Cruise Line Marella Discovery 2 to Become Adults-Only in 2027
Marella Cruises is converting its largest ship to cater exclusively to passengers over 18, citing growing demand for child-free vacations.
Marella Cruises, operated by TUI, will rebrand its Marella Discovery 2 as a permanent adults-only ship starting in winter 2027. The conversion will involve redeveloping spaces currently used for child entertainment into new onboard amenities.
The ship, which has 918 cabins, will see its children's areas transformed into a speakeasy bar, an escape room, a karaoke room, and an arts and crafts area. This strategic shift aims to enhance the vessel's appeal to passengers over 18, a demographic experiencing increasing demand for dedicated adult cruising experiences. Marella Cruises CEO Chris Hackney noted that the transformation is in response to this growing demand, with the company aiming to further elevate the onboard experience.
The Marella Discovery 2 will be home-porting from Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Malaga during the winter 2027 season. Its sister ship, Marella Discovery, currently features a speakeasy bar called The Exchange, known for its themed cocktails and 1920s-style entertainment.
Marella Cruises is not alone in this trend. Several other cruise lines have also introduced or expanded their adults-only offerings. Oceania Cruises, an American luxury operator, transitioned to adult-only voyages on January 7, aiming to elevate the onboard ambiance. According to Oceania's chief luxury officer Jason Montague, extensive research indicated that loyal customers value a tranquil environment, sophisticated service, and an unhurried pace, elements sought by mature, affluent travelers.
Oceania Cruises' chief commercial officer Nathan Hickman estimated that children represent a negligible portion of their guest base, with the average age of passengers being in their mid-60s, suggesting the transition would have minimal impact on their customer numbers.
Virgin Voyages operates an entirely adults-only fleet, comprising Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and Brilliant Lady, featuring vibrant entertainment and dining options curated by Michelin-starred chefs.
Other lines catering to adult travelers include Viking, whose entire fleet is child-free and primarily sails in Europe, and Fred Olsen, which offers quiet, intimate sailing experiences, particularly on its Borealis ship, attracting an older demographic. P&O Cruises also provides adults-only itineraries on its Arcadia and Aurora ships.