Tour operator TUI is expanding into the river cruise market after buying three ships that will set sail next summer. 

TUI River Cruises

An artist’s impression of a TUI River Cruises ship on the Danube in Budapest. 

TUI River Cruises will offer personalised adult-only packages, allowing groups to choose from a range of board basis, including full board plus with wine, beer and soft drinks included with meals.

The three passenger ships, TUI Maya, TUI Isla and TUI Skyla, will accommodate 155 people and sail seven-night itineraries along the Danube, Rhine, Main and Moselle rivers from summer 2020. 

There will be a handful of private balcony suites on the three ships too, to add more luxury to the package. 

Chris Hackney, managing director of Cruise for TUI UK & I said: “We’re incredibly excited to be moving into the river cruise market, we’re always looking for new opportunities to offer our customers even more variety when it comes to choosing the perfect holiday.

“Our river cruises will really take this to the next level as customers are able to personalise their package whether that’s board type, cabins, excursions and even cocktail choice.”   

TUI River Cruises

What one of the ship’s revamped sun decks will look like.

Just some of the excursions on offer will be sightseeing tours with local experts and bike tours for travellers who are looking for something a little more adventurous.

The cruise line will also offer £120 credit to put towards any shore excursion bookings, giving groups the option of tailoring the holiday to their needs.

TUI said that each ship will house chic and revamped spaces along with casual dining and social spaces for groups to relax while watching the evening entertainment. 

TUI River Cruises bedroom

One of the luxury bedrooms on offer by TUI River Cruises. 

Mr Hackney, added: “We’re very proud to be known for the friendliest service, exciting itineraries and great value for money when it comes to our ocean cruises and we look forward to bringing this to TUI River Cruises.”

Groups looking for more information can call TUI’s river cruises contact centre on 0800 975 4477.

www.tui.co.uk/river-cruises/