Denise van Outen has returned as Marella Cruises' Chief Chill-out Officer, continuing a light-hearted role designed to help holidaymakers begin relaxing before they step aboard.
The television and stage presenter was first appointed to the tongue-in-cheek position in April 2025. Marella said her task was to share simple ways of switching on a "mental out of office" and making the most of valuable holiday time.
Her suggestions included enjoying a champagne breakfast in bed and wearing holiday clothes while completing household chores before departure. The idea was to help passengers move out of their everyday routine and into holiday mode sooner.
At the time of her original appointment, Van Outen said she was thrilled to become Marella's first Chief Chill-out Officer and wanted to help people relax faster before setting sail.
"We all deserve to maximise our precious holiday time and I'm excited to share our lazy hacks to help people relax faster and fully embrace the Marella Cruises lifestyle, before they set sail."
Marella revived the partnership in 2026, with Van Outen returning to promote what the company calls guilt-free relaxation. The renewed campaign included the playful "PJkini" concept: a swimwear-and-nightwear hybrid intended to take passengers from their cabin to the pool and restaurant without changing outfits.
The Chief Chill-out Officer title is a promotional appointment rather than an operational position within the cruise line. Nevertheless, it gives Marella a recognisable face for its message that a cruise should offer time to switch off, have fun and leave everyday decisions behind.
Marella Cruises operates all-inclusive fly-cruise holidays, with packages combining flights, accommodation, onboard dining, drinks, entertainment and transfers. Its flights depart from more than 20 UK regional airports, depending on itinerary and season.