengers are provided with a pair of head phones & a battery powered receiver to provide the ability to listen to the tour guide while still wandering about the particular venue. The system works perfectly and depending upon location & interference such as walls, floors, and the like is crystal clear up to 100 feet from the tour guide. I have used these systems on other tours and would never consider a tour/cruise that did not employ this technology.

We took the Rivers & Canals of St. Petersburg tour which entailed taking a canal boat up & down the various rivers & canals running through St. Petersburg. It lasted approximately 90 minutes with a well informed local guide who commented on what we were seeing. It was interesting and informative and gives you another whole perspective on St. Petersburg than from a city bus tour.

We also went on the Peterhof gardens tour which unfortunately, did not go as well. The morning tour for that day was Peter & Paul Fortress which was really not that interesting and turned out to be just another church tour. However, because of the distance from where the boat moored to the fortress, then into St. Petersburg for lunch, the morning and part of the afternoon was pretty well shot by the time we departed for Peterhof. Peterhof is a good 45 minute drive from St. Petersburg; so consequently, it was well after 2:00PM when we arrived at the gardens. I’d like to say the local guide tried to cram what could easily have been a 4 hour tour into something less than two hours. So, we consequently were trying to set land speed records for walking tours as she was determined to show us as many of the Peterhof fountains as possible, and there are more than a few. My wife is a bit slow of foot as she has limited walking capacity so she was hard pressed to keep up. I, on the other hand, wanted more time to take pictures of the fountains and didn’t appreciate being rushed from spot to spot. Fortunately, our tour director Alex was particularly solicitous of my wife and made sure we could cut some corners and get ahead of the tour where necessary. Unfortunately, the local tour guide was annoyed when told to slow down and became somewhat hostile. The tour ends at the Peterhof palace which has a very large number of very beautiful fountains, all in gold leaf and is a photographer’s dream. It easily could have been worth an hour or more of picture taking opportunities. While I do understand some folks just want to check the block of having seen it and move on, there are, I think, a larger number of us who don’t expect to see those things again and want to take full advantage of the picture taking opportunities.

St. Petersburg: We spent 4 days in St. Petersburg not counting the day of arrival. The 1st full day, we had a city bus tour which included a stop & tour of St. Isaac’s Cathedral, and an approximately two hour visit to the famed Hermitage Art Museum with an option to stay for an additional 90 minutes, On Day 2, we had Catherine’s Palace & Park Tour, an offsite lunch paid for by GCT followed by the optional Rivers & Canals Tour, Day 4 was the Peter & Paul Fortress, again followed by lunch (this time on your own) followed by the optional Peterhof Gardens tour. On Day 3 of the visit, there were optional tours available of Yusopov Palace and the St. Petersburg ballet (evening). The boat was moored about 1 hour from downtown, depending on traffic, as the city authorities do not allow the riverboats to moor downtown. This caused some angst among those taking their 1st river cruise as they assumed this was standard. Of course, it’s not, and in fact, almost all European river cruises including Paris moor almost in the heart of the city. However, for those with free time and a little bit of adventurism, the subway took you downtown in less than 40 minutes. There is a bus from the head of the pier which costs 30 roubles (in early June 2012, roubles were 32.5 to 1 USD). That dropped you at the nearest metro entrance where 25 roubles and 5 stops later, landed you in the heart of Nevsky Prospekt, St. Petersburg’s equivalent to Times Square in NY or Michigan Avenue in Chicago. The metro is clean, no graffiti in the stations or on the cars, efficiently run and very safe. To return to the ship, just reverse the process. Once downtown, there are many attractions within easy walking distance such as the statue of the Bronze Horseman, a tribute from Catherine the Great to Peter the Great and the Church of our Savior on the Spilled Blood on which site, Tsar Alexander II was murdered by an assassin on 1 March 1881.

This was our 2nd time in St. Petersburg as we were there on an ocean cruise of the Baltics in 2003 when the city celebrated its 300th anniversary. It is to my mind, much more European than Russian with the latest fashions on display, many, many outdoor restaurant cafes and a mostly young, apparently well off population (at least during a business day).

