TUI River Cruises has announced the introduction of its first newbuild vessel, TUI Luzia, which will enter service in the summer of 2027 with a debut itinerary on Portugal’s Douro River. Designed for 111 passengers, the new ship marks a significant milestone in the line’s expansion, combining elegant design with modern comfort to offer a refined cruising experience along one of Europe’s most celebrated waterways.
The TUI Luzia will feature four decks, including a spacious Sun Deck with a shallow pool and open-air dining venue named Cinder, offering panoramic views of the river valley. Guests will have access to several dining options, including the main restaurant Sorriso, known for its gourmet cuisine, and Vinha, a fine-dining venue inspired by Portuguese culinary traditions. Additional amenities include the Novo lounge bar and The Retreat, a wellness and relaxation space that transforms from a yoga area by day to a quiet lounge by night. Accommodation options will range from Balcony and French Balcony Suites to a single cabin, ensuring a variety of choices for different guest preferences.
The Douro itineraries will feature 7-night round-trip voyages from Porto, calling at destinations such as Entre-os-Rios, Peso de Régua, Vega de Terron—with excursions to Salamanca, Spain—and Barca d’Alva. The new programme forms part of TUI River Cruises’ expanded 2027 summer season, which includes 35 sailings between March and October across Europe. Other additions include new ports in the Netherlands and Croatia, with the TUI Aria sailing to Zaandam on the “Dutch Delta Discovery” route and the TUI Maya calling at Aljmaš on the “East Danube Delights” itinerary.
TUI’s summer 2027 schedule represents the company’s most extensive programme to date, offering a variety of short and extended voyages designed for flexibility and convenience. The line is also offering coordinated air travel options to Porto, simplifying access for international guests.
With the launch of TUI Luzia, TUI River Cruises continues to expand its European footprint, bringing a new level of luxury and choice to river cruising. The 2027 season will open for bookings on October 16th, 2025, inviting travellers to experience the Douro and beyond aboard one of Europe’s newest and most modern river ships.