TUI River Cruises Unveils Biggest Summer Program for 2027

The River Douro in Portugal
Cruise Industry Europe
By
Updated Published

TUI River Cruises has revealed plans for its most ambitious summer schedule yet, highlighted by the debut of its first-ever newbuild vessel, the TUI Luzia, which will begin sailing the Douro River in Portugal during summer 2027.

According to the company, the new season will officially go on sale starting October 16, 2025, featuring 35 itineraries across its European fleet from March through October 2027.

New Ship And Milestone Launch

Katy Berzins, head of TUI River Cruises, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce TUI Luzia, our first newbuild ship, which will sail the stunning River Douro in Portugal, a brand-new destination for TUI River Cruises. This marks a major milestone as we launch our biggest summer program to date, with more itineraries, more durations and exciting new ports of call across Europe.”

The name Luzia, meaning “light” in Portuguese, reflects the ship’s modern design. The vessel will carry 111 guests across four decks, offering 56 cabins in a variety of layouts, including Super French Balcony, Balcony, French Balcony Suites, and a single cabin option.

Amenities include a top deck with a shallow pool and sun loungers, and a bar and dining venue named Cinder, which will be open daily for drinks and self-serve lunches. The ship will operate on a Full Board Plus basis, with the option to upgrade to All-Inclusive.

Expanded Itineraries Across Europe

The 2027 program also introduces two new destinations:

  • Zaandam, Netherlands, as part of the Dutch Delta Discovery on the TUI Aria sailing the Dutch and Belgian Waterways.
  • Aljmaš, Croatia, a scenic village on the Danube, included in the East Danube Delights itinerary aboard TUI Maya.

In addition, shorter sailings have been added to appeal to newcomers to river cruising. Options range from three nights to 15 nights, covering the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, and Belgian and Dutch Waterways.

Prices And Pre-Registration

Pricing starts at £899 per person for the three-night Grand Capitals cruise on the TUI Maya. Bookings officially open on October 16, 2025, with a pre-registration service available beginning October 2, 2025.