TUI River Cruises is set to expand its European fleet with the launch of its largest ship yet, the TUI Ria.
The newly refurbished vessel has capacity for 190 passengers across 96 cabins and will set sail on the River Rhine and Moselle in April 2026.
TUI Ria will be the operator’s fourth adult-only ship to sail Europe’s rivers, alongside Isla, Maya and Skyla, and will offer six, seven, eight and nine-night itineraries from Amsterdam, Basel and Frankfurt.
The new routes include the Moselle and North Rhine tour from Frankfurt and the North Rhine and Moselle Explorer and Dutch Delta Discovery from Amsterdam.
But the ship itself is well worth the trip, as it’s the first TUI River Cruise ship in Europe to include a pool with panoramic views, a sauna, sun loungers, a putting green and a shuffleboard on the upper deck.
What’s more, the onboard swimming pool doubles as a restaurant; in the evening, the pool floor will rise to close off the water, transforming the space into a secondary dining venue and entertainment area. It even has a retractable roof, so you can take a dip whatever the weather.
The ship will include ‘modern’ and ‘spacious’ interiors, with a choice of restaurants, loungers and entertainment spaces, TUI says.
And like the rest of the European fleet, TUI Ria will offer full board plus as standard, which includes meals, drinks and various onboard activities. Early birds will also be able to snag a £50 shore excursion credit if they book before November 30.
Breaks on the inaugraul Dutch Delta Discovery itinerary start at £1,649 per person based on two adults sharing a deck one cabin on a full board basis, including
Passengers can also choose from two new direct flights on selected dates and itineraries: from Bristol to Amsterdam, or Newcastle to Frankfurt.
Katy Berzins, Head of TUI River Cruises, said: ‘We’re thrilled to be expanding our fleet with the addition of the latest ship to sail the European waterways. This marks another significant step in the growth of TUI River Cruises, following our second newly refurbished ship announcement in just one month.
‘TUI Ria will provide more customers than ever the opportunity to explore Europe’s stunning rivers, offering new routes and alternatives, all with convenient access from UK regional airports.
‘Onboard TUI Ria, guests can enjoy a unique all-weather pool with panoramic views and a versatile venue that transitions from a daytime space to an evening dining and entertainment area.
‘These innovative features of TUI Ria, combined with enhanced accessibility from UK regional airports, will strengthen TUI River Cruises’ position in the market, offering customers more choice and flexibility in how they choose to sail with us.’
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