We had previously been to Catherine’s Palace and the Hermitage and enjoyed returning to both places. St. Isaac’s is very impressive, but unfortunately, it is crowded and pickpockets are afoot. Several men & at least 1 woman had wallets stolen in the crowds so for them, not so much fun. Peter and Paul Fortress from a historical perspective is important, but rather unimpressive.

We visited St. Petersburg during the period of the summer referred to as “White Nights” which are quite famous. Sunrise occurs about 4:30AM and sunset at 11:15PM. Since winters are long, cold, and sometimes very harsh, the many hours of sunlight are greatly appreciated and folks go out to stroll, especially on Nevsky Prospekt well into the evening hours enjoying the many parks and recreation areas throughout the city.

Svir Stroi: This is a small village of about 600 people located on the Svir River. They have the requisite souvenir shops, but the highlight of the stop was the visit to the home of a Russian villager. Our opportunity came to visit the wife of a local employee of the hydro electric plant. We visited her home and were served tea & pirozhki’s (Russian tea cakes). With the able help of our tour director, Tanya who translated, the lady explained her daily life in the village and the challenges ordinary people now face compared to the days of the Soviet Union. This is also where we first encountered the fierce Russian mosquitoes or as the tour directors called them, the KGB mosquitoes. They’re big, they bite and they fly around over the 3 months of summer. Mosquito repellent does, however, work when liberally applied.

Petrozavodsk: This port city on Lake Onega which is the second largest lake in Europe, only surpassed by Lake Ladoga, included a bus tour as well as a visit to the memorial to Russian’s Unknown Soldier from World War II, and a tour of the local market. It is the industrial, cultural, and scientific center of the Republic of Karelia. The visit also included an optional tour to a Karelian folk show which we opted not to attend.

Kizhi (Kee-shee) Island: This small island in the center of Lake Onega is home to the oldest known wooden church in Russia, the Church of Transfiguration which features 22 timbered onion shaped domes. The church was assembled without the use of a single metal nail and is currently undergoing extensive renovation. The stop also featured a “Fishing with the Ship’s Captain & Staff” for those who are ardent anglers. Fishing apparently wasn’t so successful as we did not have fish on the menu that evening!

Goritzy/Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery: Goritsky is just another tiny town, but the monastery was built in 1397 and had close connections with Ivan the Terrible. At one time, over 200 monks lived in the monastery, but with the Russian revolution and the harsh suppression of religion in Russia, it deteriorated significantly and now houses only 6 monks. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union, restoration efforts have begun and the museum features an impressive collection of Russian Orthodox icons.

Uglich: The last city we visited prior to Moscow is located on the Volga River. Cruising on the river as you come onto Uglich is very impressive. The Kremlin (or fortress) has no exterior walls so the many colored churches and domes make great picture opportunities. The very large Cathedral of Transfiguration looms over the town while the Church of St. Dmitry on the Blood with its rich red walls and blue onion domes offer a sharp contrast. Souvenir and shops selling all sorts of goods line the route from the ship’s berth to the main street of Uglich. We were told by the local guide that as many as 7 to 8 river cruise ships a day visit Uglich during the summer. They also were having a display of lacquer and paper Mache’ boxes for sale at very Western prices. Enameled watches are also a specialty of Uglich. We were treated to a short concert by a group of male classically trained singers who rendered several Russian songs a capella during our visit.

Moscow: We arrived in Moscow about 3 hours late because of heavy fog the previous evening while transiting the Moscow Canal. The river authorities do not allow movement in the canal during heavy fog, so we waited out the down time in one of the locks. The ship moored a good ways from downtown as the city authorities do not allow river cruise ships downtown, the same rule as St. Petersburg. Moscow is a city of 11.5 million people and traffic can be a nightmare. However, we were fortunate to arrive on a Monday before a national holiday (Day of Russia) on Tuesday and Moscovites are like people everywhere; they angle to take the day before a big holiday off. So, the traffic to downtown was pretty light and we made up some time on the city tour which started in the famous Red Square outside the Kremlin walls. The tour included a walk around Saint Basil’s Cathedral which is actually a museum, then on to the GUM department store which resembles a U.S. mall. We also walked past a “Historic Toilet” located in Gum’s that I believe was the 1st indoor lavatory in a Moscow department store. (Use of the WC was 84 roubles for those interested; I took a pass). We also went for a ride on the famed Moscow metro where many of the stations are elaborately decorated in frescoes, busts representing the struggle of the common man, and other adornments of the Russian revolution. As in St. Petersburg, the metro is clean (no graffiti in the stations or on the cars) and very safe.

