Imagine stepping back into the 1990s, surrounded by bucket hats, double denim and the sounds of cheesy pop classics. This wasn't a dream but the reality for cruise editor Marc Shoffman and his wife Danielle, who recently experienced Marella Cruises' adult-only Electric Sunsets voyage.
The three-night nostalgic sailing from Palma, Mallorca, transported thousands of guests back to their teenage years, creating a music festival atmosphere at sea without the angst and acne of actual adolescence.
A Time Capsule on the Waves
From the moment passengers arrived at Palma port, the 90s theme was unmistakable. Kevin and Perry lookalikes welcomed guests aboard Marella Voyager with all the moody teenage authenticity the characters are famous for.
The pool deck served as the cruise's focal point, featuring a main stage and vibrant pool party vibe where guests sipped cocktails while reminiscing about simpler times before smartphones dominated our lives.
Regular passengers shared stories about previous legendary 90s acts that had performed on board, including Pat Sharpe and the Vengaboys, setting high expectations for this year's entertainment lineup.
Pop Royalty and Themed Adventures
This year's musical entertainment didn't disappoint. Guests were treated to performances from Irish pop group B*witched, who delivered iconic classics like "Rollercoaster" and "C'est la Vie," even giving their best-known tune a modern twist with "Galway Girl."
The entertainment extended to dance music acts Big Brovaz and Booty Luv, plus an appearance from former Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt, creating a lineup that felt like stepping directly into a 90s edition of Smash Hits magazine.
Unlike traditional cruises, the Electric Sunsets experience had a music festival feel. Guests received lanyards detailing performance timings and meet-and-greet opportunities rather than standard cruise planners.
Dressing the Part: Fancy Dress Extravaganza
Themed dressing reached new heights aboard this special sailing. While the cruise maintained some rules - notably banning body paint and glitter to keep cabin stewards happy - creativity flourished.
Marc Shoffman pushed boundaries by transforming into Robbie Williams from the "Rock DJ" era, complete with white face paint, while his wife Danielle sparkled as Geri Halliwell in a Union Jack dress.
Public areas provided inspiration with cardboard cut-outs of nostalgic favourites from Baywatch, Gladiators and Only Fools and Horses. Guests displayed impressive creativity, from armies of Geri Halliwells to more niche costumes like one passenger who came as Dolly the sheep.
The school disco night proved particularly popular, allowing guests to resurrect 90s hairstyles and fashion without judgment for dad-dancing or questionable style choices.
Nostalgic Touches and Modern Comforts
Throughout the ship, thoughtful details enhanced the time-travel experience. The Gamer Zone transformed into a locker room where guests faced challenges about 90s trivia, while Coffee Port became Central Perk, complete with the famous brown couch from Friends.
Perhaps the most Instagram-worthy installation was the recreated teenage bedroom in the atrium, featuring Garfield sheets, Nirvana posters and a glowing lava lamp - all suspiciously cleaner than most teenage bedrooms ever were.
Despite the heavy nostalgia focus, guests could still enjoy Marella Voyager's regular amenities. The pan-Asian restaurant Kora La served delicious thali platters to guests dressed as everything from Buzz Lightyear to Austin Powers.
Even normal activities received a nostalgic makeover. Boom Boom Bingo had guests ticking off hits like "Livin' La Vida Loca" and "Umbrella" during a sunny port day in Valencia.
Planning Your Own Nostalgic Escape
The magical bubble eventually burst as the ship returned to reality in Malaga. By the final morning, all Electric Sunsets signage and stages had been removed, leaving only tired but happy passengers waiting for airport transfers.
Marc reflected that while the nostalgia was wonderful to experience as a more comfortable adult, one thing hadn't changed - though the hangovers certainly felt like they lasted longer.
Marella Cruises' sixth Electric Sunsets cruise is scheduled for 28 April to 1 May 2027, offering a roundtrip sailing from Palma with stops in Valencia and Ibiza. The theme will focus on 80s and 90s nostalgia aboard the adult-only Marella Discovery.
While acts are yet to be announced, prices start from £799 per person, offering Brits the chance to relive their youth in sun-drenched style.
