TUI River Cruises to debut first new-build, TUI Luzia, on Portugal’s Douro in Summer 2027 - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

TUI River Cruises will launch its most ambitious summer season yet with the maiden programme of TUI Luzia—the brand’s first purpose-built ship—sailing Portugal’s River Douro from March to October 2027. In total, 35 sailings will be offered across the European fleet, with itineraries on sale from 16 October 2025.

A new era: TUI Luzia on the Douro

Meaning “light” in Portuguese, TUI Luzia will operate seven-night Douro voyages featuring relaxed daytime river scenic sailing and curated shore experiences. The round-trip ‘Douro Discovery’ itinerary departs Porto and calls at Entre-os-Rios, Peso de Régua, Vega de Terrón (for Salamanca, Spain) and Barca d’Alva. Flight options with TUI partner airlines will connect guests to Porto to join the cruises.

Ship highlights & onboard lifestyle

·         Designed for 111 guests across four decks, TUI Luzia will offer Full Board Plus as standard, with an All Inclusive upgrade available.

·         Accommodation: 56 cabins spanning Super French Balcony cabins, Balcony cabins, French Balcony Suites and a Single cabin.

·         Top deck: Shallow pool and sun-loungers.

·         Dining & bars: Sorriso (main restaurant from breakfast to dinner); Vinha (Portuguese-inspired alfresco à la carte by night; relaxed retreat by day); Cinder (bar & dining space with self-serve lunches); Novo (main lounge bar).

·         Wellbeing: Retreat, a hybrid space with juice bar and wellness classes (e.g., yoga) by day, transforming into an intimate lounge in the evening.

Network expansion: new ports for 2027

Beyond Portugal, the programme adds two fresh calls:

·         Zaandam, Netherlands on TUI Aria’s ‘Dutch Delta Discovery’ (Dutch & Belgian Waterways), renowned for its traditional green wooden houses.

·         Aljmaš, Croatia on TUI Maya’s ‘East Danube Delights’, a Danube village noted for its modern swan-shaped church on the riverbank.

More choice for every traveller

TUI River Cruises will continue to offer flexible durations—ideal for first-time cruisers and seasoned guests alike—spanning 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 14 and 15 nights across the Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine and Moselle throughout Summer 2027.

What TUI River Cruises says

Katy Berzins, Head of River Cruises at TUI River Cruises, said: “We’re thrilled to introduce TUI Luzia, our first new-build ship, which will sail the stunning River Douro in Portugal – a brand-new destination for TUI River Cruises.

“This marks a major milestone as we launch our biggest summer programme to date, with more itineraries, more durations, and exciting new ports of call across Europe. From the charming villages of Croatia and The Netherlands, we’re giving guests the opportunity to explore Europe’s rivers in a way that’s more flexible, immersive and exciting than ever before.”

On sale dates & pricing

On sale: from Thursday, 16 October 2025 (pre-registration with call-back available from Thursday, 2 October 2025).

Lead-in price: from £899 per person for the ‘Grand Capitals’ 3-night sailing on TUI Maya (Summer 2027 programme).

Image Credit: © TUI River Cruises