Thanks Brummijam - I thought I had seen it mentioned somewhere - didn’t think to check the TUI airways site - although others here say it doesn’t t always happen.
Re this bit - “If this applies to you, it’ll be noted in your booking confirmation”
where in the booking confirmation does it show if this bonded transfer is applicable to the specify cruise ?
update - just found this on my booking blurb:
CHECKING-IN YOUR LUGGAGE
To check in your bags in the UK you'll need to have printed and attached your Marella Cruises luggage tag from Cruise Control. Once at the airport, check into your flight as normal and we'll security seal your bag. Upon arrival in your destination, there's no need to collect your bags when you land as they’ll be sent straight to the ship - just make your way through to the arrivals hall where a Marella Cruises Representative will meet you and direct you to your transfer coach. There might be a short delay in your cases being delivered to your cabin when you board the ship, so pop any essentials into your hand luggage before you leave the UK. Please have your cruise boarding pass printed and ready for inspection - you'll need this to complete check-in and board the ship for the first time. Once onboard, you can swap your cruise boarding pass for your onboard account cards which will be waiting for you outside your cabin.
Would self service checkin work ok!?