The Marella Explorer, operated by TUI Cruises, is a popular all-inclusive cruise ship offering fantastic destinations and amenities. But not all cabins are created equal. If you’re booking a cruise on this ship, it’s essential to know which Marella Explorer cabins to avoid so you can enjoy smooth sailing and restful nights at sea.
This guide provides detailed insights on less desirable cabins, what to watch out for, and tips on choosing the best location on board.
Quick Overview: Marella Explorer Ship
- Capacity: ~1,924 passengers
- Decks: 13 passenger decks
- Cabin types: Inside, Outside, Balcony, and Suites
- Refurbished: Fully revamped in 2018 (formerly Celebrity Galaxy)
Marella Explorer Cabins to Avoid – By Category
Cabins Below the Pool Deck (Deck 10 – Forward/Aft)
Why to avoid: Noise from sun loungers, early morning setup, and foot traffic.
- Affected cabins: Deck 9 forward/aft (e.g., 9010–9025, 9530–9545)
- Expect scraping sounds and thumping from above, especially early morning.
Cabins Near the Nightclub or Theatre (Decks 5–6 Aft)
Why to avoid: Late-night noise, music, and crowd movement.
- Affected cabins: Deck 5 & 6 aft (near Indigo Nightclub and Broadway Show Lounge)
- Noise may continue until midnight or later.
Obstructed View Outside Cabins (Deck 8 Midship)
Why to avoid: Lifeboats and equipment may block your ocean view.
- Affected cabins: Cabins like 8020–8035 (Deck 8 midship)
- Book with caution if you’re expecting a clear sea view.
Cabins Near Service Areas or Lifts
Why to avoid: Crew activity, cleaning carts, or elevator noise.
- Affected cabins: Near crew entrances, stairwells, or lift shafts
- Common on Decks 4, 5, and 9 depending on layout
Forward-Facing Cabins
Why to avoid: More movement in rough seas, which may cause motion sickness.
- Affected cabins: Cabins at very front of Decks 8–10
- Not ideal for those sensitive to ship motion
General Tips to Avoid Bad Cabins
Tip | Why It Matters |
Avoid cabins above or below busy venues | Prevent noise disturbance at night or early morning |
Choose midship cabins | Better stability, less movement |
Check for obstructed views | Some “outside” cabins have lifeboat-blocked windows |
Read deck plans carefully | Spot cabins near laundries, lifts, or service doors |
Use cruise forums & reviews | Get real passenger feedback on specific cabin numbers |
Best Marella Explorer Cabins (If You Can Choose)
Cabin Type | Best Picks |
Inside Cabin | Midship on Deck 6 or 7 – quiet and stable |
Outside Cabin | Forward on Deck 5 – good value, lower noise |
Balcony Cabin | Mid to aft on Deck 8 or 9 – great views and comfort |
Executive Suite | Deck 10 aft – spacious with top-tier amenities |
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Conclusion
While the Marella Explorer is a fantastic ship overall, knowing which cabins to avoid can make or break your cruise experience. Whether you’re trying to dodge noisy venues or avoid obstructed views, booking wisely ensures peaceful nights and a more enjoyable holiday.
Use deck plans, cabin reviews, and this guide to pick the perfect stateroom—and set sail with confidence.
FAQs
1. Which Marella Explorer cabins have the worst location?
Avoid cabins directly under the pool deck or nightclubs, and those with obstructed views midship on Deck 8.
2. Are all Marella Explorer inside cabins the same?
No. Some inside cabins are better located (midship) and quieter, while others may be near busy areas.
3. How do I avoid a noisy cabin on Marella Explorer?
Choose cabins midship, away from theatres, lounges, or above/below busy decks like the pool area.
4. What does “obstructed view” mean on Marella Explorer?
It means your window or porthole may be blocked by lifeboats or structural elements, limiting your ocean view.
5. Is it worth upgrading to a balcony cabin on Marella Explorer?
Yes, especially for scenic routes like the Mediterranean or Canary Islands. Balcony cabins offer private outdoor space and better views.
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