Marella Explorer
Marella Explorer is a Century-class cruise ship now owned and operated by Marella Cruises. She began life as Galaxy for Celebrity Cruises and later sailed as Celebrity Galaxy before joining TUI Cruises as Mein Schiff, then Mein Schiff 1, and finally Marella Explorer in 2018.
Built by Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, the ship cost about $320 million. The keel was laid on 25 May 1995, she was launched in May 1996, delivered on 10 October 1996, and entered service on 21 December 1996.
Ownership and names over the years:
- Celebrity Cruises (1996–1997)
- Royal Caribbean Group (1997–2018)
- TUI Group / Marella Cruises (2018–present)
Registry history:
- Liberia (1996–2002)
- Bahamas (2002–2008)
- Malta (2008–present)
Specifications:
- 76,998 gross tons
- Length 259.7 m, beam 32.2 m, draft 7.7 m
- Capacity about 1,924 passengers and 909 crew
- Power: 29,250 kW from two MAN B&W diesel engines, twin propellers
Notable events:
- 2001: The Galaxy struck a propeller issue requiring repairs
- 2014: A fire occurred in the incinerator on Mein Schiff 1 but was quickly put out
- 2018: Major makeover in Cadiz before joining Marella Cruises
Current status: In service as Marella Explorer, sailing for Marella Cruises with updated amenities and decor.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 04:03 (CET).