Sail Into New Horizons: Marella Cruises Unveils Its Summer 2027 Programme

This is a sponsored post for Marella Cruises.

There’s something irresistible about the promise of new horizons, and Marella Cruises is setting the stage for an unforgettable summer in 2027.

With exciting new destinations, a return to much-loved ports, and more ways to combine land and sea, the line is giving holidaymakers every reason to start planning early.

Bookings open on 16th October 2025, but already the buzz is building – and in part, that’s because of a brand new destination for the cruise line…

A Taste of Italy in Syracuse

One of the most exciting features of Marella’s 2027 season is the addition of Syracuse in Sicily to its itineraries.

This city, once one of the most powerful in the ancient world, brims with history and architectural splendour.

Cruise guests can marvel at the ancient Greek theatre, still in use today, or lose themselves in the narrow streets of Ortygia, the old town island where lively markets and Baroque piazzas provide a feast for the senses.

Add in Sicilian cuisine – from arancini to gelato – and it’s easy to see why Syracuse will be a highlight of Marella’s new season.

Discover the Charms of Sarandë, Albania

Nestled on the sparkling Ionian coast, Sarandë is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets.

Although featured in Marella’s programme previously, 2027 will be the first time guests can actually experience this fantastic port. Known as the “Pearl of the Albanian Riviera,” this charming port town is a gateway to golden beaches, ancient ruins, and a thriving café culture. For many travellers, Albania is still an uncharted gem, which makes Marella’s arrival here all the more exciting.

Imagine stepping ashore to explore the ancient ruins of Butrint, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of Greek, Roman and Byzantine civilisations.

Or perhaps you’d prefer to wander along Sarandë’s promenade, sampling freshly caught seafood while gazing across the water towards the Greek island of Corfu.

With its mix of culture, history and unspoilt beauty, Sarandë offers a Mediterranean experience that feels refreshingly new.

Marella Discovery 2: Adults-Only Cruising from Dubrovnik

The ship at the heart of these new adventures is Marella Discovery 2, which will sail its first ever summer season from Dubrovnik, Croatia, in 2027.

The ship will be exclusively adults-only, creating a sophisticated atmosphere for couples, friends and groups seeking a grown-up escape.

Guests can choose from a trio of tempting itineraries. The brand-new Ionian Shores voyage includes the pioneering call at Syracuse, as well as the Albanian riviera stop in Sarandë.

The Greek Mystique itinerary, as its name suggests, takes travellers deep into the beauty of the Greek islands, from whitewashed villages to sun-drenched beaches.

Meanwhile, the Sail Three Seas itinerary is a sweeping journey across the Aegean, Mediterranean and Adriatic seas – a rare chance to tick three famous waters off your travel wish list in one go.

All voyages aboard Marella Discovery 2 will begin from Dubrovnik, giving guests the chance to explore one of Europe’s most enchanting cities before setting sail. Picture wandering the UNESCO-listed Old Town, its terracotta rooftops glowing in the sun, before boarding your ship for a week of discovery.

Marella Explorer 2: A Homecoming in Spain

While Syracuse may be the newcomer, Marella Cruises is also making a nostalgic return to some long-admired favourites.

Marella Explorer 2 will be homeporting in Málaga, Spain, for the first time in nearly a decade. From this Andalusian city, famous for its vibrant art scene and golden beaches, guests can embark on itineraries designed to rediscover Spanish treasures.

The Spirit of Spain voyage brings back the much-loved port of Mahón in Menorca, a harbour town filled with Georgian architecture and Mediterranean charm. Another highlight is the Spanish Sights itinerary, which revisits Castellón, a city where historic castles and buzzing tapas bars create the perfect blend of old and new.

For those who love the energy and warmth of Spain, these itineraries offer a homecoming in every sense – combining beloved classics with modern comforts onboard.

More Choices Across the Fleet

Marella’s 2027 programme isn’t just about two ships – it’s about offering flexibility across the fleet.

Marella Discovery and Marella Voyager will both homeport in Palma, Majorca, ensuring easy access to a wide range of Western Mediterranean adventures.

Meanwhile, Marella Explorer will sail out of Corfu, opening up the Ionian and Aegean seas to exploration.

This variety means guests can design their perfect Mediterranean escape, whether they dream of Greek island hopping, Spanish city breaks, or discovering new frontiers like Albania.

Extend Your Holiday with Cruise & Stay

For those who like to blend the freedom of cruising with the relaxation of a land-based holiday, Marella’s Cruise & Stay programme offers the best of both worlds.

In 2027, the choice will be greater than ever, thanks to the addition of 29 new hotels across Majorca, Croatia, Corfu and Spain.

That brings the total to around 150 properties, giving customers everything from family-friendly resorts to romantic retreats.

With departures available from 21 airports across the UK and Ireland, convenience is built in. You might choose to start your adventure with a few days unwinding at a beachfront hotel before boarding your ship, or end your cruise with a luxurious stay ashore.

Either way, Cruise & Stay makes it easy to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying a seamless travel experience.

All Inclusive Value as Standard

One of the things that sets Marella Cruises apart is its All Inclusive approach.

Every sailing includes meals, drinks, tips and service charges as standard, so there are no hidden extras to worry about. Guests can relax knowing that everything from drinks by the pool to evening entertainment is covered, leaving more room for indulgence.

Onboard, the experience is designed to delight. From West End-style shows and live music to speciality restaurants and tranquil spas, Marella’s ships are floating resorts where every detail is taken care of.

Whether you’re sipping wine at a sunset bar or enjoying a romantic dinner for two, the emphasis is on creating unforgettable moments.

Chris Hackney, CEO at Marella Cruises, sums up the excitement:

“We’re excited to expand our cruising destination portfolio with the introduction of fast-growing hotspots such as Sarandë in Albania. Responding to increasing demand for travel to Portugal, North Africa, and Albania, we have introduced more ports in these areas giving our customers even more ways to explore, whilst enhancing our Cruise & Stay options across these itineraries.”

With prices for the Ionian Shores itinerary starting from £1,930, and bookings opening on 16th October 2025, now is the time to start dreaming about the possibilities.

Your Invitation to Explore

Marella’s Summer 2027 programme is about more than new ports and itineraries – it’s about opening up new experiences.

Whether you’re tempted by the allure of Albania’s untouched coastline, the cultural riches of Sicily, or the warmth of Spain’s sun-soaked cities, there’s an itinerary designed to inspire.

So why not mark your calendar? You could be strolling Dubrovnik’s historic walls, toasting with sangria in Málaga, or watching the sunset over Sarandë’s turquoise bay.

With Marella Cruises, summer 2027 promises to be a season of discovery, indulgence, and adventure.

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