• Thursday 11 September 2025

Our cruise manager Ken is just back from a week's sailing the Aegean onboard Marella Explorer. Here's what he had to say:

Marella Cruises offers wonderful value for all-inclusive cruising with regular promotions throughout the year. Click here to take a look- after you read Ken's blog of course!

If you're dreaming of turquoise waters, ancient ruins, and sun-drenched islands, the Aegean Shores itinerary on the Marella Explorer might just be your perfect escape. I recently had the chance to experience this cruise, and here’s my honest take on what it’s like to sail through the heart of the Aegean.

First Impressions of the Marella Explorer

Marella Explorer isn’t the flashiest ship on the seas, but it’s got charm. The vibe onboard is relaxed and friendly, with an all-inclusive package that covers meals, drinks, tips, and even flights and transfers. That means you can truly switch off and enjoy the journey.

My cabin, a Large Balcony Cabin, was a highlight. Spacious, with a hammock and sun lounger, it became my go-to spot for watching the sunset over the islands. The decor is simple, but everything is clean and functional.

Life Onboard

There’s plenty to do when you’re not exploring the ports. The saltwater pool and hot tubs are great for unwinding, and the Veranda adults-only sun deck offers a peaceful retreat. I spent a few afternoons at the Ocean Spa, which has panoramic views and a calming atmosphere.

Dining was a pleasant surprise. From buffet-style meals to Mediterranean dishes and specialty restaurants, there’s something for every palate. The food was consistently good, with lots of variety.

Exploring the Aegean

This itinerary is packed with iconic destinations:

• Santorini: Instead of the usual crowds in Oia, I explored quieter villages like Megalochori and Pyrgos. Peaceful, authentic, and stunning.
• Kefalonia: A postcard-perfect town with whitewashed buildings and winding alleys. Great for shopping and photography.
• Crete: I visited Chania and the White Mountains. Even with a bit of rain, the scenery was breathtaking.
• Corfu: Lush landscapes and Venetian architecture make this island a standout.
• Kusadasi (Turkey): A great spot for shopping and excursions to Ephesus.

Each port offered something unique, and the excursions were well-organized and enriching.

Final Thoughts

The Aegean Shores cruise on the Marella Explorer is a fantastic value-for-money getaway. It’s ideal for first-time cruisers and seasoned travellers alike. While the ship isn’t ultra-modern, the overall experience- from the destinations to the onboard service- makes it a memorable and worthwhile trip.

If you're looking for a mix of sun, sea, and culture, this cruise ticks all the boxes.

Click here to visit our Marella Cruises page.

Want to speak with us? Ken and the team are here to answer any questions you have.

021 493 5806 or 0818 300 205
cruise@shandontravel.ie