TUI River Cruises to boost brand with new ship

The new ship will be one of the river cruise line’s “most intimate” capacity passenger ships across the European fleet, accommodating 138 passengers. The launch will be supported by a range of third‑party flight routes to Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Basel, available from seven UK airports. 

This announcement marks a milestone in the brand’s growth as TUI River Cruises approaches its fifth year of sailings, beginning the year with a strong performance and sales up 50% year-on-year for 2026, said the river cruise operator.

TUI Elara, meaning “bright” in Greek, will operate five, seven and 14 night Full Board Plus sailings from Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Basel with five new itineraries along the Rhine, Moselle, Dutch and Belgian waterways, making 15 itineraries in total, and will be the first ship in the fleet to sail to Brussels in Belgium. 

The adults only ship will feature the brand’s Verdastro as its main à la carte restaurant, and The Observatory as the primary lounge, bar and entertainment space. The Top Deck is designed as a relaxed, open-air space with sun loungers, a putting green and room for activities including yoga, deck games, and BBQs. 

The 138 passengers will be accommodated across 70 cabins including the brand’s first offering of eight French Balcony Junior Suite cabins. These 19.5m² cabins provide extra space with a coffee table, chair and en suite complete with a double sink, large shower, and upgraded toiletries. Additional services in the suite include nightly turndown services and continental breakfast in bed included within the price.  

Other cabins include standard cabins, superior French balcony cabins, French balcony cabins and two single cabins. 

TUI River Cruises head Katy Berzins said: “As we enter our fifth year of sailing, we’re thrilled to continue expanding our fleet with the introduction of TUI Elara to Europe’s waterways. Demand for more immersive, experience‑rich travel continues to grow, and TUI River Cruises is all about giving customers the freedom and flexibility to explore multiple rivers and destinations in their own way. 

Our strong performance, high customer satisfaction scores and growing occupancy show the strength of our position in the river cruise market as we continue to modernise and expand the fleet. TUI Elara will open up Europe’s stunning rivers to even more customers, with new routes along the Rhine, Moselle, Dutch & Belgian waterways.”