Marella Cruises Loses Out: New Ships Go to Mein Schiff
Marella Cruises’ New Ships Diverted to TUI Cruises: What You Need to Know
TUI Mein Schiff to benefit from new ships originally destined for Marella
Marella Cruises was set to receive two new ships, but plans have changed. TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff fleet will get the vessels instead. Here’s what it means for UK cruisers, Marella’s fleet expansion, and upcoming sailings in 2025 and beyond.
Marella Cruises fans, there’s a twist in the tale! The two brand-new ships that were originally planned for Marella will now be joining TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff fleet. Here’s the full lowdown on what this means for the UK cruise line and its loyal passengers.
🛳 New Ships, New Plans
The ships are scheduled to arrive in 2031 and 2032. They’ll be sister ships to Mein Schiff Relax and Mein Schiff Flow, forming part of the InTUItion class. At around 160,000 gross tons, these vessels are larger than the ships initially planned for Marella.
Eco-conscious cruisers will be pleased to hear the ships will feature dual-fuel engines (LNG and MGO) and be built to the latest environmental standards, reflecting TUI Cruises’ commitment to sustainability.
⚓ What This Means for Marella Cruises
Marella was set to receive its first-ever newbuilds, which would have been a major milestone for the UK-based brand. Now, the fleet expansion is on hold, but the good news is that the current Marella fleet will continue operating as usual, and partnerships with TUI UK and TUI Airline remain unchanged.
While some fans may be disappointed, the brand still offers a wide variety of cruises across Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Industry Insights
Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, commented:
“This contract reaffirms the trust built over the years and the successful cooperation already achieved with the first two InTUItion class ships. It confirms Fincantieri’s capability to support fleet growth, combining innovation, sustainability, and Italian shipbuilding excellence.”
TUI’s decision highlights a strategic focus on strengthening the German market, where the Mein Schiff brand continues to grow in popularity.
Key Takeaways for Cruise Fans
Marella Cruises new ships are postponed.
Mein Schiff fleet gains two cutting-edge vessels.
UK cruisers can continue enjoying Marella’s current fleet and itineraries.
Ships will feature dual-fuel engines, eco-friendly tech, and meet latest environmental standards.
FAQs
Q. Will Marella Cruises get new ships in the future?
Marella’s fleet expansion is currently on hold. For now, the brand will continue operating its existing ships.
Q: How does this affect bookings?
A: All current and upcoming Marella sailings remain unaffected.
Q: Which ships are going to Mein Schiff?
A: The two new builds, part of the InTUItion class, will join Mein Schiff Relax and Mein Schiff Flow in 2031 and 2032.
Q: Why did TUI divert Marella’s new ships to Mein Schiff?
A: TUI decided to allocate the ships to the Mein Schiff fleet to strengthen its position in the German market, where demand for premium cruising remains strong.
Q: When will the new InTUItion class ships be delivered?
A: The two ships are scheduled for delivery in 2031 and 2032.
Q: How large are the new ships compared to Marella’s current fleet?
A: Each ship will be approximately 160,000 gross tons, making them significantly larger than any vessel currently in Marella’s fleet.
Q: Are Marella Cruises sailings still safe to book?
A: Yes! All current and upcoming sailings remain unaffected, and passengers can continue booking with confidence.
Q: What environmental features will the new ships have?
A: The ships will use dual-fuel engines (LNG and MGO) and meet the latest environmental standards, reflecting TUI Cruises’ commitment to sustainability.
🔗 Related Reads
Fincantieri Shipbuilding Projects
⚓ The Lowdown
Marella Cruises fans might feel disappointed that newbuilds are going elsewhere, but the existing fleet still offers fantastic cruises, and there’s always hope for new ships in the future.
What do you think? Are you sad Marella won’t get the new ships, or happy with the current fleet? Drop your thoughts below!