Marella Cruises has announced a significant update to its all-inclusive drinks menu, rolling out across its entire fleet from this month. The TUI-owned cruise line is expanding its drinks range to include a variety of low and no-alcohol options, such as alcohol-free red, white, rosé and sparkling wine, Heineken 0% and Somersby 0% cider. Gluten-free Estrella beer will also be added to the menu.
New offerings alongside existing favourites
These additions join the existing all-inclusive 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 selection of cocktails and mocktails.
For guests on the Premium All Inclusive package, there will be six 0% ABV spirits available, 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. This also means new alcohol-free cocktails onboard, such as the Nojito, Grapefruit Refresher, Summer Sour and a Gentle Fashioned.
Customer feedback drives change
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."
The new menu is available across the entire Marella Cruises fleet from this month. More details about the various drinks packages can be found on tui.co.uk.
Booking advice from a TUI expert
When booking a cruise, an all-inclusive drinks package can affect your budget, but one TUI travel agent highlights a common mistake. Michelle Kirkham, who has worked at TUI for 38 years as a Retail Manager, said: "The biggest error people make is choosing purely based on price. 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." Regarding cabins, she 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."
