TUI River Cruises Launches Largest Ship, TUI Ria

TUI River Cruises is making waves with the announcement of its newest and highest-capacity ship, TUI Ria, which is set to sail the stunning European waterways. As part of an impressive 17% uplift in sales this year, the new addition to the fleet will cater to even more passengers, solidifying TUI River Cruises’ strong presence in the river cruise market.

With TUI Ria launching in summer 2026, passengers can look forward to a series of new itineraries along the Moselle and Rhine rivers, providing the perfect opportunity to explore picturesque European destinations. This comes as the cruise line sees growing demand during its third year of operations, a sure sign that river cruises are becoming more popular among UK travellers.

Expanding Horizons - New Flight Routes

Complementing the launch of TUI Ria, two new flight routes from the UK will make river cruising more accessible. Departures from Newcastle to Frankfurt and Bristol to Amsterdam will open up even more possibilities for passengers looking for a seamless and convenient start to their river journey. These new routes offer flexibility for those flying on select dates in 2026, ensuring travellers from across the UK can embark on their European adventure with ease.

The launch comes after a period of growth and increased interest, as TUI River Cruises reported a remarkable third year with a 17% rise in bookings compared to the previous year.

Meet TUI Ria - A Ship of Firsts

As the largest ship in TUI’s river cruise fleet, TUI Ria boasts a capacity of 190 passengers spread across 96 cabins, including French balcony and superior cabins. Setting sail from key river ports like Amsterdam, Basel, and Frankfurt, the ship will offer six, seven, eight, and nine-night itineraries, making it a versatile option for all travellers.

What sets TUI Ria apart from the rest of the fleet is its innovative design and amenities. Guests can unwind in an onboard pool that offers panoramic views, complete with a retractable roof for year-round use. This versatile space transforms into an additional dining and entertainment venue in the evenings, a first for TUI River Cruises.

Whether soaking in the sights by day or dining under the stars by night, passengers will experience unparalleled comfort and flexibility.

Additionally, the upper deck will feature a sauna, sun loungers, a putting green, and even a shuffleboard, providing a truly unique onboard experience. Combined with stylish interiors, multiple dining options, and entertainment spaces, TUI Ria promises to deliver a memorable river cruise experience.

A New Era for River Cruising

Katy Berzins, Head of TUI River Cruises, commented on this exciting expansion:

“We’re thrilled to be expanding our fleet with TUI Ria, marking another significant step forward for TUI River Cruises. With new itineraries and enhanced accessibility from UK airports, we’re offering more passengers the opportunity to discover the beauty of Europe’s rivers in style and comfort.”

Berzins also highlighted the innovative features of TUI Ria, emphasising how the new pool area will transform the passenger experience: “The all-weather pool with panoramic views, along with the versatile space that transitions from day to night, is just one of the ways we’re elevating river cruising.”

Exploring Europe - New Itineraries

TUI Ria will offer three exciting new itineraries, adding to the already popular selection. These include the Moselle & North Rhine itinerary, the North Rhine & Moselle Explorer, and the Dutch Delta Discovery. Passengers can visit historical towns and cities like Cologne, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam, while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.

One standout itinerary is the Dutch Delta Discovery, which begins and ends in Amsterdam and takes passengers to key Dutch and Belgian destinations like Rotterdam, Veere, Ghent, and Antwerp. With prices starting from £1649 per person, this seven-night cruise on a Full Board Plus basis includes flights from London Heathrow, tips, and transfers.

Looking Ahead

As river cruising continues to grow in popularity, TUI River Cruises is positioning itself as a leader in the market, offering more options, better accessibility, and enhanced onboard experiences. With TUI Ria, passengers can explore Europe’s rivers like never before, with modern amenities and flexible itineraries that cater to a range of travel styles.

Like the rest of the European fleet, TUI Ria will be Full Board Plus, as standard with the option for guests to upgrade to all-inclusive and will include a day and night entertainment programme. The three new itineraries include the Moselle & North Rhine itinerary sailing from Frankfurt, and the North Rhine & Moselle Explorer and Dutch Delta Discovery itineraries from Amsterdam sailing with TUI Ria.

Itinerary: North Rhine & Moselle Explorer

Day 1: Frankfurt, Germany

Day 2: Rudesheim, Germany

Day 3: Cohem, Germany

Day 4: Trier, Germany

Day 5: Bernkastel-Kues, Germany

Day 6: Koblenz, Germany

Day 7: Cologne, Germany

Day 8: Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Day 9 and 10: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Itinerary: Moselle & North Rhine

Day 1: Frankfurt, Germany

Day 2: Rudesheim, Germany

Day 3: Cochem, Germany

Day 4: Trier, Germany

Day 5: Bernkastel-Kues, Germany

Day 6: Koblenz, Germany

Day 7: Cologne, Germany

Day 8 and 9: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Itinerary: Dutch Delta Discovery

Day 1 and 2: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Day 3: Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Day 4: Veere, The Netherlands

Day 5: Ghent, Belgium

Day 6: Antwerp, Belgium

Day 7: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The Dutch Delta Discovery on TUI Ria from £1649 per person based on two adults sharing a Deck 1 cabin on a Full Board Plus basis. Price includes flights from London Heathrow Airport on the 1st June 2026, tips and transfers included.

For more information on TUI Ria’s upcoming itineraries or to book your next river cruise, visit tui.co.uk/river-cruises or your local TUI holiday store.

TUI Ria is set to redefine river cruising, and with demand growing stronger every year, now is the perfect time to experience the charm of Europe’s rivers in luxury and style.

Prices correct as of 21st October 2024. Terms and conditions apply.