Our first cruise on Explorer 2
In 2019, we embarked on our very first cruise—an adventure that would take us through the Mediterranean, visiting stunning cities and exploring incredible cultures. Our ship of choice was the Marella Explorer 2, and we were thrilled with what lay ahead. Flying into Naples to board the ship, we were ready to kick off a week of relaxation, exploration, and indulgence.
It was the perfect time for a cruise. With the world still feeling the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, cruise prices had dropped significantly. The uncertainty surrounding travel meant fewer people were booking cruises, so we were able to enjoy an all-inclusive, adult-only week in the Med at an unbeatable price. Little did we know, this would be the start of what would become a lifelong love for cruising.
The Ship: A Floating Dream
From the moment we stepped aboard Marella Explorer 2, we were in awe. The ship was gorgeous, spacious, and beautifully designed. It felt like a floating five-star hotel, and the service was just as impressive. The crew were friendly, attentive, and always ready to make our journey as pleasant as possible.
The all-inclusive experience exceeded our expectations. The food was consistently top-notch, with a variety of restaurants to choose from. Whether we were enjoying a buffet breakfast on the rear deck or savoring gourmet dinners in one of the ship’s fine dining rooms, every meal was a delight. And the entertainment? Simply fantastic. We were treated to live performances, comedy shows, and themed parties, making every evening feel special.
Toulouse, France: A Perfect Start
Our first port of call was Toulouse, France’s fourth-largest city, located on the country’s sunny southern coast. We docked early, and after a leisurely breakfast al fresco on the rear of the ship, we were excited to explore this charming city.
Toulouse was an absolute gem. We wandered the streets, taking in the beautiful architecture, quaint shops, and cafes. One of the highlights was taking a cable car ride up to the mountains behind the city. From the summit, we were treated to panoramic views of Toulouse and the surrounding landscape—a perfect way to begin our Mediterranean adventure.
Tarragona, Spain: A Hidden Treasure
Next up was Tarragona, Spain, a place we’d never heard of before, but it quickly became one of our favorite stops. The city is rich in history and culture, and we spent the entire day wandering through museums, historic sites, and discovering hidden corners of the town. Tarragona’s blend of Roman ruins and modern Spanish life offered a fascinating contrast, making it an unforgettable destination.
Pisa, Italy: A Dream Come True
Of course, no Mediterranean cruise would be complete without a visit to Pisa, Italy, home to the iconic Leaning Tower. A short train ride from the port, we were able to tick off this must-see sight from our bucket list. Standing beneath the famous tower was surreal. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see such a well-known landmark in person. We spent the day exploring the nearby Piazza dei Miracoli and its stunning cathedral before heading back to the ship.
Rome, Italy: The Eternal City
The next day, we sailed to Rome—a city that requires no introduction. While the Marella shore excursions offered tours to the Eternal City, we decided to explore it on our own, taking public transport from the port. It was far cheaper than the official tours, and the journey was easy and enjoyable. We did a Open ‘hop on and hop off’ bus tour of the city as there was so much to see.
Rome was everything we hoped for and more. From the Trevi Fountain to the Colosseum, there was history at every turn. We couldn’t get enough of the ancient ruins and the vibrant city life. Every street felt like a step back in time, and we marveled at the remnants of the Roman Empire scattered throughout the city.
Sardinia: A Relaxing Beach Day
After all the sightseeing, we were ready for a more relaxed day, and Sardinia was the perfect place for that. Initially, the tour was planned as a beach day, but we decided to stay aboard the ship instead. The weather was perfect for sunbathing, and with the all-inclusive package, we had plenty of drinks to keep us refreshed. Sardinia will always be associated with the calm, sunny hours we spent lounging on deck, letting the Mediterranean breeze wash over us.
Returning to Naples: The End of an Amazing Journey
As the week came to a close, we sailed back to Naples, where our Mediterranean adventure had begun. The entire cruise had been a dream, and we were grateful for the incredible experiences, the breathtaking destinations, and the luxury of being treated like royalty all week. We returned home with new friendships, unforgettable memories, and a newfound passion for cruising.
For anyone thinking about their first cruise, we couldn’t recommend Marella Cruises more highly. From the ship itself to the destinations visited, every aspect of this journey was a true highlight. It was the perfect introduction to the world of cruising, and we couldn’t wait for the next adventure!
Phil Seedhouse match angler 