Sailing the Adriatic: A Cruise Review of Marella Explorer 2

On of our Travel Experts, Leah recently went on an adventure. This began with a smooth flight from Manchester to Dubrovnik. Setting the tone for a relaxing and scenic holiday. Dubrovnik, with its stunning coastal vistas and rich history, was the perfect embarkation point for her Adriatic cruise on the Marella Explorer 2:

After a swift transfer from the airport, we headed straight to the cruise terminal to meet our ship. While there was a queue to board, everything was well organised and moved quickly considering the number of passengers. The cruise staff handled the process efficiently, which helped us start our trip with ease.

Before the cruise, we found it easy to prepare thanks to Marella’s streamlined pre-cruise process. Filling out the Advance Passenger Information (API), booking specialty restaurants, and selecting shore excursions was simple and hassle-free. One feature we really appreciated was the flexibility of booking shore excursions both online before departure and onboard after speaking with other passengers. It was reassuring to know that we didn’t have to finalise everything before the cruise.

The Itinerary

The main reason we chose this particular cruise was for its enticing itinerary. This promised a unique blend of cultural and scenic experiences. Starting and ending in Dubrovnik, the ship’s journey took us to several beautiful destinations along the Adriatic Sea, each offering its own charm and history. Our ports of call were:

• Koper, Slovenia: Our first stop was the picturesque town of Koper, nestled along Slovenia’s short but captivating coastline. We enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the old town, marvelling at its Venetian architecture and lively markets.
• Rijeka, Croatia: Rijeka was a pleasant surprise, with its vibrant energy and mix of old and new. We wandered along the bustling Korzo promenade, taking in the lively atmosphere. And visited the historic Trsat Castle for panoramic views of the city.
• Ancona, Italy: This Italian port offered a chance to explore the rich cultural tapestry of the Marche region. We admired the Roman ruins and medieval cathedrals, enjoying a taste of Italy’s architectural heritage and culinary delights.
• Split, Croatia: Split is a city that effortlessly blends the ancient with the modern. The highlight was visiting Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the centuries-old ruins have been integrated into the daily life of the town. Split’s waterfront promenade was also a great spot for a relaxing drink while people watching (one of my favourite things to do).
• Bar, Montenegro: Our final port of call was Bar, Montenegro, a quaint coastal town with a rich history and rugged beauty. We explored the old town, including the ruins of Stari Bar. Which offered an immersive glimpse into Montenegro’s past.

The Highlight

Of all the ports we visited, the highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the shore excursion to Lake Bled in Slovenia. We opted to book this tour through Marella, feeling that the additional security and time management of a pre-organised excursion was worth it. From the moment we were picked up, our guide was full of fascinating insights into Slovenia’s history and natural beauty, making the journey to Lake Bled as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Upon arrival at Lake Bled, the sight took our breath away. The turquoise waters of the lake, surrounded by the towering Julian Alps, created a picture perfect scene. Our tour included a traditional pletna boat ride to the island in the centre of the lake. Where we visited the famous Church of the Assumption. There was something magical about being on this tiny island, with the peaceful sound of the water gently lapping against the boat.

After our boat ride, we had plenty of time to explore the lakeside and take in the beauty of the surrounding area. Some of our group even braved the clear blue water for a swim, cooling off from the summer heat. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the lake wasn’t overcrowded, allowing us to fully appreciate the serene and relaxing atmosphere. This excursion was truly the highlight of our entire trip, offering a mix of natural beauty and history.

Our Top 3 Favourite Things About Marella Explorer 2

While the destinations we visited were incredible, the Marella Explorer 2 itself also contributed significantly to the overall experience. Here are our top three reasons why we would sail with Marella again:

1. The Layout of the Ship

   One of the best features of the Marella Explorer 2 was its spacious and well thought out design. Unlike other cruise ships we’ve been on, we never felt crowded. Whether we were relaxing by the pool, finding a seat in one of the bars, or enjoying a meal in the restaurants, there was always plenty of room. This extra space made it easy to unwind and enjoy the cruise at our own pace.

2. The Staff

   The staff on Marella Explorer 2 were exceptional. From the moment we stepped aboard, we were greeted with warm smiles and a willingness to help. Whether it was the bar staff, waiters, or housekeeping, everyone was attentive and went out of their way to make sure we had everything we needed. 

3. Latitude 53 and Vista (Included Restaurants)

   The onboard dining experience was another highlight. We dined most evenings at Latitude 53, the main restaurant, which offered a different menu every night. The food was consistently delicious, with a wide variety of dishes to choose from. Vista, the Italian restaurant, was also included in the price of the cruise, and it did not disappoint. The combination of high-quality food and the convenience of having it all included made the dining experience stress-free and enjoyable.

Our cruise on the Marella Explorer 2 was everything we had hoped for and more. The well planned itinerary, exceptional staff, and spacious ship made for a relaxing and memorable holiday. The added bonus of all inclusive dining and drinks, with the option to upgrade to premium beverages, enhanced the overall value.