V.Ships Leisure, part of V.Group, has secured a five-year ship management contract with Marella Cruises, TUI UK&I’s ocean cruise line. This agreement encompasses full technical, crewing, digital, and ESG management for Marella’s five cruise ships, with operations set to begin by late 2025. The first two vessels will transition to V.Ships Leisure management by year-end, while the remaining three will join in early 2026.
To enhance its UK presence, V.Ships Leisure will establish a dedicated Marella Cruises fleet cell at its Southampton office, supported by the broader V. network. This move underscores V.’s commitment to delivering local expertise alongside its global capabilities. The partnership will utilize V.’s ShipSure platform for data-driven decision-making in fleet maintenance and operations, promoting efficient management and greater operational transparency for Marella Cruises.
Marella will also benefit from V.’s comprehensive management services and its V.ERDE program, focused on decarbonization and environmental compliance. Adrian Hibbert, Marella Cruises’ Cruise Operations Director, praised V.Ships Leisure’s team and expertise, expressing eagerness for a collaborative, sustainable operational future. Per Bjørnsen, CEO of V.Ships Leisure, highlighted the contract as a testament to their commitment to ESG and digital innovation in the cruise industry.
