From Tuk Tuks to the ultimate food tour in Athens: Marella Cruises launches new Mediterranean excursions
Marella Cruises, TUI’s UK cruise line, is expanding its Mediterranean excursion programme with nine* new offerings allowing customers a chance to ride a tuk-tuk through the coastal city of Olbia in Sardinia and experience the ultimate food tour in Athens.
With Marella Discovery 2 homeporting out of Palma for the summer season these nine new excursions from Marella Cruises will offer its customers a chance to see the Greece and Italy along the Mediterranean Sea in new innovative ways, such as exploring the Amalfi Coast in one day with stops to Pompeii, Ravello and Amalfi.
Hop aboard an authentic tuk tuk and explore the charming streets of Olbia. With a rich mix of history, culture and coastal beauty, this vibrant Sardinian city offers plenty to discover. Glide through the historic centre, passing landmarks like the granite-built Basilica of San Simplicio, a striking Romanesque symbol of Olbia’s medieval past. Continue to the Church of San Paolo, where the colourful dome brightens the skyline, before heading to Parco Fausto Noce. (Pre-booked price: £68 price per adult and £68 price per child).
Discover southern Italy in one unforgettable day on this small-group minivan tour. Departing from Naples, the first stop is Pompeii, where customers will have free time to explore the remarkably preserved ruins and imagine life nearly 2,000 years ago. Next, travel to Ravello, a peaceful hilltop town known for its stunning coastal views, elegant piazzas and refined charm. Finally, visit Amalfi, where customers can relax by the sea, admire the impressive cathedral or browse local shops. This scenic, well-paced journey offers a perfect blend of history, culture and coastal beauty, with the comfort and flexibility of a premium small-group experience. (Pre-booked price: £144 price per adult and £104 price per child).
Enjoy a day combining historic Athens with authentic local flavours on this relaxed walking and tasting tour. Travel from Piraeus with a panoramic city drive, taking in ancient landmarks and grand squares before arriving in the heart of the capital. Explore Plaka, Athens’ prettiest neighbourhood, with its cobbled streets, colourful houses and bustling tavernas. Along the way, sample traditional favourites, from savoury Greek pies and honey-drizzled loukoumades to classic Greek coffee, loukoumi and freshly made souvlaki. After the tasting tour, enjoy free time to shop, unwind or soak up the atmosphere before heading back. (Pre-booked price: £64 price per adult and £34 price per child).
**Other new excursions include:
Pompeii Up Close – Secrets of an Ancient World
Step into the past with an immersive guided tour of Pompeii, one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. Led by an expert guide, explore ancient streets, discover daily life in Roman times and learn about the dramatic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Visit some of the city’s most fascinating ruins while uncovering its history and hidden stories. This enriching experience offers a deeper insight into Pompeii before returning to the ship. (Pre-booked price: £89 price per adult and £60 price per child).
Athens & Acropolis - Small Groups by Minibus
Leave Piraeus behind and head to Athens, passing key landmarks including Syntagma Square, the Houses of Parliament, the Royal Palace, neoclassical university buildings and the marble Panathenaic Stadium, with views of the Acropolis in the distance. Arriving at the foot of this iconic site, begin a guided walking tour as the guide brings its history to life. Climb to the top to admire famous monuments such as the Temple of Athena Nike and the Parthenon, then enjoy free time to explore. (Pre-booked price: £98 price per adult and £54 price per child).
Assos Charm & Sami Flavour
Depart from Argostoli and enjoy a scenic drive through Kefalonia’s lush landscapes to the picturesque village of Assos. Set beneath a Venetian castle and surrounded by turquoise waters, it’s one of the island’s most charming spots. Stroll narrow lanes, admire pastel-coloured houses or relax by the waterfront during free time. The journey continues to Sami, a peaceful harbour town known for its authentic Greek atmosphere. Here, enjoy a traditional tasting of ouzo and meze while soaking up the relaxed seaside setting. Afterward, sit back and relax on the return to Argostoli, taking a flavour of Kefalonian life. (Pre-booked price: £44 price per adult and £24 price per child).
Legends & Landscapes of Kefalonia
Step ashore in Argostoli and discover Kefalonia’s natural beauty, rich mythology and seaside charm. Begin at the Odysseus Theme Park, where the legend of Homer’s hero comes to life through engaging displays, offering a glimpse into the island’s mythic past. Then enjoy a scenic drive to the coastal village of Agia Efimia, with its pretty harbour, peaceful streets and waterfront cafés. Customers will have free time to explore, shop or relax by the sea. On the return to Argostoli, stop near Myrtos Beach to capture stunning views of turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs at one of Greece’s most iconic landscapes. (Pre-booked price: £42 price per adult and £22 price per child).
Panoramic La Maddalena
Discover one of Sardinia’s hidden gems, the breathtaking La Maddalena Archipelago National Park. This stunning group of seven islands is renowned for crystal-clear waters and powdery white beaches that rival the Caribbean. From Olbia Harbour, enjoy a scenic drive to Palau before boarding a ferry for a short crossing to La Maddalena. On arrival, take a panoramic tour with sweeping coastal views. Then explore at the wandering colourful streets, relaxing in piazzas, browsing boutiques or enjoying coffee or gelato. Finally, return by ferry, taking in the lasting memories of this charming island escape for years to come truly. (Pre-booked price: £60 price per adult and £41 price per child).
Peaks & Shores 4x4 Experience
Jump in and get ready for a thrilling 4x4 adventure through Sardinia’s wild landscapes. Begin with a scenic climb to Sant’Antonio di Gallura, stopping to capture views over the Gulf of Olbia. Continue through dramatic granite terrain to San Giacomo Park, visiting a charming church and a village known for its golden granite. Then enjoy a tasting of local cured meats, cheeses and Sardinian wine. Next, explore picturesque San Pantaleo, wandering its narrow streets and browsing artisan boutiques. Finally, unwind at Liscia Ruja beach with time for a swim, before a scenic coastal drive back to Olbia to end theunforgettable day. (Pre-booked price: £138 price per adult and £138 price per child).
MARELLA CRUISES
Marella Cruises is part of TUI Group. It is the third largest cruise line in the UK. As of 1 June 2023, there are five ships in the Marella Cruises fleet, Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2 and the newest ship to the fleet, Marella Voyager. Marella Cruises offers its customers all-inclusive as standard with all tips and service charges included, customers enjoy an unrivalled level of service and award-winning entertainment. Marella Cruises has also received accolades in Good Housekeeping Reader Recommended for onboard service since 2019.