it was our first time on Marella and we enjoyed it. We usually cruise with P & O and we found them fairly similar. There were pros and cons. The dining room was superb as were all the waiting staff, so friendly. probably more menu choice on P &O. The theatre group were brilliant with both singing and acting better than p& O but the actual performances were more quirky. the final show of Movies was brilliant. I felt they were sadly lacking with other entertainment on board. There were 4 grand pianos that were rarely used and when they were for the odd half an hour the singing wasn't that good. We have been used to better. There were no onboard talks or special guests and no choir which we like on P & o.

The cabins were great, large shower with a glass door with just shower gel on the wall, no separate shampoo, lotion etc.The cabin steward was lovely and good at his job. we had a large balcony cabin and that was worth it because no chance of getting a sun lounger after about 7.30! One thing I did miss was the adults only pool. Although this pool only ever had about 8 people in at one time the decks were full. ( Why don't people swim?) so very noisy. There was an adults only part of deck but small and not near the pool. We chose this ship because of the itinerary and we weren't disappointed. Would however have liked the choice to do an afternoon one but they seemed to be all mornings.