Marella Cruises has revealed a lineup of headline performers for its upcoming 30th Birthday sailings in May 2026, with British singers Pixie Lott and Lemar among the latest stars confirmed for the celebrations.
The anniversary cruises will take place across the cruise line’s five-ship fleet, starting from May 1, 2026, marking three decades of Marella Cruises operating in the UK market. Guests sailing during the special voyages can expect a packed schedule of live concerts, celebrity appearances, and themed events inspired by the 1990s.
Pixie Lott and Lemar headline the celebrations
Three-time UK number-one artist Pixie Lott will perform onboard Marella Discovery, bringing some of her best-known hits to the birthday sailing. Guests can look forward to hearing popular tracks including All About Tonight, Cry Me Out, and Boys and Girls during her live performance.
Meanwhile, double Brit Award-winning singer Lemar will headline entertainment aboard Marella Explorer 2. Known for chart-topping songs and seven UK Top-10 singles, Lemar will perform a selection of his classic tracks for guests sailing on the anniversary voyage.
Celebrity guests and live Q&A sessions
In addition to live music performances, the celebration cruises will feature several well-known British television personalities and entertainers taking part in special events and live Q&A sessions.
Broadcaster Michaela Strachan will host storytelling sessions about her four-decade career in television, sharing experiences ranging from children’s programs and music shows to wildlife documentaries filmed around the world. She will appear on both Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Voyager during the anniversary sailings.
The entertainment lineup also includes singer and radio presenter Fleur East, pop duo Boyzlife, drag performer La Voix, Olympic ski-jumper Eddie the Eagle, and television presenter Anthea Turner.
Celebrations across the entire fleet
Each of the cruise line’s ships will host unique events during the seven-night anniversary sailings, including gala celebrations, themed parties, and nostalgic activities inspired by the 1990s.
Among the onboard highlights will be:
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A special Birthday Gala event
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“Party Like It’s 1996” themed celebrations
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Quayside anniversary festivities
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1990s trivia quizzes
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Retro television box sets and entertainment from the decade
Chris Hackney, CEO of Marella Cruises said the anniversary sailings are designed to celebrate both the brand’s history and its loyal customers.
“With Marella Cruises marking 30 years in the UK, we’re excited to announce even more headline acts with British stars such as Pixie Lott and Lemar for both new and returning cruise customers,” Hackney said. “This celebration will take guests on a nostalgic journey back to 1996 with music, quizzes and entertainment inspired by the era.”
Pixie Lott also expressed her excitement about joining the celebrations, saying she is looking forward to bringing the party atmosphere to the cruise line’s milestone event.