After several weeks of enforced idleness in the waters of the Persian Gulf, the cruise vessels Mein Schiff 5 and Mein Schiff 4, operated by TUI Cruises, are approaching a return to regular service as they make their way toward the Mediterranean.
Both ships, having avoided transit through the Suez Canal amid regional instability, are proceeding along a longer route around the African continent. Their movements mark a gradual normalization of operations following a period of disruption that brought cancellations and logistical challenges across the fleet.
Mein Schiff 5 is scheduled to call at Cape Town for an operational stop, where bunkering, provisioning, and crew reinforcement are to be undertaken. The vessel had continued its passage with a reduced complement after the onset of hostilities in the Gulf. The company indicated that crew restoration would proceed in stages, with an initial intake joining in Cape Town and a subsequent contingent expected to embark later in Valletta. Preparations for renewed service are already in progress, including onboarding procedures and familiarization for incoming personnel.
Mein Schiff 4 is also bound for Cape Town, though advancing at a more measured speed, reflecting its earlier return to passenger service. Upon completion of port operations, both vessels are to cross the Atlantic before re-entering European waters.
Valletta is designated as the final staging point before the resumption of voyages. From there, Mein Schiff 5 is scheduled to recommence operations on May 15th with departures from Heraklion, initiating its delayed summer programme. Mein Schiff 4 is expected to follow shortly thereafter, taking up Adriatic itineraries from Trieste later in the month.
The two ships had remained effectively immobilized in the Gulf region for approximately 7 weeks, as security concerns curtailed cruise traffic. On April 18th, both vessels took advantage of a temporary ceasefire to transit the Strait of Hormuz under coordinated arrangements with regional authorities.
The interruption has carried a notable financial impact, with the company estimating losses in the order of EUR 40 million. During the suspension of operations, approximately 5,000 passengers were repatriated following the abrupt halt to scheduled sailings.