Limassol, Cyprus. The arrival of the Marella Discovery II at the Port of Limassol earlier this week marked the start of Cyprus’ cruise season, according to DP World Limassol CEO Simon Pitout. The port operator said the docking reaffirmed the island’s position in regional maritime tourism.
Port call and home-port plans
In an announcement released on Thursday, DP World Limassol said the vessel’s docking “reaffirmed the island’s key position in the regional maritime tourism industry”. The company said Marella Discovery II will use DP World Limassol’s cruise terminal as its home port throughout the 2026 season, signalling continued confidence in the port’s infrastructure.
‘Fly and Cruise’ package to Cyprus
The voyage also marked the second consecutive full ‘Fly and Cruise’ package to Cyprus, which DP World Limassol said strengthened the island’s appeal as an integrated travel destination. The port operator described the selection of the terminal as a vote of confidence in Cyprus’ tourism and aviation connectivity, with the island serving as the main embarkation and disembarkation point for passengers.
Travel model and ship details
The ‘Fly and Cruise’ model combines flights and cruises, with travellers arriving at Larnaca and Paphos airports before transferring to Limassol. Operated by Marella Cruises, a UK-based subsidiary of TUI Group, the ship has 11 passenger decks and 918 cabins, along with onboard facilities including an outdoor cinema, a rock-climbing wall and a mini golf course.
Season schedule and itinerary
DP World Limassol is expected to host 26 port calls between April and October. The vessel will follow an eight-day itinerary with stops at Kusadasi, Mykonos, Piraeus, Souda in Crete and Rhodes before returning to Limassol.
How might the ‘Fly and Cruise’ model affect your decision to choose Cyprus as a cruise starting point?