The next day was the national holiday so our tours steered us quite far from Red Square (where demonstrations were purported to occur against the Presidential election recently completed) and out to Sparrow Hills which is a high priced area of the city. We also toured the New Maiden cemetery where various Russian notables such as Boris Yeltsin and Nikita Khrushchev are buried. The evening tour involved a visit to the Moscow circus which has been in continuous operation since 1980. A fun time of clowns, jugglers, trained poodles, bears, a lion taming act and culminated with a trapeze performance by 5 daring men & 1 woman.

The following day was a tour inside the Kremlin walls and to one of the 5 churches located inside the walls. I found it ironic that 5 churches would be allowed to exist following the revolution, but many things in Russia are strange, this only being one example. We also toured the Kremlin armory which contains the Tsar’s Crown Jewels, armor and armaments of the 16th- 18th century, many Tsarina coronation and wedding dresses as well as a very extensive display of Faberge eggs. The tour concluded with lunch at Moscow’s Hard Rock Café and time to tour Arbat Street which is a pedestrian only street in the heart of Moscow.

We had family obligations that required us to cut the last full day off the cruise and return home via direct flight from Moscow to Dulles International.

Final Observations: It was a very interesting and different river cruise for us. Because the distances are so vast, there is a lot more down time on this cruise than one in European waters, but Grand Circle can make it as busy or as relaxed as you like. The meals were comparable to those served on our other river cruises for quantity and quality. There are slightly more optional tours than with some other companies, but on the other hand, some of the included tours were excellent. St. Petersburg is a great city and one I’d be pleased to visit again; Moscow, not so much. Grand Circle is certainly worth your consideration as a cruise line as the prices are competitive with all other Russian river cruises. We did book our air through Grand Circle which I’m normally reluctant to do, but the routing was the same that I would have chosen had I done my own booking and the pricing was better than I could do on my own, especially considering what GCT would have charged for transfers to and from the ship. We did not purchase travel insurance through GCT as I found we could do better by shopping around over the Internet.

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beverlyjack

We did this trip in 2004, aboard the chartered Nicholay Chernychevski, before Grand Circle had put the Tikhi Don into service. This was an excellent review and brings back memories. Please post it under Travelers Reviews on http://www.gct.com on this trip.

Thank you for the informative review. I am taking this tour in mid August. I will print what you wrote so that I can refer to it as I do some of my planning.

How many people were in your "group" ? Did you take the pretrip to Helsinki and Tallinn?

We had about 32 people in our group. I don't know what, if any criteria, other than numbers were used to make up the groups. We did not take any pre or post trips with this cruise.

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Marella Explorer 2 Review

Not a great experience.

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This was my first ever cruise with my sister and her friends. They had previously cruised with Marella and filled me with excitement as to what to expect. Honestly for me the experience was like staying at a 3 star AI hotel particularly during the daytime.

We only managed to get a sunbed on the pool deck (11) twice during the week. It was crammed. Every bit of space was occupied by a bed. The shady areas were mainly occupied by tables and chairs to be used for people eating, but on occasions people put sunbeds in the space. The info booklet states that if beds are unoccupied for 45 minutes that staff would remove towels. I saw no evidence of that. People must have got up at crack of dawn to lay out towels before disappearing on their day trip and left beds until they returned to ship. Wednesday was an 'at sea' day. Decks 11, 12, 13 & 14 fully laid out with beds. The view was awful. Beds squeezed in wherever there was a space.

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Moscow cruise port

Russia rivers.

• Coordinates 55.847, 37.468
• Local Time 2024-08-29 21:37

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