Marella Cruises, TUI’s UK cruise line, is adding 70 new excursions to its Caribbean cruise programme.
All details correct at the time of publication (02 November 2026).
The new experiences offer customers more ways to explore the region. They include riding one of the world’s steepest zip lines in St Maarten, sailing a wind-powered land yacht in Bonaire and learning to play the steelpan in Tobago, where the instrument originated.
Customers can now book the excursions for winter 2026 sailings.
Many Marella Cruises fly-cruise holidays are designed to maximise time in port. These new experiences give customers more opportunities to discover local culture and make the most of their time ashore.
The excursions will be available across three ships operating in the Caribbean this winter. Marella Discovery will sail from La Romana in the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager will sail from Bridgetown, Barbados.
Chris Hackney, CEO of Marella Cruises, said: “Our itineraries are designed to make the most of time in port so customers can really get under the skin of each destination on each sailing. We’re already seeing strong early demand for these new experiences, with the Flying Dutchman zip line in St Maarten proving particularly popular and over 60% of places already sold.”
He added: “We’ve chosen experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing and connect customers with the culture of each island, whether that’s learning salsa in Ponce, where the music has shaped salsa around the world, or playing steelpan with local musicians in Tobago.”
“These additions give customers even more ways to try something new ashore, while still enjoying the ease and value of our all-inclusive fly-cruise holidays.”
New Marella Cruises Caribbean Excursions
The 70 new excursions include adventure activities, cultural experiences and guided tours. Here are five highlights for customers planning a Caribbean cruise.
Flying Dutchman, St Maarten
Thrill-seekers can ride the Flying Dutchman, one of the world’s steepest zip lines.
The experience begins at Rockland Estate, a historic property dating back to the 1700s. Customers then take the Sky Explorer chairlift to Sentry Hill, the island’s highest point.
From there, they descend the mountain at speeds of up to 56mph. The adventure continues with a gentler zip line along the ridge and the Schooner Ride, an inflatable ring ride down a winding track.
Pre-booked price: £98 per adult.
Sugar City Trolley Train, St Kitts
The Sugar City Trolley Train offers a relaxed way to discover the history and culture of St Kitts.
The colourful train travels through Basseterre, stopping at National Heroes Park and the Cenotaph. Along the way, customers pass the historic sugar factory that gave the island its Sugar City nickname.
The route also takes in the grounds of Government House. It’s an easy-paced excursion for customers who want to explore the island’s heritage and key sights.
Pre-booked price: £38 per adult and £38 per child.
Sounds of Ponce and Salsa Experience, Puerto Rico
Ponce is known for its rich musical heritage and its influence on salsa. This Puerto Rico excursion combines a scenic city tour with a hands-on music and dance workshop.
Customers travel through colourful streets while their guide shares stories about local artists, neighbourhoods and musical traditions.
The experience continues with a beginner-friendly workshop. Participants can try traditional instruments and learn the basics of salsa.
Pre-booked price: £79 per adult and £69 per child.
The Home of Steelpan, Tobago
Customers can discover the history of the steelpan in Scarborough, Tobago.
Skilled musicians demonstrate how the instrument is crafted and tuned. Customers then have the chance to play it themselves and learn simple melodies alongside local musicians.
Rum punch is included, and the experience ends with a live steelpan band performance.
Finally, the tour stops at historic Fort King George, where customers can enjoy panoramic views of Scarborough and the coastline.
Pre-booked price: £59 per adult.
Expedition to the Window Cave, Puerto Rico
Nature lovers can explore Cueva Ventana, also known as Window Cave, which sits above the lush Arecibo River Valley.
Led by an experienced guide, customers explore the cave’s chambers and discover ancient rock carvings. The tour also covers the area’s pre-Columbian heritage, local myths and legends.
Along the way, customers can look out for wildlife living within this unique ecosystem.
Pre-booked price: £88 per adult and £79 per child.
Seven-Night Caribbean Cruise from £1,541
Travel agents looking to recommend a Caribbean fly-cruise holiday can consider Marella Cruises’ seven-night Tropical Isles itinerary, sailing aboard Marella Discovery.
The all-inclusive package includes flights with TUI Airways from London Gatwick to La Romana in the Dominican Republic.
The itinerary also visits San Juan and Ponce in Puerto Rico, Charlotte Amalie and Frederiksted in the US Virgin Islands, and Isla Catalina in the Dominican Republic.
Prices start from £1,541 per person, departing on 12 January 2027.
For more information, visit Marella Cruises.
