Marella Cruises is broadening its horizons by adding Isla Catalina and Ponce to its winter 2025 itinerary. This marks the cruise line’s initial entry into these vibrant destinations.
With itineraries going on sale today, travellers can expect an enriched selection of cultural and scenic experiences that these new ports promise to offer.
New Destinations Announced
Marella Cruises is set to expand its portfolio by adding two new ports for the Marella Discovery from December 16, 2025. The new destinations, Isla Catalina in the Dominican Republic and Ponce in Puerto Rico, mark the cruise line’s first foray into these regions. This expansion is part of a larger strategy to diversify Marella’s offerings and attract a broader range of travellers.
In addition to the new ports, the ‘Tropical Isles’ itinerary will originate from La Romana, Dominican Republic, and includes stops at San Jean, Puerto Rico, Charlotte Amalie, and Fredriksted in the US Virgin Islands. These additions are expected to enhance the travel experiences of the cruise line’s guests, offering them a taste of the vibrant culture and scenic beauty of the Caribbean islands.
Enhancements to Itineraries
The winter 2025 programme also introduces the ‘Exotic Islands’ itinerary aboard Marella Discovery 2, commencing January 8, 2026. This journey includes destinations such as Barbados, St Lucia, Aruba, Curacao, and Grenada, promising a diverse range of experiences for travellers looking to explore the distinctive charm of these islands.
New overnight stays have been made available in Willemstad, Curacao, providing passengers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture. Additionally, cruise-and-stay options at the Hilton Barbados Resort and Radisson Aquatica in Hastings offer guests extended opportunities to enjoy these exotic locales.
Management Perspectives
Chris Hackney, Managing Director at Marella Cruises, expressed excitement about the company’s latest offerings. He highlighted the uniqueness of the more remote island ports and aimed to provide guests with new discoveries. He stated, “We’re excited to be announcing our winter 2025 programme,” underscoring Marella’s commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction.
The strategic selection of remote ports underscores the company’s goal to offer unique travel experiences. This approach is expected to distinguish Marella Cruises in a competitive market by providing itineraries that cater to the adventurer within.
Additional Offerings by TUI
TUI River Cruises, a sister brand, is also expanding its offerings with new sailings on the river Danube starting November 2025. These itineraries include four and five-night cruises on the Tui Maya, promising a unique winter experience across charming European cities and iconic Christmas markets.
Complementing this, the Tui Isla and Tui Skyla will embark on four-night cruises on the Rhine. These cruises are designed to appeal to new-to-cruise customers by offering shorter, more accessible sailings that introduce the delights of TUI’s services.
Exclusive flights to Luxor for winter 2025 Nile sailings on Tui Al Horeya are set to leave from Gatwick and Manchester airports. These flights will cater to travellers looking for a unique blend of history and culture, solidifying TUI’s position in the river cruising market.
Strategic Developments
The addition of Isla Catalina and Ponce to Marella’s itinerary is a strategic move aimed at strengthening the cruise line’s market position. Each new destination has been selected to provide a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, enhancing the overall travel experience for Marella’s guests.
This strategic expansion is expected to not only attract new customers but also retain existing ones by continuously offering fresh and exciting travel options. The integration of these destinations into the winter 2025 itineraries demonstrates Marella Cruises’ adaptability and forward-thinking approach in an evolving travel industry.
Customer Experience and Market Impact
The introduction of these new itineraries and destinations reflects Marella Cruises’ dedication to improving customer experience. By offering diverse destinations and tailored experiences, the cruise line aims to meet the varied preferences of its guests.
The expanded itineraries are designed to captivate both new and seasoned cruisers, providing ample opportunities for exploration and enjoyment. The enhancement of Marella’s offerings is anticipated to have a significant impact in the cruise market, setting new benchmarks for luxury and personalised travel experiences.
Conclusion
Marella Cruises’ addition of Isla Catalina and Ponce to its winter 2025 itineraries underscores its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. By broadening its range of destinations and enhancing itinerary offerings, the cruise line is ensuring a memorable travel experience that aligns with the diverse preferences of modern travellers.
Marella Cruises is setting a new precedent in the industry with its innovative winter 2025 itinerary. By introducing new ports and enriching travel experiences, the cruise line is poised to capture the interest of both new and seasoned travellers alike.
This strategic expansion not only emphasises Marella’s ability to adapt and innovate but also reinforces its position as a leader in the cruise industry.
