After several weeks of enforced idleness in the Persian Gulf, the 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 Africa. 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 a bunkering stop. The vessel had continued its passage with a reduced crew complement after the onset of hostilities in the Arabian Gulf. TUI 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, Malta.
Mein Schiff 4 is also bound for Cape Town, though advancing at a more measured speed, reflecting its earlier return to service.
Upon completion of port operations, both TUI ships will cross the Atlantic before re-entering European waters.
Valletta Harbour is designated as the final staging point before the revenue voyages. From Malta, Schiff 5 is scheduled to recommence operations on May 15th with departures from Heraklion. 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 due to security concerns. 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 TUI estimating losses at ~EUR 40 million.
During the suspension of revenue operations, ~5000 passengers were repatriated following the abrupt halt to scheduled cruises.