TUI River Cruises has announced its first sailings to northern France, with new River Seine itineraries set to operate from 2028 aboard the brand's new adults-only ship, TUI Elara. The itineraries go on sale from October 15 and will call at ports including Paris, Vernon, Rouen, Issy-les-Moulineaux, Le Havre, Caudebec, Les Andelys, La Roche-Guyon and Conflans.
New ship TUI Elara joins the fleet in 2027
TUI Elara is scheduled to join the fleet from March 2027, with capacity for up to 138 passengers. The ship will feature elegant restaurants, lounges and various cabin options, including balcony suites. Highlights include The Observatory lounge and bar, as well as the à la carte restaurant Vedastro, which is already found on other ships in the TUI fleet. The top deck offers sun loungers and space for activities such as yoga and BBQs.
TUI Zora and TUI Velara details revealed
Alongside the River Seine itinerary, TUI River Cruises has revealed further details about two new ships for 2028. Sister ships TUI Zora and TUI Velara, both purpose-built for the brand, will offer 94 cabins each, including balcony suites, as well as new bars, lounges and restaurants on board. Both ships will sail across the Rhine, Danube and Moselle.
Katy Berzins, Head of River Cruises at TUI River Cruises, said that "summer 2028 is our biggest launch ever", adding that "TUI Zora and TUI Velara were shaped by what our guests told us they wanted, delivering an elevated, modern river cruising experience that brings the culture and character of each destination onboard".
Portugal sailings and booking details
For Portugal, the ship TUI Luzia, currently set to join the fleet in June 2027, will offer a series of seven-night sailings along the Douro in 2028, with ports of call including Porto. Prices start from £1,749pp and bookings can be made from October 15 on tui.co.uk.
