TUI's Marella Cruises make big change to all-inclusive drinks packages

Marella Cruises has announced a major update to its all-inclusive drinks menu, kicking off this month.

The TUI-owned cruise line has revealed it is expanding its all-inclusive drinks range to include a number of low and no alcohol options including % red, white, rosé and sparkling wine, Heineken 0% and Somersby 0% cider. The cruise firm is also going to be adding gluten free Estrella beer to its menu.

This will all be alongside its existing offerings which include draughts on tap, bottled beers, ales, spirits, ports, liqueurs, sherries and aperitifs, as well as selected soft drinks, house wine and prosecco by the glass, and a few cocktails and mocktails.

For those who are on a Premium All Inclusive package, there will also be six 0% ABV spirits on offer including Lyre's London Dry Gin, Lyre's American Malt Bourbon, Lyre's White Cane Rum, Lyre's Agave Blanco Tequila, Lyre's Coffee Originale and Lyre's Italian Spritz.

That also means new alcohol free cocktails onboard such as the Nojito, Grapefruit Refresher, Summer Sour and a Gentle Fashioned.

The new menu are available across the entire Marella Cruises fleet from this month.

Luke Saunders, Food and Drink Development Manager at Marella Cruises said: "We are pleased to be expanding our non-alcoholic drinks menus onboard across our ships. After listening to customer feedback and reviewing the gaps in our menu, we want to enhance a customer’s experience onboard and cater to those who would prefer a non-alcoholic alternative. We are looking forward to our new and returning customers trying out 0% cocktails for when they are next onboard."

You can find out more about what's included in the various drinks packages on tui.co.uk.

When it comes to booking cruises, an all-inclusive drinks package can of course make a difference to your budget. However according to one TUI travel agent, there's one common mistake people make when booking a holiday.

Michelle Kirkham has worked at TUI for 38 years as a Retail Manager, helping thousands of Brits plan their holidays. "The biggest error people make is choosing purely based on price," the travel pro explained. "A cheaper deal isn’t always better if it doesn’t match what you want from your holiday. The secret is picking the right ship and experience first."

She added: "You spend most of your time onboard, so the ship really shapes your holiday. Whether you want something relaxed, family friendly or adults only, that choice makes all the difference."

As for which cabin to go for? Michelle recommended: "If your budget allows, go for a balcony cabin. It gives you space, privacy and those incredible sea views. It really elevates your first cruise."

Have you got a cruise story to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com