TUI River Cruises unveils first ship on the Nile  

“This will ensure a variety of activities for those cruising with us during the warm, winter months,” she says. “It hosts TUI River Cruises’ first swimming pool and two hot tubs on board. In addition to this, customers can try light bites, such as mini burgers and fruit served in the afternoon, while taking in the exceptional views of the river Nile.”

At night, the deck transforms into the al fresco dining venue Felucca, which offers locally inspired cuisine served by waiters wearing traditional galabaya clothing.

“The multi-functional space hosts a range of top-quality entertainment so guests can make the most out of the winter sunshine on board including music acts, movies under the stars as well as other activities,” says Ms Bezins. “The space also hosts afternoon tea.”

The 72 cabins on TUI Al Horeya include single and standard cabins, plus two large balcony suites situated in a prime spot overlooking the front of the vessel.

Ms Bezins says, “The cabins serve as peaceful retreats, offering plush bedding, modern amenities, and a calming colour palette that aligns with the ship’s overall aesthetic. Each room is equipped with up-to-date technology to ensure a comfortable stay.”

The line, which caters solely for adults, was mindful of its UK customer base when refurbishing the vessel.

“All elements when producing the cabins take into account the British market,” explains Ms Bezins. “The balcony suite cabins are only available on our Nile cruises. At 23 m², they provide more space than our standard cabins and come with a double bed and a compact Juliet balcony that customers can step out on.

“With this, the larger bathroom includes upgraded toiletries, a shower and a hairdryer, and there are lots of little extras, too, like an espresso machine, a nightly turndown service, sockets with USB ports and a complimentary minibar on arrival. On board, there is a continental breakfast twice per week and a 30-minute massage included. Customers get all the standard features, as well, including a TV, a safety deposit box, tea and coffee making facilities, and air-conditioning.”

Other public areas include the Observatory Lounge, which is the hub of the ship, and the main restaurant Lazeeza, which means delicious in Arabic.

As well Egyptian influences in the name of the ship and various venues, throughout the vessel there are references to local traditional culture, such as artwork in the cabins and table cloths in the Felucca restaurant.

Elsewhere, successful design elements from the European fleet, such as the Observatory Lounge, tea and coffee station and library have been adapted and replicated on the Nile ship.

Additionally, Ms Bezins says TUI refurbished the ship to its own specifications so the line was able to add new venues, such as the hybrid top deck, that were inspired by the destination and provide a new bespoke experience for passengers.

“This cruise ship blends modern luxury with comfort, making it the perfect choice for travellers seeking a refined yet enjoyable river cruise experience,” concludes Ms Bezins. This exciting venture marks TUI River Cruises’ first expansion into North Africa, offering customers greater variety with sailings outside of European waters. We are confident this new offering will be a hit with our customers throughout the winter season.

“TUI River Cruises will continue to share the same TUI DNA in providing exceptional service to all customers on board TUI Al Horeya as it already does across its European fleet of ships.”

TUI Al Horeya sails on a week-long round-trip Luxor itinerary, which includes overnights in Luxor and Aswan and stops at Edfu and Kom Ombo. To enhance the guest experience, cruise fares include new direct TUI flights from London Gatwick and Manchester. Following successful sales of TUI Al Horeya during its maiden season, TUI River Cruises is launching a second ship on the Nile. Also a refurbished five-star ship, TUI Bahareya will debut in winter 2025.

The expanding line currently has three other vessels based in Europe on the Rhine, Danube, Main and Moselle – TUI Isla, TUI Skyla and TUI Maya – and in 2025 it will also launch its first-ever newbuild, TUI Alma, on Portugal’s Douro.

Sign up for Riviera’s series of technical and operational webinars and conferences:

• Register to attend by visiting our events page.
• Watch recordings from all of our webinars in the webinar library.