Marella Cruises has for the first time commissioned two new-build vessels following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement with Italian shipbuilding group Fincantieri

Scheduled for delivery in 2031 and 2033, the order marks the TUI-owned line’s first steps toward replacing what it describes as an “aging fleet”.

Fincantieri says the ships will focus on environmental sustainability, elegant design, high-quality materials, and spacious accommodation, with the value of the order expected to exceed £1.7 billion.

Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and general manager, Fincantieri, said: “We are proud to welcome Marella Cruises as a new customer and to support its vision as it enters the newbuild segment.

“This agreement is a testament to Fincantieri’s ability to forge strategic partnerships with an expanding client base, reinforcing our long-term visibility and ensuring a high level of capacity saturation for our shipyards.”

In January Marella Cruises reported its best-ever month for sales following an increase in trade bookings.